Have you ever done a video on why we are “addicted” to scents or crave certain scents? I’ve been really into milky/ creamy fragrances lately and I’ve been wondering why
In my opinion perfume making is definitely a form of art. I used to buy clone fragrances for a period of time. The economy of Greece had been deteriorating and it just seemed frivolous to spend so much money on a bottle of fragrance. I remember one time I was sitting in a Cafe with my husband and I caught a sniff of a perfume a lady was wearing. It took me some minutes to recognize it. It was dolce vita by Dior, the perfume I used to wear in my first year at university. I kid you not I felt my eyes tearing up and that's so magical about fragrance: that it can take you back to time. The smell of tresor reminds me of my mum, that of eternity of my dad and that of Dior addict of the ideal me.
Yes for sure! ❤️ Fragrances can evoke memories and feeling so so strongly. I have a few scents that are so special to me now and I love it when I smell them because they take me to places and people like you with Dolce Vita, Trésor and eternity. Fragrance is for sure art but I also think clones are entirely personal choice and I have no issue with using them, especially when the fragrance they are cloning is outside of my budget. Thanks for watching as always 🥰
Designer brands are really ripping us off with those outrageous prices. I agree about what you said, imitation being the highest form of flattery. The clone brands do bring awareness to the og brands. I’ve had clones of BR 540 and it made me want to buy the og. Great and informative video Claire!
Thanks 😊 yes I think BR540 was the fragrance that made me aware of the existence of clones. That and Delina. Those two were huge as I was starting my channel and are very commonly cloned. Have a lovely week 🥰
No they are ripping you off, fragrances are not a must have like food or clothing, it's a luxury, have a better paying job if you want the finer things in life.
My interest in dupes is finding perfumes with better performance than the original. Tom Ford tends to have poor performance and for their price that’s unacceptable, so I’m trying dupes to find better longevity with very similar scents.
Sounds like a reasonable thing to look for. I too think the Private line, whilst sometimes lovely is very overpriced. I love noir de noir most but with dupes such as club de nuit intense woman, I don't feel inclined to purchase it. Thanks for watching 🥰
Hello 😊 I started buying only clones since 2019, because i have started seeing how perfume brands were giving free bottles to youtubers. Ain't no way i will be spending hundrets of euros on perfumes somebody else just gets for nothing 😏. My favourite is perfume parlour, i tried valaya,good girl gone bad extreme, elixir pour femme roja, atomic rose,la tulipe,rouge malachite and all of them smelled at least 90% the same almost unrecognisable. Also i bough their extraits de parfum so it lasted even longer than the originals💝 never going back to full bottles of originals.
Aah yes! I heard that perfume parlour are great. I tried a few of a friend's bottles and they were pretty close from what I smelt. And yes, you're completely right about some UA-camrs getting very expensive fragrances for free. It makes it look "normal" to own things that expensive and in that quantity to the consumer. Thanks for watching 🥰
There's Oreos at the store, and then there are cookies that look and taste similar, in a similar packaging, but without the branding. Nobody feels morally wrong for buying the store-brand oreos and coca-cola. We have generic medication and brand-name medication. In the end it comes down to paying for the brand, which developed, reached market first, and has a given level of cunsumer loyalty, or the cheaper alternative. It is interesting that it is up to the consumer to decide.
Yes, that's a fab point! It's across all walks of life! But for some reason clone fragrances really divide opinion. I think a lot of people who have strong opinions against them have never bought or tried them and never will. It's a split market for the majority and I think that's why clones can comfortably exist along mainstream fragrances. Thanks for watching 🥰
But just like generic medication, the name brand usually comes with less deviation. For example, I cannot take generic Levothyroxine and my specialist (Endocrinologist) suggests that I take the name brand instead. Less fluctuation with the thyroid and whatnot by choosing the name brand. But, for most, the generic is probably fine. Similar for flavor when it comes to name brand versus generic. You can almost always tell when it's an imitation- though sometimes it doesn't matter because the deviations aren't too contrasting.
The clone oreos and cokes are right there in the store, and they taste terrible compared to the real thing. Clone perfumes are hard to find. Most have to be mail ordered, so a blind buy that isn't that much less expensive than the real thing except for Creed and PDM.
I’m ok with clones/ dupes for a couple of reasons: discontinued/ limited edition versions are very hard to get, testing out brands, having a big collection, tight budgets. I’ve also found some “accidental dupes” through the years…. New, hyped perfumes that smell like ones I already have that didn’t get as much hype. I love your perspective.
Thank you 🥰 Yes for sure! Dupes and clones definitely have their place. And I am absolutely ok with them. I've been pretty impressed with what I've tried recently and a big collection is a definite reason to try some clones before investing in a bottle of something pricey. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a fab week! 😊
Hey Claire! This is an absolutely fantastic video. I’ve been wearing inspired, dupes, clones fragrances since I was a child due to affordability. Morally I understood from the perfumer about someone taking their fragrance however financially I am beginning to take a closer look at more middle eastern fragrances. I do agree with you if these brands lowered their prices it would cut down the amount of clone houses.
Yes, I agree, I am never going to pay for lost cherry, but I am extremely happy to have a dupe of it. It's close enough and within my budget. 😊 And yes, middle Eastern fragrances that are inspired by niche and designer houses are so so inexpensive sometimes. They are definitely worth trying. 👍
Many ppl fail to understand that clone houses actually help to market the very frags they dupe. Most ppl will NOT admit to wearing a clone and will state the original fragrance name. ;)
Two important factors is that many fragrances are made by labs and then sold under private labels. So multiple companies will be selling the same fragrance, sometimes with tiny changes, in different bottles. Also, many fragrance brands are owned by parent companies that are selling the same or almost the same fragrances at every price point. So many dupes are made by the manufacturers themselves.
Yes! I agree, I think we've seen this with a few YSL and Prada and Mugler fragrances recently. L'Oréal seem to have a lot of crossover between brands. Dupe are definitely a thing across perfume conglomerates for sure. Thanks for watching 🥰
Interesting video, Claire. This is my second viewing of your channel, the first one being "13 Reasons You Can't Trust Perfume Influencers Fragrance," which impressed me with your considerable integrity. I'm a collector who focuses primarily on clones. And do I experience any guilt over being party to the practice of fragrance duping? Not really. My take is similar to yours. I consider that the designer houses start with inflated prices, and then, as their fragrances grow in popularity and hype, they reformulate and dilute them, or play the scarcity game, while simultaneously raising prices further in response to increased demand, which further gouges consumers and increases profits. And while some folks may dispute these allegations of price gouging, what cannot be disputed is that inferior or bastardized reformulations occur with disturbing frequency, and they all occur without transparency, which is nothing less than bait-and-switch. So why should consumers engage in a loyalty that is not reciprocated? Anyway, that's my two cents on the subject. 😉
Clones are a really complex discussion. I had a perfumer from a sizeable indie brand comment on one of my recent videos that clone houses ride the train and don't pay the fare and I totally get that view from their point of view! I would never ever buy a clone copying an indie fragrance. But I worry about my logic here. I do think fragrance companies need to be more transparent. Having formulation change information available for consumers would be a big step forward. The price inflation for larger brands over the last 5 years has been insane too and I can see why people turn to clones. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume The distinction between cloning indie vs. designer brands is one I hadn't considered, and it's a good one. But I don't think I own any clones of indie frags, so I guess I'm absolved. 😉
This video inspired a deep conversation between me and my husband where we debated the pros and cons of clone perfumes. He couldn't care less about fragrances haha, but considering the legal/economic/ethical/artistic ramifications of copyrighting scents led to a very interesting discussion. Thanks for providing such great food for thought!
Thank you ❤️ yes, it's a complex issue isn't it? Lots of different points of view and things to consider. I'm really not sure what I think sometimes. Currently I own one clone, it's one for Virgin Island Water by Creed. Thanks for watching 🥰
Hey Claire! 🥰 Lots to say on this topic, much of which you covered here in only the eloquent way you can and do. Thank you for this balanced point-counterpoint approach. I filmed an opinion video on dupes last weekend which will likely post on Saturday. If people only knew how much formulas were actually shared or cloned even among designer and niche without calling them "inspired by," I think it would really SHOCK the fragrance "purists" out there quite a bit. It's all quite fascinating.
I agree with your statement about perfumers copying each others' creations and then adding their own smell dna on it. I collect fragrances by perfumers and compare their dna with creations for different brands/niche....it's an eye opener. Thank you both, Claire and Veronica, for your knowledge and educational information about something you enjoy 😊
Yes for sure perfumers do use their own similar DNA for different brands at different price points. The Delinas style fragrances and the Francis Kurkdjian and Nathalie Lorson fragrances stand out for that. I think there is a lot of snobbery about clones unfortunately. I've tried some oil clones now and those were in general, absolutely spot on. I look forward to seeing your video. 🥰
I think perfumery is an art and feel sorry for the perfumers/nose as the brands don't always publically recognise them for their work. The big brands haven't helped themselves by treating consumers as cash cows with their uninspired new releases, flankers and watered down reformulations. I've only tried 2 dupes by Dua 1) Midnight Poison by Dior which is long discontinued and I couldn't bring myself to pay ££s on Ebay and 2) Hypnotic Poison, as its the first formulation from 1998. I
I agree, perfumers should be better acknowledged, sometimes they aren't even named in the release info for fragrances which is shocking. How is the Dua midnight venom? Is it close?
@dr.claire.perfume it's really good and tbh I was pleasantly surprised. The Dua certainly scratched a yearning/frustrating itch I had for several years. That's the kind of value clone brands bring to consumers.
Hi Claire! I loved this video, really well said and complete. For me clones are often a form of testing as you said, some perfumes are difficult to smell before buying and even when I’ve smelled a perfume in the store I’ve made wrong choices. But when I’ve tried a clone for a couple days at least and then bought the real one… never a fail.
Thank you ❤️ Yes! I just tried a clone of Angels' share a few weeks back and it made me realise that I don't need a bottle of that fragrance. I don't think I would wear it often enough to warrant it. Buying a great clone can help you to make these decisions. I totally agree 👍 Thanks for watching 🥰
Also I have one limit with the clone companies and I actually feel the huge companies should be absolutely sued into the ground for it, copying or "inspired bys" from tiny brands and indie is a big fat no
I agree, it's just not ever morally acceptable to copy fragrances from tiny brands where someone had put their heart and soul into it. Their prices are as low as they can go because they have to be competitive to get business. Designer and niche have much lower per bottle production costs and the audiences of those perfumes Vs the clones is generally a little split, so effectively a smaller proportion of their business would be lost and actually the clone may even promote their fragrances to a wider audience. Sorry your other comment was censored 😂 no idea why it disappeared.
Thank you! I found this very educational. I know the whole art vs product is a minefield of different opinions. I have tried dupe brands before (Dossier) usually to see if I would like a very expensive fragrance. Sometimes I find it's not for me, sometimes I love the dupe and stick with that and sometimes I move on to buy the expensive fragrance. I could not have a perfume collection if every bottle were over 100$. I live in an area where there are not many shops that sell fragrance and I usually have to purchase my samples. Even then, some niche samples are hard to obtain...this is another instance where I would try the dupe first. You were spot on with your thoughts .
Thank you ❤️ I'm happy that you enjoyed it! I agree with you, I definitely have an upper limit with purchasing fragrances and if things are more than that, I tend to just buy a sample or try to find the fragrance secondhand. E.g. I really liked some of the Dior Privée fragrances so I just bought those secondhand. I'm happy to try clones though. I think they aren't something I'll actively seek unless I love a fragrance that is expensive and that I can't find a small quantity of to affordably purchase. Thanks for watching 🥰
That's interesting that you say that, I was thinking about making a video about this very subject! Can I please ask you how you judge whether a perfume is cruelty free and to what extent a vegan formulation is also important to you. Thank you 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume Hi! My sister is vegan, so she is very conscious of that aspect when shopping in general. it has made me more aware of the issue as well, which is why whenever I see perfumes that say they are vegan (eden perfumes as mentioned, but also Korres for instance) I make a note of it in my head and usually will try those perfume lines more toroughly. I do have perfumes from a few years back that are from brands that are not cruelty free/not vegan, but nowadays try to avoid them. My collection isn't huge, so it's not super time-consuming, but if I do find a perfume I love that is not cruelty-free/not vegan, I probably now try to at least buy it second-hand or look for cruelty free/vegan alternatives. As for how I judge it, I usually just google, either the brand, or the specific perfume in question and that works well most of the time. Sites like incidecoder can be really helpful too in making sense of the ingredient list. A vegan formulation has become more important for me in the last couple of years, and it does play a role in what perfumes I consider buying, but beeswax for instance I don't mind as much, as ambergris or civet, or castoreum. great to hear you're considering making a video on the topic!
Thanks for your feedback ☺️ I have been doing lots of research and find it hard to find information that I know is definitely correct. It's a minefield!
@@dr.claire.perfume yeah for sure, brands tend to be very secretive about their formulations and whether or not their perfumes are vegan. I've heard before that Mugler's Alien and Angel are vegan, but often times, the information out there is very vague and hard to verify. Carolina Herrera is a big one that, to my knowledge, is cruelty free / vegan. Some Mochino, Paco Rabanne, Issey Miyaki, Jean Paul Gautier fragrances are vegan too! I think I remember Billie Eilish's perfumes to be vegan as well!
I think a system like music or musicians would make sense. Where a copy house can pay a fee like a band that is covering a popular song would pay. Then it’s above board. The original creators can at least make some back. The copy house can sell their inspired by version. I think many people would still pay for the luxury of the original. The copy house can use the inspired by language.
This seems like a happy medium 😊 what an interesting idea! I think most original houses just try to ignore or sue the clone makers 😂 it would change the dynamic completely! Thanks for watching 🥰
This is such an interesting and complex topic! On the one hand, I truly believe that perfumery is an art, and perfumers are artists, not unlike musicians, writers, chefs and painters. Their work is often the unique product of their creativity and skill. However, the fragrance industry businesses that employ these artists have one singular goal - to make as much money as possible from us as consumers. And that can become very expensive, (and often unaffordable), for the average person. So, I can completely understand the appeal of dupes, and I personally own several that I absolutely love. But, I've made it a point to learn who the perfumers behind my favourite fragrances are, so that I can still "honour" the artist. I guess I think of it like owning a fake, printout photo of the Mona Lisa, knowing that this represents Leonardo Da Vinci's talent. Thank you once again for another fascinating video!
Thank you ❤️ yes, that's exactly how I feel! I have empathy for perfumers but not necessarily for the huge perfume conglomerates or popular but expensive niche brands with relatively high sales volumes. Clones have really started to appeal to me now that I have a larger collection, it takes so long to finish a bottle of anything that niche brands with only one large bottle size are completely unattractive to me! Thanks for watching, have a fab week! 🥰
Thank you 🥰 I promise I will never try to sell you anything. I will never have any codes where I get paid for people buying stuff as I don't believe it's right. I have recently accepted some pr though, and I will be doing one video soon about whether I rate those fragrances or not, but it will be an honest opinion. I see little point otherwise as it's not helpful. I'd never accept pr if my honest opinion wasn't what was wanted by the brand. Thanks for watching 🥰
I waited to watch, ran out got some groceries so I can watch with a snack lol 😊 I think perfumey is an art ❤ I also can understand both sides the Original and the clone or inspired versions, this was fantastic you did your research as always and made it simple to understand!
Thank you ❤️ LOL does it show that this video took me days 🤣 Yes! It's personal choice, I have no problems with clones as long as the company is respectful to the original and doesn't try to be too aggressive in its marketing. Having tried some clone oils over the last month, I've been impressed with just how close they are!
Great analysis, Claire. I think it is morally wrong to copy any idea especially for profit without giving proper credit and compensation. Lastly, my viewpoint is that a perfume is a form of art, just like a beautiful melody or song. I think that potential scent combinations are endless. I absolutely love art, and have come to enjoy the work of perfumery just as much! Thank you for your in-depth analysis of past, current and future issues!
Hi Rhonda! I go backwards and forwards on this issue and I really am not sure what I think 🙃 I have never bought a clone fragrance, but I have been gifted some and have enjoyed some of those. I do think the people who buy clones are generally split from those that would think to buy the original fragrance and clones for sure give attention and fame to the original. But yes they are at the end of the day just copies... But perfumers copy their own and each others' work all the time and no one blinks if it's for another "original" mainstream perfume house. I guess it all comes down to personal choice. Thanks for watching 🥰
Just a few random thoughts as I watched the video: The dichotomy between designer perfumes and clones matches that of high couture and knock-off garments. Regarding the idea that clones can improve the original in some way -- this famously goes for Dua improving the longevity of many designer/niche scents. The most outstanding example I think is that of Jo Malone. I now prefer getting Dua's version of Wood Sage and Salt because it actually lasts:) Another important advantage is in Dua's copying discontinued or original formulas of designer perfumes. Last year, they came out with original early formulations of Guerlain (which sold out quickly). I don't see how fragrance houses are going to trademark a perfume unless they're willing to patent it. Very Catch-22. I've come to a compromise between my concerns about price and preferring to know the "real" thing. I can get the original in a travel spray when it's offered-- not exactly cost effective but then it won't break the bank. Of course you don't have the original bottle and everything that goes to make up the marketing and "aura" about the fragrance aka snob appeal. But for me it's the fragrance above all that matters. Then if I like it enough, I can see if Dua has a clone. I've just recently bought travel sprays of Masque Milano's White Whale and Madeleine and Memo Paris Italian Leather (the last two as a BOGO). On sale, I tend to get travel sprays for around $20 or less on average. I can understand the concept of copying a fragrance using gas chromatography. But I recently saw an article about Penhaligon using gas chromatography to reproduce the smells of King Charles' garden at High Grove. Sounds like literally creating something out of thin air...
