Sandal Essence

Sandal Essence opens with a polished citrus burst of Calabrian bergamot, orange, lemon and petitgrain, mirroring the invigorating, classy start that gives Acqua di Parma's Sandalo its identity. The dupe keeps the citrus crisp, if slightly less luminous than the original. The heart brings calming lavender and warm cardamom, an aromatic-spicy bridge that adds quiet sophistication. The drydown is the heart of the matter: a creamy, smooth sandalwood sweetened gently by tonka bean and soft amber. Where the Acqua di Parma sandalwood feels especially refined and rounded, Perfume Parlour's reads a little flatter and more synthetic, but the comforting woody character carries through. Longevity is moderate and projection stays subtle, much like the EDP original. A versatile, elegant woody scent that works across seasons for the office, formal wear and smart daytime.