This is a men's perspective on Vanilla Vibration. I have never worn it myself.
I intend to gift it in a calendar (the 30 ml fits well inside) to broaden my wife's fragrance horizon a bit.
The scent: The scent is interesting. For a women's fragrance, it is pleasant, but it is definitely different from the fruity-sweet jasmine-rose soup that is usually offered. Vanilla Vibration comes across as mature, sweet, yet simultaneously light. The papyrus combined with the iris invites you to delve deeper into the scent without being overwhelming. The fragrance is noticeably light-footed, fine, and "fresh" for a winter scent. The sweetness is not exaggerated. The orange blossom and cardamom harmonize well together; I perceive the violet relatively clearly, but in the background, and all three keep the vanilla well in check while simultaneously enhancing the papyrus in symphony - truly well done. I would honestly almost like to wear it myself if it weren't clearly feminine.
The sillage: Surprisingly, the papyrus comes out quite well in the scent trail and draws you in. You just want to learn more and smell more. It feels as if you are very close to the goal, but not too much. However (!) it is not a seductive scent. So, I get a clear image of a confident, grounded woman who makes a clear statement for herself and others, but doesn’t need to wrap everyone around her finger. (Definitely really strong regarding the scent!)
The projection: Not outstanding; here you need to apply a bit more. But it does create a presence at about two hands' distance. You probably perceive it more in the scent trail.
Longevity: Average.
Bottle: I find it nice. The sprayer does its job. All in all, it is quite valuable as a small gift, and the 30 ml will surely fit well in a handbag. Therefore, the longevity is probably not so crucial here.
Age: I see it best suited for a woman aged 25 and up. Perhaps already somewhat established in her career and no longer a girl. She is multifaceted but definitely professional. Tends to be for younger women than Starlight Vanilla (review to follow).
Context/Occasion: More for evenings, more indoors. Best suited for professional and semi-formal settings. Autumn and winter.
Price-performance: Strong. Zara is really putting something out here that is not just for girls, and at a good price.
Blind buy: It is definitely pleasing for 25, but probably not for "people-pleasers". Limited blind-buy recommendation.
