Invictus Aqua by Rabanne

The aquatic version of this Invictus is far more intense than the 2018 one (which was sweet). The 2016 version has no sweetness at all. It’s salty, acidic, super fresh, and smells completely different. None of the current Freeze or Aqua versions come close. It deserves a 9.5/10. I’m talking about a 2016 bottle I managed to find again… they say the 2024 version isn’t quite as similar.

They’ve brought it back again; does anyone know if it’s the same as the 2016 version? The bottle is identical… but it doesn’t smell like the 2018 one.

An aquatic beast. One day, while browsing a perfumery where I usually shop, I looked up and saw boxes of white Invictus Aqua abandoned at the bottom of a shelf. Knowing the ‘hype’ around this version, I picked up the box to check the batch code and discovered it was the 2016 release. I didn’t hesitate to buy it. Regarding the fragrance itself, I can’t say more than what’s already known. Those who claim it doesn’t last long are talking about the current versions (the blue-tinted bottles), because this one is a beast in every sense. The aquatic notes stand out with citrus nuances, all set against a base of ambergris (though it’s likely synthetic ambroxan). I feel its prime time is summer, but thanks to its freshness and body, it works all year round. Versatile for morning, afternoon, or evening, provided you watch the sprays. Overall, people approve of the Invictus DNA and receive compliments, just like with the line. Despite this, the ‘ambergris’ in this version can be offensive to some, smelling very animalistic, like urine. It has long longevity, exceeding 10 or 12 hours on skin, with great projection for the first 3 or 4 hours. Afterwards, it retreats, but it’s still noticeable at medium distance. I think it’s a total success; it’s not easy to find a fresh fragrance with that performance. If you see it and like Invictus, don’t hesitate to buy it (watch out for the white box). It deserves a spot on the podium, and it’s sad they discontinued it. The current version isn’t bad, but the difference is noticeable, especially for those with experience in this field. If you want something similar that isn’t discontinued, go for Legend Spirit. It doesn’t have the beastly performance, but it smells 85% the same and gets the job done. Cheers.

A refreshing, very attractive, and characterful aroma; it doesn’t just smell fresh and clean, it has its own identity. I love it; the only issue is longevity. Yes, if I over-apply quite a bit (15 to 20 sprays), it lasts 8 to 10 hours, but if I use the usual 5 or 7 sprays, it’s gone in 2, max 3 hours. Nevertheless, it’s a fragrance I always use in heat or at the beach.

I’ve had this perfume for a while now. I’m thinking of buying another one. In my experience, it seems very agreeable in aroma, sweet and refreshing. I have dry or combination skin… and despite that, it lasts quite a while. Around 8 hours, and if my body temperature rises, it feels like it starts projecting more.

Top fragrance, just like the previous one. They’ve added violet leaves and swapped the sea for something saltier (some say it smells like boiled egg, but it’s different). They removed the patchouli to cut the sweetness; now it’s fresher, saltier, and more potent. Huge trail and excellent longevity. The dry-down is a mystery, seeming to be amber or guaiac wood. Safe buy, although it’s already discontinued.

Wow! This one is, without a doubt, my favourite masculine scent for heat. Impressively sexy. I’m a woman and I love it when my husband wears it. Brutal longevity, around 24 hours, moderate but constant projection. Smells of sea, breeze, salt, and subtle citrus. It’s nowhere near common; the original didn’t appeal to me at all, but this is a sexy bomb. Ideal for holidays and informal use.

Excellent citrus and aquatic fragrance; this is what the classic Invictus should have been. Good longevity and trail. Ideal for the beach, the gym or hot weather. For me, it’s the best of the trilogy. I give it 8.5/10.

The best version of Invictus. Fresh, easy to wear all the time. It’s 75% Invictus and 25% Acqua Di Gio. It opens with a delicious, super refreshing yuzu. Performance: quite good. Longevity: 8 to 10 hours. Sillage: moderate. Versatility: useful for any occasion.

LOL Just like the Acqua di Gio Essenza, it smells of raw egg XD. Seriously, I love Bulgari’s fresh scents like Aqva, Starwalker, Blue Lacoste, Nautica, etc. I also adore Thierry Mugler A Man’s unique notes, which aren’t for everyone. The Acqua di Gio Essenza and Invictus Aqua disappointed me; I thought they’d be my favourites, but in both I found that egg smell that prevents enjoyment. At first, on blotter and skin, they seemed fresh and deliciously citrusy, but after a few minutes, they smelled of egg. I’m sorry I can’t appreciate such an expensive fragrance.

I don’t understand why people misunderstand this perfume. Although it doesn’t bring anything revolutionary to perfumery, it’s made to please. Those who say it smells like boiled egg will love it because it’s a scent that enchants all women, from teenagers to those over 30. Everyone is responsible for what they wear, but if you’re looking for a fragrance that women adore and always ask about, this is a top choice. Its trail and longevity are impeccable, perfect for day wear and also for semi-formal nights. Recommended.

Invictus Aqua, like its father, tries to please everyone without differing much from its rivals in the fresh, aquatic world. The scent is pleasant, with citrus, marine notes and violet standing out, drying down to a woody finish. It’s perfect for hot climates, suitable for all ages, nothing heavy or intrusive. It has a bit of its mother in it, that slightly unnatural sensation, but it’s less sweet. I’m surprised some people smell boiled egg; I never noticed it, it would be more towards sulphur. If you liked the original, this will suit you too; if not, perhaps this is more bearable.

The base gave me major pause; it literally smells like freshly boiled egg.

Does anyone know when this will be released?