Hello Kat! Yes! I can't remember what that's called! Headspace technology is it? They literally just place cones to collect the smells and then analyse them and try to recreate them in fragrance! It's fascinating and really such a great way to capture a scene in a fragrance! I completely agree that clones are in nearly every walk of life, there is nearly always a generic brand to choose from alongside the original. It's completely personal choice and clones allow people to try and buy things they wouldn't normally be able to obtain or afford. They definitely have their place in my collection now and I think in many other people's. I think discontinued fragrances is really where brands like Dua call pull in a new audience, the people who perhaps wouldn't ever choose a clone of a fragrance that was currently on the market. Thanks for watching and for the inspiration! 🥰
I love clone fragrances. I've been able to test fragrances that I wouldn't normally try due to price. There's a few that I plan to eventually buy the full price version. I fell in love with Tom Ford Metallique, EX NIHILO PARIS : Fleur Narcotique, and Tom Ford Jasmin Rouge. Clones are also nice to travel with. I have dupes of my favorites Chanel Gabrielle Essence, Love Don't Be Shy, or Angels' Share. I dread having to throw an expensive fragrance at the airport. Zara is a good dupe house. I have several versions of their Red Temptation flankers and their other fragrances.
Yes! Travelling with clones feels much safer and less worrying! That is a fab point! And for sure, you can try more fragrances 😊 I also have clones of LDBS and angels' share! I only have one Zara, which is a dupe of Kenzo Eau de été (is that what it's called? The one with the bottle shaped like a leaf). Their fragrances are good for the price in the main.
I love Woody Sage by Dossier, a dupe for J9 Malone’s Wood Sage and Sea Salt 🧂. For the lack of longevity with the original I cannot justify the price. I’ve had the original and I can’t tell the difference.
It’s super disappointing when a fragrance you love is discontinued, so I initially got into dupe oils of lost loves. This was several years ago. Fast forward to today, and I discovered indie brands like Genre who make superior formula dupes to some niche houses who price their fragrances from $200-$500. (It seems like you’re really just paying for the pretty bottles). But then, there are Arabic fragrances who do the fancy bottles AND dupe the scents. And let’s face it, just about every company has come out either their own version of Baccarat, Delina, Lira…
I think for sure that part of the appeal of mainstream niche is the bottle design. This is part of the reason I am moving more towards indie, because I don't care about bottles, I just want a nice quality fragrance. I think with the more affordable Middle Eastern fragrances there is a huge variation in quality, some brands seem to use crazy amounts of ambroxan (same with some mainstream niche brands actually...) and that can put me off. I do really appreciate Armaf club de nuit intense woman though. Thanks for watching 🥰
Happy Saturday Dr. Claire. Thanks for tackling such a complex and highly debated issue. Personally I’ve smelled some clones that are so spot on it does make you wonder how some of the more prestigious brands can charge so much more? That’s the other question that begs to be answered for many but it’s not that complicated. The difference between price and cost includes a lot of factors, some of which, you mentioned such as distribution and payments to the perfumer. I recently commented on a video that I truly believe the recent (exorbitant) price increases of the more prestigious brands is an effort to reduce the ability of the regular consumer to obtain these perfumes and to cater only to the rich. I don’t know that to be true but it is no different from other product segments that the average consumer can’t afford. As far as the legality of clones goes I honestly don’t think the powers that be want to push that too far for fear of exposing or sharing of information that may not put them in the best light. Anyway this will always be a debated issue and I thank you for sharing your thoughts on it.
Hello Faith 😊 I completely agree with you that luxury brands always want to keep themselves exclusive and out of reach for all but the rich because that's their USP, that gives them desirability, but yes it's sad that that is how it works and it's not solely about the product. I think this is true across the board. Luxe brands charge what they can get, not what will make them a reasonable profit... I know Ch*n*l have some aggressive tactics on Instagram also so I've no doubt that you are right about certain companies not wishing to be public about calling out clone brands, because honestly they might look like bullies. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a lovely week 😊
Hi Claire, another intelligent thought provoking video. All of your points are valid. I used to say I wouldn’t buy clone fragrances, then hearing about designer and niche formulas changing, sometimes quite different from the original, or being weaker than before, but with a big price increase (usually after a brand being taken over) I started trying a few. I have Infini Rose by Maison Alhambra and a sample of Atomic Rose, and honestly, on my skin they both smell exactly the same. $A69 for 100ml Infini Rose vs $A460-489 for 90ml Atomic Rose, it’s a no brainer. The packaging is lovely too😃🇦🇺
Wow that is quite a price difference! And yes, I think the discontinuations and reformulations annoy previously loyal customers enough to seek alternatives, them being at a lower cost put the cherry on the cake... I used to be sniffy about clones but I don't think I'd hesitate now I've tried a few. In the main, I've been impressed and if a fragrance is £100s then that is the only way I will ever own something vaguely similar. Thanks for watching 🥰 lovely to see I have viewers from all around the world ❤️
I have to agree with the brands changing the formula & quite weaker from the past. I recently bought coco chanel as I loved it 20yrs ago. It is close but no where near the longevity or projection. Very disappointing. With some of the clone brands their perfume concentration is actually stronger.
Yes I think clones have totally clocked what customers want and that they aren't being given from mainstream designer perfumery. I absolutely love Coco ❤️ it's on my long to buy list! It's stunning!
You nailed it! I also think that people are going to buy what they want I know so many who won’t dare purchase a “dupe” I was once told Sunny that’s a bootleg 🤣 why would you want a fake! But here I am I want to smell just as good 😉 ( zoom out and the scent is spot on! That is exactly how I feel about many dupes up close we can tell the difference from afar no one would notice ) You are a gem 💎 ❤️
Yes for sure. Of course there are minute differences up close but in the air, no one can tell, no one would know what you were wearing. It's all about what you want and how you feel. I've realised I'm absolutely fine with clones and dupes of pricey fragrances that I would never ever purchase. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a fab week! ☺️
I’m a person who has tried a clone and now I want to smell the real thing. Packaging is important to me. I have many Julianna’s Perfumes and the fact all of the bottles look exactly the same is bothersome. I can’t tell without picking up the bottle and looking at the label to know what it is. Great video!!!!💜
Thank you ❤️ Yes!!! This!!! I think this is a big issue. Even making the labels different colours would help with recognition. It must be incredibly annoying. I have accidentally sprayed the wrong decant on me before and it totally ruined my day 😂 I'm not exaggerating 😂 And yes, if I smell something inspired by something else, I'm always curious to go sniff the original ☺️
That's really interesting , I would really like if all my perfume bottles look the same, I really like the uniformity and it's quite satisfying to look at.
They can definitely look neat and I guess they line up, but I must say I love a jumbled look. I don't really arrange my fragrances by brand, more by feeling and main fragrance family as that's how I select what I will wear each day.
Interesting topic. Just recently Mona/Kayali met with Dua & requested for their fragrance duplicated by Dua to be removed & they agreed. Not sure what went down there but they were producing a dupe of Eden Juicy Apple. I do like the idea of discontinued fragrances to be reproduced though. Many have been lost that are still loved by consumers.
That's really interesting! I hadn't read about that. I do think clone brands are really sensitive to causing fuss with mainstream brands, if there's a hint of a legal fight, they generally err on the side of caution. One or two fragrances are not worth their entire business. I recently got some pr from a clone brand and I tried a clone of a discontinued fragrance that I'd never managed to smell before so I found that really interesting. I definitely think that's where clones can lead the way without offending brands. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume Dua sent an email explaining why the were removing the kayali clone. It was after a respectful conversation. I have bought quite a few from Dua as niche in Australian currency is way above my price range. Designer is getting up there is price too. I did buy the kayali brand fragrance from the Huda website after using a discount. In this case the clone was not 100% the same so it was interesting to smell the difference. In regards to brands like Perfume De Marly, BDK, MFK it allows me to experience a fragrance & if I do enjoy it maybe buy the real deal. I really enjoy your insight into the science of perfume. Thanks xx
Thank you! ❤️ That's great that they were open and honest to communicate that to customers. I think in general Day tend to put their own twists on things to a certain degree from what I've heard. And yes, clones are certainly a gateway to feeling more secure about a big ticket perfume purchase. 🥰
This was a fantastic video. Thank you as always. I have a handful of dupes left in my collection. I was really into them when I first started exploring fragrances. The oil perfumery oils for example were accessible here in Canada and also relatively affordable. They gave me the idea of the scent profile of scents I was curious about. For some the dupe is all I need, for others I’m more than happy to seek out a second hand bottle or even pay retail for the odd gem. There is no way I would have been able to explore this variety of scents without dupes. Dupes, decants, trusted second hand markets, and boutiques. It’s all good. It’s all fun.
Thank you ❤️ I agree, I've really opened my eyes to clone fragrances! There are some really good ones out there, and yes, for some, I am quite satisfied with a clone. Those oil perfumery rollerballs are fabulous! I have Chanel beige from them. I love secondhand too. I try not to pay retail if at all possible. Thanks for watching as always ❤️ have a fab week 🥰
Perfumers do not get paid in correlation with the sales of a particular perfume, so I think they are flattered if someone tries to copy a fragrance made by them... The ones who get pissed off are the brands because it affects their business
Hi Claire! This was very informative. Thank you! 😁 Funny how a brand could go after dupes for copying the packaging but not the content. Not surprizing though if you consider fake handbags and clothes pretending to be real one are illegal. I do buy dupes. Mostly, like you said to test out more expensive fragrances I would have a difficult time sampling. Sometimes a full bottle of a dupe is almost the same price as a sample! I have a few dupes of Tom Ford, for example, as the price of that house is so crazy expensive and sometimes people complain of the longevity of certain of their fragrances.
I agree with Tom Ford. I have some from the less expensive line but none of the private blends. The prices are eye watering. And since EL took over, they've discontinued a lot of the more distinctive fragrances. I was shocked to learn that really fragrance doesn't have any effective protection over the blend itself. I thought there would be something... But yes it's the problem of defining what is unique and novel isn't it and how to capture the idea of a smell. Thanks for watching as always. Have a fab week 🥰
Hi Claire! This is such an interesting topic. Clone houses are questionable and there are so many different opinions on them. One one hand they make it possible for people with different budgets to smell like a certain scent without having to spend a small fortune. On the other hand, it’s not very fair to the creators
It's definitely not a clear cut debate one way or the other. Clones have their place in a lot of people's collections for sure, they make experiencing high end fragrances more affordable.
Thank you for such a great video! Be prepared for my scattered thoughts on this subject... I only own one dupe. I'm not usually interested in dupe companies because I don't generally like the fragrances that are being duped in the first place... I like to try different and original smells. However, I try to purchase cruelty-free alternatives/options and some dupes are cruelty-free, whereas the fragrances they're duping are not. Ultimately, there is a big difference between cloning a massively successful brand's perfume compared to a small indie house's perfume because often the ethics of big companies are questionable. That's not to say that smaller businesses are inherently ethical, but hopefully my point is coming across. There isn't value in duping a small company's perfumes and both business owners and consumers know that. Additionally, with larger companies, the name of the perfumer can get lost behind the name of the brand itself. I'm not convinced L'Oreal is interested in protecting the artistic rights of its perfumers. All that to say, the morality of clone houses is probably dependent on what individual consumers value when it comes to purchasing perfumes. I do think perfumery is an art, the way clothing design is an art or music is an art or film - some pieces of art are created mainly to be consumed and make money. But I don't think anyone would argue that music isn't a form of art. Also, I appreciate your perspective that clones could actually help perfume houses, in a way. Maybe imitation is okay, so long as the original is still being credited.
Yes, fragrance can for sure be art 👌 this is really an extremely complex topic and I'm not sure I have an opinion one way or another on it. I rarely smell a clone and think that's a 1:1 perfect copy. There are usually small differences, but it depends on how much people zoom in or out when they smell things. I appreciate clones but I don't want a collection full of them. I love finding bottles secondhand so I rarely pay retail and in that way perhaps clones are less useful for me. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume I agree, it's complex! And I find I don't take a strong stance either. It's interesting to consider these topics, though, so I really appreciate videos like this :)
Great video. I've thought about the morals around this as im a clone junkie! I would never purchase a clone of a scent from a company like 4160 Tuesdays which is a relatively small business but with the big niche brands like Tom Ford, By Killian ,PDM dont have an issue. I think some of the big houses bump up the prices anyway and make them unavailable to your average person. I'd never buy those scents as I work for the NHS and they are way out of my budget! I also love buying clones of discontinued scents, some of my favs are Cacherel Gloria and Gucci Envy from Perfume Parlour. I love the clone houses for keeping these alive!
Thank you ❤️ Oh wow! Perfume parlour have Gucci Envy?! I need to check that out! I totally agree, smaller companies are a complete clone no go for me. Larger conglomerate owned companies or ones that gift huge number of bottles for PR purposes, I have less sympathy with. Thanks for watching 🥰
Don't forget the clones that are made of long discontinued perfumes. I bought Gucci II for years and now it is discontinued and cost prohibitive. I wish I could buy the "real" thing but would jump at the chance to buy a dupe if it was good. I cried when I found that Woodhue was being made again and sold by the Vermont country store... It was my grandmother's signature scent and I am so happy it was made again (the original was long discontinued)
Yes! Discontinued fragrances are an excellent reason to try a clone. I think that where clones are really fulfilling a purpose and cornering a market that designer and niche fragrances aren't filling. 🥰
Not a big fan of clone houses (if I can help it, because of copyright). But sometimes the price point on the OG ones is just crazy that make me personally turn to duplicates. Great vid as always ❤️
Thank you ❤️ yes for sure! The price is what makes people go to clone fragrances in the main and that and the performance and similarity are what keeps people buying them. I would definitely consider buying a clone oil now if I really loved something but couldn't afford the original fragrance. Thanks for watching 🥰
I want to thank you for the great video you've just given us. I do buy inspired fragrances and even clones because I think is worth every penny before even considering to buy the "original". Thank God for it. Also, I always use to say that "if you don't want to be copied, do fail on whatever you are doing, do it wrongly and no one would even consider to copy you". But "if you are successful, then be ready to compete with the market because they'll go after you". ❤🙏
Thank you ❤️ yes exactly, if it's no good, no one will copy! Copies increase recognition and get the perfume name out there. Counterintuitively, they can actually be fab advertising for a fragrance! Thanks for watching 🥰
Oh dear 😮 Your video coincides with my latest post! I used to be somewhat of a clone snob till the perfume prices skyrocketed where i live (largely due to the exchange rate). I guess it will continue to be a polarising and nuanced topic. For me, it just feels so wrong that 2 things can smell and sometimes even perform alike, with such a huge price disparity. Thanks for this video
Yes, I think it's entirely personal choice and really I am totally fascinated by the idea of dupes and clones. The price differences are astonishing sometimes and really there is no way I'd buy lost cherry at full price for a bottle when I can buy a clone for £25 or less, in fact, much less! Thanks for watching 🥰
I fell in love with Blanco Latte because of DUA white milk and bought the OG. Same with Alexander’s Orchestra (bought LV Symphony). DUA’s original scents have led me down the rabbit hole of learning what notes I enjoy and not and also creating my own layering scents. As a gourmand lover this has made fragrances so much fun while not hurting my pocket. If I LOVE a niche brand I might buy the original or not but I can build a collection reflective of my style and enjoyment.
That's really the joy of clones isn't it? Finding an affordable way to try a scent profile and discovering things you might not find in more affordable original fragrances. I think you are proof that trying a clone or inspired by fragrance leads some people to purchase the original fragrance. 🥰
Thank you for doing this video. You answered a question I had about HOW perfumes are cloned and it was fascinating. I personally would prefer an original fragrance, but the prices are way out of my budget for many of those I desire. I have about half and half, of originals and dupes. You did a wonderfully comprehensive breakdown of all considerations. I think, in the end, it is kind of a symbiotic relationship between the OG’s and the dupes, as you said.
Yes for sure! There is mutual benefit, how equal it is may depend on many factors. Clones are not black and white at all! There are arguments both ways. I think my own opinion is, enjoy clones for what they are. Often, for me, they aren't 100% spot on however close they are, and that's fine if they are a nice fragrance that I enjoy. 😊 Thanks for watching 🥰
I have clone roll on oil versions of a few fragrances that I actually own full bottles of. My reason: I’m trying to stretch the wear time of a fragrance I love AND not suck down the entire FB as quickly 😂🤷🏻♀️ This video was helpful for me to decide when a clone will not really work; there are some niche brands that use many naturals and in that case, I won’t really find a clone that satisfactorily actually dupes the original. And yes, I think fragrance is an art; an amazing art that I have great respect for. It shares similarities to wine making which is also very complex and layered.
