Friend

To Buy or Not to Buy?

Friend is a decent budget alternative if you're looking for a similar vibe to Life Essence. Given the rarity and price of the original, this clone offers a serviceable substitute for casual wear. However, don't expect a perfect replica. The original boasts superior ingredient quality and a more complex evolution. For the average consumer seeking an affordable aromatic woody fragrance, Friend is a viable option.

First Impressions & Dry Down

Friend by Fragrance World opens with a bright, albeit somewhat synthetic, lemon and bergamot accord. The coriander is present but muted, lacking the herbaceous punch found in Life Essence. The heart reveals a cypress and geranium blend, approximating the original, but the West Indian Bay is less pronounced here, resulting in a slightly flatter aromatic profile. The base aims for sandalwood, oakmoss, and cedar, achieving a woody dryness; however, the oakmoss leans toward a generic "mossy" note rather than the refined, naturalistic quality of its inspiration. Overall, it captures approximately 85% of Life Essence's DNA, sacrificing some nuance for a bolder, more straightforward interpretation.

The Performance Stats

Longevity is moderate. Expect around 5-6 hours on skin. Projection is initially strong for the first hour, creating a noticeable scent bubble, before settling closer to the skin. It's a workday scent; not a powerhouse.