Ex Nihilo's The Hedonist Extrait de Parfum is one of the most talked-about niche releases of recent years: a bright, spicy, woody-amber scent that gets noticed. It is priced accordingly, at £365 for a 100ml bottle at UK retailers such as Harrods and Harvey Nichols.
What does Ex Nihilo The Hedonist actually smell like?
- Top: bergamot, ginger, grapefruit
- Heart: cedarwood, Akigalawood, lychee
- Base: vetiver, tonka bean, patchouli, ambery woods
The result is a juicy, zesty opening that settles into a warm, woody, slightly sweet dry-down.
Why people look for a Hedonist dupe
At £365 a bottle, a signature scent from a niche house is a big commitment. Many people would rather try an inspired-by alternative first, or keep one for everyday wear and save the original for special occasions. A dupe lets you enjoy a similar fragrance direction for a fraction of the cost.
Introducing Playboy — Insp by Ex Nihilo Hedonist Extrait
Playboy is D&E's Extrait de Parfum inspired by this woody-amber, citrus-and-spice style. It starts at £14.99 for a 5ml sample, with 15ml at £19.99, 30ml at £34.99 and 50ml at £44.95, plus a 12ml oil roller at £19.99. It is best for people who like a confident, fresh-meets-warm scent for day or evening wear.
Being upfront about the comparison
No inspired-by fragrance is an exact clone or replica of the original. Playboy is our own composition that captures the general direction of The Hedonist, and differences in blend, ingredients and concentration mean it will not smell identical. The 5ml sample is the easiest way to see whether it suits you.
Longevity and projection
As an Extrait de Parfum it is made to be rich and long-lasting. Performance varies with skin type, climate and how you apply it, but most people can expect good wear on skin and noticeable presence from a few sprays on pulse points.
The verdict
If you love the idea of The Hedonist but not the £365 price tag, Playboy is a low-risk way to explore the style. Start with a 5ml sample, then step up to a bigger size if you love it.
Shop Playboy - Insp by Ex Nihilo Hedonist Extrait
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Ex Nihilo and The Hedonist are registered trademarks of their owner. D&E Fragrances is an independent UK fragrance brand and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Ex Nihilo. "Playboy" is our own original composition, inspired by the popular fragrance family that The Hedonist helped define.