Ivory Route Clones

"### First Impressions & Dry Down Voux Spices opens with a blast of dried herbs and a noticeable, almost medicinal, basil note. It diverges from what I expected, leaning more towards a kitchen spice rack than a vibrant spice market. The mid develops a creamy, but slightly synthetic sandalwood mixed with a damp, earthy patchouli – it’s less photorealistic, more like scented drawer liners. The drydown is where it smooths out somewhat, settling into a vanilla amber accord that’s pleasantly warm, but has a bit of a plasticky undertone. It lacks the nuance and richness of what it's trying to emulate, trading depth for a simplified, linear experience. ### Projection Power I got about 6 hours of wear with Voux Spices, projecting moderately within the first two hours, then settling closer to the skin. I tested it during a moderate temperature workday and again at an evening social event. It performed reasonably well in both situations, but I wouldn't expect it to turn heads. ### Is it Worth It? Wearing Voux Spices versus the original is like drinking instant coffee instead of a freshly brewed pour-over. You get the general idea of the flavor profile, but you're missing the complex aromatics and depth. It's a decent daily fragrance if you enjoy spicy orientals and don’t mind sacrificing some of the finer details. The simplification makes it easier to wear, but it also lacks character."

"### The Scent Profile Voux Spices opens with a bracing wave of cinnamon bark and clove, a familiar spicy accord, yet possessing a distinct harshness. The basil note struggles to assert itself, adding a fleeting green nuance quickly overwhelmed by the dominant spices. In contrast to the smoother profile of Ivory Route, this initial blast lacks finesse, reminiscent of cheap potpourri. The heart introduces a sandalwood note that leans synthetic, almost sawdust-like, rather than creamy. Patchouli emerges, adding an earthy counterbalance, but presents as somewhat muddled, preventing a clear separation of accords. The drydown consists of a syrupy amber supported by a vanilla accord which has an unwelcome plasticky edge. The smooth vanilla found in the Xerjoff inspiration is noticeably absent. ### Is it Worth It? Voux Spices may appeal to those who prefer a boisterous, unapologetically spicy fragrance with a dominant vanilla base. This individual likely enjoys making a statement, opting for bold, attention-grabbing scents. Their style probably favours maximalism. ### Longevity & Projection Longevity on skin is moderate, lasting approximately 6 hours. Projection is assertive for the first two hours, extending to about an arm's length, before settling closer to the skin. Tested in both indoor and outdoor environments, the fragrance exhibited consistent performance without significant fluctuations."