Yes absolutely it can be art! And yes, some fragrances are going to be really tricky to get close to for sure. I totally see why people buy clones and I also see why some people really disagree with them. It's a really tricky topic I think with lots of different angles 😊 I think eeeking out an original by use of a clone in layering is a good shout! 😊
Clones are not ethical, but it would be impossible to outlaw, because then they would have to outlaw interpretations, which in many cases are better and higher quality. They can patent a formula, but would only need to change 1 ingredient to overcome the law. The clones are not the same. They are almost all artificial aeromachemicals
I think clones are a kind of symbiosis with successful fragrances, they do feed off each other and often mutually benefit each other, although the benefits to the clones are often more immediately obvious. I think probably a lot of fragrance is mostly synthetically made aromachemicals, I don't think that is restricted to clones, but for sure they will use what is easiest and with the lowest price. It would be fascinating to see the % source for a range of fragrances, just out of interest. Thanks for watching 🥰
Thank you Dr. Smith for another informative video. Your objective view and well researched videos are a breath of fresh air. I wish there were more channels like yours. Regarding this video in particular, I actually gravitate to clone brands as lots designer brands are not vegan or cruelty-free. With clone brands like Dossier and MiiMiic I actually get to try and enjoy fragences without supporting the killing of animals like the musk deer for their glands.
I can definitely see choosing clones with regard to the cruelty free argument. But I also don't think probably anyone uses deer musk any longer, most especially larger brands. It would simply be too expensive and the supply too unreliable and small. I think the biggest problem is probably the brands that sell in China but don't manufacture there that are subject to testing. Vegan is more complicated... But I wouldn't think anything other than honey is commonly used nowadays. Do you know what other animals products might commonly be fragrances? I might read up and do a video... Thanks for watching 🥰
Hi Claire ❤ GC-MS could be also one of the reasons why some components of the original are missing as GC can degrade some molecules. I’ve read there are efforts to use LC-MS instead. Anyway fun scientific facts 😂 besides as you said patented ‘molecules’ and usage of cheaper materials (both naturals and synthetic). We can reproduce a smell in many ways at different price points and different olfactory quality and even big brands always try to save doing this. As we notice unfortunately 😢
Yes for sure! Brands do try to reduce costs and that can be at the detriment of quality. I don't have much experience of GC-MS, but I've done some LC-MS, that could make total sense! Thanks for watching 🥰
What a treasure find you are in the cacophonous world of fragrance vlogs. I have just recently subscribed to you and have been doing a marathon of your past episodes. This one just raises the bar all too high! Thank you for the wealth of information you are so generously sharing with us. Your passion is palpable, but even more your integrity! I am guessing that eventually the chaff will be separated from the grain and the fragrance UA-camrs that will survive and flourish are those who are in your mould. Thank you very much. I wish you more success and bigger subscriber numbers. You deserve nothing less. Fellow followers of Claire, let us spread the word. Claire is too great a fragrance expert to remain a hidden gem.
Oh thank you! That's lovely of you to say 😊 I did spend a crazily long time making this video so that's appreciated 😂 I think it's one of my favourites. It's a complex topic isn't it? There are lots of different points of view! Thanks for watching and for subscribing, I appreciate it. 🥰
I’ve actually found some dupes that I like better than the originals, especially from the Middle Eastern houses, like Lattafa with Nebras for Eilish or Khamrah for Angel Share. I don’t really think those dupes smell much like the originals though. And then there are dupes that lead me to buy the original, like Ariana Grande Cloud led me to eventually buy the real BR540. That one has been duped so much now though that I’m sick of it.
Yes! I think that's fab, you are enjoying the "dupes" just as fragrances in themselves, not because they smell like something else. ☺️ I agree BR540 smell alikes really did reach market saturation a few years back and I feel like a lot of people are over that scent profile, but for sure a lot of people do still love it too! Thanks for watching 🥰
I love Mon Paris from YSL but realized I'm allergic to something in it (after buying a bottle of course). I tried the Dossier version and whatever I'm allergic to isn't present--or its present at a much smaller quantity that doesn't affect me. So in that case--the clone wins over the original.
That's fab isn't it? If you love something, it must be so annoying to not be able to wear it. I hadn't thought of that possibility! That's really interesting! Thank you 🥰
I am a Maison Alhambra and Orientica Stan. Is perfume making an art, I think it’s a skill more than it is an art. I would say it’s not fair if the perfumers themselves were not duping their own work. That alone tells me they are okay with the practice. I try not overthink it, i but what I like , dupes are good and sometimes a dupe be so good it actually makes you want the original, one such dupe for me is Exclusif Saffron by Maison Alhambra duping Carolina Herrera Saffron Lazuli. I am saving up for an original creation because I experienced the dupe. The original I was only able to sample in store and that doesn’t really give you enough room to get familiar with a fragrance. You made some excellent, valid and relevant points and as a dupe lover I relate to every point made. Thank you for this video I enjoyed it and watched till the end
Thank you! Yes! I am only just getting into clones, but I've seen just how good some can be and it's shocked me at the similarity with the originals. Yes perfumers duping their own work is the big point that makes this whole argument of clones being unacceptable wrong. Jerome Epinette, Francis Kurkdjian and Nathalie Lorson are three that spring to mind immediately. I hope you enjoy your saffron lazuli when you get it! I completely agree that trying in store does not give you a full view of a fragrance at all, just a mild impression. Samples (or clones) are essential if you are thinking of buying something expensive. Thanks for watching 🥰
Brilliant vid Claire. I believe fragrance creation is an art. It is nuanced in many ways and dependent upon the subject as aromas can be perceived differently. As for clones being ethical, when examining what is involved in creating smells, one can understand why they could be deemed unethical. This could be mitigated by the financial value attached to designer perfumes, which I believe is reflected in the cost. Now we are able to get rid of perfumes by selling them one Previously we had to struggle through a perfume we didn’t love or palm it off on someone or pretend it isn’t there (oh the memories). I like that clones give us the option to try something with a similar DNA and avoid costly mistakes now the samples are not readily available at perfume counters.
It was the custom that you got perfume samples before you bought the perfume, if it agreed with you. Now you get the sample with the purchase of the said perfume 😮 or have to buy the sample, which would be OK too if the price is appropriate....but it usually isn't.
Thank you! Yes I agree, it's an argument with two sides, both of which have their points and it's completely up to the consumer. I think trying clones instead of originals is a growing market for clones. Some samples can be a lot of money and postage is usually exorbitant too. Buying a clone seems like much the better deal. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a lovely week!
Superb vid Claire. Didn't know about the Playdoh trademark! 😄 Definitely brought up a great point about the formula secrecy and its importance in legal matters. There's certainly something to be said about clone brands bringing more attention to fragrances in the past, but now that clones are getting so close to the original (often with better presentation and performance) and designers and niche fragrances are quickly declining in quality, it seems to be becoming more of an issue for brands. Truth be told, before the pandemic, select clones offered exceptional value, but even their prices have doubled now so the price gap is always fluctuating. Effectively, the decision lies with the consumer! 🧡
I love that playdoh smell so I had to put that in 😂 I agree, paying a little more for a better clone can mean that they are very very similar. I just accepted some pr from a clone brand and wow, I was stunned with some of them, just absolutely spot on. And yes you're right, there has been a noticeable drop in quality with mainstream brands and concurrent rise in price that is annoying a lot of consumers enough to consider the cheaper alternatives. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a fab week!
I think this is one of the reasons why I’m not so fond of Tiziana Terenzi. For some strange reason Tiziana Terenzi, xerjoff, Mancera and montale all seem to have the same if not very very similar DNA’s. The top seller of Tiziana Terenzi smells like the top seller from xerjoff and another few variations from Mancera and I find that to be unimpressive, especially because if the price points. So that’s how I feel. I do love my Middle Eastern fragrances but at least you are made very clearly aware that they’re dupes. At least we are aware and not being taken for a ride.
I've not tried xerjoff, but I was underwhelmed by TT. And I agree that Mancera and Montale definitely have an overlapping style. I don't know, do most people know that Lattafa are mainly dupe fragrances? I don't think I did, obviously some, but not all. I don't often feel they are very close to the originals though from the few I've tried, they again Lattafa do have a very distinctive house style. There is much more to Middle Eastern fragrances though that dupes and clones; Amouage for one.
Very interesting topic. I see both sides but I don’t buy duped or clones…imagine you spending years in the lab working on a product with blood, sweat and tears and time and you create something then someone steals your idea, dupes it and sells it for nothing. It happens all the time with intellectual property. You bring up the difficulties but in the end we have to police ourselves. 😉
I guess it's personal choice. I've never bought a clone, as I've never fallen so in love with something that I've tried but can't afford as to warrant buying one, but I've been gifted a few. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfumeyes I meant to say it feels like copying someone else’s homework (after they stayed up all night to do it) then getting credit for it. 😉
Is it maybe similar though when people buy store branded food products or Zara clothes? I guess it's also easier to make the choice of the original if you have more money or a smaller collection.
This was very well thought out. I do feel fortunate to have access to so many fragrances that I could never afford were there only the originals however , I do feel guilty since the originals were created in my opinion by perfumers that deserve recognition and to be paid for their work. I am torn! My favorite inspiration house is "generic perfumes "out of the United Arab emeritus.
Yes I feel the same, I recently tried some clone oils and most were amazingly close to the original fragrances, but I guess the perfumer gets paid and gets recognition from the original brand and actually the clone brings them wider fame, like with BR540 and Francis Kurkdjian. Thanks for watching 🥰
I own several clone fragrances and the primary reason is price point. In some or most cases the clone can be purchased for way under $1 per mil, plus you get to experience the fragrance....maybe not exactly but you can get rather close to the original.
I've personally never tried a dupe or clone fragrance but I can see why they are popular. I tend to stick with sample sizes and decants because I enjoy collecting/trying new fragrances but I often don't need full size bottles that I'll never empty.
Yes I agree, I rarely want more than 10ml of a fragrance these days. The exceptions are preloved buys or swaps with others or older designer fragrances where larger sizes are strangely sometimes cheaper than smaller 🙃 I also can't say that I seek out clones but I am always open to try them when people send me samples and I can understand why people would buy them. Thanks for watching 🥰
I really admire and appreciate the effort you put into ideating and filming your videos. No one else does it like you do. It feels like i’m attending a course 😊
Hey Claire jus sudb after watching this video I must say for sumone who is a collectors I found your content realy refreshing and extremely insightful keep up this awsome info lead style way better than most of the influencers out respect !!!!
Such an excellent and thought provoking video. I’ve bought several clones recently because of the price increases of perfumes. I want to experience fragrances without ending up in the poorhouse! If the designer fragrances were more reasonably priced, I would prefer to purchase those.
Thank you! 🥰 Yes I agree, mainstream fragrances are massively overpriced. Mugler fragrances for £100+ is ridiculous to me when they were £60 a few years ago. Clones make owning a variety of fragrances much more affordable.
I work for a dupe house and we get our oils made at drom. A massive German fragrance house who supply oils for huge amounts of designer brands. We plain package ours and do not sell in shops that's how we can bring down the price of our quality dupes. ❤
That's interesting! I feel like most ingredients are much of a muchness for designer and clone brands and perhaps even some niche. It's all about marketing and packaging. Thanks for watching 🥰
@dr.claire.perfume absolutely! I love perfume and can't afford the og of the ones I do love. So dupes have to do for me. You put this so well and explained it so effectively I love ypur view on the subject.
Thank you! I actually really love clones, but I think you have to just appreciate them for themselves. They are close usually but not often 100%, of course they can be better, but they are usually different in some way. 🙂
Fantastic video, Claire, thoroughly enjoyed listening to this on a long drive this evening! In relation to the question about patents, patents actually protect ‘function’. Whether that’s a mechanical , or a chemical function, for example. Could it be argued that a perfume composition has a chemical function? Or that a perfume’s function is to smell a particular way? Possibly. However, the output or improvement is difficult to define or quantify. I think the reason why perfumery is so difficult to patent is because they are more akin to a recipe, than a definitive function. Recipes are not patentable subject matter. However, you hit the nail right on the head when you said that, wven if they could, many companies likely wouldn’t try to protect their perfume compositions by patent, simply because it requires full disclosure of the composition. I am pretty torn as to whether I feel clones are ethical. Obviously if a perfume is discontinued or ridiculously overpriced then it’s nice to have an accessible option. However, there’s also so many perfumes in the world that I enjoy so, the reality is, I don’t really need to buy a clone of anything. As for whether Olfactive trademarks will ever take off as a means for protecting perfumes…, tricky thing about trademarks is that in order for a trademark to be a “trademark” it needs to be distinctive and non-descriptive of the goods to which it is applied. And as you say, the perception of smell is so subjective, it would be difficult to police. that Dutch case sounds very interesting. I might have to go look it up.
Hello Cherie! Yes I have had the same debate with myself over clones. I still don't know the answer. I think my own feeling is that I probably won't ever seek them out unless I fall in love with something crazily priced but in that case, I will probably just want the original anyway, I really don't know. I've tried some clone oils and on the whole they are very close to the originals (apart from one) but I do feel a little uneasy somehow too. I guess the perfumer is paid by the brand and ultimately maybe gets more recognition the more widely known the fragrance is, which could be helped by clones. The patenting and olfactory trademarks are a complicated area. I'm really not sure I entirely understand the legalities of it all, but it was interesting to read about. I feel like fragrances are very open to being copied because there are just so few laws protecting them. It must be a difficult call sometimes for brands whether to pursue a clone brand or not. Thanks for watching and giving me your thoughts 😊
You are amazing Claire! So interesting! 👍🏻 I do buy clones but only for very expensive perfumes like Creed, Tom Ford or Kilian (250$+) for instances. I’d never buy one from a designer I can afford…
Yes same Julie! I would only buy one for a perfume that was way out of my budget. Tom Ford lost cherry is a great example of that where the clone is enough, in fact I just got an oil clone that is even more spot on ☺️ I hope you had an amazing birthday! And wow that cake looked so impressive! 😲
Thought provoking video as always Claire! I think all your points are valid. While in principle I have some misgivings about clones and dupes, the outrageous prices being charged by designer and niche houses make me feel much more comfortable about dupe brands. However big corporations making clones of small indie fragrances isn't acceptable to me. Have you tried any fragrances from Une Nuit Nomade? They do some fabulous perfumes and are very reasonably priced for niche 💖
Hi Fiona! No, I don't think I tried anything from une nuit nomade! That's unusual! I will try to check them out. Thanks for the recommendation. ❤️ I totally agree that making clones of fragrances from small indie houses is a total no for me, but I am perfectly happy to use clones duping fragrances outside of my budget now. I used to think they weren't close and weren't good quality but I've tried quite a few now and been mostly very impressed. Thanks for watching as always ❤️ have a fab week! ☺️
Hi Dr. Smith! Thank you for the deep dive; obviously by the posts, we all learned a lot. Frankly, I'm tiring of straight perfume review videos and I cut back on subscriptions. I look forward to your channel variety. The clones/dupes/ inspired fragrances are all so subjective, and hit and miss, but that doesn't stop consumers. As you noted, some exceed scent, performance, etc. They are here to stay imo. I agree with your opinion as to the application of A.I. Final note; the PLAYDOUGH backstory.....loved it! Francine 🙂
Hi Francine 😊 thank you! I'm happy that you enjoyed this. I love the smell of playdoh so I couldn't leave that nugget of info out 😂 Yes I think my channel gets the fewest views for actual reviews of fragrances ironically 🤣 I like doing them occasionally, but not all the time, I'm a scientist at heart and I like variety. Having said that, this video probably took me at least three solid days broken up over a few weeks so I can't do these videos all of the time and I don't think I have the inspiration to do these kinds of videos all of the time either sadly. Yes! Clones / dupes definitely corner the market where the original is lacking or discontinued and AI is probably already being used to at least in part create fragrances, we just haven't been told yet. Thanks for watching as always 🥰 have a fab week!
