The Best Perfumes To Invest In Now, According To Vogue Editors
What differentiates a good perfume from a great one? The best perfumes for women are those that smell beautiful to you, have the power to evoke treasured memories of people, places and things, and can conjure up a range of emotions as a result. And that comes down to science.
“A smell is interpreted when an odour passes into the brain’s olfactory bulb, via the upper part of the nose,” explains perfumer Frederic Malle. “That information then goes to an area where emotions are processed, after which it is carried to the part of the brain where memory forms.”
Read more: The 22 Best Eye Creams For Bright Eyes All Year Round
When choosing a fragrance there are a few things to consider. Are you someone who likes to announce your presence in a room with a lingering signature scent? Or, are you spritzing with a more intimate interaction in mind? Another thing to think about is the notes you prefer. If you know you like your fragrances light and fresh, seek out citrus notes like bergamot or mandarin. If you like them sweet, try notes of vanilla or almond. If you prefer notes that are a little deeper, try sandalwood or oud, both perfect for the winter months.
The best perfume deals
If you’re shopping for a new perfume this season, there’s no better time to take advantage of the best fragrance deals. Some of the biggest names in designer perfumery can be found in the sales, so whether you’re buying a fragrance for him or her, there’s something here to help you tick off your list. Below, Vogue’s pick of the best present-worthy perfumes and colognes to secure for yourself or a loved one.
- Gucci Bloom For Her Eau de Parfum,
£95£75 - Marc Jacobs Dot Eau de Parfum,
£75£41 - Gucci Bamboo For Her Eau de Parfum 75ml,
£110£63 - Boss Bottled Night Eau de Toilette,
£114£57 - Tom Ford Café Rose Eau de Parfum,
£150£128 - Dior Sauvage Eau de Parfum 100ml,
£109£93 - Burberry Hero Eau de Parfum 50ml,
£78£63 - Givenchy Gentleman Eau de Parfum 100ml,
£101.50£87
Jo Malone London Fragrance & Lifestyle Expert, Emma South, answers three of your pressing questions.
How do I store perfume?
“It is best to store fragrance away from direct light and heat sources as these accelerate oxidation, so away from windows is preferable. A fragrance found on the Mary Celestia shipwreck had survived intact and, due to the cool, constant temperature of the sunless ocean floor, the fragrance was unchanged after 150 years. Whilst under sea storage maybe a drastic solution, with limited edition fragrances that cannot be replaced, I do prefer to keep these in a cool, dark cupboard.”
What is the difference between eau de cologne, toilette and perfume?
“Traditionally Eau de Cologne, Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum escalate in their oil concentration, ranging from two per cent to 20 per cent and higher for Parfum. However, there are no regulating bodies that officiate on how Fragrance Houses classify their scents and so the implied oil concentration can sometimes be over or understated. For example, at Jo Malone London Colognes have a much higher concentration of fragrance oil sitting in EDT and EDP territory, compared to a traditional Cologne. The name Cologne was chosen to convey their elegantly simple and transparent compositions, formulas that entice you to play with scent pairing.
“Regardless of the concentration, resinous and animalic compounds, such as woods, amber and musk, have a heavier molecular weight which means they evaporate slower and can be appreciated for longer. For example, fragrances with notes of myrrh, sandalwood, oud, and leather will have a natural longevity versus citrus and verdant, herbaceous notes.”
What makes a perfume popular?
“Fragrances that have reached cult status across the decades not only respond to the cultural zeitgeist but anticipate and reflect change. Scents of the late 1940s sparkle with aldehydes and optimism, filled with the freedom that post-war life brought. Patchouli, one of the most grounding and earthy notes in the perfumer’s palette, was hugely popular during the 1970s, going hand in hand with a nascent environmental movement. Some of the biggest fragrances of the 1980s are the olfactive equivalent of power-dressing, whilst the dawn of a digital age brought a reprieve from more is more and some of the best-known ’90s fragrances radiate clarity and minimalism.
“The late ’90s and Noughties saw celebrity-endorsed scents flood the market followed by the rise of artisanal, niche perfumery as an antidote. This was the ascendency of Jo Malone London and their unmistakable scent aesthetic: ingredient-centred with elegant short formulas.”
