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 RU-vidrs 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. ;)
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.
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! 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 🥰
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 🥰
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 🥰
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 🥰
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. 😉
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 🥰
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! ☺️
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 🥰
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! 🥰
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 :)
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.
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.
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. 🥰
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 RU-vidrs 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. 🥰
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 🥰
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!
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!
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.
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 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.
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 🥰
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 🥰
My question is how do we know if the designer expensive fragrances are really worth the hundreds of dollars they’re charging? I understand that quality ingredients aren’t cheap and also to make fragrances ethically isn’t cheap and goes it or he cost of the overall product.
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 🥰
To respond to your questions at the end of the video: 1. Do you think perfume is art? - Yes, I would think of it as art, I think it takes something special, and a unique set of skills, to create a truly unique, amazing scent. I don't know how much freedom perfumers have to do what they want, but I wish they would get more freedom to use their own ideas, to create more new scents instead of "new flanker of X perfume that's already been released for years". 2. Do you think that a smell, in any shape or form, could be one day something that could be copyrighted or trademarked? - No, I don't think that's going to happen for the reasons you mentioned in this video with patents, but also because I think copyrighting something like this might potentially stifle creativity and make others hesitant to even use a certain scent as inspiration for their own creation for fear of being taken to court over it. Even if it would be a new creation, simply inspired by another perfume. 3. Do you think it's morally wrong to copy other people's fragrances? - Copying it as in putting it through a gas chromatograph and mass spectrometer, I would say that's wrong. I'm saying that it is wrong purely theoretically though, and not practically. In reality you could discuss price, capitalism, the people that buy the copy wouldn't have the money to buy the original, and many other factors. But for me, if I just think about this in a "void" with no context at all, I would say it's wrong. Because it takes no skill to do that, you're just plagiarising off someone else's work. Now, if someone would use a fragrance as an inspiration to make their own similar fragrance from zero, using only their nose to do that, I have no issues.
Those are some interesting and very logical arguments. I really appreciate your answer to point 3 especially, that if the fragrance shows a perfumer's skills there's no issue. It's an striking distinction to make. Thanks for watching 🥰
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 🥰
”More like a carpenter than an artist?” Argument: Music is art. It can’t be seen or touched but there are rules against plagiarism. Despite there only being a finite number of notes and other elements of composing. Counter argument: But music CAN be seen if you write it down. Counter, counter argument: That is true about chemical compounds too and thus to fragrance ingredients. Ofcourse there are philosophical questions ( ethics ) like: Can you by law hinder a person from blending something they have the recipe for and selling it under another name? If i had the recipe for Coca Cola and sold a copy under the name ”Yummy Fizz” in a totally different bottle for example? If ”yes”, that means that flavours can be patented, so why not fragrances? If one argues that you cant ”own” materials or certain blends of them, then why wouldn’t that be true for a novel? Or even a slogan? No one owns the individual words, but putting them together in a recognizable way can be infringement. And that doesen’t even have to be art. Then there is the question with naturals and wether they even can be copied. If i copied the destillery of Lagavullin and their whole process, but did it in Sweden, and perhaps with Swedish ingredients, would it really taste like Lagavullin? My guess is no. What a mess! The way i see it i prefer to reward the original creators by buying their product even if there is a really good copy out there. Having said that, the prices some of them are asking…. Just some late evening ponderings. I find myself having a new respect for lawyers.
🤣 yeah! I think the complexities are well summed up there! I found this so difficult to explain 😂 I spent several weeks compiling information for this video and the laws were the most complex part and I'm still not sure I communicated everything properly 🤷♀️ it is such a minefield! I think I have come to the conclusion that I don't want to have a collection of clones, because I want to acknowledge creativity, but I have nothing against clones and I am happy to try them, I don't think I've ever smelt something identical, so there's always the possibility that I can appreciate the clone fragrances for themselves. Thanks for watching and your thoughts provoking and hilarious comment 🤣
Nothing new under the sun. Everytbing is inspired by something else. Makeup, skincare, prescriptions, food, music, architecture, etc. they all do this. Clothing may be the most prominent market that clearly mimics the design of a high end designer bag and makes one without the label and cheaper materials. I would say most of our clothing is mimicking a designer. We unknowingly are likely wearing/consuming copies or inspired by something else on a daily basis. While I’m against fake/counterfeit products that are stealing the branding, images, etc (fake Chanel bags) I’m not against more affordable alternatives. Not all of us can afford $500 niche fragrances. A $5 body spray may smell like the niche but certainly won’t come close to performance such as projection, sillage, longevity and quality ingredients. I actually plan to purchase the real niche fragrance after trying several more affordable alternatives. I think it’s a similar argument when streaming and downloading music came to the market and started hurting album sales. The free downloads and streaming actually helped market the artists more. They just had to change how tolhey made money (merchandise vs album sales)
Yes you're right, every market has products that emulate or are inspired by more expensive and better known branded products. Fragrance is no different and I agree that clones and inspired by fragrances serve to promote the original. Have a fab week! 🥰
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 !!!!
