chanel

Bleu de Chanel EDP vs Versace Eros Comparison

by

In this edition of the head to head men’s fragrance comparisons, I wanted to take a closer look at two very popular scents for men: Versace Eros vs. Bleu de Chanel EDP.

Now, of course, BdC has multiple variations to compare; however, I chose the eau de parfum version because I think that it’s the best.

While Eros, has it’s own set of flankers (not counting Flame). I’ll go with the original. Which cologne smells better? Which lasts longer? Read below for my full break down.

Tale of the Tape: Eros vs Bleu EDP

Versace Eros

Notes of Eros: mint, green apple, tonka bean, madagascar vanilla, vetiver, Italian lemon

Shop Amazon for: Versace Eros Eau de Toilette Spray for Men, 3.4 Fluid Ounce

My review: Versace Eros

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

Versace Eros starts off with a bold mix of mint, apple, and lemon. In some newer bottles, the lemon seems stronger to my nose, and the vanilla doesn’t come on as early.

Update: But, with my most recent travel sprayer it’s more of a balanced blend again.

Eros is a interesting mix of a warm cloud of sweetness and a cool crisp freshness.

Apple and mint, bring on the latter. Tonka bean and vanilla, create that cloud-like effect.

Bleu de Chanel EDP also starts off with citrus, including lemon, but the grapefruit note is actually the stronger of the two.

Bleu also brings on its mint note, but the ginger and pink pepper, have a stronger spice. A little later, you get a smoky incense, and warm amber.

Which is better? I do enjoy the opening of Eros, a whole lot. I liked the original batches the best, however. Now, the lemon does seem stronger, which throws off the balance a bit (not too much, but noticeable).

The opening of Bleu EDP can be sharp, but I enjoy the citrus notes, and the spicy freshness which comes through. I think I’ll give the Chanel the edge.

Edge: Bleu

Projection

Eros has always been a loud fragrance, on my skin. The sillage will project itself pretty far and wide; it totally has the ability to take over a room.

Bleu EDP, is strong, but doesn’t have a crazy powerful projecting ability. In fact, as it wears on, it’s pretty moderate. Bleu never touches the capability of Eros.

Update: Newer bottles of Eros aren’t as strong, as they used to be, in my opinion. I still think it has the slight edge, but they are now almost equal.

Edge: Eros (slightly)

Longevity

Bleu de Chanel EDP, gets me about 8 hours of wear. For me, Bleu Parfum, has the best longevity in the BdC family (10 hours).

Eros still gets me 10 hours, even with the newer bottles (swear, they are different from the originals). Both of these scents, have the staying power, Eros just goes a bit further.

Update: I’m changing this one from Eros to a tie. The power with Eros has retreated over the years, as has the longevity. Now, it also stands at about 8 hours or so.

Edge: Push

Versatility

Versace Eros is good as a casual scent for younger men, and also as, a nightlife powerhouse. It is best worn in the autumn/winter months and can completely fall apart in the high heat. Springtime, it’s decent.

Meanwhile, Bleu EDP can go year round, but is just okay when it’s really hot. Nonetheless, Bleu is better in a variety of climates than is, Eros.

Beyond that, Bleu is much better as an office scent or a formal-type of fragrance. It isn’t just limited to that, though, as it also fits while wearing a t-shirt and jeans.

It’s the more mature of the two, but not an ‘old man’ cologne, by any means. BdC EDP just has many more applications, than Eros does.

Edge: Bleu

 

Overall Scent

All right, we’re tied up going into the final category. I really do enjoy both of these fragrances and have no problem recommending either. Versace Eros has been a favorite for a long time, since I first had a sample, upon its release.

Back then, it was so bold and enveloping, with a fresh mix of sweetness and spice. The sillage was crazy, as was the longevity. I started wearing it on a regular basis, for a year or so.

However, I have a more recent mini bottle, and it seems different. It’s still very nice, but again, the vanilla/tonka bean isn’t the same.

The lemon feels amped up and it’s not the same powerhouse it once was (it’s still strong as hell, but it was once monstrous). Legend Night, has taken on the role, that the older bottles of Eros used to occupy.