Great video Claire, you clearly put a lot of time into that research! I am not opposed to clones of big overpriced brands, like Tom Ford, but I haven’t hit the buy button just yet. I’m tempted by the perfume oils, in no small part because of the size… 10-15 ml of one scent is all I ever want anyway. I can’t imagine I will ever buy another 100ml bottle of anything. Also, I kind of like that I can ‘buy local’ (Aussie) of a clone 😊
Thank you! Yes! 10ml of oil is perfect for me! I recently got some as PR and I was so impressed by the majority of them. They seem pretty spot on and they are things that either are out of my budget or stuff I just can't find to buy! And yes, it's lovely to support local brands. 🥰
Oh yeah that is a really interesting point! How might AI shape the future of perfumery and will there still be place for human perfumers? I can imagine the application of AI to create photorealistic accords with fantastic longevity... On the flipside this will likely undermine or blunt the customers' experience searching for a perfect say, 'mango accord' in a fragrance
Yes, it will make it all a bit less creative and fun I think. But I guess personal preferences will come to the rescue, there isn't a one size fits all fragrance. I hope perfumery continues to be the art form that it already is for at least some smaller producers. ☺️ Thanks for watching 🥰
This is a great topic Claire! Very informative. I do purchase clones for lots of different reasons but mainly because of budget. It's becoming an expensive hobby that I love but have to be responsible. I want to smell and own everything I love 😂. I have 65 bottles at the moment and don't want to go over 70. I Own more originals than clones though, and I do think perfumery is an art form for sure! It's a good feeling knowing you have an original from the perfumer. I find that clones are usually never quite as good but do get close. Having the original makes me appreciate the art form much more. Alien Essence Absolute is where it all started for me, I have one 30ml bottle that I rarely use because I love it so much. It will always be my no.1 but I won't go through all the hassel to get another bottle. I also don't think I will buy a clone as it has such sentimental value for me. Thanks again for sharing! I rarely comment on videos but this one really resonated with me ❤
Hi Chanelle! Yes I can't tell you how long it took me to find a partial of Alien essence absolue at a reasonable cost 🤣 it's a stunning fragrance! ❤️ I agree, for the most part of the clones that I've tried, they get extremely close but most just lack something when compared side by side. I recently tried a clone of portrait of a lady and smelling that compared with the original, I realised that the rose just didn't have the depth of the original, it was great, very close but not identical. I really wouldn't hesitate to buy a clone though of an expensive fragrance that I would never otherwise be able to afford but had tried and loved. Thanks for watching and for commenting 😊 it's very special to hear from you if it's rare 🥰 have a fab week!
Years ago,in an article about copycat perfumes( the term used then,for dupes),it was commented that some dupes were better than the orupigibal perfume. It named a dupe for Cinnabar,that it said was more complex an interesting,but i cant remember what it was!
That's a shame! I think Cinnabar just got relaunched actually... I think there is a reimagined version directed by Frederic Malle that was released a few months ago 🤔. Clones can be better for sure!
Awesome post Claire! You asked if we thought Perfumery is an art form or not.. I believe it is art, but possibly a form of "commercial art". I mean brands hire perfumers to create something to mass produce and then sell in the hopes of making huge profits, right? Therefore, I dont see it as the same thing as an oil painting or something thats meant to be "one of a kind/original", plus, designer/Niche brands take inspiratin from existiing parfumes anyways, Clone houses are just honest enough to admit it!😅
Yes, for me, the question of is it art is mostly applying to the indie perfumers who make and sell their own fragrances, I'd be heartbroken if any brand copies those. But I totally agree, for mainstream brands, there's a vision and the perfumer is employed to make something at the correct price point, with relative compromise sometimes to what they wanted to portray. Designer and niche certainly do also borrow from each other... Sometimes the similarities are stunningly striking aren't they?! 🤣 Clone houses are very straight up a lot of the time these days and as I say, really some people will never buy a clone and others love them. It's just personal choice of what individuals value, and I think both views are entirely valid. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume Yw, you rock for putting together such excellent content!😊. I learned SO MUCH on this one, and it made me ponder things id never even thought of! TY
Thanks for the insights. I have tried Dossier, Dua and LaRive dupes and find them to be poor performers. The middle eastern houses are mostly beast mode performers and many are better than the og fragrance. About 50% of my collection are designers like JPG, Jimmy Choo, and Mugler but I do not reach for them as much as I reach for Lattafa and Swiss Arabian.
Which Lattafa and Swiss Arabian fragrances do you think are great? I've had a turbulent time with Lattafa 🤣 I've still got Ameer Al Oudh Intense Oud but Sheikh al shuyukh and opulent musk have gone... I hung onto them for 15 months in case they got better. I tried the initio clones and Ana Abiyedh Rouge which wasn't at all bad, but br540 isn't a love for me anyway. Swiss Arabian I've tried Shaghaf Oud and Oud Aswad. I'd like to try a few more 😊
@@dr.claire.perfume I have Ameer al oud and Ameer al oud intense from Lattafa as well as Ajwad and Fakhar. Bur I'm also digging Infini Rose by Maison Alhambra and Choco Musk by Al Rehab. Aside from these listed here the only designer fragrances I'm enjoying are Jimmy Choo Illicit and Versace Eros pour femme edp. I don't keep up with which of the middle eastern brands are clones of which overpriced niche or designer. I just like what I like. I look forward to your next vid
I had decided early on that I wasn't interested in clones and yet I very recently acquired some fragrances that are undeniably inspired by others, 2 designer and 1 niche (my first). Oopsie! One was an impulse work-safe blindbuy safe sale purchase, but the other two were sampled beforehand and sought out specifically because I liked them. I must confess I was THIS close to pulling the trigger on a bottle of Creed Aventus as a (planned for and financially responsible) splurge from a bonus I was about to receive, but this sample of Mancera Cedrat Boise Intense arrived the day prior and I ended up going with that instead because I like it more and didn't even know it had Aventus DNA when I ordered the sample. I'm sorry, but it's just more interesting, complex, potent, and long-lasting in comparison. I'll still eventually splurge on a bottle of aventus, but admittedly in much less of a rush now after enjoying CBI so much.
I think Creed Aventus is much loved, but ultimately most people admit that it's changed so much over the years, there's huge interbatch variation that seems to really annoy people and also it's crazily pricey for something that people tend to suggest doesn't last long (I don't know...). So I totally understand you buying something perhaps in part inspired by the Creed. Mancera fragrances are generally quite strong and long lasting in my experience, but I've not tried Cedrat Boise Intense, I really hope that you enjoy it. Which two designer fragrances did you get that you feel are inspired by others?
@@dr.claire.perfume I do love the Credit Boise Intense, worth every penny! Definitely plan to sample more Mancera. As far as the the other two, they are very.... Basic. Mont Blanc Legend EDP (A&F fierce without the "unwashed behind" note) and Legend Spirit (some kind of Invictus. This was the $20 impulse buy!)
Excellent video, Claire! As a lawyer, I found it especially interesting. I've always wondered about some of these things. I personally don't wear dupes, but I suppose they do serve a purpose.
Hi Jim! Thank you! Oh I really hope my jargon was right 🙊 you should have been my guest star to explain these things! I have the dossier fragrance and some oils, I actually think the oils are much better on the whole. But they are Givaudan oils so likely the same or very similar ingredients to those used in the original fragrances, which is maybe why they smell so spot on! I have a Collab with Jon and Lizzie on Wednesday, so apologies for 3 variations on the same video for then. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a good week!
@@dr.claire.perfume You did a great job! Intellectual property issues are not my area so I would have made a poor guest. 😄 I look forward to the group videos this week.
Hey Claire. I don’t really like the idea of clone perfumes. For me, perfumary is a form of art, a intangible art. So, I prefere to buy originals, always. And if is too expensive, I will wait to buy.
Claire this was most excellent - thank you! You are one of the highlights of my Saturday mornings! Quite a complicated issue and most frag-heads seem to have strong opinions. I do think of perfume as art, but I also think some of the pricing for niche and designer bottles is insane. I have one clone bottle (Lost Cherry) and I don’t reach for it. Would rather have the original….even if it’s a partial, travel size or decant.
Hi Jill! Thank you! I appreciate you saying that, it really makes me happy to know that you enjoy my videos 🥰 I think actually if you are into fragrance, a travel size is definitely enough. I guess it's knowing whether you love it sometimes or the insane price per ml that stops us buying small amounts and maybe pushes us towards clones. But yes I've got the dossier clone and actually also a perfume oil clone and I think the clone oil is absolutely spot on for lost cherry, but I'd still love a little travel size of lost cherry if I saw a good price. It would have to be a great price though 🤣 thanks for watching 🥰
One more thing to add. I tried "what about pop" from generic perfumes and then purchases the original for exactly the reason you cited, to see if it differed and since I loved it I knew that it was worth the price and I wanted that beautiful bottle the original came in.
Clare ! You nailed it !! From the start to the end of this video ,you absolutely NAILED it I actually have no desire to buy Tom Ford Lost Cherry 🤷♀️but then I haven’t analyzed it thoroughly? And perhaps if I did I would crave the original 🍒 Love and hugs ❤
Hey Frances! I agree with you actually, the price difference is crazy between the clone and the real thing and I'm just not sure it's ever going to be worth it from my point of view. I actually tried an oil clone recently and that is even closer to the original 😱 but yes the dupes are certainly enough for me 😊 I've been wearing that Dossier a lot, thank you! 🥰
I have been collecting since I was in College and yes, I think perfumery is an art form yet not all perfumes are art, in that for me it is brand specific. I bought a few clones years back so that I could own some discontinued perfumes and try some perfumes at a good price. Alexandria is to my nose, the best, DUA is a close second and currently I do own about 12 clones and like them all. All of them are either discontinued or so far out of what I consider a reasonable price to pay (Roja Dove for one) considering the size of my collection. I did get a few clones of perfumes I loved so much I got the original but was glad to try before I spend the money. I think at this point, since it's not illegal, and the prices of perfumes are so high, it's fair game and no one will be able to stop it. The big brands are not losing money as the buyer for a particular clone is not necessarily able to buy their perfume anyway. As to AI, that is creepy. I still want a human nose to create the perfumes I wear and since I am heavily into vintage and chypres, no way AI can fool my nose ;o). Thank you!
I think that sounds like a very measured approach to clones. I do think most people either want to try out a scent profile or are simply not ever going to pay the inflated price of the original. I totally understand that! And trying discontinued fragrances or rediscovering one you know you love and can't get is also a fab reason to enjoy clones. Sadly I think AI is already here... That latest Moschino fragrance, Toy2 Pearl was announced as having been created with AI, along with some input from a perfumer, I think AI is probably being used in big designer perfumery much more than we realise already. I can envisage sales data and ingredients being correlated and the highest profit yielding ingredient combinations relative to promotion and advertising cost also being fed into AI to create the ultimate popular, high profit, on trend fragrance. It's sad because what we really need is imagination and talent. Thanks for watching 🥰
Fascinating présentation ! I started as a young woman with a Caron Fragrance named Infini :) and after that, probably a Dune by Dior, Chanel No. 5, Tiffany's and maybe a Jimmy Choo years later. About 9 years ago, via You Tube, I heard a reviewer describe Roses Greedy by Mancera. That was my first perfume purchase above 100 dollars. From there, I began with a path which has led me to the madness of multiple little samples, decants, and bottles: some original and many dupes (mostly Dua!). I see the dupes as a try before you buy, but most of the Dua have brought me joy, thus I never try to purchase the original after. I feel a little bad because I do consider perfume an art: it can be moving and cause an impression, even a change in the mind and soul, neurons :) feelings... I cannot spend all my money on the original parfums and this hobby brings such peace and happiness that inspired houses are a necessity sometimes :) Too long of a comment, desolée.
Thank you ❤️ I totally understand! One you get into fragrance you can definitely fall down the rabbit hole of spending a lot of money very quickly. Clone fragrances are much cheaper and allow you to try more fragrances. Some clones are really very true to the original too. I think it's very much personal choice ☺️ I have really been enjoying some clone perfume oils recently, they are a good starting point for experiencing new fragrances. Thanks for watching ❤️ have a great week! 🥰
Such an informative and interesting video, thank you Clare! I've always been curious how they manage to make a dupe so similar to the original and how come it is legal? For me perfumery is art and I wouln't buy a dupe for myself but I understand why people do it - their beloved scents are discontinued or they're too pricy or they just want to see if they'll like a given scent's profile before they'll buy a full bottle of the original fragrance.
Thank you ❤️ Yes there are definitely reasons why people might choose a clone! I've decided that I won't seek them unless I really can't afford something that I truly love or can't get,, but I will try them when I get samples. I'm open to the idea of them. 🥰
great video! i used to hate 'impostor' perfumes as i liked to call them but since loreal have absolutely ruined my all time ride or die angel i've been on the hunt for a good clone! so many terrible ones but amour scents have a very decent interpretation that performs almost as well as the original angel for a fraction of the price. no shame here ;) x
Wow, great tip! I've been hunting down vintage bottles of Angel, I've finished one and got another two left, but that is a fab suggestion if you think their clone is close 🙂 thank you 🥰 and yes I completely agree, L'Oréal have just killed the spirit of Mugler and made it into a cheaper smelling Lancôme whilst raising prices. 😭
@@dr.claire.perfume i’ve got many back up vintage bottles too and I’m always on the hunt for more but the day they run out fills me with such anxiety it’s been my favorite for 15 years! amour scents ‘saint’ is definitely the closest dupe i’ve found yet and they do big samples for a couple of quid. i recommend 😊💘 x
Wow! Fantastic overview of a complex topic, Claire. Perfume prices have just gone up so much for me (beyond just inflationary reasons). Demand has gone up, so prices have as well. I have a few dupes from Oakcha, but what I’ve also found is that I will never ever go through the amount of perfume that I have, so I have turned to buying decants or samples of the real thing vs. a dupe. Is it cost effective on a ml-by-ml basis? Most assuredly not! However, it lets me try the real deal and then decide if I want to spend my money on a bottle or get a dupe. That said, I will never buy a dupe of a perfume created by a small, independent house.
I think this is exactly where I'm at! I don't need 100ml of anything any more. Even 50 is pushing it. A small amount of the real deal helps you to make better and more cost effective decisions, even if the purchase seems ridiculous per ml. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfumeI loved the video you did on how many sprays in each bottle & how many years my 120 perfume bottles would last me. I must admit it brings me joy to get up & think what perfume will I put on today. Working from home some days I've sprayed 3 different fragrances that blend together haha
Very fascinating topic! You made so many great points and I can see all the different sides, there are so many determining factors. Interesting thought about AI perfumers! 😮 Yes I do see perfume as art in some ways!
I've got some Wednesday videos coming this week and next hopefully 🤞 so watch out for a new video this Wednesday at 7 😊
Have you ever done a video on why we are “addicted” to scents or crave certain scents? I’ve been really into milky/ creamy fragrances lately and I’ve been wondering why
We are getting a weekly double dose... Exciting!!! 😁
I look forward to seeing what that might be
@@Naturallyliz41 I've looked into that a few times but it's never turned into a video. I will have another go!
@@CatherineBriseboisCatWoods haha yes! 😂
In my opinion perfume making is definitely a form of art. I used to buy clone fragrances for a period of time. The economy of Greece had been deteriorating and it just seemed frivolous to spend so much money on a bottle of fragrance. I remember one time I was sitting in a Cafe with my husband and I caught a sniff of a perfume a lady was wearing. It took me some minutes to recognize it. It was dolce vita by Dior, the perfume I used to wear in my first year at university. I kid you not I felt my eyes tearing up and that's so magical about fragrance: that it can take you back to time. The smell of tresor reminds me of my mum, that of eternity of my dad and that of Dior addict of the ideal me.
Yes for sure! ❤️ Fragrances can evoke memories and feeling so so strongly. I have a few scents that are so special to me now and I love it when I smell them because they take me to places and people like you with Dolce Vita, Trésor and eternity. Fragrance is for sure art but I also think clones are entirely personal choice and I have no issue with using them, especially when the fragrance they are cloning is outside of my budget. Thanks for watching as always 🥰
Designer brands are really ripping us off with those outrageous prices. I agree about what you said, imitation being the highest form of flattery. The clone brands do bring awareness to the og brands. I’ve had clones of BR 540 and it made me want to buy the og. Great and informative video Claire!
Thanks 😊 yes I think BR540 was the fragrance that made me aware of the existence of clones. That and Delina. Those two were huge as I was starting my channel and are very commonly cloned.
Have a lovely week 🥰
No they are ripping you off, fragrances are not a must have like food or clothing, it's a luxury, have a better paying job if you want the finer things in life.
My interest in dupes is finding perfumes with better performance than the original. Tom Ford tends to have poor performance and for their price that’s unacceptable, so I’m trying dupes to find better longevity with very similar scents.
Sounds like a reasonable thing to look for. I too think the Private line, whilst sometimes lovely is very overpriced. I love noir de noir most but with dupes such as club de nuit intense woman, I don't feel inclined to purchase it. Thanks for watching 🥰
Hello 😊
I started buying only clones since 2019, because i have started seeing how perfume brands were giving free bottles to youtubers. Ain't no way i will be spending hundrets of euros on perfumes somebody else just gets for nothing 😏.
My favourite is perfume parlour, i tried valaya,good girl gone bad extreme, elixir pour femme roja, atomic rose,la tulipe,rouge malachite and all of them smelled at least 90% the same almost unrecognisable.
Also i bough their extraits de parfum so it lasted even longer than the originals💝 never going back to full bottles of originals.
Aah yes! I heard that perfume parlour are great. I tried a few of a friend's bottles and they were pretty close from what I smelt. And yes, you're completely right about some UA-camrs getting very expensive fragrances for free. It makes it look "normal" to own things that expensive and in that quantity to the consumer. Thanks for watching 🥰
Mediocre job, mediocre pay, mediocre fragrances...
