Happiness in simplicity

I'll start by saying I can't compare this to its inspiration, MDCI Invasion Barbare, as I have no experience with that scent.

Upon delivery, L'invasion felt cloying and too simple. The vanilla was a bit too strong, and the scent just felt fuzzy and uncertain about what it was trying to be. I wondered why the original is so beloved, but was determined to give L'invasion some time to oxidize/mature, and I'm glad I did.

After several months, L'invasion now opens with a burst of ozonic-feeling vanilla. It's an interesting combination that I appreciate, as I'm not a big vanilla fan. The sweetness is cut by a sharp violet and bergamot that I think gives the scent that ozonic accord by mixing all three. It's a relatively unique facet I haven't gotten from any other fragrance.

After some time, the fragrance settles into a scent very reminiscent of old Barbasol shaving foam, with cardamom, lavender, thyme and a light ginger giving it a spicy tone.

L'invasion stays pretty linear at this point, which is the biggest reason I give it 4/5 stars. I tend to appreciate a really good evolution throughout the day, and while there is one distinct transition from the brighter opening to the spicy foam, it sits in the spicy foam stage for probably 80% of the time.

Projection is good, arm's length or so, for a few hours. Longevity is very good, at an easy eight to nine hours of a pretty consistent scent bubble. The profile and extrait concentration are a nice combination.

I picked up a 30ml on sale for just over $30 shipped from Alexandria, and I would happily pay that again. L'invasion is an easy to wear, timeless and pleasant scent.