I do still love the mint and apple. Plus, the dry down is still great, in my opinion. I’m not bashing Eros, it just doesn’t do much for me any longer. The formula is still good, but it doesn’t have that same level of greatness.

Bleu de Chanel EDP is a better fragrance, though. It is more refined, balanced, and versatile. It doesn’t have the same crazy performance levels, but it’s still very good across the board.

The smoky citrus and sandalwood, in the dry down is great. For me, it’s not a big win, but Bleu does get the nod. Eros, really isn’t even similar to Bleu de Chanel, and they aren’t substitutes for one another.

Winner: Bleu de Chanel EDP

bleu parfum review

13 Best Chanel Perfumes for Her

by

Chanel is a luxury brand that has been around for over 100 years now and it’s still going strong. It is not only famous for its designer fashions on the runway but also in the fragrance department.

This French luxury brand has seemingly countless classic and super famous scents that have defined entire decades. For this post, I have selected thirteen Chanel perfumes, which I consider to be the best smelling of the bunch.

Of course, with such a limitation (yes, it still is ‘limited’ in scope), there’s always going to be scents that I’ve missed. There are too many Chanel fragrance variations, discontinued perfumes, and such that it is almost impossible to give a complete account.

However, this is certainly a good place to start, with the modern versions at least. Here is my men’s list of the best Chanel for Him.

What are the Best Smelling Chanel Perfumes for Women?

Musky Floral

Chance By Chanel 3.4 oz Eau De Parfum Spray For Women– Chance comes in both an EDT and EDP version created by perfumer Jacques Polge. The EDP is the one that is linked, however, both of these options are obviously very similar. The EDP is very floral with notes of vanilla, iris, and jasmine leading the way.

It also is more subdued and cleaner than the EDT version, as the patchouli isn’t as much of a pure standout.

Chance gives you some floral sweetness and warm spice with the pink pepper, patchouli, and musk notes giving it some greater depth. Musk, vanilla, and the jasmine come to be the main players of Chance and together form something that is refined and moderate in its sillage.

However, during the dry down the patchouli does become more of a factor, and pairs surprisingly well with that soft jasmine. Chance has very nice performance and the ability to last for a standard workday or most other normal occasions. Chance EDP Review

Top Winter Fragrance

Chanel COCO Eau De Parfum Vaporisateur Spray 3.4 OZ / 100 ml– Coco is another fragrance with a lot of warmth and spice to its scent. This perfume is best served in the crisp and cold months of fall and winter.

Notes include coriander, rose, sandalwood, tonka bean, peach, amber, and cloves. Coco is bold, enveloping, and lasts forever and ever (especially the vintage bottles).

The floral (jasmine, rose, ylang ylang) and orange notes give it a subtle sweetness that isn’t the usual perfume blast of ‘loud’ smelling fruits or sugary candy. Rose and cloves are wrapped in the warm embrace of amber, which radiates beauty.

Coco is a rich and complex fragrance that defines class and has done so since the 1980s. May not be the best choice for younger ladies, though, some could still pull it off.

Coco eau de parfum is one of this brand’s offerings, that exudes the term luxury, and is probably something that most folks associate with Chanel. Yes, this stuff is powerful, spicy, and can be too much for some people.

However, it is an absolute classic with fantastic sandalwood, and an all day and into the night longevity. Grab a bottle and wear it dressed up.

Les Eaux de Chanel Pick

Paris-Venise by Chanel– This is going to be my pick from the Les Eaux de Chanel line of scents, at least for women. Paris-Venise gives you that familiar Chanel feeling, while being completely unique in its presentation. Other options like Paris-Biarritz, are a bit too close to smelling like Chance.

Venise is headed up by notes of neroli, vanilla, and tonka bean. With that is a nice citrus accord, added to powdery iris and violet, giving Paris-Venise a great freshness that can safely be worn into the summertime.

The citrus, iris, and ylang-ylang (plus other floral notes) are most prominent in the opening act. Then, the dry down features the softer powdery/creamy base notes that really help to set this one apart.

Plus, nice hints of white musk. Complex, while being totally light and easy to wear. Great! Venise Review

Other Les Eaux de Chanel Option

Paris-Deauville by Chanel– I’ve been spending a lot of time with samples of the Les Eaux de Chanel line lately, and Paris-Deauville, has quickly become a favorite.

