Quick Verdict
Khadlaj Empire Empress is a bold, long-lasting oud-leather fragrance with powerful projection, but a harsh alcohol-heavy opening and lack of smooth note development make it a disappointing wear overall.
This scent performs loudly — it just doesn’t perform beautifully.
Fragrance Overview
- Brand: Khadlaj
- Fragrance Name: Empire Empress
- Category: Oud / Leather / Woody
- Vibe: Strong, assertive, unapologetic
Official Notes Breakdown
Top Notes
- Bergamot
- Pink Pepper
Middle Notes
- White Amber
- Rosemary
- Oud
Base Notes
- Musk
- Leather
- Vetiver
How It Actually Smells (Honest Take)
From the very first spray, the opening is rough. Instead of the bright lift you’d expect from bergamot and pink pepper, you’re hit with a strong alcohol blast and a soapy sharpness that immediately throws the balance off.
I kept waiting for the fragrance to settle into something smoother or more layered as it moved into the heart — but that transition never really happens. The white amber and rosemary don’t register clearly, and the oud starts to dominate early.
Once fully dried down, the scent becomes a very straightforward oud and leather combination. No sweetness, no softness, no evolution — just dry, dominant, and intense.
If you enjoy fragrances that stay linear and bold from start to finish, this might appeal to you. If you’re looking for nuance or refinement, this one falls short.
Performance Breakdown
- Projection: Strong (fills space quickly)
- Longevity: Excellent (8+ hours on skin, longer on clothing)
- Sillage: Noticeable and assertive
- Evolution: Minimal
- Wearability: Low for everyday use
This fragrance absolutely performs — just not in a way that feels enjoyable or balanced for me.
Zoba’s Scent Steals Scorecard (Out of 5)
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Opening | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5) |
| Scent Profile | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5) |
| Dry Down | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5) |
| Projection | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½☆ (4.5/5) |
| Longevity | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½☆ (4.5/5) |
| Overall | ⭐⭐½☆☆ (2.5/5) |
Scorecard Summary:
Incredible strength and staying power, but the scent itself never comes together.
Who This Is For
- Lovers of strong oud and leather fragrances
- People who prioritize projection and longevity above all else
- Fans of bold, uncompromising scent profiles
Who Should Skip This
- Anyone sensitive to alcohol-heavy or sharp openings
- Those who prefer smooth, blended, or evolving fragrances
- Fans of soft florals, gourmands, or refined woods
Final Verdict
Khadlaj Empire Empress proves that strength doesn’t equal quality. While it lasts long and projects powerfully, the lack of balance and refinement makes it a miss for me. This is a fragrance that announces itself loudly — but doesn’t reward you for wearing it.