There's Oreos at the store, and then there are cookies that look and taste similar, in a similar packaging, but without the branding. Nobody feels morally wrong for buying the store-brand oreos and coca-cola. We have generic medication and brand-name medication. In the end it comes down to paying for the brand, which developed, reached market first, and has a given level of cunsumer loyalty, or the cheaper alternative. It is interesting that it is up to the consumer to decide.
Yes, that's a fab point! It's across all walks of life! But for some reason clone fragrances really divide opinion. I think a lot of people who have strong opinions against them have never bought or tried them and never will. It's a split market for the majority and I think that's why clones can comfortably exist along mainstream fragrances. Thanks for watching 🥰
What a great point!
But just like generic medication, the name brand usually comes with less deviation. For example, I cannot take generic Levothyroxine and my specialist (Endocrinologist) suggests that I take the name brand instead. Less fluctuation with the thyroid and whatnot by choosing the name brand. But, for most, the generic is probably fine.
Similar for flavor when it comes to name brand versus generic. You can almost always tell when it's an imitation- though sometimes it doesn't matter because the deviations aren't too contrasting.
Food and meds are necessity. Perfumes are not
The clone oreos and cokes are right there in the store, and they taste terrible compared to the real thing. Clone perfumes are hard to find. Most have to be mail ordered, so a blind buy that isn't that much less expensive than the real thing except for Creed and PDM.
Clare you never disappoint with the incredible scientific knowledge you have 😮I’m actually quite blown away
Thank you 😂 I must say this video did take me days of reading so I appreciate that ☺️
I’m ok with clones/ dupes for a couple of reasons: discontinued/ limited edition versions are very hard to get, testing out brands, having a big collection, tight budgets.
I’ve also found some “accidental dupes” through the years…. New, hyped perfumes that smell like ones I already have that didn’t get as much hype.
I love your perspective.
Thank you 🥰 Yes for sure! Dupes and clones definitely have their place. And I am absolutely ok with them. I've been pretty impressed with what I've tried recently and a big collection is a definite reason to try some clones before investing in a bottle of something pricey. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a fab week! 😊
Hey Claire! This is an absolutely fantastic video. I’ve been wearing inspired, dupes, clones fragrances since I was a child due to affordability. Morally I understood from the perfumer about someone taking their fragrance however financially I am beginning to take a closer look at more middle eastern fragrances.
I do agree with you if these brands lowered their prices it would cut down the amount of clone houses.
Yes, I agree, I am never going to pay for lost cherry, but I am extremely happy to have a dupe of it. It's close enough and within my budget. 😊
And yes, middle Eastern fragrances that are inspired by niche and designer houses are so so inexpensive sometimes. They are definitely worth trying. 👍
Many ppl fail to understand that clone houses actually help to market the very frags they dupe. Most ppl will NOT admit to wearing a clone and will state the original fragrance name. ;)
For sure clones add to the marketing of the original. We'd never have all heard of br540 without clones I'm sure! ☺️
@@oginzaI 100% agree with this! Or if asked- are you wearing bacarrat rouge 540 and they are wearing a clone… they will likely just answer “yes”
Two important factors is that many fragrances are made by labs and then sold under private labels. So multiple companies will be selling the same fragrance, sometimes with tiny changes, in different bottles. Also, many fragrance brands are owned by parent companies that are selling the same or almost the same fragrances at every price point. So many dupes are made by the manufacturers themselves.
Yes! I agree, I think we've seen this with a few YSL and Prada and Mugler fragrances recently. L'Oréal seem to have a lot of crossover between brands. Dupe are definitely a thing across perfume conglomerates for sure. Thanks for watching 🥰
Interesting video, Claire. This is my second viewing of your channel, the first one being "13 Reasons You Can't Trust Perfume Influencers Fragrance," which impressed me with your considerable integrity.
I'm a collector who focuses primarily on clones. And do I experience any guilt over being party to the practice of fragrance duping? Not really. My take is similar to yours. I consider that the designer houses start with inflated prices, and then, as their fragrances grow in popularity and hype, they reformulate and dilute them, or play the scarcity game, while simultaneously raising prices further in response to increased demand, which further gouges consumers and increases profits. And while some folks may dispute these allegations of price gouging, what cannot be disputed is that inferior or bastardized reformulations occur with disturbing frequency, and they all occur without transparency, which is nothing less than bait-and-switch. So why should consumers engage in a loyalty that is not reciprocated? Anyway, that's my two cents on the subject. 😉
Clones are a really complex discussion. I had a perfumer from a sizeable indie brand comment on one of my recent videos that clone houses ride the train and don't pay the fare and I totally get that view from their point of view! I would never ever buy a clone copying an indie fragrance. But I worry about my logic here.
I do think fragrance companies need to be more transparent. Having formulation change information available for consumers would be a big step forward. The price inflation for larger brands over the last 5 years has been insane too and I can see why people turn to clones. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume The distinction between cloning indie vs. designer brands is one I hadn't considered, and it's a good one. But I don't think I own any clones of indie frags, so I guess I'm absolved. 😉
This video inspired a deep conversation between me and my husband where we debated the pros and cons of clone perfumes. He couldn't care less about fragrances haha, but considering the legal/economic/ethical/artistic ramifications of copyrighting scents led to a very interesting discussion. Thanks for providing such great food for thought!
Thank you ❤️ yes, it's a complex issue isn't it? Lots of different points of view and things to consider. I'm really not sure what I think sometimes. Currently I own one clone, it's one for Virgin Island Water by Creed. Thanks for watching 🥰
Hey Claire! 🥰 Lots to say on this topic, much of which you covered here in only the eloquent way you can and do. Thank you for this balanced point-counterpoint approach. I filmed an opinion video on dupes last weekend which will likely post on Saturday. If people only knew how much formulas were actually shared or cloned even among designer and niche without calling them "inspired by," I think it would really SHOCK the fragrance "purists" out there quite a bit. It's all quite fascinating.
I agree with your statement about perfumers copying each others' creations and then adding their own smell dna on it. I collect fragrances by perfumers and compare their dna with creations for different brands/niche....it's an eye opener. Thank you both, Claire and Veronica, for your knowledge and educational information about something you enjoy 😊
Yes for sure perfumers do use their own similar DNA for different brands at different price points. The Delinas style fragrances and the Francis Kurkdjian and Nathalie Lorson fragrances stand out for that.
I think there is a lot of snobbery about clones unfortunately. I've tried some oil clones now and those were in general, absolutely spot on.
I look forward to seeing your video. 🥰
Yes, I was thinking this too! So much “inspiration”. Even big luxury niche brands being inspired by smaller brands or even designer.
It's very apparent when you've tried a few things that there is huge overlap sometimes 😂
I think perfumery is an art and feel sorry for the perfumers/nose as the brands don't always publically recognise them for their work.
The big brands haven't helped themselves by treating consumers as cash cows with their uninspired new releases, flankers and watered down reformulations.
I've only tried 2 dupes by Dua 1) Midnight Poison by Dior which is long discontinued and I couldn't bring myself to pay ££s on Ebay and 2) Hypnotic Poison, as its the first formulation from 1998. I
I agree, perfumers should be better acknowledged, sometimes they aren't even named in the release info for fragrances which is shocking.
How is the Dua midnight venom? Is it close?
@dr.claire.perfume it's really good and tbh I was pleasantly surprised. The Dua certainly scratched a yearning/frustrating itch I had for several years. That's the kind of value clone brands bring to consumers.
Yes! I recently tried a clone of miss Dior Cherie having been wanting to try the original for years 🤣 and yes similar, my curiosity is satisfied ☺️
Man this Chanel is so good it only took you 2 videos to clear all my doubts
Thank you! ❤️ I'm happy that you are enjoying it! 🥰
Hi Claire! I loved this video, really well said and complete. For me clones are often a form of testing as you said, some perfumes are difficult to smell before buying and even when I’ve smelled a perfume in the store I’ve made wrong choices. But when I’ve tried a clone for a couple days at least and then bought the real one… never a fail.
Thank you ❤️ Yes! I just tried a clone of Angels' share a few weeks back and it made me realise that I don't need a bottle of that fragrance. I don't think I would wear it often enough to warrant it. Buying a great clone can help you to make these decisions. I totally agree 👍
Thanks for watching 🥰
Also I have one limit with the clone companies and I actually feel the huge companies should be absolutely sued into the ground for it, copying or "inspired bys" from tiny brands and indie is a big fat no
I agree, it's just not ever morally acceptable to copy fragrances from tiny brands where someone had put their heart and soul into it. Their prices are as low as they can go because they have to be competitive to get business. Designer and niche have much lower per bottle production costs and the audiences of those perfumes Vs the clones is generally a little split, so effectively a smaller proportion of their business would be lost and actually the clone may even promote their fragrances to a wider audience.
Sorry your other comment was censored 😂 no idea why it disappeared.
@@dr.claire.perfume what can I say Claire? Suella is watching 😂
👀👀👀 she's everywhere!
Thank you! I found this very educational. I know the whole art vs product is a minefield of different opinions. I have tried dupe brands before (Dossier) usually to see if I would like a very expensive fragrance. Sometimes I find it's not for me, sometimes I love the dupe and stick with that and sometimes I move on to buy the expensive fragrance. I could not have a perfume collection if every bottle were over 100$. I live in an area where there are not many shops that sell fragrance and I usually have to purchase my samples. Even then, some niche samples are hard to obtain...this is another instance where I would try the dupe first. You were spot on with your thoughts .
Thank you ❤️ I'm happy that you enjoyed it! I agree with you, I definitely have an upper limit with purchasing fragrances and if things are more than that, I tend to just buy a sample or try to find the fragrance secondhand. E.g. I really liked some of the Dior Privée fragrances so I just bought those secondhand. I'm happy to try clones though. I think they aren't something I'll actively seek unless I love a fragrance that is expensive and that I can't find a small quantity of to affordably purchase. Thanks for watching 🥰
one aspect that I would like to add is that a lot of big perfume houses are not vegan/cruelty-free, while some clone houses (like Eden perfumes) are.
That's interesting that you say that, I was thinking about making a video about this very subject! Can I please ask you how you judge whether a perfume is cruelty free and to what extent a vegan formulation is also important to you. Thank you 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume Hi! My sister is vegan, so she is very conscious of that aspect when shopping in general. it has made me more aware of the issue as well, which is why whenever I see perfumes that say they are vegan (eden perfumes as mentioned, but also Korres for instance) I make a note of it in my head and usually will try those perfume lines more toroughly.
I do have perfumes from a few years back that are from brands that are not cruelty free/not vegan, but nowadays try to avoid them. My collection isn't huge, so it's not super time-consuming, but if I do find a perfume I love that is not cruelty-free/not vegan, I probably now try to at least buy it second-hand or look for cruelty free/vegan alternatives.
As for how I judge it, I usually just google, either the brand, or the specific perfume in question and that works well most of the time. Sites like incidecoder can be really helpful too in making sense of the ingredient list. A vegan formulation has become more important for me in the last couple of years, and it does play a role in what perfumes I consider buying, but beeswax for instance I don't mind as much, as ambergris or civet, or castoreum.
great to hear you're considering making a video on the topic!
Thanks for your feedback ☺️ I have been doing lots of research and find it hard to find information that I know is definitely correct. It's a minefield!
@@dr.claire.perfume yeah for sure, brands tend to be very secretive about their formulations and whether or not their perfumes are vegan. I've heard before that Mugler's Alien and Angel are vegan, but often times, the information out there is very vague and hard to verify. Carolina Herrera is a big one that, to my knowledge, is cruelty free / vegan. Some Mochino, Paco Rabanne, Issey Miyaki, Jean Paul Gautier fragrances are vegan too! I think I remember Billie Eilish's perfumes to be vegan as well!
Yes! Billie Eilish for sure! I think a lot of the celebrity ones are now ☺️ thanks for your help ☺️
I think a system like music or musicians would make sense. Where a copy house can pay a fee like a band that is covering a popular song would pay. Then it’s above board. The original creators can at least make some back. The copy house can sell their inspired by version. I think many people would still pay for the luxury of the original. The copy house can use the inspired by language.
This seems like a happy medium 😊 what an interesting idea! I think most original houses just try to ignore or sue the clone makers 😂 it would change the dynamic completely! Thanks for watching 🥰
This is such an interesting and complex topic!
On the one hand, I truly believe that perfumery is an art, and perfumers are artists, not unlike musicians, writers, chefs and painters. Their work is often the unique product of their creativity and skill. However, the fragrance industry businesses that employ these artists have one singular goal - to make as much money as possible from us as consumers. And that can become very expensive, (and often unaffordable), for the average person. So, I can completely understand the appeal of dupes, and I personally own several that I absolutely love. But, I've made it a point to learn who the perfumers behind my favourite fragrances are, so that I can still "honour" the artist. I guess I think of it like owning a fake, printout photo of the Mona Lisa, knowing that this represents Leonardo Da Vinci's talent.
Thank you once again for another fascinating video!
Thank you ❤️ yes, that's exactly how I feel! I have empathy for perfumers but not necessarily for the huge perfume conglomerates or popular but expensive niche brands with relatively high sales volumes. Clones have really started to appeal to me now that I have a larger collection, it takes so long to finish a bottle of anything that niche brands with only one large bottle size are completely unattractive to me! Thanks for watching, have a fab week! 🥰
I’m just loving your content keep doing what you do so refreshing to have a channel that isn’t just trying to sell something ❤😊
Thank you 🥰 I promise I will never try to sell you anything. I will never have any codes where I get paid for people buying stuff as I don't believe it's right. I have recently accepted some pr though, and I will be doing one video soon about whether I rate those fragrances or not, but it will be an honest opinion. I see little point otherwise as it's not helpful. I'd never accept pr if my honest opinion wasn't what was wanted by the brand. Thanks for watching 🥰
I waited to watch, ran out got some groceries so I can watch with a snack lol 😊 I think perfumey is an art ❤ I also can understand both sides the Original and the clone or inspired versions, this was fantastic you did your research as always and made it simple to understand!
Thank you ❤️ LOL does it show that this video took me days 🤣
Yes! It's personal choice, I have no problems with clones as long as the company is respectful to the original and doesn't try to be too aggressive in its marketing. Having tried some clone oils over the last month, I've been impressed with just how close they are!
Great analysis, Claire. I think it is morally wrong to copy any idea especially for profit without giving proper credit and compensation. Lastly, my viewpoint is that a perfume is a form of art, just like a beautiful melody or song. I think that potential scent combinations are endless. I absolutely love art, and have come to enjoy the work of perfumery just as much! Thank you for your in-depth analysis of past, current and future issues!
Hi Rhonda! I go backwards and forwards on this issue and I really am not sure what I think 🙃 I have never bought a clone fragrance, but I have been gifted some and have enjoyed some of those. I do think the people who buy clones are generally split from those that would think to buy the original fragrance and clones for sure give attention and fame to the original. But yes they are at the end of the day just copies... But perfumers copy their own and each others' work all the time and no one blinks if it's for another "original" mainstream perfume house. I guess it all comes down to personal choice. Thanks for watching 🥰
Just a few random thoughts as I watched the video:
The dichotomy between designer perfumes and clones matches that of high couture and knock-off garments.
Regarding the idea that clones can improve the original in some way -- this famously goes for Dua improving the longevity of many designer/niche scents. The most outstanding example I think is that of Jo Malone. I now prefer getting Dua's version of Wood Sage and Salt because it actually lasts:)
Another important advantage is in Dua's copying discontinued or original formulas of designer perfumes. Last year, they came out with original early formulations of Guerlain (which sold out quickly).
I don't see how fragrance houses are going to trademark a perfume unless they're willing to patent it. Very Catch-22.
I've come to a compromise between my concerns about price and preferring to know the "real" thing. I can get the original in a travel spray when it's offered-- not exactly cost effective but then it won't break the bank. Of course you don't have the original bottle and everything that goes to make up the marketing and "aura" about the fragrance aka snob appeal. But for me it's the fragrance above all that matters. Then if I like it enough, I can see if Dua has a clone. I've just recently bought travel sprays of Masque Milano's White Whale and Madeleine and Memo Paris Italian Leather (the last two as a BOGO). On sale, I tend to get travel sprays for around $20 or less on average.
I can understand the concept of copying a fragrance using gas chromatography. But I recently saw an article about Penhaligon using gas chromatography to reproduce the smells of King Charles' garden at High Grove. Sounds like literally creating something out of thin air...
Hello Kat! Yes! I can't remember what that's called! Headspace technology is it? They literally just place cones to collect the smells and then analyse them and try to recreate them in fragrance! It's fascinating and really such a great way to capture a scene in a fragrance!
I completely agree that clones are in nearly every walk of life, there is nearly always a generic brand to choose from alongside the original. It's completely personal choice and clones allow people to try and buy things they wouldn't normally be able to obtain or afford. They definitely have their place in my collection now and I think in many other people's.
I think discontinued fragrances is really where brands like Dua call pull in a new audience, the people who perhaps wouldn't ever choose a clone of a fragrance that was currently on the market.
