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13 Fragrances Similar to Bleu de Chanel (2026)

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Bleu de Chanel is a very popular name in the world of men’s fragrances. The three releases are all very popular and highly sought after. As such, there are going to be guys who want to smell close to Bleu, a near dupe, but don’t want to have to pay the same price. Not to worry, as there are alternatives, which can give you a similar experience for cheaper.

In this post, I want to present some colognes that can serve as alternatives, have a similar style, or just come close enough to what BdC EDT, EDP, or Parfum smells like…while being inexpensive.

Quick Overview

Bleu de Dua is one of the strongest picks if you want the smoky, citrus, mint, and woody side of Bleu de Chanel. It is not the cheapest option, but it gets closer to the deeper incense-style profile than many of the lighter alternatives.

Citrus Ginger by Dossier is the better choice if you want something clean, simple, and affordable. It does not have the same depth or smoky feel, but it gives you a fresh citrus-ginger take on the Bleu style for much less money.

Club de Nuit Blue Iconic is the best pick if you prefer the smoother, woodier, warmer side of Bleu de Chanel. It leans more toward the Parfum style, with mint, ginger, incense, sandalwood, and amber.

 

Fragrance Best For Style Key Notes / Main Accords Why It Works
Bleu de Dua Closest smoky Bleu-style option Citrus, mint, incense, woods Citrus, mint, incense, woods, sweet touch It has a smokier Bleu-style profile with good performance and a woodier dry down.
Citrus Ginger by Dossier Affordable cleaner option Light, clean, citrusy, blue Citrus, ginger, clean woods It gives a lighter, cleaner take on the Bleu de Chanel idea at a much lower price.
Bleu Memoire by Alexandria Bleu EDP-style alternative Citrus, amber, woods Citrus, amber, woody notes It is included for those who want something closer to the Eau de Parfum side of Bleu.
Dusk by Oakcha Extrait-style inspired option Bleu EDT-style, heavier concentration Similar It is positioned as a heavier concentration option for fans of the original Bleu EDT style.
Divino by Fragrenza Sample-friendly Bleu EDT alternative Fresh, citrus, blue, woody Similar It is another Bleu EDT-style option, with smaller sizes available before buying a full bottle.
Armaf Tag Him Very cheap Bleu-style wear Citrus, spice, woods Citrus, ginger, mint, cedar, pink pepper, vetiver, sandalwood It overlaps with Bleu through citrus, spice, mint, cedar, vetiver, and sandalwood, especially in the dry down.
Missoni Pour Homme Similar blue designer style Citrus, ginger, jasmine, woods Citrus, ginger, jasmine, woods, lavender It is not exact, but the citrus, ginger, jasmine, and woods create a related fresh blue feel.
Voyage Bleu by Armaf Bright citrus option Clean, juicy citrus, ginger, pepper Citrus, ginger, pink pepper It is cleaner, juicier, and more mellow than Tag Him, with a likable fresh citrus profile.
Club de Nuit Blue Iconic Bleu Parfum-style direction Mint, ginger, incense, sandalwood, amber Mint, ginger, incense, sandalwood, amber, woods It leans more toward Bleu Parfum, with smoother spice, incense, dry sandalwood, and a warmer amber base.
Benetton Aim High Fresh citrus without smoke Lemon, grapefruit, sage, mint, vetiver Lemon, grapefruit, sage, mint, vetiver It has the citrus and spice direction without the smoky incense side of Bleu.
Versace Dylan Blue Mainstream blue fragrance option Citrus aquatic, ambroxan, spice Grapefruit, bergamot, aquatic notes, fig, ambroxan, light spice It is not trying to be exact, but it sits in a similar blue fragrance family with citrus, ambroxan, and aquatic freshness.
Perry Ellis Pour Homme Lighter cheap option Citrus, spice, musk, woods Cardamom, lavender, musk, sandalwood, cedar It captures some of the same clean citrus-spice spirit, but feels lighter and less smoky.
2145 for Men Perfume oil option Mint, woods, softer citrus Citrus, mint, woods It comes close through the mint and woods, though the citrus is not as bright as Bleu de Chanel.

Fragrances that are like Bleu de Chanel 

A First Alternative

Bleu de Dua by Dua Brand– This is the more expensive of the similar smelling options, but they also currently have a smaller travel spray size available for $20 (as of posting). Bleu de Dua is their inspired version of the original Bleu formulation from over a decade ago.