Vogue editors on their tried-and-tested top perfumes
Liberty
LBTY Fragrance - Tudor Eau De Parfum
If you have been to the Liberty of London store, you will know exactly what it smells like when you walk in through the Tudor grade-listed entrance: the smoky smell of its wooden floor, stairs and beams, all mixed in with the scent of urban rainy London with notes of the beauty hall wafting through. This fragrance is the smell of the store, bottled – sandalwood, iris and amber mingle with juniper, ginger and nutmeg. To smell it is to smell a slice of history – and it is divine.
— Jessica Diner, European Beauty and Wellness Director
Byredo Bal D’Afrique Eau de Parfum
Inspired by Africa, this floral scent has long been my go-to for everyday and evening – I don’t think I’ll ever get enough of it. With notes of African marigold, bergamot, Moroccan cedarwood and violet, it’s a fresh – but not overpowering – scent unlike any I’ve tried before. It lasts most of the day, but I like to do another spritz around lunch for better staying power.
— Hannah Coates, Beauty and Wellness Editor
Prada
Paradoxe Intense Eau de Parfum
I didn’t think Prada’s Paradoxe could get any better, but the Intense formula serves as proof that there is always room for improvement. Completely intoxicating, it has the same sensual facets of florals and amber in the original, but with a green twist that takes the gourmand scent into a fresher dimension. New notes of moss and magnetic Ambrofix lend both sophistication and longevity – a light mist is all that’s necessary for it to linger all day long. I’m also obsessed with the simple, stylish and sustainable bottle. An emblematic Prada triangle, it’s infinitely refillable and looks super chic on any shelf it’s added to.
— Tracy Achonwa, contributing beauty writer
Floral Street
London Poppy Eau de Parfum
Since being lured into a Floral Street pop-up in Covent Garden a couple of years ago, their London Poppy scent hasn’t left my fragrance rotation. Citrusy and fresh, it combines zingy top notes of Sicilian lemon with Florida orange while a salty marine note adds an unexpected (and very welcome) twist. Perfect for those who are after a little extra energy. Plus, thanks to a 20 per cent concentration of aromatic oils, a little goes a long way. This scent is a compliment waiting to happen.
— Ellie Davies, Audience Growth Manager
Lancôme
Idôle Eau de Parfum
Over the summer, I was in Canada with my sister and one day in Banff we did a four hour hike and then went to the natural hot springs for a little soak. On the bus back to our hotel I got a compliment about my perfume – it had lasted the whole day. No further proof needed to recommend this perfume.
— Hannah Daly, Associate Social Media Manager
LOEWE
Solo Ella Eau de Parfum
I love having more than one perfume on the go and pick them depending on my mood. This year, I added Loewe Solo Ella to my collection – a refreshing scent that reaps compliments every time I wear it. I don’t tend to gravitate towards florals, but Loewe’s take is distinctly different: inspired by “state of grace and equilibrium” and “the balance of oppositional accords” it boasts depth and strength that ensures it lasts all day and night (and the next day).
— Alice Cary, Commerce Writer
Still searching for a new feminine scent? To make choosing a little easier, Vogue has rounded up more of the best perfumes for women below.
The best new perfumes at a glance
- Best floral musk perfume: Versace Dylan Turquoise Eau De Toilette, £70 for 50ml
- Best amber woody perfume: Penhaligon’s Legacy of Petra Eau de Parfum, £215 for 100ml
- Best sophisticated vanilla perfume: Valentino Voce Viva Intensa Eau de Parfum,
£100£85 for 50ml - Best citrus perfume: Aerin Mediterranean Honeysuckle Eau de Parfum,
£105£84 for 50ml - Best contemporary floral fragrance: Giorgio Armani My Way Eau De Parfum, £95 for 50ml
- Best oud perfume: Van Cleef & Arpels Collection Extraordinaire Oud Blanc Eau De Parfum, £145 for 75ml
Read more: The Best Summer Perfumes That Will Take You On Holiday
- Fragrance Family: Spicy/Wood
- Key Notes: Ginger, Juniper, Nutmeg, Chamomile, Sandalwood, Iris, Amber
Why this is a Vogue top pick: This just in: Liberty has made a sensorial debut into perfumery, releasing five fragrances crafted by the world’s most venerated noses. Inspired by the store’s iconic Tudor facade and rich archive of tapestries, Pierre Negrin (the perfumer behind Tom Ford’s Black Orchid) has worked his magic to concoct Tudor: an indulgent, woodsy scent. Warming nutmeg anchors refreshing notes of ginger and juniper berry in this resinous spritz, which lingers on the skin and wins endless compliments from every passerby. We’re in love.
