Chic Boy

How it Smells

Chic Boy opens with a blast of pink pepper. Prominent, almost aggressively so. The pear note is present, but more of a suggestion than a defined fruit. The nutmeg adds a needed warmth. Comparing it to Moschino's Toy Boy, this opening is about 80% similar, but lacks the bright Italian bergamot.

The heart reveals a synthetic, slightly candied rose. The magnolia adds a creamy texture, while the clove attempts to add spice. However, the overall impression is more sweet than spicy. This is where the fragrance deviates most from the original. It's less nuanced.

The drydown focuses on the Sylkolide (a musk), cashmeran, and a somewhat muted Haitian vetiver. The woody-musky accord is comfortable, but projects a distinct "clone" accord.

The Verdict

Chic Boy captures the *idea* of Toy Boy, at perhaps 80% accuracy. The sharp opening is appealing, the rose heart is slightly artificial, and the drydown is a safe musk. At its price point, it's a worthwhile option if you enjoy the general profile of Toy Boy, but are budget-conscious. If you demand complexity and realism, stick with the original. You get what you pay for.

Projection Power

Longevity is surprisingly decent. I get around 5-6 hours on skin. Projection is moderate for the first hour, then settles closer to the skin. It's noticeable, but not a room-filler.