This has a smokier vibe than the Dossier scent listed below. Not massive smoke, but that nice incense infusion playing off of the citrus and mint note.

The citrus is somewhat toned down, but the rest of the note compensate with great performance, a woodier dry down, and a sweet touch.

Dua is usually really good with their inspired versions of designer scents and this one hits the mark.

Another Blue 2

Citrus Ginger by Dossier– Citrus Ginger is a lighter and cleaner sort of interpretation of Bleu de Chanel. It’s also a less expensive option at $29 (as of writing) for their full bottle. But, you can also try it out to see if you like it, with how Dossier has things set up.

This one can be a good option. It doesn’t have as much depth and complexity. It also goes with more citrus than the original BdC, not the same incense level as Bleu de Dua, but gives you most of what you get with the current Chanel for a fraction of the price. 

Bleu EDP Similarities

Bleu Memoire by Alexandria– Other ‘inspired by’ takes on Bleu, tend to be of the original EDT version, which is great. My personal favorite Bleu de Chanel variant is the Eau de Parfum and Bleu Memoire sets out to be Alexandria’s version of that.

The EDP has the same great citrus opening, but a greater use of amber in the base. Not as woody as the other Parfum version, but more substantial than the original Bleu de Chanel.

I haven’t tried Bleu Memoire from Alexandria as of yet. I have tried other scents from this brand and they do a really good job at replicating a close experience to the designer fragrance that they’re basing the formula on.

I’m adding it to the list for those who want a Bleu Eau de Parfum alternative.

Bleu Dusk

Dusk by Oakcha– Here’s the latest inspired by Bleu de Chanel option that I’ve found. This time it one from Oakcha called Dusk. 

Now, I don’t have any experience with this brand at all, so I cannot speak to its quality personally. Though, I’ve read a lot of reviews and they generally are very positive.

This is another affordable option for those who want something that smells close to Bleu de Chanel EDT…just with a heavier Extrait de Parfum concentration than the Chanel itself.

Divine Bleu

Divino by Fragrenza– Fragrenza’s version of the BdC formula, is the latest one that I’ve run across. This one is inspired by Bleu EDT, so, yet another option for those who like the original.

I’ve bought samples from Fragrenza about a year ago, testing out a lot of their designer inspired perfumes, and they were all quite good. Very close to what you’d want from a cheaper alternative.

One great thing about them, is the fact that you can buy samples or smaller sizes, without committing to a fully bottle purchase. Even if those are also fairly inexpensive. Just another one to consider.

Pretty Linear but Somewhat Similar

Armaf Tag Him 3.4 Eau De Toilette Spray for Men– To continue on the list, we will highlight this inexpensive option, as an alternative to Bleu. Tag Him has a very heavy overlap with the ingredients of the Chanel, and thus, shares quite a close aroma with it.

The closer resemblance to me, is more in the dry down period. The opening here, isn’t my favorite and the weighting of the notes is noticeable different versus what you get with the Chanel scent.

The citrus, ginger, mint, cedar, pink pepper, vetiver, and sandalwood are all here. Is this Armaf, an exactly the same aroma of BdC? No, but it does occupy a similar space, and can be a solid choice for guys who want a cheapie.

You don’t get the same quality or nuance, this is a nice citrus with spice, and without that incense smokiness of Bleu. Not as much depth or layered spice effect, but still a good overall wear. Tag-Him Review

Missoni Style

Missoni Pour Homme– Citrus, ginger, jasmine, and woods. That’s what this one has in common with BdC. So, obviously, it’s going to strike a fairly close chord to what we’re going for.

It’s not exact, by any means, just a much cheaper alternative that brings a similar style. Noticeably missing is the mint note that Bleu EDT has fairly prominently. Missoni also added lavender into the mix.

To me, it seems sharp in the beginning, perhaps too much so. But, the dry down feels woody and fresh and has a much better balance. Performance is okay, just not spectacular.

Journey to Blue

Voyage Bleu by Armaf– Yes, another of the many options from Armaf. This one is better than Tag-Him, more mellow, less spicy, and without the soapiness than can come through in Tag’s opening act.

Voyage gives you an array of citrus. It’s clean and bright, with a juicier aroma when compared to Tag-Him. Ginger still plays a role here, as does pink pepper, with the latter thankfully neutered in strength.