Thanks for watching and for the inspiration! 🥰
I love clone fragrances. I've been able to test fragrances that I wouldn't normally try due to price. There's a few that I plan to eventually buy the full price version. I fell in love with Tom Ford Metallique, EX NIHILO PARIS : Fleur Narcotique, and Tom Ford Jasmin Rouge.
Clones are also nice to travel with. I have dupes of my favorites Chanel Gabrielle Essence, Love Don't Be Shy, or Angels' Share. I dread having to throw an expensive fragrance at the airport.
Zara is a good dupe house. I have several versions of their Red Temptation flankers and their other fragrances.
Yes! Travelling with clones feels much safer and less worrying! That is a fab point! And for sure, you can try more fragrances 😊 I also have clones of LDBS and angels' share!
I only have one Zara, which is a dupe of Kenzo Eau de été (is that what it's called? The one with the bottle shaped like a leaf). Their fragrances are good for the price in the main.
Agree!
I love Woody Sage by Dossier, a dupe for J9 Malone’s Wood Sage and Sea Salt 🧂. For the lack of longevity with the original I cannot justify the price. I’ve had the original and I can’t tell the difference.
Thank you for the recommendation! ❤️ I can totally see the reason for getting the dupe there 😊
A great study about fragrances and their clones, this of yours! Thank you so much for sharing.
Thank you ❤️ no problem 🥰
It’s super disappointing when a fragrance you love is discontinued, so I initially got into dupe oils of lost loves. This was several years ago. Fast forward to today, and I discovered indie brands like Genre who make superior formula dupes to some niche houses who price their fragrances from $200-$500. (It seems like you’re really just paying for the pretty bottles). But then, there are Arabic fragrances who do the fancy bottles AND dupe the scents. And let’s face it, just about every company has come out either their own version of Baccarat, Delina, Lira…
I think for sure that part of the appeal of mainstream niche is the bottle design. This is part of the reason I am moving more towards indie, because I don't care about bottles, I just want a nice quality fragrance. I think with the more affordable Middle Eastern fragrances there is a huge variation in quality, some brands seem to use crazy amounts of ambroxan (same with some mainstream niche brands actually...) and that can put me off. I do really appreciate Armaf club de nuit intense woman though. Thanks for watching 🥰
Happy Saturday Dr. Claire. Thanks for tackling such a complex and highly debated issue. Personally I’ve smelled some clones that are so spot on it does make you wonder how some of the more prestigious brands can charge so much more? That’s the other question that begs to be answered for many but it’s not that complicated. The difference between price and cost includes a lot of factors, some of which, you mentioned such as distribution and payments to the perfumer. I recently commented on a video that I truly believe the recent (exorbitant) price increases of the more prestigious brands is an effort to reduce the ability of the regular consumer to obtain these perfumes and to cater only to the rich. I don’t know that to be true but it is no different from other product segments that the average consumer can’t afford. As far as the legality of clones goes I honestly don’t think the powers that be want to push that too far for fear of exposing or sharing of information that may not put them in the best light. Anyway this will always be a debated issue and I thank you for sharing your thoughts on it.
Hello Faith 😊 I completely agree with you that luxury brands always want to keep themselves exclusive and out of reach for all but the rich because that's their USP, that gives them desirability, but yes it's sad that that is how it works and it's not solely about the product. I think this is true across the board. Luxe brands charge what they can get, not what will make them a reasonable profit...
I know Ch*n*l have some aggressive tactics on Instagram also so I've no doubt that you are right about certain companies not wishing to be public about calling out clone brands, because honestly they might look like bullies. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a lovely week 😊
Hi Claire, another intelligent thought provoking video. All of your points are valid.
I used to say I wouldn’t buy clone fragrances, then hearing about designer and niche formulas changing, sometimes quite different from the original, or being weaker than before, but with a big price increase (usually after a brand being taken over) I started trying a few. I have Infini Rose by Maison Alhambra and a sample of Atomic Rose, and honestly, on my skin they both smell exactly the same. $A69 for 100ml Infini Rose vs $A460-489 for 90ml Atomic Rose, it’s a no brainer. The packaging is lovely too😃🇦🇺
Wow that is quite a price difference! And yes, I think the discontinuations and reformulations annoy previously loyal customers enough to seek alternatives, them being at a lower cost put the cherry on the cake... I used to be sniffy about clones but I don't think I'd hesitate now I've tried a few. In the main, I've been impressed and if a fragrance is £100s then that is the only way I will ever own something vaguely similar. Thanks for watching 🥰 lovely to see I have viewers from all around the world ❤️
I have to agree with the brands changing the formula & quite weaker from the past. I recently bought coco chanel as I loved it 20yrs ago. It is close but no where near the longevity or projection. Very disappointing. With some of the clone brands their perfume concentration is actually stronger.
Yes I think clones have totally clocked what customers want and that they aren't being given from mainstream designer perfumery. I absolutely love Coco ❤️ it's on my long to buy list! It's stunning!
You nailed it! I also think that people are going to buy what they want I know so many who won’t dare purchase a “dupe” I was once told Sunny that’s a bootleg 🤣 why would you want a fake! But here I am I want to smell just as good 😉 ( zoom out and the scent is spot on! That is exactly how I feel about many dupes up close we can tell the difference from afar no one would notice ) You are a gem 💎 ❤️
Yes for sure. Of course there are minute differences up close but in the air, no one can tell, no one would know what you were wearing. It's all about what you want and how you feel. I've realised I'm absolutely fine with clones and dupes of pricey fragrances that I would never ever purchase. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a fab week! ☺️
I’m a person who has tried a clone and now I want to smell the real thing. Packaging is important to me. I have many Julianna’s Perfumes and the fact all of the bottles look exactly the same is bothersome. I can’t tell without picking up the bottle and looking at the label to know what it is. Great video!!!!💜
Thank you ❤️
Yes!!! This!!! I think this is a big issue. Even making the labels different colours would help with recognition. It must be incredibly annoying. I have accidentally sprayed the wrong decant on me before and it totally ruined my day 😂 I'm not exaggerating 😂
And yes, if I smell something inspired by something else, I'm always curious to go sniff the original ☺️
That's really interesting , I would really like if all my perfume bottles look the same, I really like the uniformity and it's quite satisfying to look at.
They can definitely look neat and I guess they line up, but I must say I love a jumbled look. I don't really arrange my fragrances by brand, more by feeling and main fragrance family as that's how I select what I will wear each day.
I am a sucker for a beautiful bottle!
Interesting topic. Just recently Mona/Kayali met with Dua & requested for their fragrance duplicated by Dua to be removed & they agreed. Not sure what went down there but they were producing a dupe of Eden Juicy Apple.
I do like the idea of discontinued fragrances to be reproduced though. Many have been lost that are still loved by consumers.
That's really interesting! I hadn't read about that. I do think clone brands are really sensitive to causing fuss with mainstream brands, if there's a hint of a legal fight, they generally err on the side of caution. One or two fragrances are not worth their entire business.
I recently got some pr from a clone brand and I tried a clone of a discontinued fragrance that I'd never managed to smell before so I found that really interesting. I definitely think that's where clones can lead the way without offending brands. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume Dua sent an email explaining why the were removing the kayali clone. It was after a respectful conversation. I have bought quite a few from Dua as niche in Australian currency is way above my price range. Designer is getting up there is price too. I did buy the kayali brand fragrance from the Huda website after using a discount.
In this case the clone was not 100% the same so it was interesting to smell the difference. In regards to brands like Perfume De Marly, BDK, MFK it allows me to experience a fragrance & if I do enjoy it maybe buy the real deal. I really enjoy your insight into the science of perfume. Thanks xx
Thank you! ❤️ That's great that they were open and honest to communicate that to customers. I think in general Day tend to put their own twists on things to a certain degree from what I've heard. And yes, clones are certainly a gateway to feeling more secure about a big ticket perfume purchase. 🥰
This was a fantastic video. Thank you as always. I have a handful of dupes left in my collection. I was really into them when I first started exploring fragrances. The oil perfumery oils for example were accessible here in Canada and also relatively affordable. They gave me the idea of the scent profile of scents I was curious about. For some the dupe is all I need, for others I’m more than happy to seek out a second hand bottle or even pay retail for the odd gem. There is no way I would have been able to explore this variety of scents without dupes. Dupes, decants, trusted second hand markets, and boutiques. It’s all good. It’s all fun.
Thank you ❤️ I agree, I've really opened my eyes to clone fragrances! There are some really good ones out there, and yes, for some, I am quite satisfied with a clone. Those oil perfumery rollerballs are fabulous! I have Chanel beige from them. I love secondhand too. I try not to pay retail if at all possible.
Thanks for watching as always ❤️ have a fab week 🥰
Perfumers do not get paid in correlation with the sales of a particular perfume, so I think they are flattered if someone tries to copy a fragrance made by them...
The ones who get pissed off are the brands because it affects their business
You are spot on I think! 👌
Hi Claire! This was very informative. Thank you! 😁
Funny how a brand could go after dupes for copying the packaging but not the content. Not surprizing though if you consider fake handbags and clothes pretending to be real one are illegal.
I do buy dupes. Mostly, like you said to test out more expensive fragrances I would have a difficult time sampling. Sometimes a full bottle of a dupe is almost the same price as a sample! I have a few dupes of Tom Ford, for example, as the price of that house is so crazy expensive and sometimes people complain of the longevity of certain of their fragrances.
I agree with Tom Ford. I have some from the less expensive line but none of the private blends. The prices are eye watering. And since EL took over, they've discontinued a lot of the more distinctive fragrances.
I was shocked to learn that really fragrance doesn't have any effective protection over the blend itself. I thought there would be something... But yes it's the problem of defining what is unique and novel isn't it and how to capture the idea of a smell.
Thanks for watching as always. Have a fab week 🥰
Hi Claire! This is such an interesting topic. Clone houses are questionable and there are so many different opinions on them. One one hand they make it possible for people with different budgets to smell like a certain scent without having to spend a small fortune. On the other hand, it’s not very fair to the creators
It's definitely not a clear cut debate one way or the other. Clones have their place in a lot of people's collections for sure, they make experiencing high end fragrances more affordable.
The 'creator' is the perfumer who is getting paid regardless.
For sure, the perfumer gets paid by the brand whatever. Although when it's the perfumer's own brand is this a different situation?
Thank you for such a great video! Be prepared for my scattered thoughts on this subject...
I only own one dupe. I'm not usually interested in dupe companies because I don't generally like the fragrances that are being duped in the first place... I like to try different and original smells. However, I try to purchase cruelty-free alternatives/options and some dupes are cruelty-free, whereas the fragrances they're duping are not. Ultimately, there is a big difference between cloning a massively successful brand's perfume compared to a small indie house's perfume because often the ethics of big companies are questionable. That's not to say that smaller businesses are inherently ethical, but hopefully my point is coming across. There isn't value in duping a small company's perfumes and both business owners and consumers know that. Additionally, with larger companies, the name of the perfumer can get lost behind the name of the brand itself. I'm not convinced L'Oreal is interested in protecting the artistic rights of its perfumers. All that to say, the morality of clone houses is probably dependent on what individual consumers value when it comes to purchasing perfumes. I do think perfumery is an art, the way clothing design is an art or music is an art or film - some pieces of art are created mainly to be consumed and make money. But I don't think anyone would argue that music isn't a form of art.
Also, I appreciate your perspective that clones could actually help perfume houses, in a way. Maybe imitation is okay, so long as the original is still being credited.
Yes, fragrance can for sure be art 👌 this is really an extremely complex topic and I'm not sure I have an opinion one way or another on it. I rarely smell a clone and think that's a 1:1 perfect copy. There are usually small differences, but it depends on how much people zoom in or out when they smell things.
I appreciate clones but I don't want a collection full of them. I love finding bottles secondhand so I rarely pay retail and in that way perhaps clones are less useful for me.
Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume I agree, it's complex! And I find I don't take a strong stance either. It's interesting to consider these topics, though, so I really appreciate videos like this :)
Thank you 🥰
Great video. I've thought about the morals around this as im a clone junkie! I would never purchase a clone of a scent from a company like 4160 Tuesdays which is a relatively small business but with the big niche brands like Tom Ford, By Killian ,PDM dont have an issue. I think some of the big houses bump up the prices anyway and make them unavailable to your average person. I'd never buy those scents as I work for the NHS and they are way out of my budget! I also love buying clones of discontinued scents, some of my favs are Cacherel Gloria and Gucci Envy from Perfume Parlour. I love the clone houses for keeping these alive!
Thank you ❤️ Oh wow! Perfume parlour have Gucci Envy?! I need to check that out! I totally agree, smaller companies are a complete clone no go for me. Larger conglomerate owned companies or ones that gift huge number of bottles for PR purposes, I have less sympathy with. Thanks for watching 🥰
Don't forget the clones that are made of long discontinued perfumes. I bought Gucci II for years and now it is discontinued and cost prohibitive. I wish I could buy the "real" thing but would jump at the chance to buy a dupe if it was good. I cried when I found that Woodhue was being made again and sold by the Vermont country store... It was my grandmother's signature scent and I am so happy it was made again (the original was long discontinued)
Yes! Discontinued fragrances are an excellent reason to try a clone. I think that where clones are really fulfilling a purpose and cornering a market that designer and niche fragrances aren't filling. 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume a lot of people don't realize that scent memory is so strong and a "similar, maybe better" perfume just doesn't cut it!
Yes, identical is sometimes what people want. 🥰
Not a big fan of clone houses (if I can help it, because of copyright). But sometimes the price point on the OG ones is just crazy that make me personally turn to duplicates.
Great vid as always ❤️
Thank you ❤️ yes for sure! The price is what makes people go to clone fragrances in the main and that and the performance and similarity are what keeps people buying them. I would definitely consider buying a clone oil now if I really loved something but couldn't afford the original fragrance. Thanks for watching 🥰
I’m really enjoying your videos Claire!!
Thank you 🥰
I want to thank you for the great video you've just given us. I do buy inspired fragrances and even clones because I think is worth every penny before even considering to buy the "original". Thank God for it. Also, I always use to say that "if you don't want to be copied, do fail on whatever you are doing, do it wrongly and no one would even consider to copy you". But "if you are successful, then be ready to compete with the market because they'll go after you".
❤🙏
Thank you ❤️ yes exactly, if it's no good, no one will copy! Copies increase recognition and get the perfume name out there. Counterintuitively, they can actually be fab advertising for a fragrance!
Thanks for watching 🥰
Oh dear 😮 Your video coincides with my latest post! I used to be somewhat of a clone snob till the perfume prices skyrocketed where i live (largely due to the exchange rate). I guess it will continue to be a polarising and nuanced topic. For me, it just feels so wrong that 2 things can smell and sometimes even perform alike, with such a huge price disparity. Thanks for this video
Yes, I think it's entirely personal choice and really I am totally fascinated by the idea of dupes and clones. The price differences are astonishing sometimes and really there is no way I'd buy lost cherry at full price for a bottle when I can buy a clone for £25 or less, in fact, much less! Thanks for watching 🥰
I fell in love with Blanco Latte because of DUA white milk and bought the OG. Same with Alexander’s Orchestra (bought LV Symphony). DUA’s original scents have led me down the rabbit hole of learning what notes I enjoy and not and also creating my own layering scents. As a gourmand lover this has made fragrances so much fun while not hurting my pocket.
If I LOVE a niche brand I might buy the original or not but I can build a collection reflective of my style and enjoyment.
That's really the joy of clones isn't it? Finding an affordable way to try a scent profile and discovering things you might not find in more affordable original fragrances. I think you are proof that trying a clone or inspired by fragrance leads some people to purchase the original fragrance. 🥰
Thank you for doing this video. You answered a question I had about HOW perfumes are cloned and it was fascinating. I personally would prefer an original fragrance, but the prices are way out of my budget for many of those I desire. I have about half and half, of originals and dupes. You did a wonderfully comprehensive breakdown of all considerations. I think, in the end, it is kind of a symbiotic relationship between the OG’s and the dupes, as you said.
Yes for sure! There is mutual benefit, how equal it is may depend on many factors. Clones are not black and white at all! There are arguments both ways. I think my own opinion is, enjoy clones for what they are. Often, for me, they aren't 100% spot on however close they are, and that's fine if they are a nice fragrance that I enjoy. 😊 Thanks for watching 🥰
I have clone roll on oil versions of a few fragrances that I actually own full bottles of. My reason: I’m trying to stretch the wear time of a fragrance I love AND not suck down the entire FB as quickly 😂🤷🏻♀️
This video was helpful for me to decide when a clone will not really work; there are some niche brands that use many naturals and in that case, I won’t really find a clone that satisfactorily actually dupes the original.
And yes, I think fragrance is an art; an amazing art that I have great respect for. It shares similarities to wine making which is also very complex and layered.
Yes absolutely it can be art! And yes, some fragrances are going to be really tricky to get close to for sure.
