Dusk

A vibrant and lively fragrance, built around a very well-executed balance between freshness and brightness on one side, and a denser, sweeter base on the other. It’s this contrast that gives the scent its character and makes it engaging right from the start. As many have pointed out, this is clearly an interpretation inspired by Layton. And in that regard, it truly delivers. The resemblance is unmistakable, and anyone familiar with the original will immediately recognize the connection. One of the few noticeable differences lies in the opening: Layton feels a bit more aromatic and sparkling, with a sharper “zing,” while Dusk comes across as slightly more linear from the beginning. That said, the quality here is impressive, especially considering the price you can often find it for at online discounters. Within its category, it offers a level of refinement and presence that exceeds expectations for the cost. To my nose, this falls into that category of “safe” fragrances - easy to wear, broadly appealing, and unlikely to offend. But unlike many mainstream designer options, it doesn’t feel generic or predictable. While popular modern scents often lean into a familiar, somewhat repetitive formula, this one feels more thoughtfully composed, with a more inviting and interesting character. It sits comfortably in that crowd-pleasing space, but with more personality. It keeps the versatility, yet brings a level of sophistication that many mass-market fragrances lack. Among Layton-inspired alternatives, this wasn’t my first experience. Years ago, I also owned Lalique White in Black, which is a high-quality fragrance in its own right. However, it takes a slightly different direction - more woody and powdery, with facets that lean toward a cosmetic, makeup-like scent profile. That aspect never fully worked for me, and although I still have it in my collection, I rarely reach for it. Dusk, on the other hand, avoids that powdery territory altogether. Instead, it focuses on a fresh, subtly sweet profile that feels clean, balanced, and highly wearable - making it a much more enjoyable option for regular use.

It's been a while since I put my nose on Layton, but from what I can recall, this is very, very close. However, I'm also remembering that there's a reason I don't own Layton: I'm not really crazy about the stuff (please don't yell at me!). The opening of this and the OG are, in my completely subjective opinion, the best moments of the fragrance. The apple has a bit of tartness that holds it back from being overly sweet and headache inducing. Once it's begins drying down it's sweet. A bit green, but mostly sweet. And there's something lingering in the back that is just sort of sickly to me and for whatever reason, it just doesn't do it for me. I know what I'm saying is sacrilege and I don't doubt that people really mean it when they say it's the greatest thing since pizza, but I just don't love Layton. I like it: it's different from your typical designer frag and it's versatile, but I wouldn't spend the money on the real thing. Luckily this isn't Layton, but it's nearly identical and mucho cheaper. I hope this review doesn't get me kicked off of fragrantica! Update 6/7/23... Yeah, this is really good. The more I wear it, the more it settles in and I really appreciate it's versatility. In some ways it reminds me a bit of Ambra Calabria from Nishane. That one has way more green and fresh notes in the opening, but there's similarity in the approach of a sweet amber/vanilla with a greenish opening that works for warmer weather equally well was winter. Very good scent and a ridiculously good value. I don't know if there's a point in owning Layton anymore. This is very close and performs better (according to owners of more recent batches) for a fraction of the price. Nobody sees the bottle, but the juice smells nearly the same to almost all.

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the Dusk in the Woods collection, and let me tell you, it is absolutely incredible. The scent is nothing short of mesmerizing, transporting you to a serene forest at twilight. The collection boasts a harmonious blend of notes and accords that work together seamlessly. The top notes of fresh pine and crisp autumn leaves instantly evoke a sense of tranquility. As the scent settles, you'll notice the heart notes of warm cedarwood and earthy moss, creating a rich and grounding aroma. What truly sets this collection apart is the exquisite balance of accords. The combination of smoky incense and subtle floral undertones adds a touch of mystery and allure. It's like taking a leisurely stroll through a dusky forest, surrounded by the intoxicating scent of nature. I must commend the creators for their attention to detail and craftsmanship. The longevity of the scent is impressive, lingering on your skin and in the air for hours on end. The quality of the ingredients is evident, as each note unfolds beautifully, creating a multi-dimensional fragrance experience. In conclusion, Dusk in the Woods collection is a true olfactory masterpiece. Its incredible scent, composed of carefully selected notes and accords, will transport you to a world of enchantment. Whether you're a fragrance enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates a captivating aroma, this collection is a must-have.

OH.MY.GOD, this is super close to Layton for fraction of the price!! I got this at discounted price $37, such a steal for the quality juice!! In the opening, this is not as spicy as Layton, but more fresh citrusy. As it is going to the drydown, the minty note that is prominent in the OG is quite laid back in the background / structured differently here. If i need to give precentage, this is 90-95% similar to the OG!! If Layton was a designer fragrance, this is how it smells. Short description on how Layton/Dusk smells like : Opens with fresh spicy citrusy and sweet tone. As it's going down, the fruity-sweet vanilla is blended with lavender and patchouly/minty tone. What really surprised me that how well-blended Dusk is, super smoooooth, not synthetic/screechy as how usually clone perfume smells. I can't say anything to SPL department, i haven't done any fullwear. Will update how's the performance later 24/5/2024 edit: Production/batch code 100523, the performance is on the weak side, 8 sprays only last around 2-3 hours on the skin and 6 hours on the shirt and dont project like at all. I tried to experimenting with overspraying, and safe to say you need 15 sprays on the body and 25+ sprays on the clothes to make this perfume project like a MOFO. But on my experience, fragrance tend to get stronger after a week or so. Gonna be waiting with my fingers crossed!!

I have in front of me a bottle of Layton (not mine, 2021 batch), Detour Noir (Early 2021 batch) and Dusk (05/2023 batch) and after testing them all in the last few days, i can confirm that they are solid alternatives to the original but obviously they both have strengths and weaknesses. So, the clones have differents openings than Layton. Dusk start with a fresh, fruity and uplifting cardamon without that vicks vapour rub vibe of the original, amazing, the best opening of all 3 in my opinion. Detour Noir has no cardamom at all, it's pure sweetness and it has a sour and off putting note in the background, i don't know where exactly that comes from but i don't like it. After 20 minutes or so they both starts to comes extremely close to Layton but dusk is definitely smoother and more accurate than Detour Noir. In the air they smell identical tho. Now, dusk is surely the best alternative in terms of smell but it has a big downside, PERFORMANCES. My batch of Dusk is weak, lasts for 5 hours maximum while my batch of Detour Noir last easily more than 10 hours and projects definitely better! That's a shame because i prefer the overall smell of Dusk but the performances are bad in comparison to Detour Noir, i don't know which one i'm going to keep now :/. The quality price ratio is insane for both, i payed 21€ for Detour Noir and 26€ for Dusk