Still, compared to the Chanel fragrance, this is much simpler. Less spicy than either BdC or Tag-Him and none of the smokiness. But, as a fresh citrus with a close composition to Bleu, Voyage is very likeable. Not much depth, however.

A Bit of Parfum

Club de Nuit Blue Iconic by Armaf– Armaf strikes again with this newer addition to the Club de Nuit lineup. This one actually favors Bleu Parfum versus the original EDT. It doesn’t hit either exactly, but leans toward the former.

Whereas, the others from Armaf lack the same incense smokiness, Blue Iconic makes up for it with a well-balanced incense note that pairs well with the dry sandalwood.

The strength versus Tag-Him is enhanced, with Blue Iconic giving you at least a couple hours more of wear. I like that this one has mint and ginger heightened, losing the pink pepper. It feels smoother, warmer, in its spice. Not as rough as the other Armaf editions.

Like BdC Parfum, this doesn’t end with the citrus still being massive. It’s woodier, with a good amber base to boot. Note that this one is pricier versus the other Armaf scents and the savings won’t be as extreme.

Fresh Citrus without the Smoke

United Colors of Benetton United Dreams Eau de Toilette Spray for Men, Aim High, 3.4 Ounce– Aim High from Benetton is another affordable choice, for those looking for a scent of the same type as Bleu. This one really does seem like a thinner and less quality version of Bleu EDT, at times.

The citrus is just about right, less spice but close, and no smokiness. Lots of lemon and grapefruit, some sage and mint, with vetiver coming through later on. The longevity isn’t all that amazing, but it’s definitely serviceable, and a pretty good alternative of Bleu for cheaper.

 

A Similar Style 

Versace Pour Homme Dylan Blue FOR MEN by Versace – 3.4 oz EDT Spray– This isn’t an inspired fragrance, by any means. However, it does some of the same things as Bleu (I’d actually put it closer to Bleu Parfum, though). Dylan Blue is a citrus aquatic, with strong ambroxan notes.

As such, it is in the same fragrance family as, Dior Sauvage and  Acqua di Gio Profumo also.

It opens with a grapefruit and bergamot mix, sitting on top of a watery base. Then, there is the addition of a lovely fig. The dry down is more about the ambroxan and light spiciness.

This one has lots to like, but overall, it just never stays at those heights in my opinion. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a very nice cologne and a best seller, but doesn’t make the cut among the Versace elite. Dylan Blue Review

Lighter but Somewhat Similar Cheapie

Perry Ellis Pour Homme, 3.4 fl oz EDT– This is another inexpensive option that gets close to what Bleu smells like. The citrus and spice, is different here, along with most of the other notes.

However, Perry Ellis Pour Homme does still manage to replicate the same sort of spirit as Bleu. Citrusy clean, with spice, and then some musk in the dry down.

Plenty of cardamom and lavender in this one, none of the incense, and feels lighter than BdC. Light woodiness at the base, mostly from sandalwood, and some cedar. The performance is okay, but nothing amazing. For the price, it fits the bill, and gives you a nice mimic of our Chanel.

Perfume Oil Option

2145 for Men from The Fragrance Shop– I recently bought a sample of this to see how it compared to Bleu EDT. Actually, they did pretty darn well at recreating Bleu de Chanel’s aroma. However, the weighting of the notes is off.

I compared it directly with the real thing and the citrus notes in the Chanel are much more prevalent than in this one. 2145 doesn’t have that same pop that the original does, but the mint and woods are pretty spot on.

I don’t like this as much as the Chanel, but it does come awfully close, I just wish the grapefruit and bergamot were amped up to similar levels. Then, it would be a great alternative choice…as of now, it’s just good. 

FAQ: Bleu de Chanel

What does Bleu de Chanel smell like?

Bleu de Chanel has a fresh, citrusy, woody, spicy, and slightly smoky profile. It is known for its grapefruit-like citrus, aromatic freshness, woods, spice, and clean masculine blue-fragrance style.

Is Bleu de Chanel worth it?

Bleu de Chanel is worth it if you want a high-quality, versatile designer fragrance that works in many situations. However, the price can be high, which is why many people look for more affordable Bleu-style alternatives.

Which Bleu de Chanel is best?

The best version depends on what you want. The EDT is fresher and brighter, the EDP is smoother and more balanced, and the Parfum is woodier, richer, and more mature.

Is Bleu de Chanel good for everyday wear?