It’s a summery citrus with lime and the mandarin orange note from Coco Mademoiselle. But, it changes things up with a wonderful basil freshness, light patchouli, and some green notes.

The lime and mandarin are fairly equal early on. That will shift more towards the lime which gets paired with the basil. Mandarin orange and lemon sit underneath that. It’s very uplifting and reminiscent of a summer’s day.

I get about 7 hours of solid wear out of it with a nice bit of projection. Paris-Deauville is a unisex scent, that gives you a lovely and pretty unique, albeit simple profile. Deauville Review

The Classic Chanel Scent

Chanel No.5 for Women – A standard classic within ladies fragrances. I mean, is this ever not going to be a best seller? Elegant, feminine, iconic and all stored within that famous bottle.

Floral and woodsy upon the drydown and it can be a bit repulsive to some at first (or not work at all for their body chemistry). However, when it works and has had some time to develop on the skin, it is beautiful. Personally, I’ve never experienced that, an old school vibe for sure but an outstanding floral scent.

There are a few different versions of No.5 and it of course has undergone slight reformulations over the many decades since its release, so this all can have an impact as to exactly what perfume you get. The Parfum is the original release created by Ernest Beaux 100 years ago.

The Other Classic Coco Option

No.22 EDP Les Exclusifs de Chanel– The formula for this one dates back to 1922 with Coco Chanel and Ernest Beaux. You could also go with No.19, which is probably more popular, but No.22 is the better perfume.

This is the EDP ‘Les Exclusifs’ version. A bit less expensive, but still has great performance.

This one is focused on tuberose but is blended with an array of floral notes and a cooling and refreshing addition of aldehydes up top. At first, 22 has a greenish sort of feeling. Then, the usual cohort of jasmine/ylang-ylang/rose that Chanel is famous for comes in.

22 does have powdery qualities like No. 5, but much less so, with some sweetness also coming from the base. Not too heavy or ‘old lady-ish’, despite its older formulation. No. 22 still comes across as a stylish and modern luxury perfume.

A Lion of Chanel

Le Lion de Chanel– The more that I tested this one out, the more that I liked Le Lion de Chanel. It’s not my favorite, nor one that I’d want to wear all of the time. But, I do think that this perfume is worthy of a spot on the list.

It opens up with labdanum, amber, and a nice burst of citrus. The first two give this one a warmth and smokiness, that contrasts well with the bergamot and lemon.

It will go from juicy to drier and earthy. It’s got a solid dose of patchouli and almost a leathery quality with how all of the notes come together. Musk, amber, patchouli, smoke. It’s an interesting fragrance to wear. Not for everyone, but a nice change of pace from pure floral perfumes. Le Lion de Chanel Review

Most Popular Chanel Perfume

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau De Parfum spray For Women 3.4 OZ.– The current popular star of the Chanel lineup and one that enjoys more of a universal appeal and can be more broadly worn than some of the other options on the list.

Coco Mademoiselle is sweeter blend of citrus and floral notes that has enjoyed immense popularity since its release. It has an aura of femininity with a strong heart of patchouli and musk.

Mademoiselle features some bright and clean citrus top notes and floral notes led by rose and jasmine. The patchouli is the main attraction in this one, however, it is tempered by the sweeter notes including vanilla.

It has extremely good sillage (a few sprays will do) and also provides all day longevity. Coco Mademoiselle has spawned a bunch of its own flanker fragrances, which are also great, but the original still takes the cake. Read my Full Review

Best Light Summer Scent

Chanel Chance Tendre Eau de Toilette Spray For Women 1.7 OZ./ 50 ml.– Bright, fresh, and girly. Chanel Chance Eau Tendre has a citrus base of grapefruit and quince to go along with sweet floral notes. This is probably the most popular of the Chance flanker fragrances by Chanel.

It’s mostly a floral fragrance that is highlighted by citrus notes to give it more balance. Iris, jasmine, and hyancith are a part of the floral bouquet.

