If you have shopped for perfume in Pakistan, you have seen the words "inspired by" everywhere. But what does an inspired perfume actually mean, how is it different from the designer original, and is it the same as a fake? Here is an honest explanation from FAHA Fragrance.
What Is an Inspired Perfume?
An inspired perfume is an original fragrance created to capture the scent profile of a well-known perfume: its main notes, mood and character. It carries its own brand name and its own name. For example, FAHA's THE KING is inspired by the scent profile of Creed Aventus, but it is sold as THE KING by FAHA Fragrance, not as Aventus.
Inspired vs Designer vs Fake
- Designer original: made and sold by the original fashion or perfume house, in its own branded bottle.
- Inspired perfume: a different brand's own fragrance that follows a similar scent direction, sold openly under its own name and bottle.
- Fake or counterfeit: a product that copies the designer's name, logo or bottle and pretends to be the original. This is illegal and misleading.
FAHA Fragrance makes inspired perfumes and attars. We never use designer logos or bottles, and we never claim our products are the originals.
Why Are Inspired Perfumes So Much Cheaper?
When you buy a designer perfume, a large part of the price pays for things other than the liquid: global advertising, celebrity campaigns, premium retail space, brand licensing and import duties. An inspired brand focuses on the fragrance itself, so it can offer a similar scent experience for a fraction of the price.
Will It Smell Exactly the Same?
A good inspired perfume captures the recognisable character of its inspiration, so most people will find it very familiar. However, it is its own creation, so small differences in how it opens, develops and lasts are normal. Your skin, the weather and how much you apply also change how any fragrance smells.
How to Choose a Good Inspired Perfume
- Check the notes, not just the name. FAHA lists the top, heart and base notes on every product.
- Try before committing. Every 30 ml, 50 ml and 100 ml FAHA perfume comes with a free tester of the same scent, and sealed bottles can be returned within 15 days.
- Start small. Every FAHA perfume comes in 15 ml, or try five scents with the Perfume Sample Pack.
- Prefer alcohol-free? Most FAHA scents are also available as an alcohol-free attar.
Find Your Match
Looking for a FAHA version of a designer favourite? See our full Find Your FAHA Match list, organised by designer house.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are inspired perfumes legal?
Yes, when they are sold under their own brand name and bottle, without using the designer's logo or pretending to be the original. That is exactly how FAHA sells its fragrances.
Is FAHA affiliated with the designer brands?
No. FAHA Fragrance is an independent Pakistani brand. Designer names are mentioned only to describe a scent profile. All trademarks belong to their respective owners.
Do inspired perfumes last long?
Longevity depends on the scent and your skin. Warm scents such as oud, amber and vanilla generally last longest. See our tips on making perfume last longer.