Yes, Bleu de Chanel is excellent for everyday wear. It works for casual use, work, dates, nights out, and dressed-up situations.

Is Bleu de Chanel good for the office?

Yes, Bleu de Chanel is a strong office fragrance because it is clean, versatile, and polished. The EDT or EDP are usually the easiest versions to wear in professional settings.

How long does Bleu de Chanel last?

Longevity depends on the version and skin type. The EDT is usually lighter, the EDP tends to last longer, and the Parfum is generally the richest and smoothest version.

Does Bleu de Chanel project well?

Bleu de Chanel usually has moderate to strong projection, especially during the first few hours. The EDT tends to feel brighter and more noticeable early, while the EDP and Parfum feel smoother and denser.

Is Bleu de Chanel good for summer?

Yes, Bleu de Chanel can work in summer, especially the EDT. The EDP and Parfum can also work, but they are better with lighter sprays in hot weather.

Is Bleu de Chanel better than Dior Sauvage?

Bleu de Chanel is usually smoother, woodier, and more refined. Dior Sauvage is sharper, louder, and more ambroxan-heavy. The better choice depends on whether you want polished versatility or stronger projection.

What is a good affordable alternative to Bleu de Chanel?

Citrus Ginger, Armaf Tag Him, Voyage Bleu, Benetton Aim High, and Perry Ellis Pour Homme are affordable options from the list. Bleu de Dua and Club de Nuit Blue Iconic are stronger picks if you want something closer in style.

Bleu de Chanel EDP vs. Parfum: Which to Buy? (2026)

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The Bleu de Chanel lineup has been an extremely popular one, over the past decade. Chanel has released multiple versions, under this banner, including its latest: Bleu de Chanel Parfum.

However, when we compare Parfum vs. BdC EDP, which is the better fragrance? How do these two cologne match up and which on should you consider buying, if you’re in the market.

In this post, I will break it down, after testing and reviewing them both. I compare them, in different categories, before declaring a winner.

Quick Overview

🏆 My Verdict: Bleu de Chanel EDP wins on opening, versatility, and overall scent. Parfum wins on longevity, while projection is basically a tie. Buy EDP if you want the best all-around option with better year-round wear and a bold citrus-spice opening. Buy Parfum if you want a darker, woodier version with slightly longer staying power.

Scroll down for my complete comparison between these two scents.

Category Bleu de Chanel EDP Bleu de Chanel Parfum Winner
Opening Bold citrus, fresh spices, ginger, pink pepper, mint, smoky incense Smoother citrus with stronger early woods, mint, cedar, sandalwood EDP
Longevity About 8 hours, sometimes a bit longer About 10 hours with the same number of sprays Parfum
Projection Starts strong, then settles to slightly above average Also starts strong, then settles similarly Push
Versatility Better year-round wear, stronger in hotter climates, office/night/casual friendly Great for autumn/winter and temperate conditions, still versatile EDP
Overall Scent Balanced citrus, spices, and woods with great depth Darker, woodier, warmer, more complex sandalwood-heavy take EDP
Best For All-around wear and broader year-round use Woodier tastes and slightly longer performance —

Bleu Parfum or EDP? Tale of the Tape

Bleu de Chanel Parfum

Notes include: sandalwood, cedar, lemon, lavender, mint, bergamot, tonka bean, amber, geranium

Click here to try: BLEU DE C H A N E L PARFUM, 3.4 oz./ 100 mL

Read my Review: Bleu de Chanel Parfum

Bleu de Chanel EDP

Notes include: grapefruit, sandalwood, amber, vanilla, tonka bean, ginger, mint, and more

Click here to try: Bleu De Chaneⅼ Eau De Parfum Pour Homme Spray 1.7 Fl. OZ. / 50ML.

Read my Review: Bleu de Chanel EDP

Opening

Bleu de Chanel EDP opens up with a bold blend of citrus notes, leading the way. These fruit notes are joined by freshly spiced notes, consisting of mainly, ginger and pink pepper.

Although, you will get a cool mint sensation in there, as well. It’s quite nice and will then transition, to include a smoky incense note and more amber.

Bleu Parfum, starts off with: lemon, bergamot, and lime. These citrus notes aren’t as sharp or powerful, as in the EDP. Instead, they become tempered by the strength of the woodsy notes here.

