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China Affair
by Alexandria Fragrances
China Affair is a gourmand oriental with a fresh, citrusy opening that evolves into a warm, resinous dry down. It's widely regarded as a high-quality dupe for Chanel's Coromandel, capturing the essence of the original particularly in its mid to base notes—patchouli, white chocolate, amber, and incense. While it lacks the deep, bold patchouli explosion of the original, it offers a wearable, accessible alternative with a pink-rose hint and a softer gourmand profile. It performs most consistently in spring and autumn, especially in warmer conditions, and is best worn during evenings. Many find it stands well on its own, with fragrance development improving over time, though it does not match the original's longevity or sillage. The performance is moderate but acceptable given the price, and users generally agree it earns its value as a budget-friendly, elegant alternative to a luxury, high-end fragrance. It leans more toward a refined gourmand with a spicy, balsamic depth rather than a complex, immersive fragrance journey—ideal for casual wear, date nights, or as an everyday companion to Coromandel.
Pros
- +Strong resemblance to Coromandel in the dry down
- +Affordable price-point with good value
- +Fresh and wearable citrus opening that appeals to new users
- +Performs well in seasonal wear and evening use
- +Improves with age and develops richer character over time
Cons
- −Lacks the depth and richness of the original Coromandel
- −Shorter longevity and moderate projection
- −Patchouli can feel dominant and somewhat overpowering in early stages
- −May not satisfy those seeking exact replication or luxury-level quality