I totally see why people buy clones and I also see why some people really disagree with them. It's a really tricky topic I think with lots of different angles 😊 I think eeeking out an original by use of a clone in layering is a good shout! 😊
Clones are not ethical, but it would be impossible to outlaw, because then they would have to outlaw interpretations, which in many cases are better and higher quality. They can patent a formula, but would only need to change 1 ingredient to overcome the law. The clones are not the same. They are almost all artificial aeromachemicals
I think clones are a kind of symbiosis with successful fragrances, they do feed off each other and often mutually benefit each other, although the benefits to the clones are often more immediately obvious. I think probably a lot of fragrance is mostly synthetically made aromachemicals, I don't think that is restricted to clones, but for sure they will use what is easiest and with the lowest price. It would be fascinating to see the % source for a range of fragrances, just out of interest. Thanks for watching 🥰
A fragrance like Ani by Nishane and Nasheet by Lattafa have different notes listed but they smell the same in the dry down.
Yes those are probably a good example of an inspired by combination. 🥰
Yes those are probably a good example of an inspired by combination. 🥰
Such a great video full of interesting thoughts & questions. Claire, you’re the best! I will be thinking about a lot of these examples for a while.
Thank you! ❤️ I'm happy that you liked it! 🥰
Completely underrated (and superb) channel with fresh content. I’ve been searching for something like this. Thank you!
I'm happy that you enjoyed the video. Thank you 🥰
Thank you Dr. Smith for another informative video. Your objective view and well researched videos are a breath of fresh air. I wish there were more channels like yours. Regarding this video in particular, I actually gravitate to clone brands as lots designer brands are not vegan or cruelty-free. With clone brands like Dossier and MiiMiic I actually get to try and enjoy fragences without supporting the killing of animals like the musk deer for their glands.
I can definitely see choosing clones with regard to the cruelty free argument. But I also don't think probably anyone uses deer musk any longer, most especially larger brands. It would simply be too expensive and the supply too unreliable and small. I think the biggest problem is probably the brands that sell in China but don't manufacture there that are subject to testing. Vegan is more complicated... But I wouldn't think anything other than honey is commonly used nowadays. Do you know what other animals products might commonly be fragrances? I might read up and do a video... Thanks for watching 🥰
Hi Claire ❤ GC-MS could be also one of the reasons why some components of the original are missing as GC can degrade some molecules. I’ve read there are efforts to use LC-MS instead. Anyway fun scientific facts 😂 besides as you said patented ‘molecules’ and usage of cheaper materials (both naturals and synthetic). We can reproduce a smell in many ways at different price points and different olfactory quality and even big brands always try to save doing this. As we notice unfortunately 😢
Yes for sure! Brands do try to reduce costs and that can be at the detriment of quality.
I don't have much experience of GC-MS, but I've done some LC-MS, that could make total sense! Thanks for watching 🥰
What a treasure find you are in the cacophonous world of fragrance vlogs. I have just recently subscribed to you and have been doing a marathon of your past episodes. This one just raises the bar all too high! Thank you for the wealth of information you are so generously sharing with us. Your passion is palpable, but even more your integrity! I am guessing that eventually the chaff will be separated from the grain and the fragrance UA-camrs that will survive and flourish are those who are in your mould. Thank you very much. I wish you more success and bigger subscriber numbers. You deserve nothing less. Fellow followers of Claire, let us spread the word. Claire is too great a fragrance expert to remain a hidden gem.
Oh thank you! That's lovely of you to say 😊 I did spend a crazily long time making this video so that's appreciated 😂 I think it's one of my favourites. It's a complex topic isn't it? There are lots of different points of view! Thanks for watching and for subscribing, I appreciate it. 🥰
I’ve actually found some dupes that I like better than the originals, especially from the Middle Eastern houses, like Lattafa with Nebras for Eilish or Khamrah for Angel Share. I don’t really think those dupes smell much like the originals though. And then there are dupes that lead me to buy the original, like Ariana Grande Cloud led me to eventually buy the real BR540. That one has been duped so much now though that I’m sick of it.
Yes! I think that's fab, you are enjoying the "dupes" just as fragrances in themselves, not because they smell like something else. ☺️ I agree BR540 smell alikes really did reach market saturation a few years back and I feel like a lot of people are over that scent profile, but for sure a lot of people do still love it too! Thanks for watching 🥰
I love Mon Paris from YSL but realized I'm allergic to something in it (after buying a bottle of course). I tried the Dossier version and whatever I'm allergic to isn't present--or its present at a much smaller quantity that doesn't affect me. So in that case--the clone wins over the original.
That's fab isn't it? If you love something, it must be so annoying to not be able to wear it. I hadn't thought of that possibility! That's really interesting! Thank you 🥰
I am a Maison Alhambra and Orientica Stan. Is perfume making an art, I think it’s a skill more than it is an art.
I would say it’s not fair if the perfumers themselves were not duping their own work. That alone tells me they are okay with the practice.
I try not overthink it, i but what I like , dupes are good and sometimes a dupe be so good it actually makes you want the original, one such dupe for me is Exclusif Saffron by Maison Alhambra duping Carolina Herrera Saffron Lazuli. I am saving up for an original creation because I experienced the dupe. The original I was only able to sample in store and that doesn’t really give you enough room to get familiar with a fragrance.
You made some excellent, valid and relevant points and as a dupe lover I relate to every point made.
Thank you for this video I enjoyed it and watched till the end
Thank you! Yes! I am only just getting into clones, but I've seen just how good some can be and it's shocked me at the similarity with the originals.
Yes perfumers duping their own work is the big point that makes this whole argument of clones being unacceptable wrong. Jerome Epinette, Francis Kurkdjian and Nathalie Lorson are three that spring to mind immediately.
I hope you enjoy your saffron lazuli when you get it! I completely agree that trying in store does not give you a full view of a fragrance at all, just a mild impression. Samples (or clones) are essential if you are thinking of buying something expensive.
Thanks for watching 🥰
Brilliant vid Claire.
I believe fragrance creation is an art. It is nuanced in many ways and dependent upon the subject as aromas can be perceived differently.
As for clones being ethical, when examining what is involved in creating smells, one can understand why they could be deemed unethical. This could be mitigated by the financial value attached to designer perfumes, which I believe is reflected in the cost.
Now we are able to get rid of perfumes by selling them one Previously we had to struggle through a perfume we didn’t love or palm it off on someone or pretend it isn’t there (oh the memories).
I like that clones give us the option to try something with a similar DNA and avoid costly mistakes now the samples are not readily available at perfume counters.
It was the custom that you got perfume samples before you bought the perfume, if it agreed with you. Now you get the sample with the purchase of the said perfume 😮 or have to buy the sample, which would be OK too if the price is appropriate....but it usually isn't.
Thank you! Yes I agree, it's an argument with two sides, both of which have their points and it's completely up to the consumer.
I think trying clones instead of originals is a growing market for clones. Some samples can be a lot of money and postage is usually exorbitant too. Buying a clone seems like much the better deal.
Thanks for watching 🥰 have a lovely week!
Superb vid Claire. Didn't know about the Playdoh trademark! 😄 Definitely brought up a great point about the formula secrecy and its importance in legal matters. There's certainly something to be said about clone brands bringing more attention to fragrances in the past, but now that clones are getting so close to the original (often with better presentation and performance) and designers and niche fragrances are quickly declining in quality, it seems to be becoming more of an issue for brands. Truth be told, before the pandemic, select clones offered exceptional value, but even their prices have doubled now so the price gap is always fluctuating. Effectively, the decision lies with the consumer! 🧡
I love that playdoh smell so I had to put that in 😂
I agree, paying a little more for a better clone can mean that they are very very similar. I just accepted some pr from a clone brand and wow, I was stunned with some of them, just absolutely spot on. And yes you're right, there has been a noticeable drop in quality with mainstream brands and concurrent rise in price that is annoying a lot of consumers enough to consider the cheaper alternatives.
Thanks for watching 🥰 have a fab week!
This is so great! Thank you!
Thank you 🥰
I think this is one of the reasons why I’m not so fond of Tiziana Terenzi. For some strange reason Tiziana Terenzi, xerjoff, Mancera and montale all seem to have the same if not very very similar DNA’s. The top seller of Tiziana Terenzi smells like the top seller from xerjoff and another few variations from Mancera and I find that to be unimpressive, especially because if the price points. So that’s how I feel. I do love my Middle Eastern fragrances but at least you are made very clearly aware that they’re dupes. At least we are aware and not being taken for a ride.
I've not tried xerjoff, but I was underwhelmed by TT. And I agree that Mancera and Montale definitely have an overlapping style.
I don't know, do most people know that Lattafa are mainly dupe fragrances? I don't think I did, obviously some, but not all. I don't often feel they are very close to the originals though from the few I've tried, they again Lattafa do have a very distinctive house style. There is much more to Middle Eastern fragrances though that dupes and clones; Amouage for one.
Very interesting topic. I see both sides but I don’t buy duped or clones…imagine you spending years in the lab working on a product with blood, sweat and tears and time and you create something then someone steals your idea, dupes it and sells it for nothing. It happens all the time with intellectual property. You bring up the difficulties but in the end we have to police ourselves. 😉
I guess it's personal choice. I've never bought a clone, as I've never fallen so in love with something that I've tried but can't afford as to warrant buying one, but I've been gifted a few. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfumeyes I meant to say it feels like copying someone else’s homework (after they stayed up all night to do it) then getting credit for it. 😉
Is it maybe similar though when people buy store branded food products or Zara clothes? I guess it's also easier to make the choice of the original if you have more money or a smaller collection.
This was very well thought out. I do feel fortunate to have access to so many fragrances that I could never afford were there only the originals however , I do feel guilty since the originals were created in my opinion by perfumers that deserve recognition and to be paid for their work. I am torn! My favorite inspiration house is "generic perfumes "out of the United Arab emeritus.
Generic perfumes is superb isnt it? Their oils are amazing. Such good quality.
Yes I feel the same, I recently tried some clone oils and most were amazingly close to the original fragrances, but I guess the perfumer gets paid and gets recognition from the original brand and actually the clone brings them wider fame, like with BR540 and Francis Kurkdjian. Thanks for watching 🥰
I clearly need to check out Generic perfumes! 🥰
I own several clone fragrances and the primary reason is price point. In some or most cases the clone can be purchased for way under $1 per mil, plus you get to experience the fragrance....maybe not exactly but you can get rather close to the original.
Yes! For sure, price is the biggest reason to choose a clone. And on the whole, they are usually quite similar. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume - Is there a way you could do a future video dedicated to your top men's fragrances?
I will look into it. Thanks for the suggestion ☺️
I've personally never tried a dupe or clone fragrance but I can see why they are popular. I tend to stick with sample sizes and decants because I enjoy collecting/trying new fragrances but I often don't need full size bottles that I'll never empty.
Yes I agree, I rarely want more than 10ml of a fragrance these days. The exceptions are preloved buys or swaps with others or older designer fragrances where larger sizes are strangely sometimes cheaper than smaller 🙃
I also can't say that I seek out clones but I am always open to try them when people send me samples and I can understand why people would buy them. Thanks for watching 🥰
First now let me try to watch at work. If I can’t finish I will be back to finish 😊
Thanks, I know this is a long one 🙈
The information about clones, dupe, and fake fragrances is priceless Thank you ❤❤❤
No worries ☺️, I know most know this already but it was important to define this for context for the rest of the video.
I really admire and appreciate the effort you put into ideating and filming your videos. No one else does it like you do. It feels like i’m attending a course 😊
Thank you 🥰 I really enjoyed putting this one together! I had so much to talk about. It's something that has people with strong views on both sides. 😂
Hey Claire jus sudb after watching this video I must say for sumone who is a collectors I found your content realy refreshing and extremely insightful keep up this awsome info lead style way better than most of the influencers out respect !!!!
Thank you ❤️ I'm happy that you enjoy my videos. I only make content that would interest me so this kind of thing is quite me. 🙂
Such an excellent and thought provoking video.
I’ve bought several clones recently because of the price increases of perfumes.
I want to experience fragrances without ending up in the poorhouse!
If the designer fragrances were more reasonably priced, I would prefer to purchase those.
Thank you! 🥰 Yes I agree, mainstream fragrances are massively overpriced. Mugler fragrances for £100+ is ridiculous to me when they were £60 a few years ago. Clones make owning a variety of fragrances much more affordable.
I work for a dupe house and we get our oils made at drom. A massive German fragrance house who supply oils for huge amounts of designer brands. We plain package ours and do not sell in shops that's how we can bring down the price of our quality dupes. ❤
That's interesting! I feel like most ingredients are much of a muchness for designer and clone brands and perhaps even some niche. It's all about marketing and packaging. Thanks for watching 🥰
@dr.claire.perfume absolutely! I love perfume and can't afford the og of the ones I do love. So dupes have to do for me. You put this so well and explained it so effectively I love ypur view on the subject.
Thank you! I actually really love clones, but I think you have to just appreciate them for themselves. They are close usually but not often 100%, of course they can be better, but they are usually different in some way. 🙂
Fantastic video, Claire, thoroughly enjoyed listening to this on a long drive this evening! In relation to the question about patents, patents actually protect ‘function’. Whether that’s a mechanical , or a chemical function, for example. Could it be argued that a perfume composition has a chemical function? Or that a perfume’s function is to smell a particular way? Possibly. However, the output or improvement is difficult to define or quantify. I think the reason why perfumery is so difficult to patent is because they are more akin to a recipe, than a definitive function. Recipes are not patentable subject matter. However, you hit the nail right on the head when you said that, wven if they could, many companies likely wouldn’t try to protect their perfume compositions by patent, simply because it requires full disclosure of the composition.
I am pretty torn as to whether I feel clones are ethical. Obviously if a perfume is discontinued or ridiculously overpriced then it’s nice to have an accessible option. However, there’s also so many perfumes in the world that I enjoy so, the reality is, I don’t really need to buy a clone of anything.
As for whether Olfactive trademarks will ever take off as a means for protecting perfumes…, tricky thing about trademarks is that in order for a trademark to be a “trademark” it needs to be distinctive and non-descriptive of the goods to which it is applied. And as you say, the perception of smell is so subjective, it would be difficult to police. that Dutch case sounds very interesting. I might have to go look it up.
Hello Cherie! Yes I have had the same debate with myself over clones. I still don't know the answer. I think my own feeling is that I probably won't ever seek them out unless I fall in love with something crazily priced but in that case, I will probably just want the original anyway, I really don't know. I've tried some clone oils and on the whole they are very close to the originals (apart from one) but I do feel a little uneasy somehow too. I guess the perfumer is paid by the brand and ultimately maybe gets more recognition the more widely known the fragrance is, which could be helped by clones.
The patenting and olfactory trademarks are a complicated area. I'm really not sure I entirely understand the legalities of it all, but it was interesting to read about. I feel like fragrances are very open to being copied because there are just so few laws protecting them. It must be a difficult call sometimes for brands whether to pursue a clone brand or not. Thanks for watching and giving me your thoughts 😊
You are amazing Claire! So interesting! 👍🏻 I do buy clones but only for very expensive perfumes like Creed, Tom Ford or Kilian (250$+) for instances. I’d never buy one from a designer I can afford…
Yes same Julie! I would only buy one for a perfume that was way out of my budget. Tom Ford lost cherry is a great example of that where the clone is enough, in fact I just got an oil clone that is even more spot on ☺️ I hope you had an amazing birthday! And wow that cake looked so impressive! 😲
@@dr.claire.perfume thank you! I survived being 50 and cake always helps! 😂😂
40 for me in February... So I'll see! 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume 👍🏼☺️
Thought provoking video as always Claire! I think all your points are valid. While in principle I have some misgivings about clones and dupes, the outrageous prices being charged by designer and niche houses make me feel much more comfortable about dupe brands. However big corporations making clones of small indie fragrances isn't acceptable to me.
Have you tried any fragrances from Une Nuit Nomade? They do some fabulous perfumes and are very reasonably priced for niche 💖
Hi Fiona! No, I don't think I tried anything from une nuit nomade! That's unusual! I will try to check them out. Thanks for the recommendation. ❤️
I totally agree that making clones of fragrances from small indie houses is a total no for me, but I am perfectly happy to use clones duping fragrances outside of my budget now. I used to think they weren't close and weren't good quality but I've tried quite a few now and been mostly very impressed.
Thanks for watching as always ❤️ have a fab week! ☺️
@@dr.claire.perfume thanks. You too 😊
👍
This was brilliant Claire, so immaculately researched and presented. So interesting! You're just the coolest 🙌
Thank you 🥰 gosh this took me a crazy long time Em 🤣 hope you are having an easier time now. ❤️
@@dr.claire.perfume it was worth all your hard work! 👌🏼
Phew! 😂
Hi Dr. Smith!
Thank you for the deep dive; obviously by the posts, we all learned a lot.
Frankly, I'm tiring of straight perfume review videos and I cut back on subscriptions.
I look forward to your channel variety.
The clones/dupes/ inspired fragrances are all so subjective, and hit and miss, but that doesn't stop consumers. As you noted, some exceed scent, performance, etc. They are here to stay imo.
I agree with your opinion as to the application of A.I.
Final note; the PLAYDOUGH backstory.....loved it!