This one has a stronger mint note, but really gives you the cedar and sandalwood, earlier on. It is interesting, how they take this already familiar formula, and ramp up the woody base earlier in the wear.

Which is better? It’s a tough call. I like the citrus/woods/herbal qualities to Parfum. However, I think that I prefer the start of EDP, more consistently. The citrus and spices are bold, not as complex as Parfum, but really grab my attention.

Really, I’ve been wearing the EDP a bit more here in the summer and have been loving the lemon and bergamot combination. It’s awesome.

Edge: EDP

Projection

Both of these fragrances, start off pretty strong, but subside by quite a bit later on. Neither has a super powerful sillage and will stick quite close to the wearer, a few hours in.

Honestly, I don’t detect much of a difference.

I do kind of wish that either of them, had that big time sillage for longer, than they do. I’d say they’re both slightly above average, in this regard; but, I sometimes want an outstanding beastly performer.

Sometimes, it can feel like Parfum may not have as much punch. But, that’s more of it having a greater use of woody notes versus the amber found in Bleu eau de parfum.

The greater fragrance concentration in Parfum doesn’t seem like it has too much of an impact when comparing it to the eau de parfum.

Edge: Push

Longevity

Bleu de Chanel EDP will last on my skin, for 8 hours, as a pretty moderate fragrance. Sometimes, it’ll hang around a little while longer. It’s very solid with it’s performance, but isn’t an elite level fragrance with its strength or staying power.

Meanwhile, Parfum, does go a longer ways with the same amount of sprays. I get about 10 hours of wear from BdC Parfum. Both are really good, though.

It’s to be expected, as Parfum is the higher fragrance concentrate. It at least cracks that double digit barrier, barely, but it does get past it.

Again, even with that, there isn’t a massive difference in performance. Those last few hours might not even be needed for many people.

Edge: Parfum

Versatility

Neither of these is really great during the heat of summer. EDP holds up better, in a hotter climate, but is best in spring/autumn. Parfum is more of an autumn/winter wear, that still holds up in a temperate condition.

Other than that, these two are about the same. Can be worn to the office, out at night, semi-formal, or casual. The BdC lineup is well-known for being a ‘do everything’ type of scent.

I will give EDP the edge, as it does have a better year round capability. Actually, I think that the EDT, holds up more year round when compared with these two scents.

Edge: Bleu EDP

 

Overall Scent

This is a pretty tough decision, as I like both of these Chanel fragrances, a lot. Bleu de Chanel Parfum is dark, woody, and complex. It’s got a great take on this formula, with an outstanding sandalwood note.

It’s warmer and woodier, but maintains enough of that zesty citrus to be pleasing. I really like when you’ve got a good mix of the citrus top with the sandalwood. Obviously, a lot of similarities with the EDP, but that’s got enough distinction to be enjoyed on its own.

Ultimately, I would prefer to wear the EDP more often. I am a fan of the citrus opening, the heavier use of the fresh spices, and it still has the woodiness in the latter stages.

Parfum is a really awesome option, and you may wish to go with it, if you want a woodier and less citrus based fragrance.

I usually have a preference toward the citrus, so, I think that the EDP is the best offering from the entire line. Note: You could also get the Dua Brand’s ‘inspired by’ take on Parfum for cheap, after picking up a bottle of EDP.

Sure, EDT is more of an intense citrus, but the EDP has much better depth and balance. Admittedly, I could wear any of them, and be perfectly happy doing so. Each has been imitated and there are some fragrances that have tried to copy Bleu de Chanel Parfum.

These two are neck and neck, but BdC Eau de Parfum, is slightly better to me. Although, either will be a great choice.

Winner: Bleu EDP

 

Who Should Buy Each?

Choose Bleu de Chanel EDP if:

You want the best all-around Bleu de Chanel
You prefer a bolder citrus and spice opening
You need something more wearable year-round
You want a fragrance that works easily for office, casual, and nights out
You like more freshness up top without losing depth and woodiness

Choose Bleu de Chanel Parfum if:

You want slightly better longevity
You prefer darker, woodier, warmer fragrances
You like sandalwood to play a bigger role in the scent
You mainly wear fragrance in cooler weather or temperate conditions
You want a smoother, more complex take on the Bleu de Chanel DNA

Bleu de Chanel Fragrances FAQ

Which is better: Bleu de Chanel EDP or Parfum?

