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Illusion Captive Eau de Parfum bottle Illusion Captive EDP
EDP Concentration EDP
U Gender F
2017 Year 2002
££££ Price Tier ££
Absolu Eau de Parfum bottle Absolu EDP

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View Liquid → Illusion Captive EDP
View Liquid → Absolu EDP

Which Should You Buy?

Our Verdict - Illusion Captive EDP
This one's a proper head-scratcher. Some find it a captivating masterpiece, rich and complex, while others are put off by a challenging, thick opening. It's truly a love-it-or-hate-it affair, a bold statement scent for those who dare.
Acquired
Our Verdict - Absolu EDP
A divisive oriental, Absolu is either a gorgeous resinous dream that's perfect for cosy nights in, or an unbalanced mess that's too sweet, scratchy, and reminiscent of cheap men's cologne. There's no middle ground here, so sample first.
Favourite

Scent Profile

How They Wear

Showing: Overall Blend

Mood

Mood Energising
Calming
Character Playful
Serious
Sentiment Uplifting
Brooding
Illusion Captive EDP
Absolu EDP

Notes

Accords

Illusion Captive Absolu
100%
Amber
100%
99%
Woody
48%
79%
Warm Spicy
61%
67%
Sweet
52%
63%
White Floral
60%
62%
Balsamic
48%
62%
Patchouli
62%
Vanilla
52%
Citrus
58%
55%
Aromatic
Powdery
50%
Green
48%
Amber shared
100%
100%
Woody shared
99%
48%
Warm Spicy shared
79%
61%
Sweet shared
67%
52%
White Floral shared
63%
60%
Balsamic shared
62%
48%
62%
62%
Citrus shared
52%
58%
55%
50%
48%

Performance

Illusion Captive Absolu
Moderate (4-6h)
Longevity
Moderate (4-6h)
Strong
Projection
Moderate
Strong
Intensity
Moderate

Season and Occasion Fit

Illusion Captive

Seasons

Best For:
Spring Summer
Also Works:
Autumn Winter

Versatile across every season - no clear seasonal preference from wearers.

Occasions

Best For:
Date Formal
Also Works:
Casual

Its complex amber, woody, and spicy accords, alongside comments about its assertiveness and thick opening, suggest it's too much for a typical office setting. However, its 'elegant' and 'luxurious' vibe makes it suitable for date nights and formal events, though perhaps a bit much for casual wear.

Absolu

Seasons

Best For:
Autumn Winter

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

Occasions

Best For:
Date Casual Formal

While some find Absolu moderate, many find it strong and long-lasting, with its heavy amber and balsamic accords making it unsuitable for office wear. It truly shines in colder weather and is often described as great for dates, evenings out, and cozy at-home wear during autumn and winter.

Similarity Breakdown

How alike these two fragrances smell, scored from their full scent profiles.

Overall scent match
89%
Key Similarities

Both lean amber, woody, warm spicy

Key Differences

Subtle differences in overall composition

Where to buy

Illusion Captive EDP
Absolu EDP
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