Question 1

What's the difference between Vanilla Era and Black Opium?

Accepted Answer

Vanilla Era is a feminine fragrance (marketed to women, though wearable by all) from Boy Smells (2023) dominated by Woody accords. Black Opium is a feminine fragrance (marketed to women, though wearable by all) from Yves Saint Laurent (2014) leaning on Vanilla accords. They share 3 accords: Woody, Vanilla, Warm Spicy.

Question 2

Which is better, Vanilla Era or Black Opium?

Accepted Answer

By community rating, Vanilla Era scores 3.58/5 vs Black Opium at 3.94/5. On r/fragrance, Vanilla Era sits at 0.0/10 (mixed) while Black Opium is 6.5/10 (mixed). Black Opium's standout strength: Versatile statement fragrance choice mentioned in community recommendations. The "better" choice depends on what you value — longevity, projection, season fit, or signature character.

Question 3

Do Vanilla Era and Black Opium smell similar?

Accepted Answer

They share a small fraction of their ingredients — expect noticeably different experiences. Vanilla Era: Vanilla Era by Boy Smells does not appear in the provided Reddit discussion. Black Opium: Black Opium by YSL is recognized by the r/fragrance community as a popular statement fragrance choice, particularly mentioned as an example of a bold evening scent.

Question 4

Which lasts longer, Vanilla Era or Black Opium?

Accepted Answer

Black Opium: Strong sillage and projection appreciated by wearers Longevity varies by skin chemistry, concentration, and application method.

Question 5

Which season suits Vanilla Era vs Black Opium?

Accepted Answer

Vanilla Era scores highest for all seasons wear; Black Opium scores highest for winter wear. Vanilla Era leans daytime, Black Opium leans evening.

Vanilla Era vs Black Opium

Comparison Summary

Unique to Vanilla Era (10)

Unique to Black Opium (11)

Shared Accords (3)

Frequently asked questions

Community Sentiment Pulse — Vanilla Era

Community Sentiment Pulse — Black Opium

Positive

Negative

Attribute	Vanilla Era	Black Opium
Brand	Boy Smells	Yves Saint Laurent
Year	2023	2014
Rating	3.58	3.94
Concentration	—	—
Gender	feminine	feminine
Total Notes	10	11