I do not own the original branded version so I can not speak on exactly how similar they are, but this is certainly a beautiful and long lasting fragrance and I will repurchase as needed. This is a unisex citrus/marine fragrance but to me it leans masculine. I bought it as a gift for my boyfriend and while I love smelling it on him and on a tester strip, I find it a little masculine for myself (a woman) personally. He loves it. It opens with fruity notes and sea salt. Middle notes are lemon, bergamot, mandarin and iris. The base notes include musk, woody notes and marine accord. The fresh citrus and marine facets suggest a summer scent yet the musky, woody drydown so beautifully blended with the ocean accord brings a warmth suitable for cooler weather if so inclined. Just gorgeous.