... let's ask a few derivative questions. How much regulation do you want? Do you want to live in a society where everyone sues everyone over everything and where every creative first needs a good lawyer before they publish anything? I'm for people making money for their work and their innovation but there ought to be a limit as to what can be trademarked and copyrighted. ... given how often things are reformulated is it even possible trademark a perfume? How about luxury brands making dupes of budget perfumes? I heard of a certain Parfums de Marly being described as a grown up Abercrombie and Fitch Fierce and a Tom Ford being compared to vintage Halston Z-13. ... what does this say about the prices and quality of the actual fragrances? If there's a market for clones there has to be something wrong with the original. Most people prefer to have the real product over an imitation. I know I do. Copying discontinued fragrances is another story because that scent is off the market.
I agree, it's hard to decide what should or shouldn't be protected and I think in most cases, if the original is wow, people will still choose it over clones, up to a certain price. In general people will buy clones to try out a scent profile and then choose the original if it's worth it. But there are also a hardcore of people who will only ever buy the clone and wouldn't ever have considered the original if the clone didn't exist, so it does diversify the market and introduces people to new kinds of fragrances. I agree, everyone copies everyone else in fragrance at every level, it's almost impossible to be entirely original with anything anyway given the 6000+ fragrance launches every year. And as you say, it's how worth it people think something is that will determine whether people buy it. Thanks for watching ❤️
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 🥰
For me I after buying a few clones (even some very good clones) you still get the urge to just buy the original. This makes me feel like I would have saved time from looking for an exact dupe and just have the fulfilment of just having the original fragrance. The other question is does/will a clone perfume evoke your scent memory as much as the original? Would you also be able to narrow down where that sentence from with a dupe?
I think this is it for some people. Clones scratch an itch and allow you to try a scent profile but ultimately aren't quite the same and it can mean people eventually buy the original. Thanks for watching 🥰
That's a fab example of a very short-lived fragrance. Lovely but gone 😂 I can see why the dupe would be a good shout. I have a clone of that fragrance too 😊
@@dr.claire.perfume What dupe do you have? I have Malibu Party in the Bay, but the ambroxan smell is way too strong I dislike it a bit. Do you have a better dupe?
@@faysalals1 I have îles vierges by Pocket Scents. It's fab but sadly discontinued. My friend gave it to me. I talk about in this video about all my new fragrances so far in 2024 ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lsPr-kAZ_no.html
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. 🥰
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
I refuse to bring these ugly bottles into collection 😂. Buying cheap dupes and clones can get out of control very quickly. Before you know it you have thirty or forty of these ugly bottles in your collection.
I guess it depends why you buy them. I agree that the bottles aren't the prettiest, but I think if you care about packaging, for sure clones are probably not going to be for you. I do get joy from seeing gorgeous bottles in my collection, but I also value clones in that they can be £100s cheaper and smell near identical to the original, and I guess it's the fragrance people love at much lower cost that means some people choose clones. Thanks for watching 🥰
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!)
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! 🥰
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.
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.
It's personal choice for sure. I think some perfumers have voiced their opinion on this quite strongly and with good reason. I do think counterintuitively, it could make fragrances better known and lead to wider fame for a perfumer though, with Francis Kurkdjian being a fab example. 🥰
I readily wear & enjoy dupes. It doesn’t have to do with the fact that I seek them out. I wore designer fragrances for most of my life. I’ve always had a perfume collection and a perfume wardrobe. In the last 10 years, I read the science on what is done for animal testing and will no longer tolerate putting my money into companies and products that test on animals. I don’t want to reward the companies that do it. Leaves much smaller selection of perfumes available to me. I haven’t smelled a lot of the most popular and viral perfumes in the last 10 years. I find fragrances that I like, that smell good on me and make me feel good and I get compliments on. I believe that clean beauty is mostly a marketing term. I believe Cruelty Free needs to be the rule, not the exception. I don’t have a problem with the ethics of purchasing a dupe because I don’t think they are the same, especially for the high-end fragrance houses that are also depleting our natural resources in order to make art.
