Poker Face

To Buy or Not to Buy?

Poker Face is best suited for cooler evenings and casual settings. Picture a late-night poker game in a dimly lit room, or a quiet evening at home. It lacks the sophistication for formal occasions, leaning towards a cozy, unassuming aura. A good choice for someone seeking a comfortable, though not entirely refined, fragrance.

Scent Breakdown

Poker Face opens with a blast of candied cardamom, reminiscent of spiced gingerbread cookies left out overnight. The lavender and bergamot attempt to cut through the initial sweetness, but the sugary cardamom clings on, bordering on cloying. Where the original has a silky smoothness, this exhibits a slightly scratchy cedar note in the heart, akin to freshly sharpened pencils. The drydown is where the divergence is most evident; the vetiver is muted, replaced by a vague, powdery caraway that lingers close to the skin, like stale breath after a spicy meal. The overall effect is a simplified, somewhat diminished echo of its inspiration.

Performance Reality Check

Longevity is moderate, clocking in at around 5 hours. Projection is fairly weak; it sits close to the skin after the initial burst, only detectable within arm's length. I tested it in a climate-controlled office environment and a breezy outdoor setting; the scent fared better indoors, retaining its character for longer.