Versace Dylan Blue vs. Bleu de Chanel (2023) – Which is Better?
Dylan Blue vs. Bleu de Chanel.
Two of the most popular blue fragrances for men.
This review will compare Versace Dylan Blue and Bleu de Chanel. I will detail their smell, performance, and anything else you need to know. At the end, I will break down their differences and let you know which is best for you.
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Table of Contents
Versace Dylan Blue
The opening starts with a citrus blast from a bergamot and grapefruit combination. Underneath are warmer aquatic and salty ambroxan notes with a shower gel vibe. Previously, I have described the shower gel aroma as fruity.
The citruses and shower gel aroma lead the way for the first few minutes. While the aquatic and warm ambroxan become increasingly stronger.
Once in the heart of the fragrance, it’s a battleground of notes. The shower gel aroma has dissipated. The citruses and fresh spices linger but are both significantly weakened. While the ambroxan washes over the scent. Specifically salty ambroxan.
If salty ambroxan doesn’t make sense. Think of it as Dior Sauvage’s ambroxan dry down mixed with ocean water. After two to three hours, the rest of the wear is fresh, salty ambroxan with musk nuances. Dylan Blue does have a scent progression. However, it’s mostly a beginning and an end, with a quick transition in the middle.
The longevity is seven to eight hours with moderate to light projection. The first two hours push out well, an arm’s length or more. After this period, it gradually recedes to the skin; by the five-hour mark, it is quite close to the skin, eventually becoming a skin scent. As for seasons and occasions, it is all.
Bleu de Chanel EDP
Right off the top is a sharp blast of citric grapefruit. Followed by a blend of spicy notes. My nose picks up mostly zingy ginger and some pink pepper. Other spicy notes are in the mix but not strong enough to be identifiable. All of this is supported by a warm, amber background.
Citruses still dominate in the mid. At this point, fresh woody notes emerge. The most prominent is cedar, followed by some sandalwood. The bed of amber gets significantly stronger but does not overpower the other notes. From here on, the scent heads in a warmer and smoother direction.
The citruses are infused with smoky incense. While supported by subtle woody accords, it rests on a deep amber base with sweet accents.
The dry-down has less amber. This allows for sandalwood and cedar to shine. They are creamy and clean, with touches of fresh citruses lingering throughout.
The longevity and projection are above average. Five sprays will last you a workday and then some. No matter the season or occasion, it performs well. It is not unique, but it smells outstanding and works for everything.
Comparison
Smell
The openings are both fresh, citric, and spicy. However, the backbone of Dylan Blue is a noticeable shower gel ambroxan. It is warmer on the skin. Bleu de Chanel is supported by darker Iso E Super wood. Both backbones are quality synthetic accords.
There are similarities throughout the mid and base. Yet, Dylan Blue settles on a warm, ambery, and musky base while Bleu de Chanel is woody. Bleu de Chanel is a more linear scent than Dylan Blue, partially from its more blended nature.
Overall, Bleu de Chanel is darker and more refined. Dylan Blue is brighter and warmer with a more playful/youthful edge.
Performance and Versatility
Dylan Blue and Bleu de Chanel are good enough performers that performance isn’t a concern when reviewing them alone. Yet, when comparing side by side, Bleu de Chanel is noticeably longer lasting. Its near ten-hour longevity with a present and projecting aroma always surprises me.
Dylan Blue will get ten hours, but that’s with 80+ degree Fahrenheit weather. As for the occasions, they are both great for everything. However, you’ll want Bleu de Chanel if you want a more sophisticated and impressive aroma for formal occasions and dates.
Final Words
There’s no wrong choice when choosing between these two fragrances. However, there is a better choice… Bleu de Chanel is the better of the two. It is nearly twice the price but a better performer and more mature.
After you try Versace Dylan Blue and/or Bleu de Chanel, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.