Is Fragrance World Aftermath a dupe of Initio Parfums Privés Side Effect?

Side Effect EDP

Initio Parfums Privés   Original Acquired

Aftermath EDP

Fragrance World   Inspired Statement
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Side Effect Eau de Parfum bottle Side Effect EDP
EDP Concentration EDP
U Gender U
2016 Year 2023
££ Price Tier £
Aftermath Eau de Parfum bottle Aftermath EDP
Our Verdict

Side Effect and Aftermath both aim for a boozy, tobacco-vanilla profile, but diverge in quality and performance. Side Effect boasts a richer, more nuanced blend with superior longevity and projection, justifying its higher price. Aftermath, as a clone, offers an affordable alternative, but may come across as synthetic and lacks the depth of the original. The key difference lies in the overall refinement and lasting power, making Side Effect a worthwhile investment for those seeking a truly luxurious experience.

$330.03+ tax from
3.0 fl oz (90 ml) at eCosmetics
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Where they differ

Biggest gaps first. The bolder side leads.

ScentArt

View Liquid → Side Effect EDP
View Liquid → Aftermath EDP

Which Should You Buy?

Choose Side Effect if...
  • You want a long-lasting, high-impact fragrance.
  • You appreciate nuanced, high-quality ingredients.
  • You want a fragrance that projects confidence.
  • You prefer a more refined and luxurious scent.
Choose Aftermath if...
  • You're on a budget and want a similar scent profile.
  • You want a fragrance for casual wear.
  • You prefer something less intense and overpowering.
  • You are curious about Side Effect but want to test the waters.
Our Verdict - Side Effect EDP
A boozy, spiced, tobacco-vanilla powerhouse-Side Effect is unapologetically seductive and luxurious. Not for the faint of heart, it leaves a lingering, unforgettable trail that commands attention and embraces the night.
Acquired
Our Verdict - Aftermath EDP
This one's a divisive clone, swinging from 'spot-on bargain' to 'synthetic let-down'. If you're after a boozy, spicy tobacco, it could be a winner, but don't expect it to blow your socks off with performance.
Statement

Scent Profile

How they compare
Side Effect EDP A Aftermath EDP B
Where they part company by gap size

How They Wear

Showing: Overall Blend

Mood

Mood Energising
Calming
Character Playful
Serious
Sentiment Uplifting
Brooding
Side Effect EDP
Aftermath EDP

Notes

Shared Notes
Cinnamon 61% vs 100%
Tobacco 41% vs 50%
Vanilla 39% vs 50%
Only in Aftermath
Rum 100%

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

Side Effect Aftermath
Beast (10+h)
Longevity
Moderate (4-6h)
Strong
Projection
Moderate
Strong
Intensity
Moderate

Season and Occasion Fit

Side Effect

Seasons

Best For:
Autumn Winter
Also Works:
Spring

The dense blend of rum, tobacco, vanilla, and warm spices makes Side Effect ideal for cold weather and crisp fall evenings, where its richness and projection can truly shine. It may feel too heavy or cloying in heat, but works for spring's chillier days.

Occasions

Best For:
Date Formal

With its intoxicating sillage and warmth, Side Effect excels at evening, date, and formal wear, creating a seductive aura. Its boldness and sweetness are often too much for office or sporty situations.

Aftermath

Seasons

Best For:
Spring Autumn Winter

A cold-weather scent - best worn in winter and autumn.

Occasions

Best For:
Date
Also Works:
Casual Formal

Given its strong, boozy, and warm spicy profile, Aftermath leans heavily towards evening and cooler weather occasions. Its reported weak longevity and projection by many reviewers mean it's best for intimate settings like dates or casual evenings rather than dominating a formal event or office.

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.

Overall scent match
36%
Key Similarities

Shares 3 of its 4 notes, including Cinnamon, Tobacco, Vanilla

Key Differences

Adds rum, drops hedione and musk

Where to buy

Side Effect EDP
Aftermath EDP

Pick a size. The two cheapest offers, then the rest.

Aftermath EDP

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