I do think that a lot of dupe/clone houses are cruelty free as they often have restricted distribution. The EU Reach programme has made me question what is cruelty free and what isn't actually. I've been trying to research for a video and I'm finding the whole topic very confusing! I think if you want cruelty free and vegan, smaller brands are generally the way to go ☺️ thanks for watching 🥰
I think that was a very noble thing to do. Most scientists I would say seek academic acknowledgement, not payment, for their inventions, at least in a University setting. I don't know about industry, I only worked as an academic in my career as that mirrors my ethos and beliefs.
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 always think that slightly with Mancera and Montale, who I think are owned by the same person, and actually a little with tiziana terenzi and montale but I didn't try many TT fragrances so perhaps I'm not the best judge. Also I don't think those two brands are related... Those are the ones that spring to mind anyway. It's also true that the ingredients companies such as Givaudan, sell their oils to clone houses, so some of the same ingredients might be used in other mainstream fragrances and in clone fragrances. Thanks for watching 🥰
I think that's how a lot of people feel. I guess it's to do with being sure enough that that is the fragrance you really want and feeling ok spending that much on it too. Sampling is going to be key to knowing that. ❤️ 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!
Yes it's personal choice and ultimately the two types of fragrance company feed off each others' success. It's almost more symbiotic than parasitic. Thanks for watching 🥰
Thank you ❤️ I had been thinking a lot about this topic. The split in the market between people who love clones and those who find them socially unacceptable really fascinates me 😊
Aah thank you! I wondered whether it was a language difference as I didn't really understand the term at all when I first heard it a few years back 🤣 thank you for watching also! 🥰
Fantastic research Claire, thank you 😊. I’ve just ordered from Verset (a pharmacy brand) they do great dupes which are very similar to the originals - they have good reviews on fragrantica too. I’ve just ordered - Dana (Gabrielle), Sensi (light blue) and Anthea (Gucci bloom). They are much easier to justify at £5, I think it’s scandalous the price increase of perfumes recently 😅. I stumbled across my first two from this brand in a pharmacy in Cornwall a few years ago - Claudia (D&G the one) and Jana (Olympia). They don’t have an extensive range but worth looking at I think 😊.
Thank you ❤️ yes! I've seen those in my local post office of all places 😂 at £5 they are worth trying for sure. I was sent some really nice clone oils recently but they are from a company in Dubai so I'm not sure how useful that is to most people unfortunately. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a fab week ❤️
@@dr.claire.perfume thank you, you too 💕. Oh I wish my post office had them! 😆. Hope the oils are a success, let us know 🙏 . Thanks again for all of the hard work you put into your videos - it’s much appreciated xx
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.
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 🥰
Thank you ❤️ that's an interesting question! I guess that it certainly could, but I am not sure how anyone would be able to determine that. What do you think?
Are Middle Eastern fragrances ingredients regulated? I’ve just been wondering this because they’ve been increasing in popularity in rapid speed…are they safe to use long term?
Well it's not where a fragrance is made, it's where it's sold and what the regulations are in that country. So in the UK, fragrance is a cosmetic product and has to adhere to particular safety standards. These will apply to affordable Middle Eastern fragrances too. My guess is ME companies will all adhere to IFRA standards because they wouldn't want to limit their markets. 🥰
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 😊
I think most of the people who buy clones cannot afford to original perfume, and the people who can afford it probably would want the real thing for status or aesthetics sake. This seems to make cloning more ligit because the people weren't going to buy their fragrances anyway, so they are not losing money. Sometimes clones are better performance-wise than the original and might be more like an earlier version of a perfume. OMG! I got a laugh when you said patents only last 20 years. That is a fair amount of time for a patent, but I live in the land of forever patents (US). Mickey Mouse has been patented for almost 100 years. Many things are patented for 100 years. It's ridiculous and stifles creativity. Oh crap. you just told me that the patents are renewable. I'm not a fan. I was a commercial artist and I would feel it fair to use my work after 20 years. I, and the company I did the work for, made fair money. Time to move on. I actually never tried a dupe, but I might if I loved a fragrance and it was beyond my budget. I love your videos.
Hi Jeanette! Wow, you were a commercial artist! So creative! ❤️ fab to hear it from your point of view! Actually I think the Beatles applied for their copyright to be extended on their music because they were still alive after 40 years. I get both sides of it. In science, patents are a massive headache for people who don't hold them. And it divides countries who have enough money to pay for things and those that do not... I agree with you that the market is massively split between the people that will spend that on an expensive fragrance and the ones who would just not bother if a clone didn't exist. The companies may even benefit from the existence of clones as a type of hype and advertising for their original fragrance. Thanks for watching as always and take care! ☺️
20:56 The difference with you published paper is it's copyrighted the second it is affixed to paper. It is legally protected. A scent has no such protection. The perfumer is not publishing a written paper. If they did it's protected.