Again, I prefer the EDP more than Parfum. My current top 3 releases in this line are: Eau de Parfum, Exclusif, and Parfum. I really do like the Exclusif release too. It’s not for everyone, but it’s close to as good as EDP, in my opinion.

Which Bleu de Chanel is best for everyday wear?

Probably the original EDT or EDP. Any of them could be worn everyday technically, but those two work the best in a range of settings and climates.

Which Bleu de Chanel is best for winter?

Either Exclusif or Parfum seems to work best when it’s colder outside. I’d probably lean Parfum, though. The woodiness works well, even if it isn’t as dense.

Bleu de Chanel L’Exclusif by Chanel

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Bleu de Chanel continues as a series, with the release of 2025’s L’Exclusif formula. Chanel is a lot more restrained with the number of flanker fragrances that they release versus other designers in this space.

I had to opportunity to get a free sample through a social media ad, in order to test and review Bleu de Chanel L’Exclusif. How does it smell? Does it last long? Is this BdC release, worth a try?

BdC L’Exclusif Overview

Notes include: cistus labdanum, sandalwood, amber

Click here to try: L’Exclusif at Macy’s

My Full Review

Here’s how Chanel describes it: Designed like an Extrait de Parfum, this intense ambery-aromatic fragrance features a spellbinding trail, making it the most mysterious of all the BLEU DE CHANEL interpretations. Composed by CHANEL In-House Perfumer Creator Olivier Polge, BLEU DE CHANEL L’EXCLUSIF is a true concentration of precious materials. Sandalwood, highlighted in all its glory, adds dimension. The enigmatic character of the scent manifests through notes of cistus labdanum. Finally, woody ambery notes bring contrast and vibrancy, resulting in a majestic expression that leaves a memorable impression and stays on skin as if magnetically drawn to it.

Bleu de Chanel L’Exclusif opens up quite similar to other releases in the series. Mostly, it’s closer to Parfum than anything, but you also get plenty of the EDP influence as well.

Not surprising since Chanel hasn’t done any major overhauls to the main concept or came out with some entirely different BdC flanker.

So, expect the usual citrus impression of those other two in the series. Yet, it quickly loses any of the sharper qualities and actually smells fairly sweet to my nose, in that first half hour.

There’s an amber base to this that is apparent throughout the entirety of the wear. In the early stages, it does have a musky animalic aroma. It’s not super aggressive, but it is there.

After this point, we get darker with the character that this one puts out. The sandalwood comes out (along with some other generic woody notes, maybe?) A slight powder to go along with the leather tones and that muskiness (which begins to fade on my skin).

The back half really does start to give more of those leathery impressions. A smooth amber blend with a drier woody finish and resinous touches.

It’s deep and not a pure leather fragrance, but it seems like a back and forth between the various elements as we head into the finish. I’m not even sure if there is a leather note, seems more likely this is just all apart of the labdanum that they’ve used.

But, ultimately the amber and woods win out and everything else is just a vague vapor of what it was when it was at full strength.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

The ability to project with this one is quite powerful. At least for 3-ish hours, on my skin. After that, it moderates, but I’m still smelling this one very easily well into the wear. It’s got some heft to it, but I didn’t think that it was too cloying or anything.

I always have gotten better longevity for whatever reason than most people out of BdC Parfum. That one actually sticks around on my skin for 10 hours. L’Exclusif matches that for me, but does it with more sustained power than 

This is the best performer thus far in the series, at least for me.

Seasonally, this is best used in autumn and winter. You could probably get away with it through early spring. I did spray it on for a warmer afternoon and wasn’t too enthusiastic about the results.

The EDT and EDP versions are better at being a year round wear. More so, the original.

L’Exclusif is very well put together, not as casual as EDT or EDP. Feels more like a nighttime wear while still versatile enough to pull double duty as a mature daily cologne. 

Within its seasonality, you could wear this pretty much anytime without issue. It’s going to work, but will probably skew more towards the late 20s and up crowd.

Overall Impressions of Bleu de Chanel L’Exclusif

Overall, do I like L’Exclusive? I do like it. I don’t think that it overtakes Bleu EDP for me. But, I think it’s a better version of Parfum.

If nothing else, you’ll get some added depth and the performance is better.

I do really enjoy the opening act. That first hour or so is great. Smooth, some sweetness, the usual citrus notes, and everything is well-rounded. 

