Scandal

The Scent Profile

Scandal by Paris Corner opens with a blast of clary sage, slightly sharper and more herbal than the original Gaultier. The mandarin orange is present, but it's quickly overshadowed. The heart develops a prominent caramel note, sweeter and less nuanced than Jean Paul Gaultier's rendition. The tonka bean is detectable, providing a powdery counterpoint. Vetiver in the base grounds the sweetness, but it's a simplified, less earthy version. Overall, it captures approximately 95% of the original's DNA, but with some synthetic edges noticeable upon closer inspection. The caramel screams a bit louder here, and the sage has a rougher quality.

Performance Reality Check

Longevity is surprisingly decent. Expect around 6-7 hours on skin. Projection is moderate for the first two hours, creating a noticeable scent bubble. It then settles closer to the skin. Not a beast mode performer, but respectable for a clone at this price point. If you appreciate the original's sweet and aromatic profile and are not overly sensitive to synthetic nuances, it's a worthwhile purchase. However, those seeking the refined character and smoother blend of the original might find it lacking. For the casual user seeking an affordable substitute, this clone gets the job done.