Michael Kors Michael for Men

Disclaimer: This review is based on the original “Givenchy” version depicted above.

Start to finish, a scent that takes you back to the 80’s.

The composition starts off strong, and unrelenting, be careful with the number of sprays.
Its so harsh, its difficult to pick up any notes, it smells similar to old urine.
Even this opening key note reminds you of how rough some of the vintage masculine compositions of the past were.
This “urine” effect isnt off putting, but more of a wake up call of whats to come.

Once the scent settles over the next 15 minutes, a smooth, fine grained tobacco is ushered to the front with a dried fruit very much reminiscent of bags of dried apricots and plums you can get in the market.
The tobacco is very refined in the original formula, and very scratchy, rough in the reformulation.
The reformulation also has a fresher, brighter set of top notes, a lemony bergamot is there.
The lasting power of the reformulation pales in comparison to the Givenchy formulation.

Once the scent its the base its all about the tobacco, and some fruitiness from the dried fruit accord.
its simple, surprisingly wearable and very masculine. Alpha male and a bit over the top.

Longevity is good, 6-8 hours, and the reformulation is about 4-5 hours.
I wouldnt call this scent office safe, but possibly blue collar safe, for factories, open aired situations, outdoors.
The overall feel is very much suited for the cold months.

Get the original formula for a smoother, longer ride.
Mine was purchased thru eBay, 4.2oz for $40.

Look for bottles that show “Michael” or nothing on the bottle for the original formula, and “Michael Kors” for the reformulation. The sticker should say “Parfums Givenchy” like below.