The rest of the way is still good, just not my absolute favorite. The leathery aspect to BdC L’Exclusif can get somewhat annoying to me. It’s grown on me after a few wears, but I wasn’t all that into it initially. 

On the whole, I actually do think that this is a worthwhile one to check out, and probably the second best in the series. It’s certainly not the cheapest of the line, so, some of you may want to sample this before committing to the whole bottle.

If you already have another Bleu, you probably won’t need this one too. A bit too redundant at this price point. Still, as a standalone L’Exclusif is another quality fragrance from Chanel.

Allure Homme Sport Cologne by Chanel

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Chanel has a long list of flankers in the Allure series. The Allure Homme Sport series even has multiple versions of its own. One, that I have yet to review on the site is the Cologne version, which was released in 2007.

So, I recently grabbed some samples to go ahead and give it the full review. How does it smell? Is Allure Sport Cologne worth a try?

Allure Homme Sport Cologne Overview

Notes include: elemi, cedar, lovage, lemon, grapefruit, vetiver, neroli, and more

Click here to try: Allure Homme Sport Cologne from Chanel

allure sport review

My Full Review

Before we get into my review, let’s see how Chanel describes it: Allure in motion. More than a fragrance, ALLURE HOMME SPORT Cologne is a boost of well-being for the active man — a fresh, invigorating composition like a breath of energy. A generous citrus freshness is subtly heightened by spicy Lovage and Elemi notes and set against a backdrop of Cedar and White Musk.

This one often gets compared to Dior Homme Cologne. That’s a pretty accurate assessment of this version of Allure. I currently have both of these fragrances and that opening act is close to being the same.

The main differences are going to be that Dior Cologne has much more of a cold lemonade sort of aroma. Whereas, Chanel’s Cologne, is a bit warmer.

Secondly, this one has more of a neroli and lovage influence, with a tad less juiciness from the citrus top notes.

Thirdly, the usual Chanel aldehydes are in play, and you do get a resinous spice lingering in the background.

Allure Homme Sport Cologne opens with these juicy citrus notes, neroli, and lovage. Lovage apparently has a floral and slight greenish/celery sort of aroma. Which, when I press my nose to the skin, I can pick up on.

The background does have a bit of a resinous quality from both the lovage and elemi notes. It’s nothing too noticeable, and I’d guess, that most people wouldn’t even gather that unless the were super focused.

So, yeah, like 85-90% the same in the opening as the Dior.

The dry down does begin to separate these two somewhat. Cologne becomes a woodsier and more floral scent, than just the citrus top would suggest.

Cedar starts to play a greater role in the composition. I also get the same vetiver that’s found in Allure Homme Blanche, which also has some similarities to this.

That’s basically it, until the end. Neroli, cedar, vetiver, and the remnants of the other notes.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

The sillage on this one starts out pretty well. In the first fifteen to thirty minutes it will leave a decent scent trail and projects itself well off of the skin. You’ll notice it without question.

But, that is a rather short-lived experience. After an hour or so, this is pretty much a skin scent. Even when I spray the heck out of it, Allure Sport Cologne isn’t going to really go beast mode or stay around strong for too long.

The longevity here is also pretty meh. I get 3-4 hours, which is a shorter duration than Dior Cologne, which isn’t great if that’s your closest comp. Especially, once you start comparing pricing, Dior is usually available from online sellers for more of a discount.

The performance with this one really holds it back. That being said, it does have a spring and summer use case and isn’t super versatile, so spraying a lot won’t really matter. It’d probably still take a while to work through a bottle.

Seasonally, this one is spring and summer. This is of course a more casual or sporty wear for those months. One to wear during the daytime. Not a formal fragrance, but one could get a decent use case out of Cologne, when it gets warm enough.

Overall Impressions of Allure Homme Sport Cologne

Overall, do I like Cologne? I do enjoy the scent itself. Not my favorite thing ever, but I do like a good summer citrus, and this is a fine example.

But, I also don’t like it quite as much as Dior Cologne. With that one, I like the simple lemon and grapefruit blossom aroma, it’s colder and slightly more refreshing to me.

With the Chanel, I also get a pretty weak 3-4 hours of wear. I don’t really expect that much from this type of sporty summer fragrance, but I do want more than that at Chanel prices.

Also, I don’t know that I prefer it to any of the other Allure scents. It’s in the same ballpark, but I’d prefer wearing the others, even Blanche which occupies the same niche. It’s sort of the odd fragrance out from this line.

