Megara

First Impressions & Dry Down

Megara opens with a bracing lemon cleaner note, not quite the zest of bergamot. There's an initial blast of what I can only describe as chlorine swimming pool water, likely the Calone. The seaweed is there, but it's more like decaying kelp on a beach after a heatwave. The heart lacks the salty depth I was anticipating, instead presenting a vaguely metallic edge. As it dries down, the musk becomes increasingly prominent, blending with the ambroxan into a somewhat scratchy, synthetic ambergris accord. The cedar is barely detectable, unfortunately. Compared to what I know of the original, this feels like a simplified, somewhat sharper interpretation, missing the nuanced complexity.

The Verdict

This is a summertime, daytime scent best suited for very casual situations. Think beach walks, outdoor concerts, or maybe a trip to the boardwalk. I wouldn't recommend it for the office or any formal event – it's too loud and potentially divisive. Probably not a first date choice, either. If you want to announce your presence without needing to say a word, Megara will do the trick.

How Long Does it Last?

Megara lasts a solid 8 hours on my skin. Projection is beastly for the first 2 hours, easily reaching beyond arm's length, then it settles down to a more manageable bubble. I tested it during a moderately active day running errands and it held up well, although the synthetic musk became a bit cloying in the warmer afternoon sun.