Fragrance is highly subjective. What smells lovely to me may smell like NYC street trash to someone else, and vice versa. Not only that, but choosing a fragrance may be like choosing a child. Some people stick to their characteristic scent, while others (like myself) switch scents based on their mood.
Some scents top every list of finest fragrances, regardless of scent preferences. Even the harshest reviewers enjoy these smells. So we tested the most popular perfumes. After narrowing down 67 top fragrances, 11 Who What Wear editors blind-tested 24 vanilla, sweet, fruity, and other perfumes from Byredo and Maison Margiela Replica, scoring them from one to 10. Wondering which scents made the cut? Keep scrolling!
A quick reminder: These perfumes were tested by very fussy editors with high standards and different tastes. The 24 perfumes we tested averaged 5.8. The following perfumes stood out for that reason.
The Best Perfumes, at a Glance
Best Overall: Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum
Best Fruity: Phlur Tangerine Boy Parfum
Best Wedding Scent: Jo Malone London Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne
Best Floral: Gucci Bloom EDT
The Best for Women: Dior Miss Dior Eau de Parfum
The 16 Best Perfumes We’ve Ever Tested
Best Overall: Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum
Parfums de Marly
Delina Eau de Parfum
The average rating is 9.3 out of 10.
Notes: Turkish rose, peony vanilla, musk, rhubarb, lychee, and bergamot essence.
Three words that succinctly describe this fragrance: “Soft, warm, feminine.” — Anna LaPlaca, senior fashion editor
Six hours of longevity
Testing notes: “I applied it twice, once to my wrists and once to the collarbone, at noon. By 6 p.m., I observed that it had dissipated.” I would certainly want to re-up with another application if I were to go out for dinner or beverages in the evening. I found no significant difference between the scent of the product in the bottle and the scent on my skin, which I found to be a positive experience. I experienced the sensation that the fragrance I was aerosolizing was the one I intended to wear. If anything, I observed that it became slightly softer after it had been absorbed, and the citrus scent that I had initially detected upon opening the container was lost. — LaPlaca
Best Fruity: Phlur Tangerine Boy Eau de Parfum
Best Fruity: Phlur Tangerine Boy Eau de Parfum
Phlur
Tangerine Boy Eau De Parfum
The average rating is 8.7 out of 10.
Notes: Apple, tangerine, jasmine petal, black pepper, lemon, and ginger
This fragrance can be described in three words: “Clean, juicy, and refreshing.” — Yusra Siddiqui, contributor
Lifespan: 4 to 5 hours
Testing notes: “I observed that the degree of change on my skin was not significantly different from when I sprayed it. It possessed a fresh, sweet scent with a hint of spice on both occasions. The fruity aroma diminishes slightly on the skin, but in a subtle manner. I typically opt for floral perfumes, as I find that the majority of fruity perfumes are overpowering (similar to the hand sanitizer you used in middle school). However, this particular fragrance is simply exquisite.” Siddiqui.
Best Unisex: Tom Ford Ombré Leather Eau de Parfum
(Image credit: @jamieeschneider)
Tom Ford
Ombré Leather Eau De Parfum
Notes: Violet flower, jasmine flower, black leather
By Jamie Schneider, senior beauty editor: “Musky, warm, intoxicating.”
Duration: twelve hours or more
Testing notes: “Introducing the fragrance that my fiancé and I have been applying repeatedly. If you are not fond of rich, warm, musky aromas, it is important to be aware that this fragrance is very leather-forward. However, if you prefer a more edgy fragrance, you will be captivated by it. I believe that it is extremely attractive to share perfume with one’s companion, and this particular fragrance is an ideal choice.” — Schneider
Jo Malone London
Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne
The average rating is 7.9 out of 10.
Notes: Sage, sea salt, and ambrett seeds
Natalie Gray-Herder, commerce editor, branded content, describes this fragrance as “warm, sweet, and light.”
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Testing notes: “For more than five years, this perfume has been a staple in my rotation and is my favorite from the brand. I assure you that it is worth testing, despite the fact that my review may be biased due to my existing fandom. The woody overtones are the most noticeable to me after they have been applied to my wrists. I have a preference for smoky, warm wood fragrances and tend to avoid more floral, sweet scents. However, I have discovered that this perfume is an ideal blend of warmth, sweetness, and lightness. It is exceedingly sophisticated, and I would regard it as a “neutral good” in the fragrance industry.” Gray-Herder.
Most Effortlessly Cool: Perfumehead Reine Des Anges Extrait De Parfum
Perfumehead
Reine Des Anges Extrait De Parfum
Rating average: 8.3/10
Turkish rose, Moroccan rose, schinus molle, saffron, geranium, patchouli, amber.
Sexed-up rose smell.
Lasts 8+ hours
The night after spraying this perfume on before a friend’s birthday party, I could still smell it. Though I’m not a rose lover, I’ve never smelled a rose as musky and spicy. I asked my partner what he thought, and he answered, “I love it.” It’s subtle but strong. This is a huge compliment from a man who loves smell almost as much as I do and won’t hesitate to tell me if a perfume I’m testing isn’t working.