I know it’s the easy to wear summer version, but Blanche is better than this, and Dior Cologne is cheaper at the very least (and again better, in my opinion).

So, I smell alone, I can recommend this one. On all of the other intangibles? Probably not for most people. Just understand what sort of scent you’re buying with Allure Sport Cologne and don’t expect it to be your main wear for much of the year.

Coco Mademoiselle vs. L’eau Privee

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Coco Mademoiselle has launched a bunch of different flankers over the years. One of them, L’eau Privée, is one of the latest additions to the line. L’eau Privée is a nighttime/sleepwear version of the scent. I wanted to provide a comparison post, as plenty of people seem to have questions about the differences between these two.

Tale of the Tape: Coco Mademoiselle vs. L’eau Privee

Coco Mademoiselle

Notes include: orange, neroli, may rose, patchouli, vetiver, jasmine

Click here to try: Coco Mademoiselle

Read my full review: Coco Mademoiselle EDP

Coco Mademoiselle L’eau Privee

Notes include: rose, jasmine, mandarin orange, musk

Click here to try: CHANEL COCO MADEMOISELLE L’EAU PRIVÉE Eau Pour la Nuit Spray 1,70z

Read my full review: L’eau Privee

Opening

Mademoiselle EDP starts off with a strong blend of its orange citrus note, neroli, and patchouli. The opening stage is heavy on that orange, before ceding some ground to the floral heart, made up of jasmine and a bit of rose.

It’s bold and have a somewhat gourmand feeling, thanks to the pretty prevalent patchouli.

L’eau Privée opens up with the bright and juicy orange note that is found the EDP version. It doesn’t have the neroli note, but the jasmine and rose are there. Plus, the patchouli, but it is way toned down.

Which is better? They are obviously extremely similar, but I like the EDP’s scent a bit better in the opening act. L’eau Privée is light and not as sharp, which can be a nice change, but it doesn’t hit the same high mark.

It’s a less intrusive, but also less dynamic version of Mademoiselle eau de parfum.

Edge: Mademoiselle 

Projection

Coco Mademoiselle has a very strong sillage and its ability to project is outstanding. Even after all of this time, this Chanel EDP still has that same strength and hasn’t lost a step.

L’eau Privee has a moderate sillage upon first spraying. Though, as a nighttime scent that power is short lived and it is ultimately a softer fragrance.

This category is no contest. Mademoiselle L’eau Privee gets very light and airy once you’re past that immediate burst. Though, I can still smell it on me without issue.

Edge: Coco Mademoiselle

Longevity

Mademoiselle EDP has always lasted for over 10 hours on my skin. It gives an outstanding performance and takes a long time to settle into a skin scent.

Privee will go for four hours on my skin. The last two of those hours is a pure skin scent, that won’t be jumping out at you, in the slightest.

The performance between the two isn’t going to be a close call. L’eau Privee does give me more longevity than some people have said in their reviews of it. Still, it’s not supposed to be a powerhouse, and easily loses this category.

Edge: Mademoiselle

Versatility

Coco Mademoiselle can work in a wide variety of situations. I’d avoid the heat with it, go easy at the office, or just don’t use it in formal settings. Outside of that, the EDP can deliver.

L’eau Privee is one to use when you want to freshen up for a few hours with something light or to use before bed. That’s its best use case. But, it can work better in the heat than Mademoiselle.

Not that it’s going to last a long time, but the scent itself can hold up more in the spring and summer months, without starting to smell weird.

Edge: Mademoiselle

Overall Scent

This really isn’t a fair contest, as L’eau Privee is designed for more of a specific purpose versus the original EDP perfume.

However, it’s always a question that comes up from newer folks to Chanel, who don’t yet know the difference between these two scents.

If you want an all-purpose perfume, that has style and staying power; Coco Mademoiselle is a great choice overall and the clear choice in this comparison.

If you already like the style of Mademoiselle and want something the spray before bedtime…then maybe pick up L’eau Privee. That’s one of the only real uses for it. But if you want to shell out the money, go right ahead.

Maybe you use it during the summer months or a fragrance that you wear to the gym or something along those lines.

Some people seem to like to use it as a freshener, either for themselves or their bedroom. It’s a nice smelling scent. A lighter and fresh version of this line from Chanel. It’s just not going to become a signature perfume for anyone, unlike the eau de parfum.

Winner: Coco Mademoiselle