Avant Garde

First Impressions & Dry Down

Avant Garde opens with a blast of soapy neroli, not quite as refined as the original, leaning more towards an orange blossom laundry detergent vibe. The black pepper is amped up, creating a sharper, almost acrid initial impression instead of the smooth spice in L'Homme. The cardamom is present, but muted, buried under the soapy onslaught. As it dries, the iris emerges, thankfully, lending a powdery, cosmetic quality. The geranium adds a green, slightly metallic edge, and the mate gives it a tea-like dryness. The base is where it deviates most; the cedar smells synthetic, like pencil shavings, and the patchouli is quite subdued, creating a plasticky drydown.

How Long Does it Last?

I get about 5-6 hours on my skin with this one. Projection is moderate for the first hour, maybe reaching an arm's length, but it quickly settles into a skin scent. I wore it to the office and while running errands, and it held up alright.

Is it Worth It?

This is a decent option for everyday wear if you're seeking something clean and inoffensive. It’s suitable for the office or casual daytime outings. It’s not a date night fragrance, and I wouldn’t wear it to a formal event. Avant Garde is best deployed in situations where you want to smell presentable but not necessarily make a statement.