by House Of Sillage
HoS N.004 presents a clean, modern fougère with a distinctive lavender-vanilla-citrus opening that feels juicy and slightly sweet, offering a sophisticated yet accessible profile. The core of the fragrance evolves into a robust, earthy base of patchouli and oakmoss, enhanced by black pepper and star anise, creating a dynamic dry-down that feels both rich and wearable. While some perceive similarities to Invictus Aqua or Legend Spirit, the overall impression is one of refined masculinity—balancing freshness with depth, making it notably more mature than its more common references. Longevity is reliable, with moderate to strong sillage that persists well into the day, fading only slightly during warm weather. The scent is versatile, suitable for office environments and formal occasions, where its unobtrusive yet distinct presence stands out without standoffishness. Despite these strengths, the fragrance lacks originality and uniqueness. Many feel it echoes other well-known scents, particularly those with aquatic or spicy fougère DNA. The overall experience is pleasant and well-executed, but not remarkable or groundbreaking. The quality of the base notes—patchouli, oakmoss, and pepper—gives it a distinctive, well-integrated dry-down, though some users describe it as harsh or plastic-like due to synthetic elements. Ultimately, N.004 wears as a premium, safe choice for those seeking a classically masculine scent that performs well without drawing too much attention.