River Island Intense black Review: A Bold Men’s Fragrance for Just £18

Last week, I popped into my local River Island at Cribbs Causeway to check out their new summer pieces and ended up walking out with something a little unexpected — a bottle of Intense Black Eau de Parfum for men. Priced at just £18, I’ll admit I didn’t have huge expectations, but I’ve always believed that affordable doesn’t mean uninspired. Much like Zara, River Island has been quietly building a solid lineup of stylish, wearable men's fragrances — and Black Intense is a standout.

Packaging & Presentation

Let’s talk about the packaging. First impressions matter, and River Island nailed it. The box is sleek and simple, with a design that wouldn’t look out of place next to more premium fragrances. But it’s the bottle that really impressed me. It’s got weight to it — heavy in the hand, with a masculine silhouette and a cool metallic label that displays the name and branding. It gives off that high-end vibe without the designer price tag. This is the kind of bottle that looks great on your shelf, and for £18, that’s saying something.

Scent Profile: What Does Black Intense Smell Like?

Intense Black is what I’d personally call a “black fragrance” — and if you’re into fragrances, you’ll know what I mean. Where “blue” fragrances like Dior Sauvage or Bleu de Chanel are fresh, aquatic, and universally safe, black fragrancestend to be spicier, deeper, more sensual, often leaning into warm, oriental notes. They’re the kind of scents you wear when you want to leave a strong impression.

Intense Black opens with a citrusy kick — there’s bergamot, lemon, and grapefruit up front that gives it a bright energy. But it doesn’t stay there for long. Pretty quickly, the scent evolves into something warmer and richer, thanks to notes of amber, patchouli, vanilla, and musk. It’s spicy, slightly sweet, and very seductive. Honestly, this could pass for something far more expensive.

It’s also worth saying — it does remind me a bit of your typical “fashion store” fragrance. If you’ve tried scents from Zara, or Bershka, you’ll get what I mean. But that’s not a dig. These kinds of fragrances are made to smell great and get compliments, and this one delivers.

Projection & Longevity

Projection? Solid. People around you will notice it. I wore it out for coffee the other day and had two people comment on it. That’s always a good sign.

Longevity? That’s where it dips slightly. I get about three hours before it starts to fade, especially on warmer skin. But you know what? For £18, that’s not a deal-breaker. Just carry a small decant or reapply at lunch or before heading out in the evening. Easy.

When to Wear Intense black?

This is always the question, right? Day or night? Summer or winter?

Honestly — both.

Yes, it leans slightly evening with its spice and amber notes, and I think it’s going to be killer on holiday nights. Picture yourself at a beach club on the Med, cocktail in hand, golden hour light — this scent works.

But I’ve also been wearing it during the day, and it holds up beautifully. It’s not too overpowering and gives off that “I smell good, and I know it” vibe without trying too hard.

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy It?

Absolutely. For £18, this is a no-brainer. It smells great, looks premium, and brings a bit of personality to your fragrance rotation. I’ve also tested Intense Blue from River Island, and while that one is more of a fresh aquatic scent, Intense Black is the one I keep reaching for. It’s spicier, deeper, and more distinctive.

Is it discontinued? I hope not — it’s currently out of stock online, but you can still find it in stores (I got mine at Cribbs Causeway, so check your local branch). Honestly, if you spot it, grab it. You won’t regret it.

Jerome

Jerome is a 50-year-old lifestyle blogger and the founder of Dapper & Groomed. He shares honest, personal takes on men’s fragrances—from timeless classics to modern scents—based on real-life wear and everyday testing. Based in the UK, he helps men over 40 find signature scents that suit their style, mood, and season.