Short answer: D&E The Original is our Extrait de Parfum take on Creed Original Santal, the creamy sandalwood fragrance. It costs from £14.99 for a 5ml sample up to £44.95 for 50ml, against about £310 for 100ml of the original. Shop The Original →
- Smells like: creamy sandalwood with a fresh juniper, ginger and citrus opening and a soft tonka-musk base
- Best for: everyday wear, the office and anyone who wants a refined woody scent for any season
- Honest note: inspired by Original Santal, not an exact clone
Creed is one of the most famous names in perfumery, and Original Santal is a quiet favourite in its range: a smooth, elegant sandalwood that suits almost anyone. It is also priced like a Creed, at about £310 for a 100ml bottle at Harrods. For a scent many people want to wear daily, that is a big outlay, so it is no surprise that dupe searches for it are so common.
What does Creed Original Santal actually smell like?
- Top: Juniper Berries, Coriander, Ginger, Rosemary, Bergamot, Mandarin Orange
- Heart: Sandalwood, Lavender, Geranium, Orange Blossom
- Base: Tonka Bean, Musk, Cedar, Oakmoss
It begins bright and aromatic, with a crisp lift of citrus, juniper and a little spice. Within minutes the creamy sandalwood takes over, rounded out by soft florals and lavender. The base is warm and smooth, with tonka, musk and cedar keeping everything polished rather than heavy. It is a versatile, easy-to-wear woody scent with a clean, expensive feel.
Why people look for a Creed Original Santal dupe
The main reason is simple: price. Spending over £300 on a single bottle is not realistic for many fragrance lovers, particularly when you would want to wear it often. Others like Creed's style but are unsure whether a full bottle is right for them, and prefer to try a small size first. A 5ml sample at £14.99 or a 12ml roller at £19.99 makes it easy to carry, test and enjoy without the commitment.
Creed Original Santal vs The Original at a glance
| Creed Original Santal | D&E The Original | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | About £310 for 100ml | From £14.99 (5ml) to £44.95 (50ml) |
| Concentration | Eau de Parfum | Extrait de Parfum |
| Style | Creamy sandalwood, aromatic and woody | Creamy sandalwood, aromatic and woody |
| Sizes | 100ml | 5ml, 12ml roller, 15ml, 30ml, 50ml |
Introducing The Original - Insp by Creed Original Santal
The Original is our own composition inspired by the sandalwood and tonka family that Original Santal sits in. It is made as an Extrait de Parfum, meaning a higher concentration of fragrance oils than a standard eau de parfum, which usually gives a fuller scent and better staying power. Prices are £14.99 for a 5ml sample, £19.99 for a 12ml roller or 15ml, £34.99 for 30ml and £44.95 for 50ml. Try The Original from £14.99 →
Being upfront about the comparison
To be clear, The Original is inspired by Creed Original Santal, it is not an exact clone or replica. Creed uses its own materials and formula, and small differences in the opening, the creaminess of the sandalwood or the dry down are to be expected. We are not claiming a note-for-note match. What we offer is the same kind of smooth, aromatic sandalwood character at a price that makes daily wear realistic. The sample size is there so you can judge it for yourself.
Longevity and projection
As an Extrait, The Original is designed to last. Realistically, expect it to stay on skin for many hours, with moderate projection that is noticeable without being overpowering, which suits the office and close company. Results depend on your skin, the weather and how many sprays you use. Two or three sprays is a good starting point. If you enjoy Creed's style more broadly, our Creed Viking Cologne dupe guide covers a fresher, spicier option.
The verdict
If you love the idea of Creed Original Santal but not the £310 price tag, The Original is a smart, low-risk way to wear a creamy sandalwood every day. It will not be identical to the real thing, and we would never say it is, but it captures the same polished, woody mood from just £14.99. Shop The Original →
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Creed and Original Santal are trademarks of their respective owners. D&E Fragrances is not affiliated with Creed. The Original is our own original composition, inspired by the fragrance family of the original.