- Fragrance Family: Warm Floral
- Key Notes: Ginger, Bitter Orange, Bergamot, Jasmine, Tuberose, Orange Blossom, Sandalwood and Vanilla
Why this is a Vogue top pick: One of the best warm floral fragrances to date. Developed by perfumer Christine Nagel, Twilly d'Hermès was made with the desire to create a lively and youthful fresh floral scent that is out of the ordinary. Carrying notes of warm vanilla, ginger, tuberose, sandalwood and jasmine, this nostalgic fragrance will be a winner for all those in need of a little extra joy.
- Fragrance Family: Woody Gourmand
- Key Notes: Vanilla Blossom, Caramel Star Anais, Pistachio, Coconut, Orchid, Palo Santo, Vanilla, White Suede
Why this is a Vogue top pick: The notable mature vanilla scent in the & Other Stories Eau de Toilette collection, Poem A Day is a beautifully bold fragrance made for those with a liking for creamy scents with a story. This dreamy fragrance is made perfect with its brilliant amalgamation of vanilla, woods and mature leathers.
- Fragrance Family: Lush Green Fruity
- Key Notes: Blackcurrant Bud, Galbanum, Wild Fig, Green Tea, Orris, Jasmine, Cedarwood, Patchouli, Tonka, Amber, Musk
Why this is a Vogue top pick: If you’re yet to try one of Gabar’s scents, you’re in for a treat. Inspired by the brand’s Southeast Asian heritage (it was established in Myanmar), the range is completely unique and entirely addictive; from the spiciness of No.II Ground to the floral notes of No.I Float. Our current favourite? Swim III – a fresh and green fragrance with depth, thanks to woody notes of sandalwood and cedar, plus a sensual hit of musk. Consider it a year-round staple.
- Fragrance Family: Green Musk
- Key Notes: Strawberry, Bergamot and Pink Pepper; middle notes are Green Notes, Milk and Jasmine; base notes are Musk, Orris, Cedar and Oakmoss
Why this is a Vogue top pick: From its sweet anime you may assume the scent of this surprisingly green fragrance. Closer to its natural scent, Malin + Goetz’s Strawberry stands as a reimagined interpretation of the common garden strawberry. This genderless scent is both fresh and memorable.
- Fragrance Family: Floral gourmand.
- Key Notes: Pomelo, Apple Blossom, Vanilla, Tonka Bean, Mandarin Orange, Heliotrope and Matcha Green Tea.
Why this is a Vogue top pick: The woman founded, independent British Floral Street creates fragrances with the utmost integrity and heart. Sweet Almond Blossom, crafted by master perfumer Jerome Epinette and inspired by Van Gogh’s Almond Blossom painting (Floral Street currently has a collaboration with the Van Gogh Museum), Sweet Almond Blossom is sustainably sourced celebration of creamy vanilla, nutty tonka bean and crisp green matcha tea. In the founder Michelle Feeney's very own words, “This fragrance is for when you’re feeling ethereal, enchanting, sensuous and hypnotic. It really is a day-dreamer's fantasy.”
- Fragrance Family: Gourmand.
- Key Notes: Praline, Saffron, Pear, Bulgarian Rose, Vanilla Sugar, White Musk, Cashmere Wood, Oud and Oakmoss.
Why this is a Vogue top pick: This fragrance is made for gourmand fragrance lovers with its alluring mix of vanilla, warm saffron and fresh Bulgarian rose. The primary ingredient int he entire range, Oud, pays homage to founder Mona Kattan's Middle Eastern Heritage and the decadent fragrance rituals of burning Oud and applying perfumed oils to the neck, body and pulse points.
