Man Gold

First Impressions & Dry Down

Zara's Man Gold is a pretty solid take on Clive Christian X for Men. The opening bursts with that signature rhubarb and pineapple combo, but Zara's leans a little sharper, a bit more synthetic right off the bat. Not bad, just not as smooth as the Clive Christian. The heart brings in the iris and jasmine, which are fairly well-blended. The paprika is noticeable, adding a spicy warmth. The drydown is where this really shines, settling into a cedar, cinnamon, and amber base that’s cozy and comforting. I’d say it’s about 87% similar to the original, mainly differing in the opening's initial blast of fruit.

Is it Worth It?

Zara Man Gold is a no-brainer. If you appreciate Clive Christian X but can't justify the cost, this gets you incredibly close. It’s a great daily driver for the fall and winter. The synthetic opening is the only drawback, but it fades quickly. Man Gold offers a great experience at an exceptional price point. Grab it.

Wear time & Sillage

Longevity is surprisingly decent. I get about 6-7 hours on my skin. Projection is moderate for the first hour, then it settles closer to the skin, making it perfect for office wear. Don't expect beast mode; it’s a subtle crowd-pleaser. Two sprays to the chest and one on each wrist is my go-to.