Chance Eau Tendre is a much lighter fragrance than anything else on the list, but that light airy aroma, doesn’t mean that it lacks staying power. It’s just not a heavy bomb, but one that is a great option for everyday wear.

It is still very crisp, due to the citrus top notes, but it doesn’t have that usual sharpness that grapefruit can cause. Eau Tendre is very smooth with a dry down period that can be somewhat powdery (iris) and with a healthy dose of musk. Again, it’s not a heavy fragrance, so the musk isn’t going to be an unbearable mess.

Most Underrated Chanel

Chanel – Allure Eau De Parfum Spray for Women 3.4 FL OZ– Chanel’s Allure has a slightly exotic and oriental vibe to it. Smooth vanilla pairs with peach, orange, and bergamot. A very clean and sexy fragrance that lasts a long time and draws complements.

This is another case, where the EDP and EDT versions are similar but different. The Allure EDP has more vanilla and a warmer vibe (plenty of amber) than the EDT, which gives off more of the bergamot and orange notes with May rose in the florals (it’s also lighter). Either version one selects, you will received a beautiful and sensuous fragrance, under the Allure banner.

Allure EDP opens up with a nectar aroma of peach and then a lighter touch of the citrus notes. The fragrance is warm and sweet from the start, with the vanilla coming in early for a supporting role.

Then, as it dries down, you get more of the floral heart notes like jasmine, peony, and magnolia with touches of base notes like vetiver. Still, the peach and citrus, are the dominant factors in this scent. The whole thing comes together as creamy, smooth, and wonderfully enveloping.

The Best Gabrielle

Gabrielle Essence by Chanel Eau De Parfum Spray 3.4 oz / 100 ml (Women)– The original Chanel Gabrielle was pretty good, but it didn’t really reach the top of the list. Essence is a much better fragrance, which blends classic elements with enough modern touches to be enjoyable.

Tuberose, ylang-ylang, orange blossom and other white floral notes eventually combine to be the main focus of this fragrance. However, it opens up with citrus and some juicy/tart berry notes, that are truly delicious. There is a peach note and overall sparkling quality up top.

The performance is decent, but not an elite scent by any means, in that regard. It does smell very nice and has a great deal of versatility. Gabrielle Essence Review

Unisex Floral Woods

Bois des Iles by Chanel– Bois des Iles is definitely less ‘girly’ than many of the other entries on the list, but is still an utterly fantastic fragrance. It features a spicy top (coriander) and awesome sandalwood accord with milky, powdery, and creamy highlights.

The floral notes here are secondary, but present. Aldehydes are the other star of the show, along with the sandalwood. Orris lends the powdery touch and is joined by ylang-ylang.

It settles down into a woodsy and amber-laden perfume, with a warmth that is great on an autumn or winter’s day. This one is something different, but well worth a try, if you’re into woody parfums.

Spice, Sweet, Beauty

Coromandel by Chanel– Coromandel is a scent that I’ve been getting into more lately. There are different variations of this scent: Parfum, EDP, and les Exclusifs. Each is going to give you a slightly different formulation and intensity.

Though, I’m pretty sure les Exclusifs and the older bottles of EDP are the same, at least they smell that way.

Each of them, features an awesome patchouli note, with a warm mix of amber/balsamic/oriental notes (benzoin, frankincense), and a gourmand finish…usually the white chocolate will come through the most. Spicy and warm, especially early on.

The Exclusifs or EDP (whichever is available) tend to be a sweeter formulation with more of an emphasis on the vanilla and white chocolate touches. Meanwhile, the Parfum version feels woodier and denser than the others. Coromandel Review

Chance Eau Tendre by Chanel

by

Chance Eau Tendre is one of the more popular takes on the Chanel Chance name. It’s already famous and a best seller, but does it actually warrant this position. I recently revisited this perfume, grabbed some samples to test out, and finally put my thoughts to the page. How does Eau Tendre smell? Does it last long? Is it worth a try?

What does Chance Eau Tendre Smell Like?

Notes include: jasmine, grapefruit, hyacinth, musk, quince, iris, musk, cedar, amber

Click here to try: Chance Eau Tendre

eau tendre edt review

My Full Review

Here’s how Chanel describes it: The delicate and unexpected floral-fruity fragrance creates a soft, tender whirlwind of happiness, fantasy and radiance—a chance encounter.

