LavenderOpens with
Green GrassHeart
MuskDries down to
René MorgenthalerThe nose · 5 fragrances · also made Extreme Polo Sport (1998)Portrait →Will you like it? Mark a few fragrances you own or love and we'll tell you.
Calvin Klein · Sold as unisex
CK be
The quiet sophistication of a minimalist office, where elegance is found in understated details.
Full bottle: Mid-range tier, typically $40–100. Links open each seller's own page. We may earn a commission; it never changes the order.
CK beMid-range · $40–100
50%Similar accords, often for lessEnergy Vibe · ZaraBudget tier, under $40 · shares 6 of its 7 notes8 matches →How it wears
From community votes · bars are each option's shareComposition & Character
Notes Pyramid
The story behind the bottle.
CK be, launched in 1996 by Calvin Klein and crafted by René Morgenthaler, is a deliberate counterpoint to the brand’s earlier success with CK One. This fragrance opens with a bright burst of green notes and bergamot, balanced by the subtle spiciness of juniper and mandarin orange. The heart introduces soft florals like jasmine and freesia, while the base settles into warm woods and musk, creating an understated yet captivating blend. Its launch helped cement the unisex fragrance concept in the fashion mainstream of the era.
CK be has a distinct opening that fades quickly, so apply two sprays to ensure the warm, woody base notes emerge. This fragrance works best during cooler hours; it can read as too subtle for peak summer days.
Fig. 01 — CK be, Calvin Klein
Where to buy.
Wear it for a week first
A decant costs a fraction of a bottle and tells you how it lasts on your skin.
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René Morgenthaler
From Geneva apprentice to Chief PerfumerRené Morgenthaler began his career with an apprenticeship in chemistry at Givaudan in his native Geneva, earning a place at the newly established Givaudan Perfumery School.
The CK be line
2 fragrances, compared side by side
Designer Calvin Klein
More from the house · founded 1968 · United States
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Chosen from what wearers say it smells like, what its fans also love, and its notes
Love it, not the price?
Matched by accords and notes. Sample first, then decide.
The originalCK beCalvin Klein · Mid-range · $40–100Zara · 2022Energy VibeShares 6 of its 7 notesunder $40★ 4.09 (80)
With Calvin Klein Calvin Klein
Adds white floral, rose and earthy; shares peach and jasmine and 4 more notes.
Suggested from accords and notes · not yet tried by wearers
What people
are saying.
Respected, if divisive: loved by 24%, disliked or hated by 13%.