Francine
🙂
Hi Francine 😊 thank you! I'm happy that you enjoyed this. I love the smell of playdoh so I couldn't leave that nugget of info out 😂
Yes I think my channel gets the fewest views for actual reviews of fragrances ironically 🤣 I like doing them occasionally, but not all the time, I'm a scientist at heart and I like variety. Having said that, this video probably took me at least three solid days broken up over a few weeks so I can't do these videos all of the time and I don't think I have the inspiration to do these kinds of videos all of the time either sadly.
Yes! Clones / dupes definitely corner the market where the original is lacking or discontinued and AI is probably already being used to at least in part create fragrances, we just haven't been told yet.
Thanks for watching as always 🥰 have a fab week!
Great video Claire, you clearly put a lot of time into that research! I am not opposed to clones of big overpriced brands, like Tom Ford, but I haven’t hit the buy button just yet. I’m tempted by the perfume oils, in no small part because of the size… 10-15 ml of one scent is all I ever want anyway. I can’t imagine I will ever buy another 100ml bottle of anything. Also, I kind of like that I can ‘buy local’ (Aussie) of a clone 😊
Thank you!
Yes! 10ml of oil is perfect for me! I recently got some as PR and I was so impressed by the majority of them. They seem pretty spot on and they are things that either are out of my budget or stuff I just can't find to buy! And yes, it's lovely to support local brands. 🥰
I like the legal battles history part of this one. Very interesting and informative. Thank you for sharing, Madam. 👍
I'm happy that you enjoyed it, thanks for letting me know ☺️
Oh yeah that is a really interesting point! How might AI shape the future of perfumery and will there still be place for human perfumers?
I can imagine the application of AI to create photorealistic accords with fantastic longevity...
On the flipside this will likely undermine or blunt the customers' experience searching for a perfect say, 'mango accord' in a fragrance
Yes, it will make it all a bit less creative and fun I think. But I guess personal preferences will come to the rescue, there isn't a one size fits all fragrance. I hope perfumery continues to be the art form that it already is for at least some smaller producers. ☺️ Thanks for watching 🥰
This video has proved to me that you are very knowledgeable about the matter at hand, and that I should SUBSCRIBE to your channel. Thank you.
Thank you! ❤️ I'm a scientist so I like reading about subjects like this and making thorough videos, but these do take a very long time 🤣
This is a great topic Claire! Very informative. I do purchase clones for lots of different reasons but mainly because of budget. It's becoming an expensive hobby that I love but have to be responsible. I want to smell and own everything I love 😂. I have 65 bottles at the moment and don't want to go over 70. I Own more originals than clones though, and I do think perfumery is an art form for sure! It's a good feeling knowing you have an original from the perfumer. I find that clones are usually never quite as good but do get close. Having the original makes me appreciate the art form much more.
Alien Essence Absolute is where it all started for me, I have one 30ml bottle that I rarely use because I love it so much. It will always be my no.1 but I won't go through all the hassel to get another bottle. I also don't think I will buy a clone as it has such sentimental value for me.
Thanks again for sharing! I rarely comment on videos but this one really resonated with me ❤
Hi Chanelle! Yes I can't tell you how long it took me to find a partial of Alien essence absolue at a reasonable cost 🤣 it's a stunning fragrance! ❤️
I agree, for the most part of the clones that I've tried, they get extremely close but most just lack something when compared side by side. I recently tried a clone of portrait of a lady and smelling that compared with the original, I realised that the rose just didn't have the depth of the original, it was great, very close but not identical. I really wouldn't hesitate to buy a clone though of an expensive fragrance that I would never otherwise be able to afford but had tried and loved.
Thanks for watching and for commenting 😊 it's very special to hear from you if it's rare 🥰 have a fab week!
Years ago,in an article about copycat perfumes( the term used then,for dupes),it was commented that some dupes were better than the orupigibal perfume.
It named a dupe for Cinnabar,that it said was more complex an interesting,but i cant remember what it was!
That's a shame! I think Cinnabar just got relaunched actually... I think there is a reimagined version directed by Frederic Malle that was released a few months ago 🤔. Clones can be better for sure!
WOW! This was so informative! Especially the part about how the clones can be made!
Thank you ❤️
Awesome post Claire! You asked if we thought Perfumery is an art form or not.. I believe it is art, but possibly a form of "commercial art". I mean brands hire perfumers to create something to mass produce and then sell in the hopes of making huge profits, right? Therefore, I dont see it as the same thing as an oil painting or something thats meant to be "one of a kind/original", plus, designer/Niche brands take inspiratin from existiing parfumes anyways, Clone houses are just honest enough to admit it!😅
Yes, for me, the question of is it art is mostly applying to the indie perfumers who make and sell their own fragrances, I'd be heartbroken if any brand copies those. But I totally agree, for mainstream brands, there's a vision and the perfumer is employed to make something at the correct price point, with relative compromise sometimes to what they wanted to portray. Designer and niche certainly do also borrow from each other... Sometimes the similarities are stunningly striking aren't they?! 🤣 Clone houses are very straight up a lot of the time these days and as I say, really some people will never buy a clone and others love them. It's just personal choice of what individuals value, and I think both views are entirely valid. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume Yw, you rock for putting together such excellent content!😊. I learned SO MUCH on this one, and it made me ponder things id never even thought of! TY
Thank you 🥰
Thanks for the insights. I have tried Dossier, Dua and LaRive dupes and find them to be poor performers. The middle eastern houses are mostly beast mode performers and many are better than the og fragrance. About 50% of my collection are designers like JPG, Jimmy Choo, and Mugler but I do not reach for them as much as I reach for Lattafa and Swiss Arabian.
Which Lattafa and Swiss Arabian fragrances do you think are great? I've had a turbulent time with Lattafa 🤣 I've still got Ameer Al Oudh Intense Oud but Sheikh al shuyukh and opulent musk have gone... I hung onto them for 15 months in case they got better. I tried the initio clones and Ana Abiyedh Rouge which wasn't at all bad, but br540 isn't a love for me anyway. Swiss Arabian I've tried Shaghaf Oud and Oud Aswad. I'd like to try a few more 😊
@@dr.claire.perfume I have Ameer al oud and Ameer al oud intense from Lattafa as well as Ajwad and Fakhar. Bur I'm also digging Infini Rose by Maison Alhambra and Choco Musk by Al Rehab. Aside from these listed here the only designer fragrances I'm enjoying are Jimmy Choo Illicit and Versace Eros pour femme edp. I don't keep up with which of the middle eastern brands are clones of which overpriced niche or designer. I just like what I like. I look forward to your next vid
@@dr.claire.perfume I love the same 2 swiss arabians you mentioned...addicted to them.
Thanks for letting me know which you like, I want to try some more and I'm trying to work out what to go for ☺️
I had decided early on that I wasn't interested in clones and yet I very recently acquired some fragrances that are undeniably inspired by others, 2 designer and 1 niche (my first). Oopsie! One was an impulse work-safe blindbuy safe sale purchase, but the other two were sampled beforehand and sought out specifically because I liked them.
I must confess I was THIS close to pulling the trigger on a bottle of Creed Aventus as a (planned for and financially responsible) splurge from a bonus I was about to receive, but this sample of Mancera Cedrat Boise Intense arrived the day prior and I ended up going with that instead because I like it more and didn't even know it had Aventus DNA when I ordered the sample. I'm sorry, but it's just more interesting, complex, potent, and long-lasting in comparison. I'll still eventually splurge on a bottle of aventus, but admittedly in much less of a rush now after enjoying CBI so much.
I think Creed Aventus is much loved, but ultimately most people admit that it's changed so much over the years, there's huge interbatch variation that seems to really annoy people and also it's crazily pricey for something that people tend to suggest doesn't last long (I don't know...). So I totally understand you buying something perhaps in part inspired by the Creed. Mancera fragrances are generally quite strong and long lasting in my experience, but I've not tried Cedrat Boise Intense, I really hope that you enjoy it. Which two designer fragrances did you get that you feel are inspired by others?
@@dr.claire.perfume I do love the Credit Boise Intense, worth every penny! Definitely plan to sample more Mancera. As far as the the other two, they are very.... Basic. Mont Blanc Legend EDP (A&F fierce without the "unwashed behind" note) and Legend Spirit (some kind of Invictus. This was the $20 impulse buy!)
That A&F was very popular wasn't it? 😂
Yes Mancera are interesting, quirky. Very definitely distinctive in style.
Excellent video, Claire! As a lawyer, I found it especially interesting. I've always wondered about some of these things. I personally don't wear dupes, but I suppose they do serve a purpose.
Hi Jim! Thank you! Oh I really hope my jargon was right 🙊 you should have been my guest star to explain these things! I have the dossier fragrance and some oils, I actually think the oils are much better on the whole. But they are Givaudan oils so likely the same or very similar ingredients to those used in the original fragrances, which is maybe why they smell so spot on! I have a Collab with Jon and Lizzie on Wednesday, so apologies for 3 variations on the same video for then. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a good week!
@@dr.claire.perfume You did a great job! Intellectual property issues are not my area so I would have made a poor guest. 😄 I look forward to the group videos this week.
Thank you 👍
I’m sure the ethics of original fragrances could be questioned as well
Absolutely! Lots of "inspiration" going on and ethical concerns over ingredients, sourcing, supply chains and marketing. Thanks for watching 🥰
Hey Claire. I don’t really like the idea of clone perfumes. For me, perfumary is a form of art, a intangible art. So, I prefere to buy originals, always. And if is too expensive, I will wait to buy.
Fair enough. 😊 I've never bought a clone, unless you count designer/celebrity fragrances copying other designers. It's an interesting debate 🙂
Claire this was most excellent - thank you! You are one of the highlights of my Saturday mornings! Quite a complicated issue and most frag-heads seem to have strong opinions. I do think of perfume as art, but I also think some of the pricing for niche and designer bottles is insane. I have one clone bottle (Lost Cherry) and I don’t reach for it. Would rather have the original….even if it’s a partial, travel size or decant.
Hi Jill! Thank you! I appreciate you saying that, it really makes me happy to know that you enjoy my videos 🥰 I think actually if you are into fragrance, a travel size is definitely enough. I guess it's knowing whether you love it sometimes or the insane price per ml that stops us buying small amounts and maybe pushes us towards clones. But yes I've got the dossier clone and actually also a perfume oil clone and I think the clone oil is absolutely spot on for lost cherry, but I'd still love a little travel size of lost cherry if I saw a good price. It would have to be a great price though 🤣 thanks for watching 🥰
One more thing to add. I tried "what about pop" from generic perfumes and then purchases the original for exactly the reason you cited, to see if it differed and since I loved it I knew that it was worth the price and I wanted that beautiful bottle the original came in.
Yes! Exactly! Clones let people try out the scent profile and decide whether they will love and wear the original enough to warrant buying it. 😊
I have tried Dossier fragrance’s some are a hit or miss. Some of the dupes didn’t last long. Thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching 🥰 have a fab weekend! ☺️
Clare ! You nailed it !!
From the start to the end of this video ,you absolutely NAILED it
I actually have no desire to buy Tom Ford Lost Cherry 🤷♀️but then I haven’t analyzed it thoroughly? And perhaps if I did I would crave the original 🍒
Love and hugs ❤
Hey Frances! I agree with you actually, the price difference is crazy between the clone and the real thing and I'm just not sure it's ever going to be worth it from my point of view. I actually tried an oil clone recently and that is even closer to the original 😱 but yes the dupes are certainly enough for me 😊 I've been wearing that Dossier a lot, thank you! 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume I’m so thrilled you like it and thanks for the shout out 💖
I do, I'm taking it on holiday with me 😊and no worries! 🥰
I have been collecting since I was in College and yes, I think perfumery is an art form yet not all perfumes are art, in that for me it is brand specific. I bought a few clones years back so that I could own some discontinued perfumes and try some perfumes at a good price. Alexandria is to my nose, the best, DUA is a close second and currently I do own about 12 clones and like them all. All of them are either discontinued or so far out of what I consider a reasonable price to pay (Roja Dove for one) considering the size of my collection. I did get a few clones of perfumes I loved so much I got the original but was glad to try before I spend the money. I think at this point, since it's not illegal, and the prices of perfumes are so high, it's fair game and no one will be able to stop it. The big brands are not losing money as the buyer for a particular clone is not necessarily able to buy their perfume anyway. As to AI, that is creepy. I still want a human nose to create the perfumes I wear and since I am heavily into vintage and chypres, no way AI can fool my nose ;o).
Thank you!
I think that sounds like a very measured approach to clones. I do think most people either want to try out a scent profile or are simply not ever going to pay the inflated price of the original. I totally understand that! And trying discontinued fragrances or rediscovering one you know you love and can't get is also a fab reason to enjoy clones.
Sadly I think AI is already here... That latest Moschino fragrance, Toy2 Pearl was announced as having been created with AI, along with some input from a perfumer, I think AI is probably being used in big designer perfumery much more than we realise already. I can envisage sales data and ingredients being correlated and the highest profit yielding ingredient combinations relative to promotion and advertising cost also being fed into AI to create the ultimate popular, high profit, on trend fragrance. It's sad because what we really need is imagination and talent. Thanks for watching 🥰
Thank you for this. I wish for this to get out to more people.
Thank you 🥰 really happy that you enjoyed it ☺️
Keep doing what you're doing Claire ❤
Thank you! ❤️ Thanks for watching Kathy, have a fab week 🥰
Fascinating présentation ! I started as a young woman with a Caron Fragrance named Infini :) and after that, probably a Dune by Dior, Chanel No. 5, Tiffany's and maybe a Jimmy Choo years later. About 9 years ago, via You Tube, I heard a reviewer describe Roses Greedy by Mancera. That was my first perfume purchase above 100 dollars. From there, I began with a path which has led me to the madness of multiple little samples, decants, and bottles: some original and many dupes (mostly Dua!). I see the dupes as a try before you buy, but most of the Dua have brought me joy, thus I never try to purchase the original after. I feel a little bad because I do consider perfume an art: it can be moving and cause an impression, even a change in the mind and soul, neurons :) feelings... I cannot spend all my money on the original parfums and this hobby brings such peace and happiness that inspired houses are a necessity sometimes :) Too long of a comment, desolée.
Thank you ❤️ I totally understand! One you get into fragrance you can definitely fall down the rabbit hole of spending a lot of money very quickly. Clone fragrances are much cheaper and allow you to try more fragrances. Some clones are really very true to the original too. I think it's very much personal choice ☺️ I have really been enjoying some clone perfume oils recently, they are a good starting point for experiencing new fragrances. Thanks for watching ❤️ have a great week! 🥰
Such an informative and interesting video, thank you Clare! I've always been curious how they manage to make a dupe so similar to the original and how come it is legal? For me perfumery is art and I wouln't buy a dupe for myself but I understand why people do it - their beloved scents are discontinued or they're too pricy or they just want to see if they'll like a given scent's profile before they'll buy a full bottle of the original fragrance.
Thank you ❤️ Yes there are definitely reasons why people might choose a clone! I've decided that I won't seek them unless I really can't afford something that I truly love or can't get,, but I will try them when I get samples. I'm open to the idea of them. 🥰
great video! i used to hate 'impostor' perfumes as i liked to call them but since loreal have absolutely ruined my all time ride or die angel i've been on the hunt for a good clone! so many terrible ones but amour scents have a very decent interpretation that performs almost as well as the original angel for a fraction of the price. no shame here ;) x
Wow, great tip! I've been hunting down vintage bottles of Angel, I've finished one and got another two left, but that is a fab suggestion if you think their clone is close 🙂 thank you 🥰 and yes I completely agree, L'Oréal have just killed the spirit of Mugler and made it into a cheaper smelling Lancôme whilst raising prices. 😭
@@dr.claire.perfume i’ve got many back up vintage bottles too and I’m always on the hunt for more but the day they run out fills me with such anxiety it’s been my favorite for 15 years! amour scents ‘saint’ is definitely the closest dupe i’ve found yet and they do big samples for a couple of quid. i recommend 😊💘 x
Wow! Fantastic overview of a complex topic, Claire. Perfume prices have just gone up so much for me (beyond just inflationary reasons). Demand has gone up, so prices have as well. I have a few dupes from Oakcha, but what I’ve also found is that I will never ever go through the amount of perfume that I have, so I have turned to buying decants or samples of the real thing vs. a dupe. Is it cost effective on a ml-by-ml basis? Most assuredly not! However, it lets me try the real deal and then decide if I want to spend my money on a bottle or get a dupe. That said, I will never buy a dupe of a perfume created by a small, independent house.
I think this is exactly where I'm at! I don't need 100ml of anything any more. Even 50 is pushing it. A small amount of the real deal helps you to make better and more cost effective decisions, even if the purchase seems ridiculous per ml. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfumeI loved the video you did on how many sprays in each bottle & how many years my 120 perfume bottles would last me. I must admit it brings me joy to get up & think what perfume will I put on today. Working from home some days I've sprayed 3 different fragrances that blend together haha
Very fascinating topic! You made so many great points and I can see all the different sides, there are so many determining factors. Interesting thought about AI perfumers! 😮 Yes I do see perfume as art in some ways!
Thank you! Yes this is a complex topic with lots of thoughts and opinions, all of which are valid. 😊