No, and this distinction matters. A dupe is a legally sold, separately branded fragrance designed to smell similar to a more expensive perfume, while a fake is an unauthorised counterfeit sold under the original brand’s own name and packaging, which is straightforwardly illegal.

Where the real difference lies

Fragrance notes and formulas generally can’t be copyrighted in the way a brand name, logo or bottle design can, which is why a dupe can legally exist as its own product, honestly labelled under its own name, and marketed as “inspired by” or “similar to” a well-known scent without breaking the law. A fake, by contrast, tries to pass itself off as the genuine branded product, using a counterfeit version of the actual name, logo and packaging, which is a straightforward trademark and consumer protection violation regardless of how it smells.

Why this matters when you’re buying

A well-made dupe sold honestly under its own name is a legitimate, transparent product. A perfume claiming to be a famous brand at a suspiciously low price, sold under that brand’s actual name, is a completely different and much riskier proposition. Our guide to spotting fake perfume and luxury, niche and designer guide cover this properly, alongside the complete guide to perfume.