Calvin Klein 2022 EDP

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Defy

by Pascal Gaurin

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Calvin Klein Defy is an Eau de Parfum launched in 2022, created by Pascal Gaurin. Defy opens with Mandarin and Pepper, settles into a heart of Suede and Leather, and dries down to a base of Vetiver. Calvin Klein's Defy carries a Favourite verdict, a woody-led wear.

This one's a mixed bag, with some calling it a hidden gem while others are left cold by its peppery leather. It's not a crowd-pleaser for everyone, but if you're after a masculine, modern blue-style leather scent that stands out from the usual designer fare, Defy might just be your dark horse.
What our verdicts mean →
  • Bold
  • Masculine
  • Modern
  • Sophisticated
  • Warm
£17.50 at Paco Perfumerias 50ml Check price on → Check prices ↓
Defy Eau de Parfum bottle

Scent Profile

Composition

Timeline

Showing: Overall Blend
Topas listed
Mandarin55%
Pepper45%
Heartas listed
Leather59%
Suede41%
Baseas listed
Vetiver100%

Top, heart and base are the brand's own listing, not a timing claim - the industry classifies a note by its character as much as by how fast it fades. Each curve here is modelled from that material's own volatility, so groups can overlap when a house lists long-lasting materials in its heart.

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Performance & Mood

Performance

Longevity
Moderate (4-6h)
Projection
Moderate
Intensity
Moderate

Mood

Mood Energising
Calming
Character Playful
Serious
Sentiment Uplifting
Brooding

When To Wear

Best Seasons

Best For:
Spring Fall Winter
Also Works:
Summer

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

Best Occasions

Best For:
Date Casual
Also Works:
Office

Its moderate projection and longevity make it versatile for daily wear, leaning towards casual and date settings. The leathery and slightly smoky accords, though not overpowering, might feel a bit too much for formal events or sports, but are well-suited for a more relaxed office environment.

About

Defy EDP opens with a zesty, almost aquatic mandarin and a sharp kick of black pepper, before quickly settling into a robust heart of leather and suede. The base grounds the composition with earthy vetiver, lending a smoky, masculine depth that lingers. There's an underlying sweetness that prevents it from becoming too harsh, creating a smooth and compelling profile.

Similar

Compare & Pair

Layer

Wear two at once. See what layers well with Defy Eau de Parfum - the blends worth trying, and how each one scores.

Complement

Round out the rotation. See what complements Defy Eau de Parfum - fragrances that pair with it, worn side by side.

Where to buy

Prices for the United Kingdom · · checked 9 October

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Drawn from community reviews and editor-reviewed before publishing on . See our methodology and disclosure policy.