Lavender Thorne
←
+
+
+
+
−
−
−
−
← Back to discovery
Aura
by Armaf
Armaf Aura is a bold, sweet, and aromatic clone of Paco Rabanne Invictus, capturing its signature bubblegum freshness with a slightly more refined and longer-lasting performance. The opening features a sharp, lemony citrus burst balanced with mild bergamot and green apple, creating an instantly recognizable and uplifting effect. The heart unfolds with a powdery, slightly musky floral core centered on iris, violet, and geranium, enhanced by a whisper of pepper and lavender, giving it a subtle spicy warmth. The drydown reveals a sweet, clean, and sensual base of amber, musk, sandalwood, and vetiver—smooth and creamy, with a touch of oriental warmth that lingers well beyond the initial burst. While the accords suggest a fresh-spicy woody composition, the overall effect leans heavily toward the familiar Invictus vibe, with a more balanced sweetness than the original. It functions as a modern, confident cologne with a strong sillage and long-lasting wear, especially on skin and clothing.
Pros
- +Longevity and sillage are exceptional for its price point, lasting up to 8 hours on skin and longer on clothes.
- +The fragrance delivers strong performance and projection, making it a standout blind buy in the budget category.
- +It closely mimics the Invictus aesthetic—sweet, fresh, musky, and provocative—with a more balanced drydown than the original.
- +It performs well year-round, aligning well with both spring and summer preferences, and suits day-to-night wear.
Cons
- −The scent can be overpowering at first, with a strong initial burst that may be unpleasant in confined spaces.
- −Some users report it has less strength in newer batches, leading to consistency issues.
- −The sweet, bubblegum-like profile may feel cloying to those who prefer dry, earthy, or unisex fragrances.