If you plan to buy a summer cologne from Prada, Carbon from their Luna Rossa line is the ultimate choice to revive your dull days.
A few days back at a brunch, I smelt this scent on my friend, and as we chatted a bit, he mentioned Carbon has many dupes.
As my brother’s birthday was coming, I looked for them and found several clones that could replace this aromatic fougere fragrance.
In this write-out, I will tell you the alternatives of Carbon Prada, so tag along to get mesmerized.
What Does Luna Rossa Carbon Prada Smell Like?
Luna Rossa Carbon Prada smells clean, smooth, and refined with its well-balanced ingredients. The citrusy essence of bergamot merges with the green airy tone of lavender, and watery notes give this cologne an exhilarating turn, which gets heavier due to the dry amber smell of ambroxan.
In 2017, Daniela (Roche) Andrier formulated this Luna Rossa edition of Parada. And its modern yet edgy vibe became popular in no time.
Now, before getting into more details, let’s check out the components of Luna Rossa Carbon Prada:
Top Notes: Bergamot, Pepper
Middle Notes: Lavender, Metallic Notes, Coal, Watery Notes, Soil Tincture
Base Notes: Ambroxan, Patchouli
Luna Rossa Carbon by Prada opens with an energizing blast of tangy bergamot and spicy pepper. This type of combination works great during high humidity.
No wonder my friend opted for it at our brunch. That day was burning hot!
In the middle, it has the electric touch of lavender, the dirty, smoky hint of coal, and the flow of watery notes, which balances out the synthetic aura of metallic notes.
The base is ambroxan dominant but not obnoxious. It also contains patchouli, and its earthy, woody, clean smell mingles perfectly with the velvety, creamy touch of ambroxan.
In terms of longevity, this cologne is a star performer with 12 hours of service and gives moderate sillage.
Also, Luna Rossa Carbon comes in an affordable price range.
Not only this one, there are several best smelling Prada colognes that you can try.
What Colognes Are Similar to Luna Rossa Carbon Prada?
After Prada launched Luna Rossa Carbon, many companies tried to copy its refreshing metallic vibe, and some did a great job mimicking its brilliant formulation.
I have listed down the best 10 replacements for this refreshing men’s scent. Among these, some are the exact replicas, and some smell close to the original one with their own twist.
So, here are the top 10 alternatives for Carbon Luna Rossa:
1. Sauvage Dior
Top Notes: Calabrian Bergamot, Pepper
Middle Notes: Sichuan Pepper, Lavender, Pink Pepper, Vetiver, Patchouli, Geranium, Elemi
Base Notes: Ambroxan, Cedar, Labdanum
Dior Sauvage is the legendary cologne that women love on men. This Eau de Toilette version of Sauvage came out in 2015. It was created by François Demachy, an in-house perfumer of Dior.
At the opening, this designer scent has an exciting, harmonious blend of Calabrian bergamot and spicy pepper.
You can’t go wrong with the citrusy-peppery combo.
Then, in the heart, this aromatic fougere fragrance gives a more spicy hint along with the refreshing aura of lavender, the celestial smell of vetiver, and the dark earthy tone of patchouli.
Geranium’s floral-fruity nuance is an added bonus.
Finally, in the dry-down, the overpowering ingredient is the ambery-smelling ambroxan. It can give you a headache, but it works fine for me.
You will also get a powerful woody softness from the mixture of cedar and labdanum.
With a few sprays, you won’t have to think about reapplying this fragrance for 12 hours. And its strong sillage will attract others even after you leave that place.
Also, you can buy other fragrances similar to Dior Sauvage if this cologne wins your heart.
When to Wear
Sauvage by Dior is a versatile mass appealing scent that you can wear every season. Anyway, for afternoon events or dates, it’s ideal. I think it suits better at night.
Why Should You Buy
- Strong yet not overpowering.
- Great option to impress.
- Pleasant smell.
- Lasts for 12 hours.
- Sillage radiates up to 6 feet.
- Affordable.
- Compliment magnet.
