Emotions N°08 Ebony Wood

Olfactory Experience

Zara's Emotions N°08 Ebony Wood is, undeniably, trying its best to be Byredo's Gypsy Water. The opening is a bright, citrusy juniper – close, but the lemon note is more prominent, edging towards cleaner territory. The heart tries for that incense-pine needle blend, but it’s a bit rougher, less blended than the original. A slight synthetic pine cleaner vibe surfaces here. The base is vanilla-sandalwood, where it most diverges. It's sweeter, heavier on the vanilla, missing Gypsy Water's airy, slightly smoky sandalwood accord. It's about 82% there; close enough point.

Longevity & Projection

Longevity is… fine. Expect 3-4 hours of noticeable scent, then it becomes a skin scent. Projection is moderate for the first hour, quickly fading. Reapplication is needed, but at this price, who's complaining? Don't expect beast mode.

To Buy or Not to Buy?

Look, for under $30, Emotions N°08 Ebony Wood is a solid budget option. If you crave Gypsy Water but can't justify the price, this scratches the itch. It's not a perfect dupe; it has synthetic edges and lacks the refined smoothness of the original. But it's decent! If you prioritize saving money and are okay with a more synthetic, sweeter take, this is a no-brainer. Is Gypsy Water ten times better? No. Ten times the *price*? Absolutely. Buy this if you're on a budget.