Is Match Fragrances 33 a dupe of Le Labo Santal 33?
Santal 33 offers the original, iconic woody-leathery scent profile that prioritises creamy sandalwood and papyrus for a distinctive, recognisable aroma. It presents a more nuanced, complex dry-down due to its musk inclusion. In contrast, 33 by Match Fragrances provides a very close interpretation, capturing the core sandalwood-cardamom-violet idea at a budget-friendly price. While 33 gets most of the way there, it omits the musk, resulting in a slightly less smooth and expansive finish than Santal 33. The Match Fragrances rendition is an excellent option for those wanting the signature scent without the premium cost, favouring fidelity over the original's subtle depth.
Where they differ
Biggest gaps first. The bolder side leads.
ScentArt
How it unfolds
Notes
- Santal 33
- 33
- in both
Tap a note to light it in both. A+B means both have it
Which Should You Buy?
- Choose Santal 33 for the original, iconic woody-leather scent.
- Santal 33 provides a more nuanced and complex dry-down.
- Favour Santal 33 for its inclusion of musk, adding depth.
- Choose 33 by Match Fragrances for a budget-friendly alternative.
- 33 by Match Fragrances captures the core scent idea effectively.
- Opt for 33 if cost is a primary factor in your purchase decision.
A cult favorite for good reason - Santal 33 is the blueprint for modern woody minimalism, radiating quiet confidence with creamy sandalwood and papyrus. Refined, genderless, and instantly recognizable.
Smooth sandalwood for anyone who likes it dry: a woody scent in the manner of Le Labo Santal 33, with violet and cardamom, iris and papyrus, and cedar and leather in the base.
Scent Profile
How They Wear
Mood
Notes
Top Notes
Top Notes
Heart Notes
Heart Notes
Base Notes
Base Notes
Cardamom
100%
vs
46%
Leather
45%
vs
27%
Ambroxan
32%
vs
38%
Sandalwood
31%
vs
40%
Cedar
23%
vs
31%
Papyrus
20%
vs
26%
Violet
15%
vs
53%
Iris
9%
vs
35%
Musk
23%
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 Brands do not publish formulations.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
Santal 33's creamy sandalwood and leather warmth make it most compelling in the fall and spring, with enough airy violet and powdery nuance for mild winter use. It can feel dense on the hottest days, so summer use is best in the evening or in climate control.
Occasions
Its refined, non-loud projection makes it ideal for the office or casual outings where subtlety is valued. It can be intriguing on dates but is too understated for formal statement wear or active sport settings.
Seasons
Dry woods and leather lean to autumn, but the violet and cardamom open it up for spring too.
Occasions
Smart and understated, it works at the office, on dates and for casual wear. A fair choice for dinner.
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 8 of its 9 notes, including Leather, Cedar, Cardamom
Adds musk
Where to buy
Pick a size. The two cheapest offers, then the rest.
Prices before sales tax, which the shop adds at checkout.
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