Wicked Noir

How it Smells

Wicked Noir kicks off with a burst of lemon, but it's a touch more candied than the original Invictus Victory Elixir. The incense and pepper provide a smoky, spicy edge, playing well together. As it dries, the vanilla and lavender come forward, creating a sweet, creamy center. It's pleasant, though not quite as nuanced as the Rabanne. The base is where it diverges most – the tonka, patchouli, and sandalwood are there, but they lack the richness and depth. Overall, I'd say it's about 89% similar. The original has a certain luxurious quality that's hard to replicate on a budget.

To Buy or Not to Buy?

Wicked Noir offers a decent approximation of the Invictus Victory Elixir vibe, especially . It smells good, it lasts a reasonable amount of time, and it captures the sweet, smoky essence of the original. However, the synthetic edge is present, especially in the opening. Worth it if you're on a budget, but the original is noticeably higher quality and worth the splurge if you truly love the scent profile. It's for the guy who wants to project confidence without shouting about it.

Performance Reality Check

Longevity is decent. I get about 6-7 hours on my skin. Projection is moderate for the first two hours, then settles closer to the skin. Not a beast, but it makes its presence known. You won't fill a room, but people standing close will notice.