Eau Tendre starts off with its citrus note playing a very prominent role. The more unique quince note, leads the way supported by the more standard grapefruit. It’s bight and fresh, since you can already pick up the cedar and musk notes from the base.

I do notice with this original EDT version, the citrus notes stick around for a longer period of time than they do in the EDP.

There is also a greenish feel to the opening act. Part of the quince and maybe a stem-like aroma from some of the emergent floral. Not massive, but in the early stages, I can pick it up.

This one will shift from just being a fresh citrus fragrance to something that is floral, sweeter, and with a powdery finish. That’s going to be the case, when the hyacinth note is the strongest floral and it gets assistance in that regard from the iris.

The iris and jasmine seem to split duties between themselves. At certain points, the iris will be the second strongest floral, at others I will get a lot more jasmine.

The dry down is a powdery and musky citrus aroma. Cedar freshness still abounds, but the distinct qualities of the jasmine and iris seem to have merged into the hyacinth. So, sort of a generic powdery floral smell.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

The sillage here is a tad above average on the whole. The opening hour or two does produce a nice scent trail and it projects quite well off of the skin after spraying.

Now, this isn’t a heavy or ‘thick’ sort of perfume that will blanket a room, unless you just go nuts with the spraying. Nonetheless, it’s certainly not weak and will give one a decent scent bubble for much of the duration.

The longevity with Eau Tendre EDT is around 6-8 hours. Usually, I can get to seven with it as a base. However, it can occasionally fall short of that and only get to about six.

Eau Tendre is a very versatile fragrance, that can easily serve as a daily wear or signature scent for many women (and already does). It’s light and simple enough for teens to wear, but not immature, and really can work across the age spectrum.

Seasonally, this Chanel is best in the spring and summer months. It’s lightness and fresh/upbeat qualities make it a very nice wear for the warmer temperatures.

Overall Impressions of Eau Tendre

Overall, do I like Eau Tendre? Yes, the EDT version is my personal favorite from the entire Chance line. I think that it is slightly better smelling than the EDP and basically has the exact same performance level.

Eau Tendre is a very approachable and great little perfume. It’s really something that you can wear and not have to think about very much. Smell good and go. The floral notes are powdery and clean, not too much musk, and a citrus accord that isn’t exactly the same as everything else out there.

Yes, this has been around for a long while now, and has become fairly ubiquitous in its use among the public. Still, Chance Eau Tendre is a perfume that most people won’t find very much issue with and will probably enjoy. Well, except maybe the Chanel pricing.

Bleu de Chanel Parfum vs. Dior Sauvage EDP

by

In this entry of the men’s fragrance comparisons, we are going to take a closer look at two very popular fragrance names: Bleu de Chanel vs. Sauvage. Naturally, each of these fragrances has three flanker scents, two of which I am going to compare today. I selected Sauvage EDP, as I think that it is the best of the Sauvage lineup.

If you want Sauvage Parfum, there is my review, of that scent. How does Sauvage EDP compare versus Bleu de Chanel Parfum? Which has the better performance? Which smells better? Which is the better buy?

Tale of the Tape

Sauvage EDP

Notes include: nutmeg, bergamot, ambroxan, vanilla absolute, lavender, Sichuan pepper, anise

Click here to try: Sauvage by Dior Eau de Parfum Spray 100ml

Read my original review: Sauvage EDP

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

Opening

Bleu de Chanel Parfum opens up with the usual BdC citrus notes: lemon, bergamot, and lime. However, in this version, the citrus isn’t as sharp and is tempered by the woody notes.

The wood notes of sandalwood and cedar, are ever present during the wear, but the opening also has a fresh mint note. A bit later, the lavender starts to emerge. It’s citrus, fresh, woody, and a bit herbal.

It’s very similar to the others in the series, just with a different weighting of the ingredients and more woodiness.

Sauvage EDP comes with the usual ambroxan note, a smoky vanilla note, and lavender. It’s warm, clean, and has a lot less of the lavender than the original Sauvage. The bergamot, up top is lighter, and then you get spicy pepper later on in the wear.

