Dolce & Gabbana The Only One 2
In this review
In 2019, Dolce & Gabbana introduced The Only One 2, a flanker to the original The Only One (2018). While the original was a bright, floral gourmand, this iteration takes a darker, more introspective turn. The name itself hints at a sequel—a second chapter that deepens the narrative with coffee, violet, and a rich amber base.
From the first spritz, The Only One 2 announces itself with a burst of red berries and pear, but the sweetness is quickly tempered by a surprising coffee note that emerges in the heart. This is not a light, airy scent; it is a statement piece, designed for evenings and cooler months. The composition is a study in contrasts: fruity yet dark, sweet yet grounded, floral yet gourmand.
As a fragrance historian, I find this flanker particularly interesting because it reflects a broader trend in the late 2010s—the rise of coffee and gourmand notes in feminine perfumery, moving away from the ubiquitous white florals. Dolce & Gabbana, never one to shy away from opulence, delivers a scent that feels both familiar and daring.
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
The first 0–30 minutes are a vibrant, juicy burst of red berries, pear, and blackberry, with a touch of freesia adding a slightly green, floral lift. The sweetness is immediate and almost candied, but not cloying.
After about an hour, the heart emerges: a velvety rose and violet duo, underpinned by a distinct, roasted coffee note. The coffee is not bitter but rather smooth and slightly sweet, blending with the florals to create a sophisticated, creamy texture.
Four hours in, the base takes over: patchouli provides a earthy, slightly woody anchor, while tonka bean and amberwood add warmth and a powdery sweetness. Ambergris lends a subtle, salty marine nuance that prevents the drydown from becoming too heavy.
Performance Dashboard
6–10 hours on skin, with good longevity on clothing. The coffee and amber base notes linger well into the evening.
Not specified in available data; typical for an EDP, expect moderate projection for the first 2–3 hours.
Moderate sillage—projects about an arm's length initially, then settles into a soft, intimate aura after a few hours.
When to Wear
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Unique coffee-rose combination
- ✅ Good longevity (6–10 hours)
- ✅ Elegant, sophisticated drydown
- ✅ Versatile for fall and winter
- ❌ May be too sweet for some
- ❌ Coffee note can be overpowering in heat
- ❌ Moderate sillage, not a beast mode
- ❌ Limited availability in some markets
Price & Value
“Good value for the performance and unique composition, especially if found on discount.”
Reformulation History
No significant batch variations reported; the formula appears consistent across production runs.
Who It's For
Ideal For
- Women who enjoy gourmands with a dark twist
- Fans of coffee and rose combinations
- Those seeking a sophisticated, non-girly sweet scent
Not Recommended For
- Those who prefer light, fresh, or aquatic fragrances
- People sensitive to strong coffee or patchouli notes
- Summer or high-heat wear
The Family
The Only One
The Only One Intense
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Layering Ideas
- Layer with a vanilla body lotion to enhance the gourmand aspect.
- Spritz over a light floral perfume like Dolce & Gabbana Dolce for a contrasting sweet-floral effect.
- Combine with a woody musk scent to add depth to the drydown.