- Fragrance Family: White Floral
- Key Notes: Jasmine, Orange Blossom, Jasmine Sambac, Tuberose, Praline, Sandalwood and Iris
Why this is a Vogue top pick: Five years in the making, the floral fragrance Wind Flowers by the House of Creed is a confident scent celebrating the power and grace of modern femininity. With notes of fruity peach, sensual jasmine and vibrant orange blossom, master perfumer Olivier Creed set out to create a gourmand fragrance representative of a rush of movement through the air
- Fragrance Family: Warm Spicy.
- Key Notes: Ginger, Pink Pepper, Turmeric, Red Chilli Pepper, Rose and Hazelnut, Musk, Sandalwood and Cashmeran.
Why this is a Vogue top pick: A perfume, or potion, made to make the heart swoon, Liquid Love made to entice. It is made to induce passion and the desire of wearers, as well as those lucky enough to experience its inviting scent. Its warm concoction of ginger and sandalwood is brought down to earth with a sweet rose made to last on skin.
- Fragrance Family: Floral Fruity
- Key Notes: Lily, Gardenia and Sambac Jasmine Absolute
Why this is a Vogue top pick: Whisk yourself away to the Mediterranean with this glorious scent from Aerin. Full of citrusy floral notes, such as bergamot, honeysuckle, grapefruit and lily of the valley, it effortlessly encapsulates the smells of a Greek island.
- Fragrance Family: Amber Vanilla
- Key Notes: Lemon, Green Tea, Ginger, Peach, Jasmine, Apple, Marshmallow, Vanilla and Benzoin
Why this is a Vogue top pick: A gourmand fragrance with a little added extra. This multi-layered fragrance celebrates fierce womanhood and the the exhilaration of independence. With notes of ginger, green tea and and marshmallow, this recognisable fragrance is one to try.
- Fragrance Family: Amber Floral
- Key Notes: Orange Peel, Grapefruit, Cardamom, Neroli, Lavender, Orange Blossom, Blonde Woods, Musk and Crystal Amber
Why this is a Vogue top pick: Inspired by the kiss of golden hours in Marrakech, this tantalising fragrance is a tribute to the pleasure and joy the city brings. Soft brown sugar, lashing of fresh pomello and spiced cardamom – think bronzed skin under the rich Moroccan sun. Layer with other fragrances in the collection.
- Fragrance Family: Chypre Floral
- Key Notes: Citruses, Pink Pepper, Lemon, Damask Rose and Patchouli
Why this is a Vogue top pick: A vibrant fragrance inspired by one of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel’s favourite places, Les Eaux Paris-Paris embodies the charm, allure and elegance of Parisian women. The fragrance bursts with fresh citrus accents and sharp peppercorn, as well as comforting patchouli.
- Fragrance Family: Chypre Musc
- Key Notes: Plum, Musk, Heliotrope and Suede
Why this is a Vogue top pick: Inspired by the original For Her fragrance, Musc Noir by Narciso Rodriguez reinterprets its core, building on the iconic fragrance’s darkest and most intense facets. Paying homage to the duality of all women, the scent features notes of juicy plum followed by heliotrope flower and sensual leather suede accord.
- Fragrance Family: Floral
- Key Notes: Orange Blossom, Bergamot,Tuberose, Indian Jasmine, Madagascar Vanilla, White Musk and Virginian Cedar
Why this is a Vogue top pick: My Way is a floral, woody fragrance that’s full of life. At the top, fresh bergamot from Egypt; the heart, tuberose and jasmine from India; the base, vanilla from Madagascar.
- Fragrance Family: Woody Aromatic
- Key Notes: Bergamot, Cedar, Ginger, Cedarwood, Vetiver, Musk and Benzoin
Why this is a Vogue top pick: Presented in a bold, blue bottle, the latest addition to the Acqua Di Parma Blu Mediterraneo range, Cipresso Di Toscana, is inspired by the Tuscan landscape and classic fougère family of perfumes. With notes of cypress, star anise, sage and lavender, the perfume leaves a warm and refreshing scent.