Best Date-Night Scent: Carolina Herrera Good Girl Eau de Parfum
Carolina Herrera
Good Girl Eau De Parfum
The average rating is 7.7 out of 10.
Notes: Vanilla, almond, tuberose, jasmine sambac, cocoa, and tonka bean.
In three syllables, this fragrance is known as “Victoria’s Secret Angel.” — Ana Escalante, associate features editor
Lifespan: 4 to 5 hours
Testing notes: “It is reminiscent of an ode to 2010 malls, Victoria’s Secret Push Up Bra campaigns, and Rihanna’s “Umbrella” straight out of the bottle.” I anticipated that the overly floral and citrusy aromas present in the majority of mass-produced fragrances would be detracting, as a significant portion of my fragrance collection is from niche houses. While this is true to a certain extent, I believe that the fragrance I selected is more refined and glamorous. At times, I desire to exude the same fragrance as Paris Hilton or Lindsay Lohan on a red carpet in 2007 and be content with it. Escalante
Best Beach Vacation Scent: Ellis Brooklyn Sun Fruit Eau de Parfum
Ellis Brooklyn
Sun Fruit Eau De Parfum
The average rating is 7.6 out of 10.
Notes: Orange blossom, jasmine, plum foliage, bergamot, and fresh fig.
In three terms, this fragrance is described as “fresh, flirty, and beachy.” — Grace O’Connell Joshua, contributor
Two to three hours of longevity
Testing notes: “If you were to ask me to describe this perfume, I would say that it has a pleasant aroma of vacation.” I was once described by my peers as smelling like a combination of coconut, lime, and suntan lotion, which I find to be an extremely flattering compliment. — Joshua O’Connell
Best Floral: Gucci Bloom Eau de Toilette
Gucci
Bloom Eau De Toilette
The average rating is 7.3 out of 10.
Notes: Tuberose, mandarin essence, bergamot essence, jasmine blossoms, and neroli accord
In three terms, this fragrance is described as “springy,” “light,” and “floral.” — Copelyn Bengel, a freelance fashion and accessories editor
Two to three hours of longevity
Testing notes: “I observed that it was more floral and lighter when I sprayed it, as opposed to a bit richer on my skin, which I found to be enjoyable.” Bengel
Best Vanilla: Byredo Vanille Antique Extrait de Parfum
BYREDO
Vanille Antique Extrait De Parfum
The average rating is 6.7 out of 10.
Notes: Vanilla beans, cashmere woods, amber, plum, and freesia
In three terms, this fragrance is as follows: Three drinks.
Duration: twelve hours or more
Testing notes: Since its introduction, this fragrance has been one of my all-time favorites. It is centered on vanilla, which can be either sweet or cloying; however, this is vanilla in its most seductive form. Its versatility allows it to be worn in nearly every situation, despite its intense and provocative nature. The response I receive from my partner when I inquire about the fragrance I should wear is almost always Vanille Antique, which is unsurprising.
Best for Women: Dior Miss Dior Eau de Parfum
Dior
Miss Dior Eau De Parfum
The average rating is 6.5 out of 10.
Notes: Soft musk, centifolia rose, and lily of the valley
In three terms, this fragrance is described as “unexpected, sexy, and feminine.” — Huber
Duration: Five hours or more
Testing notes: “This fragrance is truly a compliment in the making.” On the first day of wearing it, I was greeted by my regular UPS delivery man who politely halted me as I was leaving my apartment. He inquired about the item I was wearing in order to purchase it for his partner. This has never occurred with any other fragrance that I have ever worn. This fragrance remains consistent on the skin, although it becomes slightly sweeter as it absorbs and combines with your own aroma. The bottle’s appearance in comparison to the fragrance is the most surprising aspect. Although the container appears feminine, it is not at all “girly.” It emanates an air of sophistication and allure. — Huber
Best Amber: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum
Maison Francis Kurkdjian
Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau De Parfum
Notes: Ambergris, cedarwood, saffron, and jasmine
This fragrance can be described in three words: A wealthy woman who is unconcerned.
Duration: twelve hours or more
Testing notes: Baccarat Rouge 540 is now synonymous with a pleasant fragrance. The fragrance was a sensation on TikTok, and it is consistently referenced as one of the most exceptional perfumes available. Some of the most successful individuals I have ever encountered are individuals I know in real life who consistently don it. It is always enjoyable to wear this fragrance and attempt to emulate them for a day. This fragrance is reminiscent of a power play in a vial.
