The Ultimate Fragrance Guide: Must-Have Scents For All

A fragrance is a powerful thing. It can evoke memories, shape how we feel, and even change our behaviour. It's no wonder that people are so passionate about their perfumes and colognes. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start. So, here are some of the must-have fragrances to get you going.

For women, there are the classics, like Chanel No. 5 and Dior's J'adore. But if you're looking for something a little more niche, you might want to try Arquiste's L'Or de Louis, which is inspired by the scent of the Palace of Versailles' orangery in the 17th century. For something more affordable, there's Le Monde Gourmand's Beau Bleu, a citrusy, spicy, and woodsy scent that strikes a perfect balance between masculine and feminine.

For men, there are bestsellers like Dior Sauvage and Creed Aventus. But if you're looking for something a little different, you might want to try Officine Universelle Buly's Triple Al Kassir or Le Labo's Another 13. And if you're on a budget, Acqua di Parma's Colonia is a fresh, citrusy scent that suits any occasion.

Fresh and Feminine Florals

Chanel Comète Eau De Parfum

Notes of cherry blossom, aldehydes, iris, heliotrope, and musk make this fragrance delicate and powdery, like an English Iris garden in the summer. It also has a beautiful creaminess that sets it apart from the rest.

Byredo Bal D'afrique Eau De Parfum

This scent is escapism in a bottle. Byredo, known for its intricate and unique fragrances, has created a captivating and powerful floral with notes of African marigold, bergamot, buchu, cyclamen, violet, Moroccan cedarwood, and vetiver.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian À La Rose Eau de Parfum

This fragrance sees the iconic rose note refreshed for 2024, with two varieties of rose combined with notes of honey and fruit to create a flirty, feminine scent.

Parfums De Marly Delina Eau De Parfum

A unique floral fragrance that will smell good on everyone, with notes of Turkish rose, peony, musk, petalia, vanilla, incense, cedar, and Haitian vetiver.

Kilian Love Don't Be Shy Eau De Parfum

A spicy floral with notes of honeysuckle, pink pepper, and coriander, this is a wearable scent that has become a favourite for many.

Jo Loves White Rose & Lemon Leaves

The idea of white rose is usually enough to make perfume lovers run for the hills, but this scent is undeniably likeable and comforting. The zest of lemon intertwines with delicate floral notes to create a wearable, everyday perfume.

Warm and Spicy

For a spicy fragrance with a unique twist, try Gloam by Aesop, which combines pink pepper, cardamom, and saffron with earthy and floral notes. If you're after something that will transport you to a specific moment, Ébène Fumé by Tom Ford, with its notes of palo santo wood, ebony wood, and black pepper, is an excellent choice. For a spicy scent that's cinnamon-forward, Cinnabar Eau de Parfum is ideal, especially for colder temperatures.

For a spicy fragrance with a touch of sweetness, consider Santal Dan Sha by Armani, which blends sandalwood, cardamom, and bergamot for an electrifying effect. If you want a scent that's popular for a reason, try Santal 33 Eau de Parfum, a sultry, spicy fragrance inspired by the American West. This scent is so good that one customer review says they'd take a bath in it if they could!

When it comes to gender-neutral spicy fragrances, there are plenty of options to explore. For instance, Good Fir Eau de Parfum combines notes of pink pepper, bitter orange, and banana leaf with musk and pine trees for a unique fragrance that pays homage to the state of Colorado. For something a little different, try Cuir Rose Eau de Parfum, a twist on a floral fragrance with strong woody and spicy notes, including anise, eucalyptus, and Italian bergamot.

If you're looking for a spicy fragrance with a touch of luxury, look no further than Portrait of a Lady Parfum Spray, a complex blend of Turkish rose, red fruits, cinnamon, and sandalwood. This special-occasion scent is well worth the price, as a little goes a long way. For a winter holiday in a bottle, try Après Eau de Parfum, with notes of juniper berries, bourbon, and cedar that will instantly transport you to snow-capped pine trees.

