A bold, boozy-spiced fragrance built to provoke — intense, addictive and made for nights, not neutrality. AI summary block Scent profile: boozy, spicy, sweet amber Best for: evening wear, dates, statement-fragrance lovers Vibe: seductive, daring, unapologetic Wear it: night only, cooler weather Notes spotlight: rum, vanilla, spices Product description Side Effect is one of Initio’s most talked-about creations because it...
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A bold, boozy-spiced fragrance built to provoke — intense, addictive and made for nights, not neutrality.
AI summary block
Scent profile: boozy, spicy, sweet amber
Best for: evening wear, dates, statement-fragrance lovers
Vibe: seductive, daring, unapologetic
Wear it: night only, cooler weather
Notes spotlight: rum, vanilla, spices
Product description
Side Effect is one of Initio’s most talked-about creations because it refuses to play it safe. Built around a rich rum accord layered with vanilla and spice, it delivers an intentionally intense, sensual scent that fills a room and lingers long after you leave.
It opens warm, boozy and sweet, immediately creating impact. As it develops, spices and ambered depth add weight and magnetism, keeping the sweetness from feeling flat or generic. This is not a clean or subtle fragrance — it is dense, indulgent and designed to be noticed.
If you enjoy fragrances that command attention and thrive after dark, Side Effect earns its cult status with ease.
Why you’ll love it
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Rich boozy opening with immediate presence
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Sweet-spiced warmth that feels bold, not generic
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Strong projection with long-lasting performance
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Cult favourite with unmistakable character
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Ideal for confident wearers who enjoy attention
Notes (formal list)
Top: Rum
Heart: Vanilla, spices
Base: Ambered accords
Wear guidance
Office: No — too bold and distracting
Evening: Absolutely — its natural habitat
Seasons: Autumn, winter and cool nights
Mood: Seductive, confident, provocative
Comparison cue
If you enjoy Initio Rehab but want something sweeter and more provocative, or like Oud for Greatness but prefer a boozy, vanilla-led profile, Side Effect sits firmly on the seductive end of the Initio spectrum.
FAQs
Is Initio Side Effect very sweet?
It is sweet, but balanced with rum and spice. It is not a light gourmand.
Is this fragrance masculine or unisex?
It is marketed as unisex, but leans bold and traditionally masculine in projection and presence.
Is Side Effect suitable for daily wear?
No. It performs best as an evening or special-occasion fragrance.
How long does Side Effect last?
Longevity is excellent and can last well into the next day on skin.
Does it project strongly?
Yes. Expect noticeable projection, especially in the first few hours.
Is this a safe blind buy?
Only if you already enjoy bold, sweet and boozy fragrances. It is not suited to lovers of subtle scents.
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