Barakkat Aqua Stellar

The Verdict

If you are seeking the breezy, daytime vibe of Aqua Celestia on a budget, Barakkat Aqua Stellar is a viable option. It captures the essence of the original but shows its budget DNA upon closer inspection. Is MFK's creation ten times better? Perhaps not in terms of pure scent profile, but the quality is undeniably higher. However, for casual wear and those not wanting to break the bank, Aqua Stellar is a reasonable alternative for the vibe. This is for the person who loves a fresh, clean image and wants that without emptying their wallet.

How it Smells

Barakkat Aqua Stellar opens with a blast of lime and mint, a vibrant and energetic start, closely mirroring Aqua Celestia. The black currant adds a tartness that's enjoyable but veers slightly sharper than the original's more refined citrus. The heart introduces a powdery mimosa that is pretty, yet this is where you notice some synthetic undercurrents compared to MFK's smoother floral blend. The drydown leans heavily on a clean white musk, giving it a pleasant, if somewhat generic, finish. I would place this at around 86% similarity; the foundational structure is there, but it lacks the nuanced artistry and high-quality ingredients of its inspiration.

Projection Power

Aqua Stellar delivers decent performance . It projects moderately for the first hour, creating a refreshing aura. Longevity is average; expect around 4-5 hours before it becomes a skin scent. Don't expect beast mode, but it’s respectable.