A high street perfume costing just £12.99 has been hailed as a near-identical dupe for a luxury scent that retails for over £170. Zara's Red Temptation, launched in 2020, has gained a cult following on social media, with fans describing it as 'heaven in a bottle' and insisting it smells exactly like Maison Francis Kurkdjian's iconic Baccarat Rouge 540.
What Makes Red Temptation So Special?
Red Temptation belongs to the amber, woody gourmand fragrance family. It opens with notes of bitter orange and saffron, before revealing a heart of praline and jasmine, creating a sweet and spicy accord. The base notes of amber, woods, and musk add warmth and depth. This composition closely mirrors Baccarat Rouge 540, which features jasmine, saffron, almonds, ambers, and woods.
Price Comparison
The most significant difference is the price. Red Temptation starts at £12.99 for a 30ml bottle, with an 80ml option at £28.74. Gift sets are also available: a 120ml set for £29.99 and a 16ml set for £17.99. In contrast, Baccarat Rouge 540's smallest 35ml bottle costs £170, and the 200ml version reaches £525. This means Zara shoppers can save over £157 even with the smallest bottle.
Packaging Differences
While Baccarat Rouge 540 is known for its architectural bottle with a chic gold lid, Red Temptation comes in a simple clear glass bottle. However, perfume enthusiasts seem unfazed by the packaging, focusing instead on the scent.
Social Media Buzz
TikTok users have been quick to compare the two fragrances. User @beautybymmich shared that after testing both, 'the Zara perfume smelled exactly the same.' Another user, @jojolynlynlyn, exclaimed, 'It's insane, it literally smells the same.' Fan @chelsealmarie added, 'I get stopped every single time I wear it. Someone in public will stop and ask me where I got it.' She noted that she has never received as many compliments on her expensive perfumes as she has on Red Temptation.
Zara's Red Temptation is available in stores and online, with prices starting from £12.99 for 30ml.
