Quatre IV

How it Smells

Quatre IV opens with a bright, almost aggressively zesty orange. The ginger is present, adding a spicy lift, though noticeably more synthetic than the natural ginger found in Afternoon Swim. The heart shifts to a mandarin accord, which is pleasant but lacks the nuanced depth of the original. A mild pepper note attempts to add complexity, but it's quickly overshadowed. The base introduces iris and musk. The iris is a faint powdery whisper, and the musk is clean, but both are fairly subdued, contributing little to the overall composition. Compared to Afternoon Swim, Quatre IV captures approximately 92% of the original's DNA, sacrificing some of the quality and depth of its constituent materials.

The Verdict

Quatre IV is a decent clone, offering a respectable approximation of Afternoon Swim's core citrus profile. The synthetic quality is apparent, particularly in the opening, but it's not overwhelmingly offensive. If you're looking for an inexpensive alternative and are willing to accept some compromises in quality, Quatre IV is a viable option. However, if you demand the sophisticated refinement and natural ingredients of the original, Afternoon Swim remains the superior choice, even with its significantly higher price tag. It all boils down to whether 92% is enough for 92% of the price.

Longevity & Projection

Longevity is moderate. I get around 5-6 hours on skin, with projection initially quite strong for the first hour before settling into a skin scent within 2-3 hours. Sillage is minimal.