- Fragrance Family: Woody Floral
- Key Notes: Bergamot, Tangerine, Pink Pepper, Jasmine Sambac, Geranium and Ylang-Ylang
Why this is a Vogue top pick: A story of falling in love; the special tale of Cosimo III de’ Medici and his Stufa dei Mugherini. Sustaining the story of warm jasmine grown that once struck the senses, Gelsomino brings its beauty into our everyday life. Let the notes of musk, ylang ylang and bergamot carry you.
- Fragrance Family: Woody Spicy
- Key Notes: Mimosa, Saffron and Iris
Why this is a Vogue top pick: Think spice enveloped in rose petals, paired with warm Jasmine Sambac for this powdery yet earthy Aesop scent. Suitable for all genders, this is the scent for floral-lovers with a love for green scents with edge.
- Fragrance Family: Green
- Key Notes: Bergamot, Tuscan Leather, Galbanum, Patchouli, Black Amber
Why this is a Vogue top pick: From the art deco bottles to the creative fragrances, Vilhelm Parfumerie is a boutique perfumer worth knowing. When you spritz yourself with Morning Chess, you’ll feel surrounded by summer’s crisp morning air – it’s bright, fresh and full of excitement.
- Fragrance Family: Amber Floral
- Key Notes: Iris, Peony, Lily-of-the-Valley, Apricot, Rose, Peach, Vanilla, Musk, Tonka Bean, Benzoin and Sandalwood
Why this is a Vogue top pick: With fresh notes of lily of the valley, peony and iris blended with creamy musks, vanilla, and a hint of tonka bean, the new Miss Dior Eau de Parfum is soft and sensual.
- Fragrance Family: Chypre
- Key Notes: Galbanum, Basil, Black Currant, Lily-of-the-Valley, Hyacinth, Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Almond, Oakmoss and Patchouli
Why this is a Vogue top pick: Harking back to the heady scents of the ’70s, Frederic Malle’s Synthetic Jungle Eau De Parfum is an unusual blend of basil, hyacinth, blackcurrant and patchouli.
- Fragrance Family: Leather
- Key Notes: Violet Leaf, Cedar, Jasmine Sambac, Orris, Leather, Woody Notes and Tobacco
Why this is a Vogue top pick: With notes of vanilla bourbon, liquorice and pink pepper, Carolina Herrera’s newest fragrance is both heady and hypnotic.
- Fragrance Family: Floral Woody Musk
- Key Notes: Salt, Rose, Jasmine, Vanilla and Musk
Why this is a Vogue top pick: Lancôme's Idôle Aura Eau De Parfum is an alluring blend of salt crystals, white flowers and vanilla. A perfect choice for anyone looking to lift their mood.
- Fragrance Family: Chypre
- Key Notes: Incense, Rose, Geranium and Patchouli
Why this is a Vogue top pick: Louboutin’s latest addition to the Loubiworld fragrance collection is a rich unisex fragrance full of geranium and rose, with notes of warm patchouli.
- Fragrance Family: Warm Sensual Floral
- Key Notes: Guaiacwood, Pomegranate, Casablanca Lily, Pink Pepper
Why this is a Vogue top pick: The purveyor of elegant fragrances, Jo Malone is a go-to at Vogue. Sensual with a hint of spice, when you’re dressed up for an evening, the finishing touch should always be Pomegranate Noir.
- Fragrance Family: Floral Woody Musk
- Key Notes: Cinnamon, Cardamom, Orris, Carrot, Ginger, Patchouli and Papyrus
Why this is a Vogue top pick: Inspired by the human need to connect, Eyes Closed evokes the experience of intimacy. Patchouli and papyrus blends with orris butter, ginger and carrot in an intoxicating mix, while candied spices (think: cinnamon and cardamom) create a sense of warmth, and tenderness, as if falling into a loving embrace.
- Fragrance Family: Woody Earthy Green
- Key Notes: Matcha tea accord, Fig, Vetiver, Cedar Woods and Bitter Orange
Why this is a Vogue top pick: A quiet inner celebration of grace and soulful beauty, Le Labo’s latest eau de parfum mixes notes of creamy fig, bitter orange with matcha tea accord, vetiver and cedar woods to create a compelling unisex perfume.
