Madame Rebel

Madame Rebel opens with bergamot, mandarin and blackcurrant, a bright fruity-citrus start that clearly echoes Coco Mademoiselle's famous opening, if a touch sweeter and less sparkling. Jasmine, orange blossom and rose carry the heart, a fair nod to the original's floral core without its subtler nuances. Vanilla, patchouli and sandalwood close things out with a soft, warm finish that misses the smoky patchouli-vetiver signature that gives the real thing its edge. Projection is decent early on before settling close to the skin, with moderate longevity, shorter than Coco Mademoiselle's well-known staying power. It's a reasonable everyday way to enjoy the fruity-chypre family for office or evening wear, though those familiar with the original will notice the flatter, less textured drydown.