Question 1

What's the difference between Bow Tie and Pure XS?

Accepted Answer

Bow Tie is a masculine fragrance (marketed to men, though wearable by all) from Van Gils (2019) dominated by Warm Spicy accords. Pure XS is a masculine fragrance (marketed to men, though wearable by all) from Rabanne (2017) leaning on Vanilla accords. They share 5 accords: Warm Spicy, Fresh Spicy, Woody, Vanilla.

Question 2

Which is better, Bow Tie or Pure XS?

Accepted Answer

By community rating, Bow Tie scores 3.47/5 vs Pure XS at 3.95/5. Pure XS's standout strength: Unique sweet fragrance with distinctive cola/vanilla character. The "better" choice depends on what you value — longevity, projection, season fit, or signature character.

Question 3

Do Bow Tie and Pure XS smell similar?

Accepted Answer

They share 4 notes and 5 accords, including Warm Spicy, Fresh Spicy, Woody, Vanilla, Citrus. Pure XS: Pure XS is a unique, divisive fragrance that generates strong reactions—some find it a refreshing cola-vanilla crowd pleaser, while others find it cloying or overly sweet.

Question 4

Which lasts longer, Bow Tie or Pure XS?

Accepted Answer

Pure XS: Pure XS Night has better performance and complexity with ginseng and toffee notes Longevity varies by skin chemistry, concentration, and application method.

Question 5

Which season suits Bow Tie vs Pure XS?

Accepted Answer

Bow Tie scores highest for fall wear; Pure XS scores highest for winter wear. Bow Tie leans evening, Pure XS leans evening.

Bow Tie vs Pure XS

Comparison Summary

Shared Notes (4)

Unique to Bow Tie (5)

Unique to Pure XS (12)

Shared Accords (5)

Frequently asked questions

Community Sentiment Pulse — Pure XS

Positive

Negative

Attribute	Bow Tie	Pure XS
Brand	Van Gils	Rabanne
Year	2019	2017
Rating	3.47	3.95
Concentration	—	—
Gender	masculine	masculine
Total Notes	9	16