It's been a while since I heard about Chris Collins, but I never stopped to explore the house, until recently. I saw the sample set on sale at Sephora and picked it up, and I was impressed by the quality of the fragrances. That convinced me that it was time to dive in. So I did by starting with a blind buy. Savant Manhattan Cherry was not among the samples. I did a quick test spray and I am feeling good. I think I may wear it tomorrow.

Isola Blu smells like a really classy and upscale blue fragrance. It opens fresh and citrusy, but it comes off smoother, more natural, and more expensive than your usual designer blue. It does not have that loud shower gel vibe. Instead, it smells clean, polished, and refined without feeling like it is trying too hard. What I like about it is that it stays fresh but still has some depth. The woods and musks in the base give it a more mature and elegant feel, so it does not come across basic or generic. It is very versatile and easy to wear, but at the same time, it smells like a better quality than a lot of scents in this style. Compared to Oceania, I think both are really good fresh fragrances, but they go in different directions. Oceania feels brighter, lighter, and more airy. It has more of that easygoing, breezy, fresh feel. Isola Blu feels smoother, richer, and a little more dressed up. It comes across as more refined and more mature, while Oceania feels more casual and carefree. As far as lasting power, I would give that to Isola Blu, too. On my skin, it hangs around longer and feels a little fuller in the drydown. Oceania smells great, but it feels lighter and does not seem to last as long by comparison. I would put Isola Blu at around 6 to 8 hours, while Oceania comes off a little shorter on me. If I had to pick which one is better overall, I would go with Isola Blu. To me, it smells more refined, more complete, and performs a little better, too. Oceania is still great for when I want something airy, casual, and easy in very hot weather, but Isola Blu feels like the better all-around fragrance. Projection: Moderate Sillage: Refined Longevity: 6 to 8 hours Best seasons: Spring, summer, early fall