No 290

Is it Worth It?

If you're drawn to Ani's comforting spicy vanilla but can't stomach the price tag, No 290 is an excellent alternative. It’s not a perfect dupe, but it gets remarkably close. The slight synthetic tinge is forgivable given the significant cost savings. This is for the person who wants to project warmth and confidence, but with a touch of approachability. Someone who commands a room without needing to shout. For the everyday enjoyment, No 290 is a smart choice.

Notes & Nuances

Louche's No 290 aims squarely at Nishane's Ani. The opening is a bright spark of ginger and bergamot, with a peppery tingle. It's lively, a wake-up call. The heart leans into a spiced rose, but the black currant is dialed down considerably compared to Ani. Where Ani has a jammy richness, No 290 feels slightly thinner, more linear. The dry down is where the resemblance is strongest: a comforting vanilla-benzoin hug with a creamy sandalwood base. I'd say it captures around 90% of Ani's DNA, lacking just a touch of the original's opulent depth. There's a slight synthetic edge present in the opening, something that dissipates quickly but is noticeable.

Wear time & Sillage

This is where No 290 shines. It projects moderately for the first 2 hours, leaving a pleasant scent trail. On my skin, it lasts a solid 6-8 hours. It becomes a skin scent after hour 4, but it’s still present. the performance is impressive.