The Culture Effect

Dupe fragrance has hit the mainstream. Now what?

By Emily Jensen

Mar 30, 2026

When dupe perfumes first hit the market, they existed largely on the periphery of the fragrance industry. Since then, dupe fragrance brands have exploded into the mainstream, entering major retailers, partnering with celebrities and occupying prime real estate. But within the fragrance industry, the term still elicits a certain hesitation — and in some cases, outright legal challenges.