- Ideal for formal events.
2. DIVAIN-388
Top Notes: Bergamot, Pepper
Middle Notes: Lavender, Metallic Nuances, Carbon, Aquatic Notes, Ground Tincture
Base Notes: Ambroxan, Patchouli
DIVAIN-388 is a clone that represents Prada Carbon perfectly. And it’s budget-friendly. So, if you are searching for a cost-effective replica, it’s your jam.
At the top, this aromatic cologne has the fusion of citrussy bergamot with a spicy hint of pepper.
Its heart represents the blend of natural and industrial ingredients efficiently. The sweet, delicate aura of lavender brings out the intensity of metallic nuances, carbon, and ground tincture.
The freshness of aquatic notes is vibrant yet soothing to the nerves.
At the base, the careful mingling of woody, mineral ambroxan with the earthy, musky smell of patchouli gives a dazzling touch till the end.
Moreover, this refreshing aura will linger around you for 6 hours with a generous amount of application.
When to Wear
The bright days of spring make the perfect time to enjoy this charming cologne. It’s natural and metallic in its own unique way.
Why Should You Buy
- A budget-friendly alternative to Luna Rossa Carbon.
- 5+ hours of service.
- Stimulating vibe.
- Well-balanced mineral accords.
- Suits the warmer days.
- Classy and simple packaging.
3. Kuro Ajmal
In 2018, Ajmal launched a fragrance that resembles Luna Rossa Carbon named Kuro. It’s an aromatic spicy cologne that will make your summer outings, picnics, and beach parties more cheerful and lively.
With the effortless blend of intense-smelling ambergris and pepper, you will get a unique opening along with the tangy hunch of bergamot.
Slowly, the spiciness of pepper and the beautiful natural tone of lavender turns woody, earthy, and dark due to the presence of vetiver and patchouli.
The rosy nuance of geranium adds a nice floral touch, making this cologne more appealing.
The best part of this dupe is its 10+ hours of longevity and strong sillage that leaves 6 feet of trail behind. It also is very affordable. So, you don’t have to worry about spending a lot to smell fresh.
When to Wear
Kuro Ajmal is most suitable for summer days, spring and fall nights. It will make your outdoor activities more enjoyable. Also, it works during winter.
Why Should You Buy
- Suitable for energetic and young men.
- A lovely fresh, spicy aura.
- Serves for 12 hours.
- Adventurous blend.
- Provides strong sillage.
- Comes with a great price point.
4. Sauvage Very Cool Spray Dior
Top Notes: Grapefruit, Bergamot, Pepper
Middle Notes: Lavender, Sichuan Pepper, Pink Pepper, Geranium, Patchouli, Elemi, Vetiver
Base Notes: Ambroxan, Cedar
Sauvage Very Cool Spray is one of the best smelling Dior colognes. It’s denoted as a fresh summer-oriented scent and came to the market in 2017. You can wear it as a replacement for Prada Carbon.
Let me tell you the details why.
In the beginning, you will sense the fruity, tangy flavor of grapefruit and bergamot blending harmoniously with pepper. It will give you the same feeling as Luna Rossa Carbon.
Then, in the middle, the complexity of several ingredients will keep your interest going. At least, for me, it did when I tried it.
Here, the natural, herbal tone of lavender mixes with the spicy nuance of peppers, along with the greenish aura of geranium, exotic patchouli, and fresh balsamic elemi. It flows from light to dark, isn’t it interesting?
I think it’s a great way to experience a perfumer’s experiments.
At the base, the merge of soft woody cedar with synthetic, dry ambroxan got my attention. It brings warmth, and still, it feels nice on the skin, even in summer.
Moreover, Sauvage Very Cool Spray Dior provides 12 hours of service and strong sillage.
When to Wear
This aromatic fougere cologne suits the humidity of summer days and nights. It also is very delightful during spring and autumn. It’s perfect to wear to the office, parties, and casual meetings.
Why Should You Buy
- Ideal summer scent.
- Lasts for 2 hours.
