Scentonym Analysis
Our objective metric for performance per dollar.
Scent Breakdown
ÉCLAT 965 VIP opens with a bright, citrus-forward burst, leaning heavily on the lemon and bergamot. The African marigold tries to peek through, adding a slight earthy counterpoint. Compared to Bal d'Afrique, it’s a solid 88% there. The heart is where it diverges; the violet feels more pronounced, almost candied, lacking the refined elegance of Byredo's airy floral blend. The drydown settles into a comforting vetiver-musk. However, a synthetic edge lingers, a noticeable departure from the smoother amber in the original. It’s pleasant, but a reminder of its cloned origins.
Conclusion
ÉCLAT 965 VIP is a good option for the budget-conscious. If you enjoy the *idea* of Bal d'Afrique but are hesitant to commit to the price, this is a worthy substitute. It captures the overall vibe – bright, sunny, and slightly bohemian.
Projection Power
The projection is moderate for the first hour, creating a subtle, inviting aura. After that, it settles closer to the skin. Expect around 4-5 hours of noticeable wear, which isn't bad point, but significantly less than Bal d'Afrique's staying power.
Performance Audit
Based on average wear time
Sillage & radius
Relative to market avg
Why we track this:
Price Arbitrage: Significant savings compared to the original Byredo pricing.
Community Verified: Cross-referenced against 126 enthusiast votes for accuracy.