I guess, but even if they do publish a formula, it's not protected 🤷♀️ and we absolutely know the reasons why, but the parallel is still there to some extent. Thanks for watching 🥰
Some I really want the original. Some others which cost 400 or more I can easily buy dupes of. It is just insane! Especially if the longevity is poor. Roja, Amouage and so on just make me mad. I do prefer less expensive nisch brands like Van cleef and arpels. I do like initio and Parfums de marley but try to buy on discount.
Yes, I think both originals and clones have their places and reasons why people would purchase them. I definitely have a ceiling price for fragrances. I don't have endless cash to spend on them. A good clone is enough sometimes. Thanks for watching 🥰
If perfume is an art then if I could afford an original Andy Warhol I would, failing that I would buy a poster of the artwork, that’s how I look at clones, Designer fragrances houses profits on perfume are scandalous, so if someone comes along with a copy I’ll buy the copy… I have clones that are identical to the real deal but perform way better… perhaps you could do a video about WHY big brand batches can vary so much in quality (silage and longevity) surely it’s a formula that they can replicate time and again. I’ve actually stopped buying some designer brands because of this… why should I pay £100+ and then get something that lasts an hour while someone else will buy the same scent a few months earlier or later and get super longevity. I’d rather risk £25 on a clone… and finally aren’t just about every modern scent now made with synthetic materials… so there’s no excuse for some of the designer prices. I think Fahrenheit was the first to be an all man made scent… if I was getting genuine Civet or Ambergris etc I could see the justification for some pricing… but I DON’T. Clones are a perfumer lovers dream product.
I guess the longevity issue could be more to do with just variation between individuals (in how and where you spray, skin physics and your perceptions and smell receptor genetics) rather than entirely a batch variation thing. If naturals are involved or there is any variation in the manufacturing process, then again the smell could be different. Yes you are right that most modern fragrances are mostly, if not entirely synthetic, but some do still use some naturals as can be seen by Estée Lauder and Lancôme getting busted for employing children to harvest their jasmine and by Chanel and Dior having their own flower fields (I made a video as no one else seemed to say anything 🤷♀️). Synthetics can still be expensive though, some manufacturing processes and base materials are more expensive than others, for example, ambroxan was originally very expensive before cheaper ways of making it were developed in the last few years, and that was probably wise because before that, it was made from clary sage, which comes from Russia a lot of the time, so there would have been supply issues. But of course now too, we have a lot of ambrox related compounds too rather than just ambroxan. You are likely never going to get civet these days, civettone has replaced it. Real ambergris is banned in quite a few countries now too because of the ban on whale products, despite it being something that can be collected without harm to whales. The one ingredient that gets me is "oud" I've smelt the real stuff and the synthetic accords, some are better than others, but nearly all are touted as oud. Fragrances would be insanely expensive if it was actual oud! I think for me, I don't mind clones at all, I own one, a Virgin Island Water clone. I don't think it's spot on, but I actually prefer it to the original. I really try to judge clones independently of the original fragrance because I think finding a company that does them consistently similar, can be hard, at least in the UK. Thanks for watching 🥰
I think there’s more to it than that… I bought two brand new releases from Rabanne and the performance was really bad. My friend had bought the same scents and a third new release (Aqua 2024) which was an EDT. All three of his performed well on both of us, while my two bottles were extremely weak on both our skins. They all came directly from Puig in Spain via the official Rabanne website. The Invictus Aqua is an EDT but performed better than Invictus Parfum and Phantom Intense. I just don’t get how given perfumes are formulas made on an industrial scale that there can be batch variations especially within weeks of purchases. It’s to me like Coca Cola… it tastes the same in every country in the world there is no batch variation. It just intrigues me. At the end of the day for me I have just stopped buying Rabanne scents and wait for clones. Glad I stumbled across your channel I’m usually a Gents Scents subscriber so it’s nice to get a different more technical point of view, and thanks for your response 👍
That is really very striking isn't it?! Wow! Such a difference! I agree, Coco Cola is something people would instantly know if it wasn't quite right. The quality control must be very tight. Aah thanks! I don't gender fragrance, I do try to do a variety of videos, some more technical that take a very long time 😂 I totally understand why few people bother 😂 and others less technical. I quite like doing something different really, but I guess that's not where the views are. This is only a hobby for me though, I don't use affiliate links or take brand payments etc so I don't mind that. 🥰
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. 🥰
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 🥰
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. 🥰
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 🥰
I think it’s definitely not fair that a perfume red art is not respected and I definitely think perfumery is an art. While I appreciate my inspired fragrances I do believe their work should be protected. Very interesting topic. I think the price point of some of these fragrances is the reason why people are happy to buy inspired by fragrances.