- Practical spraying facility.
- Amazing projection.
- Sillage leaves trails up to 6 feet.
- Smooth dry-down.
5. Dossier Fougere Lavender
Top Notes: Lavender, Bergamot, Grapefruit
Middle Notes: Aquatic Accord, Pepper
Base Notes: Patchouli, Ambroxan, Amber
Fougere Lavender is inspired by Luna Rossa Carbon. But, unlike the original fragrance, it lasts only around 6 hours.
From the opening, its juicy, tangy, and delicate aura will lift your mood and give you a positive vibe. The fruity openings are always my favorite, like this one.
Then, in the heart, the ozonic, salty essence of aquatic accord will take you to a beach during the summer vacation.
And the spicy hit of pepper gives an interesting and mysterious manly vibe.
Afterward comes the base with the mixture of woody, earthy patchouli, creamy ambroxan, and heavy, balsamic amber with its smokey undertone.
Also, this easy-going cologne is animal cruelty-free, so if you are vegan, it’s the ideal choice for you. I love that its notes are written on the bottle, and Dossier gives a small sample in its packaging in case you want to return the product.
When to Wear
The warmer days are ideal to wear Dossier Fougere Lavender. But my suggestion is to use it especially during spring and summer.
Why Should You Buy
- Mass appealing.
- Versatile fragrance.
- Gets compliments.
- 6 to 7 hours of longevity.
- 30 days of return policy.
- Great projection.
- Bold and potent.
6. Aromatic Future Zara
Top Note: Black Pepper
Middle Note: Lavender
Base Notes: Ambergris, Vetiver
I tried many Zara perfumes, and to be honest, I like their dupes of designer fragrances. But my cousin was skeptical if Zara fragrances are any good, and after trying Aromatic Future, his idea changed.
The top of this substitute contains black pepper. Its pungent tone gives a sharp yet lightly sweet vibe.
Slowly, the heart creates a calming and soothing aura by spreading lavender’s soft, flowery nuance. Even though there are no other notes, my cousin said he felt other sharp herbal smells.
Finally, in the dry-down, the smokey, musky touch of ambergris enhances due to the presence of the dusy, earthy tone of vetiver.
It lasted 5 to 6 hours on my cousin’s skin, so now he sprays on his clothes to get more coverage. Its sillage is moderate yet radiates nicely for a couple of hours.
When to Wear
To elevate your day and night time activities of the upcoming summer, fall, and spring, Aromatic Future, launched in 2016, is the perfect choice.
Why Should You Buy
- Simplistic bottle design.
- Budget-friendly.
- Lasts up to 6 hours.
- Energetic and refreshing blend.
- Good projection.
- Suitable for mature men.
- Great overall scent.
7. Sauvage Eau de Parfum Dior
Top Note: Bergamot
Middle Notes: Sichuan Pepper, Lavender, Star Anise, Nutmeg
Base Notes: Ambroxan, Vanilla
Sauvage Eau de Parfum Dior is an amber fougere scent that was released in 2018. The nose behind its composition is François Demachy.
In the beginning, bergamot’s citrusy blast will wake you up.
Then, after a few minutes, the sharp spiciness of sichuan pepper, along with heart-touching lavender, mingles with the earthy, spicy tone of nutmeg and the sweetness of star anise.
The ambery, soft, sweet base comes to light when the middle fades away.
And the mixture of ambroxan with vanilla is heavenly. It lingers on for 2 hours with strong sillage.
Moreover, Sauvage Eau de Parfum is comparatively cost-effective for its amazing service.
When to Wear
This potent fragrance is suitable to wear during summer, spring, winter, and autumn. It’s very versatile and goes well in every season.
Why Should You Buy
- Mysterious and sensual.
- Lasts around 12 hours.
- Suitable for all ages.
- Sillage moves up to 6 feet.
- Affordable.
8. Costarela Carner Barcelona
Top Notes: Bergamot, Saffron
Middle Notes: Sea Notes, Sand
Base Notes: Ambroxan, Virginia Cedar, Amber
Costarela by Carner Barcelona is a unisex summer creation of Shyamala Maisondieu. It came to the market in 2016.