But, that Sichuan pepper will share duties with both anise and nutmeg, which allows it to come across less harsh and more balanced than EDT.

Which is better? I really enjoy both of them and how they start off, for different reasons. In the end, I think I prefer the Chanel fragrance, a bit more. I love its depth and complexity. It is refined and smells really nice, up top.

Edge: BdC Parfum 

Projection

Bleu de Chanel Parfum starts off with a pretty strong sillage, in the opening act. Then, it tempers down, by quite a bit. It’s noticeable but not super powerful from far away.

When it transitions to its more woody phase, that’s when it doesn’t leave the same scent trail or project off of the skin to the same extent.

Overall, Parfum is pretty moderate once that initial citrus blast has faded away a bit.

Sauvage EDP is a beast. For me, it is a complete powerhouse, and easily outdoes the sillage of Bleu. It definitely has a greater strength than the original Sauvage, also.

Not only that, it sustains itself at a higher level for longer before it actually moderates. The Sauvage uses heavier notes, so it’s not really too much of a surprise that it takes this category.

Edge: Sauvage EDP

Longevity

When it comes to performance, neither of these fragrances, will let you down. Both of them, will go for over 10 hours, on my skin.

Yes, Sauvage is more powerful, but the length of time worn overall is equal with Bleu. Sauvage EDP might have a slight edge here, as I can sometimes get more wear out of it, but I’m going to call this a tie.

Parfum is lighter than Sauvage EDP, but it sticks around well.

Edge: Push

Versatility

Again, these two are on about the same wavelength, in terms of when they can be worn. I’d probably avoid each, on the absolute hottest days of summer, but they are good at other times. Maybe the citrus of the Chanel gives it a slightly better use case in the warmer months.

Both of them, are best in the autumn/winter. They can be worn at the office, casually, or for a night out. No trouble with either.

Edge: Push

Overall Scent

For me, this is a pretty close call. I don’t think the original Sauvage EDT, can stand up to the Bleu lineup, but the EDP has that ability. Dior took what was great about Sauvage and made it better, and also, took away the more unpleasant aspects of it.

I love the ambroxan and vanilla. The smokiness and the emergence of the more varied spice, in the EDP, as it’s no longer just about Sichuan pepper. You also get anise and nutmeg. The performance is also enhanced and is outstanding, overall.

If I had to choose between these two, I would ultimately pick Bleu de Chanel Parfum. It is refined, smooth, and the sandalwood note is utterly perfect.

Parfum is warm, deep, and dark. You get a great blend of wood, with a zesty citrus profile. It’s dry, fresh, with an herbal/mint aroma up top. Not as strong as Sauvage, but a bit better.

Bleu Parfum is a more low key fragrance to wear, overall. As such, if you want something with some boldness and that Sauvage style of fragrance, go with that. I still think it’s a really good choice.

Honestly, if I had to rank Sauvage and Bleu de Chanel fragrances, my top 3 is: 1. BdC EDP 2. BdC Parfum 3. Sauvage EDP.

So, I’d actually go with Bleu de Chanel EDP, which is similar enough to Parfum. However, you get more of the citrus notes. But, in this head to head, the winner is Parfum.

You might consider getting the Chanel and one of the attempted dupes of Dior Sauvage for cheap. That way, two bottles for not that much more than one. I don’t think any of the attempted knockoffs of Bleu de Chanel have really nailed the essence of Parfum, as of yet.

Winner: Bleu de Chanel Parfum

Bleu de Chanel EDP by Chanel

by

The original Bleu de Chanel became and remains a very popular men’s fragrance. The next release from this line, and the subject of today’s review, is Bleu de Chanel Eau de Parfum. The EDP version, is obviously going to have a higher concentration of fragrance, but what does it actually smell like? How long does it last? Is the sillage good? Is this version even worth a try?

What Does Bleu de Chanel EDP Smell Like?

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.

My Full Review

Bleu de Chanel EDP opens up with a sharp blast of citrus fruit, led by grapefruit, and some fresh spicy notes. Mint, ginger, and pink pepper are there. Though, I pick up mainly ginger and pink pepper, with a bit of mint.