- Fragrance Family: Earthy
- Key Notes: Oak Moss, Cedar Wood, Tonka Bean, Geranium, Jasmine, Tuberose, Black Pepper, Ylang-Ylang, Sweet Bergamot and Orange Flower
Why this is a Vogue top pick: Charged with Orange flower, bergamot, jasmine, oak moss, and cedar wood, Kate Moss’s hypnotic Sacred Mist is designed to ground the mind and body, bringing about emotional balance and inner peace.
- Fragrance Family: Citrus
- Key Notes: Turmeric, Bergamot, Ginger, Lemon, Cardamom, Black Pepper, Haitian Vetiver, Sandalwood, Amber and Musk
Why this is a Vogue top pick: This is not your typical summer fragrance, Sun Rae truly bursts with magic. Containing a supercharged Herkimer diamond crystal energised by Vyrao's healer, Louise Mita – the diamond is known to clear, amplify and raise energy. This plant and flower remedy focused scent has notes of Madagascan black pepper oil, fresh ginger oil, lemon oil and sandalwood.
- Fragrance Family: Fruity Woody
- Key Notes: Jasmine, Sandalwood and Tuberose
Why this is a Vogue top pick: A fragrance for the extravagant amongst us. This intoxicating scent is truly one-of-a-kind. With heady notes of jasmine and tuberose flowers the perfume mesmerises the senses while the bottle itself is glass coated with ruby enamel and decorated with a filigree lace design. The base is decorated with Swarovski crystals, and the cap with a bespoke crystal to complete the look.
- Fragrance Family: Woody Floral Musk
- Key Notes: Aldehydes, Lily-of-the-Valley, Pear, Rose, Iris, Orange Blossom, White Musk, Ambrette and Indonesian Patchouli Leaf
Why this is a Vogue top pick: There’s something about the smell of fresh linen which makes you want to stop what you’re doing and take a deep breath in. Enter Maison Margiela Replica Lazy Sunday Morning; a delicate blend of pear accord and ambrette seeds, rose petals, white wood and creamy musk evoke the smell of crisp white sheets and soft skin. The perfect lazy Sunday.
- Fragrance Family: Amber Floral
- Key Notes: French Rose, Jasmine and Bergamot, Damask Rose, Ylang-Ylang, Amber, Patchouli, Vanilla, Musk and Vetiver
Why this is a Vogue top pick: Promenade Sur Le Rocher is regal beauty. With the Hollywood darling and Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly, as its primary muse, the timeless fragrance is unlike any other. A floral fragrance with notes of rose, vanilla, musk and amber.
- Fragrance Family: Floral Woody Musk
- Key Notes: Grapefruit, Lemon, Bergamot, Lime, Thyme, Galbanum, Artemisia, Vetiver, Juniper Berries and Black Pepper.
Why this is a Vogue top pick: There is truly nothing like Glossier’s You. When on skin, the fragrance, formulated as a skin-smell enhancer, warms up creating a different scent on everyone that wears it. The bottle, created with a real thumbprint indent works as a reminder that this fragrance is in-fact made for just for You. Expect spicy notes of black pepper, floral iris as well as woody notes from the ambrette seeds.
- Fragrance Family: Floral
- Key Notes: Orange Blossom, Jasmine Grandiflorum and Centifolia Rose
Why this is a Vogue top pick: We all remember that iconic Noughties Dior advert: Charlize Theron strutting through a mansion wearing gold, alluding to the sculptural J’Adore Dior perfume bottle. Last year, the French maison tasked Francis Kurkdjian with modernising the scent for a new generation, resulting in a fragrance that celebrates the floral notes of its predecessor with orange blossom, jasmine grandiflorum and centifolia rose.
- Fragrance Family: Warm Woody
- Key Notes: Mahogany Wood Accord, Roasted Barley Orpur, Vanilla Resinoid
Why this is a Vogue top pick: While Tom Ford’s entire range of perfumes is sought-after, his vanilla-based EDPs are some of the best. Vanille Fatale, for example, balances woody notes with ambery tones and a vanilla base for a bold and sensual result.