At the top, bergamot sails with the soft, earthy smell of saffron.
In the middle, the sand floats when the sea notes merge with their fine particles. It gives the vibe of a sunny day when the wind of the sea takes away all the tensions and business of city life.
Soon, the base hits differently with its cozy, earthy, sweet mixture, which results from the resinous, dry, and balsamic amber and ambroxan, along with the soft woodiness of cedar.
When to Wear
This translucent and sunny fragrance is the best choice for summer days and spring. I suggest avoiding this refreshing scent at night.
Why Should You Buy
- Perfect for beach parties.
- Unisex, calm and cheerful.
- Reminds of the sea.
- Lasts up to 6 hours.
- A lovely mid-spring fragrance.
- Budget-friendly.
- Huge concentration of cedar and ambroxan.
9. Modest Pour Homme Une Afnan
Top Notes: Pepper, Lavender, Mint, Nutmeg
Middle Notes: Citruses, Amber, Eucalyptus
Base Notes: Musk, Vetiver, Cedar
Afnan is known for coming up with dupes of famous fragrances that smell and feel amazing. Modest Pour Homme Une is such a cologne. It was launched in 2019.
Spicy pepper, mood-lifting mint, and lavender, along with the sweet, earthy base of nutmeg will make their presence known at first.
When I tried it, its heart got my attention. I really liked the addition of warm and sweet amber with citruses and woody-smelling eucalyptus. It was zesty and mature at the same time.
Then, after a while, I sensed the base. It’s more edgy and gives a powerful vibe overall.
And you can guess the sensual touch musk brings when it gets married with the sharpness of vetiver and woodiness of cedar. It will stay on your clothes for 12 hours, and Modest Pour Homme Une’s strong sillage will attract the attention of others.
I think it’s a win-win with its amazing cheap pricing. You can totally rely on this Luna Rossa Carbon resembling scent for a gift.
When to Wear
This versatile cologne is ideal for summer, fall, and spring days and nights. It also works during the winter if you use it properly.
Why Should You Buy
- Classy presentation.
- Long-lasting.
- Gets compliments.
- Powerful projection.
- Suitable for everyday use.
- Affordable.
10. Ventana Pour Homme Armaf
Top Notes: Grapefruit, Lemon, Mandarin Orange
Middle Notes: Lavender, Geranium, Vetiver, Patchouli
Base Notes: Cedar, Amber, Precious Woods
If you love fruity, fresh openings, Ventana Pour Homme by Armaf will snatch your heart away. This woody aromatic substitute was launched in 2017.
At the opening, the juicy, tangy, sweet smell of Mandarin orange, lemon, and grapefruit will welcome you to the world of Armaf.
Then, in the middle of this mass-appealing cologne will make sure you are completely submerged in its refreshing mild lavender and rosy, airy geranium mix. It also contains the clean tone of vetiver and the sweet, dark smell of patchouli to give that hint of sexiness.
Finally, the merge of woody cedar, sweet, resinous amber, along with precious woods creates that soft, masculine vibe.
With a few sprays, you can enjoy this scent for 6 to 8 hours and its moderate sillage will not become overpowering as time passes.
When to Wear
This versatile scent is suitable for all year round. So you can use it during the humidity of summer, the brightness of spring, the chill-warm fall, and the coldness of winter.
Why Should You Buy
- Super cheap version of Prada Carbon.
- Elegant fragrance.
- Beautiful fruity opening.
- A safe blind buy.
- Lasts up to 8 hours.
- Moderate sillage.
Wrap Up
In the end, it’s clear that Luna Rossa Carbon Prada is a unique cologne, and thus, it has so many dupes and clones available in the market in various price ranges and performances.
Among them, I have combed out the best 10 alternatives for you so that you can select your most preferable smell alike of Carbon. Or you can buy several ones to wear on different occasions.
So, choose your fragrance and thank me later.