Underneath all of this, is the warm amber. Yes, this Chanel fragrance, is a lot like its predecessor and the newer BdC Parfum release. Nonetheless, it can stand on its own as a distinct scent.

The citrus notes, dominate the composition, but are joined by the spicier notes in the beginning. Then, it will transition more into a citrus, amber, and smoky incense aroma.

It strikes me as sharp and fresh at first, then, it is warmer and smooth. Grapefruit and lemon, when blended with these other notes, can give off almost an orange-like scent at times to my nose.

As we move further along, Bleu, starts to regain some freshness. Not from the spicy notes, rather, the wood begins to emerge. Cedar with some sandalwood.

It comes across as quite clean, with the citrus sitting on top, and floating in a sea of amber. There is some sweetness from tonka bean and vanilla, in the latter stages, that got overlooked during that opening act.

I will say, for having: tonka bean, sandalwood, and vanilla this doesn’t have the level of creaminess that you might expect. It is there to an extent, as noted below, but you’d might think it’d be more so.

The final part of Bleu de Chanel EDP, is a fresh citrus and woodsy scent. Not as much amber, in my mind, but the sandalwood is nice and creamy and still paired with that clean cedar.

I did once get sent an odd bottle of Bleu EDP by mistake once, when I had ordered Allure Sport Eau Extreme. The bottle was cracked, but the smell of the scent itself was also way off. Too heavily weighted with the amber and felt screechy.

Bad batch, but it did give me an idea, about how bad this could turn out without the refined balance of this formula.

Sillage, How Long Does Bleu de Chanel EDP Last, Versatility

The projection on this one, isn’t super powerful. I’d say that the sillage starts of pretty strong, but settles, close to the wearer. Bleu isn’t a monster with its sillage and won’t really take over a room. It has a nice performance, but it is nothing insane.

It is, however, more persistent than the EDT or Parfum versions of Bleu. Parfum does feel lighter once it gets into its woody phase, despite the higher fragrance concentration.

The longevity is good, but not incredible. I can hit 8 hours, with it on my skin, but the last few are close to the skin. This EDP isn’t a powerhouse, but will do just fine, in almost any circumstance. Unless, you really needed it to go for 12+ hours or something.

While I’ve worn this in the summer, I’m not too in love with it, in the heat. I think that Bleu is at its best, in a more temperate climate. Spring or autumn, is when this one will really shine. It can be worn year round, and won’t be a mess in any climate, but it does have a sweet spot.

It gets really hot and humid, where I live. For me, it’s not a year round option. Other men will have better luck, in that department.

Bleu de Chanel is more than a casual fragrance. I think the EDP is somewhat more formal than the EDT, but manages to retain plenty of versatility. It of course works extremely well, as a dressed up perfume, but I’ve worn it with t-shirt and jeans. It didn’t seem out of place.

The whole Bleu series is a basic, ‘can do everything’ sort of cologne. I’d say ‘almost’ everything, but the versatility here is absolutely great.

Is it well liked by other people? Yes. EDP is very attractive. Sexy while being mature and women will complement it.

Overall Impressions of Bleu EDP

Do I like Bleu de Chanel Eau de Parfum? Yes, I do. I think that I can safely say, it is my favorite scent from the BdC line, or at least the one I’d choose most of the time.

It is more complex and interesting than the EDT, while retaining more of the citrus when compared to, Bleu Parfum.

I really like the citrus notes here. The opening with the spice is cool, but I prefer the dry down, when I get my amber and woody notes. Parfum goes deeper into that direction, but I enjoy this more, as I get a greater representation of the other notes too.

I’m pretty sure nowadays, that Eau de Parfum is the best seller from the line. Just about every website has it ranked higher than the other Bleu scents, when you sort them.

That’s when this one is super smooth and just beautiful to wear. It’s a fragrance, that does everything well, from its ingredients to overall performance. Bleu de Chanel EDP, is kind of a no-brainer scent, it just works. Not really one you can go wrong with. That’s why there’s so many perfumes trying to clone Bleu de Chanel.

Is it going to be everyone’s favorite? Not necessarily. Some might find this boring. To me, it’s got more depth than it may be given credit for. There’s plenty going on here, but it still maintains an unreal ability to be mass appealing.