Addictive Vibration Initio Parfums Prives 2016 unisex 169

The Verdict

Addictive Vibration by Initio Parfums Prives, launched in 2016, is a fragrance that lives up to its name in the most literal sense. Created by perfumers Pierre-Constantin Gueros and Maurice Roucel, this floral-gourmand composition is designed to captivate and linger, and it accomplishes both with impressive intensity. The apple blossom and honey combination creates something genuinely compelling on first encounter.

However, the fragrance community is notably divided on whether that initial captivation translates into sustained enjoyment or eventual fatigue. The composition draws frequent comparisons to Mugler's Alien, and while Initio's version offers its own distinctive character, the similarity raises legitimate questions about whether the niche price point of $410 is justified.

Addictive Vibration belongs in that category of fragrances that inspire either devotion or aversion, with very few people landing in neutral territory. It is loud, sweet, and unapologetically intense.

What It Smells Like

The opening of Addictive Vibration greets you with crisp apple blossom paired with radiant orange blossom, creating an impression that reviewers have compared to an apple pie cooling on a windowsill with an apple orchard in the background. This fruity-floral introduction is bright and inviting, immediately establishing the fragrance's sweet character.

As the scent develops, white flowers blend with rich honey and vanilla orchid, creating a warm, enveloping sweetness that occupies significant space. The honey note is particularly prominent and becomes the composition's most divisive element. Some find it intoxicating and luxurious, while others describe it as so sweet it verges on cloying. One reviewer on Basenotes compared the profile to vintage L'Instant de Guerlain, noting similarities to red apple dipped in honey with white flowers.

The base of soft musk provides a clean foundation, though the sweetness remains dominant throughout the fragrance's lengthy wear time. The overall character has been described as having wine-like davana qualities and a fake orange blossom note that some perceive as grape soda.

When to Wear It

Addictive Vibration is best reserved for evening events, date nights, and special occasions during cooler months. Its enormous projection and sweet intensity make it poorly suited for warm weather, where the heat amplifies its already considerable presence.

This is not an office fragrance or an everyday casual scent. Its volume and character are designed for moments when making a strong olfactory impression is the goal. A single spray may be sufficient in most situations.

Longevity & Projection

Performance is one of Addictive Vibration's undeniable strengths. The fragrance lasts at least 9 hours on skin, with some reports of the scent lingering in rooms even after the wearer has departed. Sillage is described as strong to very strong, creating a noticeable scent trail that extends well beyond the wearer's immediate vicinity.

This powerful projection is both a selling point and a caution. The fragrance has been described as super loud and head-achingly so, suggesting that restraint in application is advisable.

The Community Says

The Fragrantica community is sharply divided on Addictive Vibration. One camp falls firmly into the outright-love category, praising the opening as immediately captivating and the overall composition as hitting a nerve that resonates deeply. These reviewers appreciate Initio's ability to create something that feels niche without being inaccessible.

The opposing camp finds the sweetness excessive, with the honey note described as properly teeth-achingly sweet and the overall effect reminiscent of Alien with sickly sweet fruit layered on top. The Alien comparison is consistent across nearly all community discussions, with most acknowledging the similarity while debating whether Addictive Vibration offers enough distinction to warrant its significantly higher price.

Who Should Buy This

Addictive Vibration is ideal for those who already love sweet, bold fragrances and are looking for a niche-quality alternative to mainstream options like Mugler Alien. Honey enthusiasts, in particular, will find much to enjoy in the prominent honey accord. The fragrance also appeals to anyone who values powerful longevity and projection.

However, buyers should honestly assess their tolerance for intense sweetness before committing. At $410 for 90ml, this is a significant investment, and the strong similarity to Alien, available at a fraction of the cost, deserves consideration. Sampling before purchasing is strongly recommended.

The Bottom Line

Initio's Addictive Vibration delivers an intense, honey-drenched floral-gourmand experience with exceptional longevity and projection, but its loud sweetness, high price, and frequent comparisons to Mugler Alien make it a fragrance that demands thorough testing before the substantial investment.