Scent Showdown: Dior Sauvage VS Bleu de Chanel

Bleu de Chanel has been criticized for pandering to the mainstream at release, only to win over its detractors with its universally likable character and versatility.

Sauvage is said to be Dior's equivalent/answer to Bleu de Chanel, with the same mainstream appeal and fragrance character. Loved and hated in equal amounts for the same reasons as Bleu, time will tell if it can turn the mob around like how Bleu has done.

Are they really that alike? Do they stand on equal footing, or will one clearly outdo the other?

It's time for a scent showdown!

Review: Versace Man Eau Fraiche

This is a carambola fruit, also known as star fruit.

 It is also one of the dominant notes in this fragrance.

Five Commandments: Wearing Fragrances in the Tropical Heat

Living in a tropical country presents a unique set of challenges for the fragrance lover. The sweltering heat, stifling humidity, and the close proximity of possibly sweaty and already uncomfortable people are all factors when choosing the right scent, and accordingly, the right image to project. How can you maintain your individuality while avoiding smelling like the next guy's fruit and aquatic cocktail?

Here are the commandments I live by.

First Impression: Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gio Profumo

I don't get the beach/seawater association with this one. The development follows the same logic as Bleu de Chanel or Sauvage -- citrus top leading down to a woody patchouli/incense. This might call for a three-way comparison sometime in the future.

First Impression: Dior Sauvage

Dior's newest creation, as personified by Johnny Depp. A very safe and simple woody citrus for the heat, liked and hated for the same reasons.

Review: Dior Fahrenheit

Mention Dior Fahrenheit to anyone familiar with the scent and you already know their first impression -- gasoline, right?

Not for me.

Review: Prada Luna Rossa Extreme

When I was a child, one of the experiences I looked forward to was waiting for my grandmother to come home after her trips to the U.S.. She would bring back an entire box filled with toys, and taking that first look inside was equal to, if not greater than, my anticipation for Christmas day. Except that there was a whole buttload of goodies all packed tightly together and revealed in a flourish of the cardboard lid.

Along with that awe-inspiring sight would be the identifiable scent of anything coming from the States. That airy, piney sort of scent that emanates from freshly opened luggage and unpacked clothes. Even now, it's something that I associate with quality and class, of bright, cool, and slightly unfamiliar air, and uplifting memories of my childhood.

Enter Prada Luna Rossa Extreme.