Black XS (2018) and Zara Man Gold both aim for a sweet, spicy, woody profile, but differ in execution and performance. Black XS offers a more complex blend with dark fruits and cacao, aiming for a unique, though sometimes fleeting, experience. Zara Man Gold, on the other hand, is a simpler and sweeter gourmand fragrance that is easy to like and easy on the wallet. The key difference lies in the depth and longevity - Black XS *attempts* greater complexity, while Zara goes for simple, fleeting sweetness. Ultimately, the choice depends on your budget and preference for depth versus immediate gratification.
ScentArt
Which Should You Buy?
- You want a more complex and unique scent profile.
- You appreciate the dark fruit and cacao notes.
- You prefer a slightly more mature and nuanced sweetness.
- You don't mind potential longevity issues.
- You can afford a mid-tier fragrance.
- You want a budget-friendly alternative.
- You prefer a straightforward, sweet gourmand.
- You don't mind reapplying your fragrance.
- You want something mass-appealing and easy to wear.
- You prefer sweeter and less complex fragrance.
This perfume is a divisive one. While some find it to be a unique, sexy, and addictive blend of dark fruits and cacao, others are let down by its perceived weakness and lack of longevity compared to its predecessor. It's a love-it-or-hate-it affair, often depending on skin chemistry and expectations.
A solid, cost-effective alternative to Paco Rabanne Black XS, Zara Man Gold delivers a delicious gourmand experience. Just mind the performance; it's a bit of a fleeting pleasure that you'll want to reapply.
Scent Profile
| Citrus | 2% | 30% |
| Floral | 18% | 0% |
| Fruity | 17% | 2% |
| Green | 2% | 3% |
| Sweet | 35% | 24% |
| Warm | 15% | 28% |
| Woody | 15% | 8% |
| Earthy | 5% | 16% |
| Animalic | 0% | 0% |
| Fresh | 10% | 23% |
Mood
Notes
Top Notes
Top Notes
Heart Notes
Heart Notes
Base Notes
Base Notes
Accords
Performance
Season and Occasion Fit
Seasons
A cold-weather scent - best worn in winter and autumn.
Occasions
Its intimate sillage and seductive, dark profile mean it's ideal for dates and evening events where you want to make a statement without overpowering. However, its perceived weakness by some users makes it less suitable for formal settings requiring strong projection, and it's certainly not a sport fragrance.
Seasons
Versatile across every season - no clear seasonal preference from wearers.
Occasions
Its sweet and warm spicy profile makes it more suitable for casual outings and dates, particularly in cooler weather. Due to its limited projection and longevity as noted by many, it's not ideal for formal events or the gym, and can be worn in the office if applied lightly.
Where to buy
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