This Affordable Perfume Is A Perfect Dupe For Baccarat Rouge 540

Baccarat Rouge 540's proponents absolutely love the complex, signature blend of jasmine, spicy saffron, ambergris, cedar, and amber. The scent is like nothing most people have ever smelled, initially unveiled as a limited edition to celebrate crystal manufacturer Baccarat's 250th birthday. Fans have always been ready to fork over the $300-plus price tag for a reason: Until recently, no perfume could rival it. Creator Francis Kurkdjian told Refinery29 that he knew the fragrance and ingredients were special when he received non-stop compliments whenever he wore it, and then chose to expand the product from its original 250-bottle launch. 

The perfumer has said the scent is "an overdose of everything," with the scent of "candied strawberries" wafting in from its notes of veltol, a prime note in Mugler's standout Angel from 2000 (via The Cut). Fragrance expert Alice du Parq told Refinery29 that the ambroxan in this perfume is "creamy, sensual, addictive yumminess." When describing Baccarat Rouge 540 as having a "candy floss, burnt strawberry jam vibe that makes people's mouths water" with a "slightly burnt sugar smell," it's easy to see why fans can't get enough.

Another element that makes Baccarat Rouge 540 so unique is the fact that ambroxan is made from whale vomit, which sounds pretty gross but makes the scent deeper and more complex. If that puts you off, or you're looking for a cheaper alternative, you need to try Ariana Grande's Cloud perfume stat.