For Him

The Scent Profile

Zara's "For Him" is a solid attempt at replicating Armani's Code Profumo, hitting maybe 88% of the mark. The opening is a blast of sweet cardamom and green apple, a bit sharper and more synthetic than the original's smoother, slightly boozy cardamom. The heart introduces a spicy nutmeg with a floral sweetness, reminiscent of the original but lacking some of its depth. The drydown is where it really tries to capture the magic of Code Profumo. A creamy tonka bean with amber and a hint of leather. It's pretty close, but the quality of the ingredients isn't quite the same. There's a synthetic edge in the base that's not present in the original, giving it away as a cheaper alternative.

The Verdict

If you enjoy Code Profumo but don't want to shell out the big bucks, Zara's "For Him" is a decent compromise. It's a good choice for a casual night out or a date. It's office-appropriate too. If you're a serious fragrance enthusiast, the smoother, higher-quality ingredients of Code Profumo justify the expense. However, for the average Joe who wants a similar vibe on a budget, Zara's "For Him" gets the job done. Worth a buy if you find it on sale.

Wear time & Sillage

Don't expect beast mode. "For Him" projects moderately for the first hour, creating a decent scent bubble. After that, it settles closer to the skin. Longevity is alright, clocking in around 4-5 hours. A few extra sprays will help stretch it out.