Is Zara Energetically New York a dupe of Le Labo Santal 33?
Santal 33 by Le Labo and Energetically New York by Zara both channel woody, spicy minimalism, but Santal 33 stands out with superior depth, creamy sandalwood, and long-lasting presence thanks to its EDP formulation. It’s bolder, more distinctive, and instantly recognizable, making it a signature-maker. Zara’s Energetically New York, a clear homage, is lighter, breezier, and much more subtle, with cardamom taking the lead. It works well for those who want the vibe of Santal 33 without the same strength, sillage, or price tag. Choose Santal 33 for statement longevity and nuanced complexity; choose Zara for easy, understated everyday wear and budget-friendliness.
Where they differ
Biggest gaps first. The bolder side leads.
ScentArt
Which Should You Buy?
- You want stronger projection and longevity.
- You prefer creamy, complex sandalwood.
- You like having a signature, recognizable scent.
- You value nuanced depth in your fragrance.
- You don’t mind paying more for quality.
- You want a lighter, more subtle scent.
- You love cardamom-forward fragrances.
- You’re shopping on a budget.
- You prefer easy, everyday versatility.
- You dislike overpowering perfumes.
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.
A chic, cardamom-driven woody with a soft spicy warmth and a breezy sense of urban energy. Not a powerhouse, but stylishly versatile and quietly magnetic for everyday wear.
Scent Profile
How They Wear
Mood
Notes
Top Notes
Top Notes
Heart Notes
Heart Notes
Base Notes
Base 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 Brands do not publish formulations.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
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
The cardamom and sandalwood give warmth and coziness that excels in fall and spring, while the clean, fresh undercurrent makes it wearable in summer. Winter wear is possible but less ideal due to moderate projection and absence of true heaviness.
Occasions
Its moderate projection and subtle aromatic quality make it excellent for office and casual settings. The gentle woods and spice offer versatility for dates but may lack the gravitas for truly formal events or the freshness for sport.
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 3 of its 4 notes, including Sandalwood, Cedar, Cardamom
Adds jasmine, drops ambroxan and iris
Where to buy
Pick a size. The two cheapest offers, then the rest.
Santal 33 EDP
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Import charges may apply
These shops are outside the United Kingdom. How import charges work
Energetically New York EDT
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International (4)
Import charges may apply
These shops are outside the United Kingdom. How import charges work