For a spicy fragrance that's subtle yet complements everyone's body chemistry, reach for Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum by Maison Francis Kurkdjian. This sophisticated scent will have you fielding questions from strangers about what you're wearing. If you want to capture the feeling of curling up by the fireplace with a good book, Replica By the Fireplace Fragrance is the perfect spicy and fiery scent for you.

Citrusy and Clean

If you're a fan of crisp, invigorating scents that offer a burst of freshness, the 'Citrusy and Clean' family of fragrances is for you. This category is characterised by its ability to evoke a sense of cleanliness and vitality, often featuring notes that are tangy, zesty, and reminiscent of sunny days. Here's a guide to help you navigate this vibrant fragrance family.

One iconic fragrance in this category is the timeless Eau de Cologne, which traces its roots back to 1709 in the city of Cologne, Germany. Traditionally crafted from a blend of citrus oils, including lemon, orange, bergamot, and neroli, Eau de Colognes are known for their refreshing and uplifting properties. These colognes are often light and crisp, making them perfect for everyday wear during the warmer months. They provide an instant boost of freshness, like a burst of cool air on a hot summer day.

For a modern twist on the classic Eau de Cologne, look for fragrances that combine citrus notes with unexpected elements. For instance, some contemporary fragrances blend citrus with aquatic notes, resulting in a scent that's both tangy and oceanic. This combination creates an effect that's reminiscent of a seaside breeze, making it perfect for those who want a fresh, invigorating fragrance. Some fragrances in this category also incorporate subtle hints of spices or herbs, adding depth and complexity to the overall aroma.

If you're seeking a more intense and long-lasting fragrance, consider opting for an Eau de Parfum concentration. While Eau de Colognes typically have a lower concentration of fragrance oils, ranging from 2% to 5%, Eau de Parfums can contain up to 20% fragrance oil. This higher concentration not only makes the scent more potent but also increases its longevity on the skin. With an Eau de Parfum, you can expect the citrusy freshness to linger throughout the day, providing a continuous sensory experience.

When it comes to specific notes within the 'Citrusy and Clean' family, there are a few standout stars. Bergamot, a citrus fruit native to Italy, offers a unique blend of sweet and tart, with a hint of floral nuances. It's a key ingredient in many fragrances, providing a bright and elegant touch. Another beloved note is neroli, derived from the bitter orange tree. Neroli possesses a complex aroma, combining citrusy freshness with delicate floral undertones. It adds a sophisticated and slightly bittersweet edge to fragrances.

In conclusion, the 'Citrusy and Clean' fragrance family offers a range of options to suit different preferences and occasions. From the classic and timeless Eau de Colognes to modern interpretations that blend citrus with unexpected notes, this category is all about freshness and vitality. Whether you opt for a light and crisp cologne or a more intense Eau de Parfum, these fragrances will leave you feeling invigorated and refreshed, like a breath of fresh air. So, if you're seeking a scent that's both uplifting and effortlessly elegant, 'Citrusy and Clean' is the perfect choice.

Sweet and Sensual

Kilian Love Don't Be Shy

Rihanna is famously known for wearing this "heavenly" scent, and it is truly as grown-up-gourmand as a scent gets. The notes are both flirty and playful with a little added spice. It has top notes of neroli, pink pepper, and coriander; heart notes of iris, jasmine, rose, honeysuckle, and orange blossom; and base notes of musk, vanilla, civet, caramel, and sugar.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540

This perfume is sweet yet deep, elegant, and sophisticated. It's a unique sultry and sweet tone that is completely iconic. It has top notes of jasmine and saffron; heart notes of amberwood and ambergris; and base notes of cedar and fir resin.

Vilhelm Parfumerie Room Service Eau de Parfum

This scent invokes the sexiest, chicest vibes—like you're in an expensive hotel room with a date sipping on something you can't afford. It has notes of mandarin orange, orchid, black amber, and sandalwood.

Ariana Grande Cloud

This viral perfume balances its sweet and sugary notes with bursts of fresh fruit and musk. It opens with scents of pear and lavender and evolves into a sweet, creamy mix of whipped cream, coconut, praline, and vanilla. Before it becomes too sweet, it settles with notes of musk and woodiness.

