Ace of Spades

Conclusion

It captures the essence of the original . It's perfect for cozy nights in, casual fall and winter days, and might even work for a relaxed date. If you crave ultra-high quality ingredients and smoothness, stick with the original. But for everyday wear? Ace of Spades is a smart choice.

The Scent Profile

Ace of Spades nails the "By the Fireplace" vibe, but with some budget constraints. The opening is a blast of sweet, smoky clove with a hint of orange. It mimics the cozy, crackling fire effect nicely, though it has a slightly synthetic edge compared to the original's smoother opening. The heart brings in that roasted chestnut and guaiac wood, creating a warm, woody sweetness. I would say this is about 80% close to the original scent profile. The main difference is the quality of the ingredients; Margiela's version smells more refined. The drydown is where it shines, the cashmeran and vanilla blend together and create a slightly powdery base that is sweet and comforting.

The Performance Stats

The performance is respectable . I get about 5-6 hours on my skin with moderate projection for the first hour, settling closer to the skin after that. It's definitely noticeable, but not overpowering. You might want to re-apply during the workday if you want it to last all day.