Azure

How it Smells

Azure opens with a blast of orange. It's undeniably bright, but lacks the nuanced zest found in Afternoon Swim. The ginger is present, adding a spicy counterpoint, but it comes across slightly synthetic in the initial spray. The heart features mandarin, leaning into a sweeter citrus accord, differentiated from the original's more photorealistic, less candied profile. A peppery bite emerges, offering a brief moment of complexity. As it dries down, iris makes a muted appearance; barely detectable, likely a cost-cutting measure. The musk is clean, but somewhat generic, providing a simple base for the citrus to rest upon. I'd place this clone at approximately 87% similarity to Afternoon Swim, falling short in the quality of ingredients and complexity of the drydown.

To Buy or Not to Buy?

Azure is a respectable clone. It captures the essence of Afternoon Swim . If you're seeking the high-end refinement and ingredient quality of the Louis Vuitton fragrance, look elsewhere. However, for those on a budget who enjoy a bright, citrus-forward scent for casual wear, Azure is a solid option. The original is certainly superior, but whether it's worth 10 times the price is a matter of personal preference and bank balance. If you are very discerning with quality, avoid. If you enjoy the "idea" of Afternoon Swim, and can tolerate a synthetic edge, buy this.

Longevity & Projection

Longevity is moderate. I get about 5-6 hours on skin, with the projection being strongest for the first hour. After that, it settles into a skin scent, radiating only slightly. Two sprays is plenty, maybe three in warmer weather.