Question 1

What's the difference between Vanilla Smoke and By the Fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Vanilla Smoke is a feminine fragrance (marketed to women, though wearable by all) from Phlur (2025) dominated by Amber accords. By the Fireplace is a feminine fragrance (marketed to women, though wearable by all) from Maison Martin Margiela (2015) leaning on Woody accords. They share 5 accords: Amber, Balsamic, Vanilla, Warm Spicy.

Question 2

Which is better, Vanilla Smoke or By the Fireplace?

Accepted Answer

By community rating, Vanilla Smoke scores 3.77/5 vs By the Fireplace at 4.22/5. By the Fireplace's standout strength: Unique and distinctive scent profile. The "better" choice depends on what you value — longevity, projection, season fit, or signature character.

Question 3

Do Vanilla Smoke and By the Fireplace smell similar?

Accepted Answer

They share 3 notes and 5 accords, including Amber, Balsamic, Vanilla, Warm Spicy, Woody. By the Fireplace: By the Fireplace receives mixed community sentiment, with users recognizing it as a distinctive fragrance that works best in specific contexts.

Question 4

Which lasts longer, Vanilla Smoke or By the Fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Longevity varies by skin chemistry, concentration, and application method.

Question 5

Which season suits Vanilla Smoke vs By the Fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Vanilla Smoke scores highest for winter wear; By the Fireplace scores highest for winter wear. Vanilla Smoke leans evening, By the Fireplace leans evening.

Vanilla Smoke vs By the Fireplace

Comparison Summary

Shared Notes (3)

Unique to Vanilla Smoke (6)

Unique to By the Fireplace (6)

Shared Accords (5)

Frequently asked questions

Community Sentiment Pulse — By the Fireplace

Positive

Negative

Attribute	Vanilla Smoke	By the Fireplace
Brand	Phlur	Maison Martin Margiela
Year	2025	2015
Rating	3.77	4.22
Concentration	—	—
Gender	feminine	feminine
Total Notes	9	9