Is Avon Imari a dupe of Chanel N°5?
While both Imari and Chanel No. 5 share a similar profile with their aldehydic, powdery, and woody accords, the key difference lies in the overall execution. Imari leans into a spicier, ambery warmth, while No. 5 maintains a brighter, more floral character. Imari is bolder and projects more, making it ideal if you want a statement fragrance. Chanel No. 5 is more refined and subtle, ideal for someone who prefers a classic, less overtly powerful scent. Both are classics, but their subtle differences cater to different tastes.
Where they differ
Biggest gaps first. The bolder side leads.
ScentArt
Which Should You Buy?
- You want a fragrance with a bit more spice and warmth.
- You want a fragrance that makes a statement.
- You enjoy fragrances with an ambery base.
- You like vintage scents with a bold character.
- You prefer a cleaner, more floral-forward scent.
- You appreciate classic, refined elegance.
- You want a fragrance that is subtle.
- You like iconic fragrances with a heritage.
A legend for a reason - N°5 Eau de Parfum is the definition of powdery, aldehydic luxury. Not for the faint of heart, this is a statement in sophistication, best worn by those who want to be remembered.
Imari is pure 80s nostalgia in a bottle, and opinions are firmly split. Some adore its classic, sophisticated warmth, others find it too 'grandma' or challenging with its aldehydic punch. This one's definitely a love-it-or-hate-it affair.
Scent Profile
How They Wear
Mood
Notes
Top Notes
Heart Notes
Heart Notes
Note weights are our estimate from each note's place in the pyramid, not the share of the formula. Brands do not publish formulations.
Performance
Season and Occasion Fit
Seasons
No. 5's opulent floral aldehydic character and rich powdery-woody base shine in cooler weather, making it ideal for fall and winter. It can work in spring with a light touch, but its density and sillage may feel overwhelming in summer heat.
Occasions
A timeless, elegant scent suited for formal occasions or evenings, but also iconic for romantic dates. Its presence and sophistication may be too commanding for sport or very casual daily wear, and can be polarising in close office settings.
Seasons
A cold-weather scent - best worn in winter and autumn.
Occasions
Its potent woody-aldehydic profile and rich accords make it less suitable for the office and casual wear. Reviewers often mention it as a 'datenight/evening fragrance' or for 'cold-weather wear', indicating its richer, more mature character is perfect for formal events and romantic evenings when applied sparingly.
Similarity Breakdown
Our estimate of how alike these two fragrances smell, calculated from their published notes. It is a position on our scale, not a measured percentage of shared smell.
Shares 9 of its 17 notes, including Bergamot, Musk, Amber
Adds civet and jasmine, drops cedar and galbanum
Where to buy
Pick a size. The two cheapest offers, then the rest.
N°5 EDP
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Imari EDP
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International (1)
Import charges may apply
These shops are outside the United Kingdom. How import charges work