Maison Margiela Paris Replica Jazz Club

This woody fragrance is true to its name, with the warm hazy scents of mezcal cocktails and smoking cigars. It's a little more unexpected on a girl, which makes it even more sultry.

Tom Ford Black Orchid

Black Orchid is pungent and attention-grabbing, but not obvious or obnoxious. After an hour or so, the perfume settles into your skin and leaves a faint sweet patchouli-tinged scent trail. It has notes of black truffle, bergamot, black orchid, black plum, noir gourmand accord, and patchouli.

Frédéric Malle Musc Ravageur

Musk and vanilla are the hero notes in this fragrance, so it's definitely your classic sensual perfume. It's balanced with notes of amber, bergamot, tangerine, and cinnamon.

Le Labo Santal 33

Le Labo's cult-favorite perfume is woody, aromatic, and unisex. It features notes like cardamom, violet, and leather. It's a warm and earthy scent that's understated, with a vibe that's more cashmere PJs than high heels and red lipstick.

YSL Beauty Black Opium

This scent is intoxicating and warm. With notes of coffee, white flowers, and vanilla, it's the perfect mix of sexy and sweet.

Ellis Brooklyn Sci Fi

Think of this as a warm and spicy vanilla perfume with a twist. It has notes of green tea and bergamot. It's a great option if your definition of "sexy" is something that's fresh and carefree.

Dior J'Adore

J'Adore is a whiff of fruits and smells really sweet. It has top notes of pear, melon, magnolia, peach, mandarin, orange, and bergamot; heart notes of jasmine, lily-of-the-valley, tuberose, freesia, rose, orchid, plum, and violet; and base notes of musk, vanilla, blackberry, and cedar.

Woody and Musky

For Women

• Diptyque Tam Dao Eau de Toilette: This niche fragrance captures the essence of ancient temples and mysterious forests with its boisé, oriental, and intense notes. It focuses on the pure essence of sandalwood.
• Laboratorio Olfattivo Patchouliful Eau de Parfum: This fragrance combines patchouli with iris and frangipani flower, followed by a warm and enveloping base of musk, cedar, and cistus.
• Byredo Super Cedar Eau de Parfum: A delicate and complex feminine scent with notes of cedarwood, rose petals, and vetiver. It evokes school memories with its pencil-like aroma.
• Francesca dell'Oro White Plumage Eau de Parfum: A delicate yet powerful fragrance with woody notes that intertwine with ancient resins, creating an enveloping mystical scent.
• Molinard Patchouli Intense Eau de Parfum: A deep and luminous woody symphony with intense woody tones and patchouli.

For Men

• Essential Parfums Bois Imperial Eau de Parfum: A bold and sophisticated fragrance with vibrant spicy tones and long-lasting woody notes.
• Penhaligon's Opus 1870 Eau de Toilette: A warm and enveloping woody scent with sweet citrus, black pepper, cloves, English rose, incense, cedarwood, and sandalwood notes.
• Costume National Secret Woods Eau de Parfum: A contemporary and sophisticated blend of sandalwood, patchouli, saffron, and leather, presented in a mysterious and intensely coloured bottle.
• Houbigant Tabac Nomade Eau de Parfum: A warm and hypnotic fragrance with tobacco leaves, spicy notes, leather, and vanilla.
• Frederic Malle Vetiver Extraordinaire Eau de Parfum: An elegant woody scent with vetiver, sandalwood, cedarwood, cashmeran, musk, oakmoss, pink pepper, bergamot, and bitter orange.

Unisex

• January Scent Project: A fresh and handsome blend of citrus, woods, and musk.
• Narciso Rodriguez For Her L'Absolu: A floral woody musk that is warm, sweet, and spicy.
• Tom Ford White Suede: A musky medley that captures the highest form of leather.
• Maison Margiela Replica Lazy Sunday Morning: A relaxing fragrance with strong notes of lily of the valley, iris, and white musk.
• Initio Parfums Privés: A scent with notes of bergamot, black currant, white musk, and pink musk, combining creamy skin scents with sweet and citrus aromas.

Frequently asked questions