Best Citrus: Krigler English Promenade 19 Eau de Parfum
Krigler
English Promenade 19 Perfume
Notes: Grapefruit, jasmine, neroli, orange blossom, white musk, and ylang-ylang
In three words, this fragrance is “a citrus delight.” — Aniyah Morinia, editor of branded content
Duration: twelve hours or more
Testing notes: “I visited a bakery for dessert after dinner the other night, and the cashier inquired about the perfume I was wearing.” In a location that already emanates an exceptional aroma, there is nothing more delightful than receiving a stranger’s commendation on your fragrance. It is extremely telling that my fragrance was potent enough to surpass the mouthwatering aroma of cookies. The grapefruit notes were considerably more difficult to detect when I initially applied this fragrance to the air. I observed the orange blossom undertones, but the fragrance was significantly more potent on my neck and wrists. The aroma is more floral when applied to the body, but it still retains a hint of musk. I can confidently assert that I am unable to refrain from inhaling the scent of my wrist. “Smelling good is an underrated confidence booster.” Morinia
Best Cozy Fragrance: Maison Margiela Replica By the Fireplace Eau de Toilette
Maison Margiela
‘Replica’ by the Fireplace Eau De Toilette
Notes: Orange flower essential, clove oil, chestnut accord, Gaïac wood oil, pink pepper essence
Sierra Mayhew, fashion editor, describes this fragrance as “warm, inviting, and cozy.”
Ten hours of longevity
Testing notes: “The sweet notes that accompany the fragrance, particularly the vanilla notes, are more prominent when I spray it.” I was taken aback by this, as I possess a candle that emits a woodier and heavily spiced aroma. However, upon applying the fragrance to my wrist, I experienced a sensation that the scent was a fusion of the scent I initially detected by misting it into the air and the familiar aroma I associate with my preferred candle. Mayhew
Best Sweet Fragrance: Viktor&Rolf Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum
Viktor&Rolf|
lowerbomb Eau De Parfum
Notes: Patchouli oil, jasmine, rose accord, and freesia accord
In three terms, this fragrance is described as “glamourous, fresh, and sweet.” — LaPlaca
Duration: twelve hours or more
Testing notes: “I am uncertain as to the nature of the skin-grabbing formula they devised, but I was pleased with the duration of the scent’s persistence.” In the morning, I applied it with a sprinkle and wore it throughout the day at work. Even after exiting a cycling class that was particularly sweaty after work, I was certain that I was still smelling it. At first, I was taken aback by the fragrance’s bold floral notes, which burst forth when I sprayed it into the air. My initial impression was that it was sweet and youthful. However, upon contact with the inside of my wrist, the fragrance underwent a transformation, highlighting the vanilla and musk notes. I believed that this gave it a more mature vibe than my initial impression. — LaPlaca.
Best Rose: Byredo Young Rose Eau de Parfum
Byredo
Young Rose Eau de Parfum
$235
Notes: Damascena rose, orris, orris, orris seeds, and fragrance
In three terms, this fragrance is floral yet enigmatic.
Duration: twelve hours or more
Testing notes: Young Rose is a floral fragrance that is suitable for individuals who are not fond of floral fragrances. Adding a small amount of Sichuan pepper to the dish imparts a significant amount of heat, which provides an intriguing variation. It is comparable to the unexpected and delicious experience of incorporating a rose into an experimental cocktail at the most exciting bar in town.
What to Consider in a Perfume
1. Fragrance Type
Although all fragrances have the potential to be pleasant, they differ in terms of concentration, longevity, and sillage. Discover the distinctions among the four fragrance categories.
Extrait de Parfum: alcohol-based; fragrance concentration of 20% to 30%; wear time of up to 24 hours
Eau de Parfum: alcohol or water-based; 15% to 20% fragrance concentration; 6 to 8 hours of wear time
Eau de Toilette: alcohol or water base; 4 to 6 hours of wear duration; fragrance concentration of 5% to 15%
Eau de cologne: alcohol or water base; 1 to 2 hours of wear duration; fragrance concentration of 2% to 5%
2. Fragrance Family
Do you have a preference for florals? Alternatively, are you fond of delectable scents? It is crucial to recognize your preferred olfactory family during the perfume browsing procedure. It is important to note that this does not obligate you to remain with a singular group. Nevertheless, it is possible to refine your search by identifying the notes that you most appreciate. Please refer to the following fragrance families:
Chypre: Floral, Fresh, Woody, Amber, Gourmand, Citrus
3. Season
While there is no definitive law regarding seasonal fragrances, some individuals opt to alter their signature scent in accordance with the changing weather. Light citrus and fresh scents are more appropriate for the summer months, while cozy vanillas and smoky ambers become increasingly popular in the autumn and winter. Florals are particularly effective in the spring (I know, groundbreaking).
Nevertheless, if you have a fragrance that you admire, you are welcome to wear it year-round. These are essentially suggestions, as there are no strict guidelines regarding seasonality. As is customary, you are free to act as you please.
How We Chose the Best Perfumes
I selected 67 prospective perfumes for our list after conducting extensive online research and considering the preferences of my fellow editors and myself. Subsequently, I reduced the list to 24 fragrances for testing. These fragrances encompassed extrait de parfum, eau de parfum, eau de toilette, and eau de cologne.
In order to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of perfumes, I requested that my colleague editors conduct a smell test with me on all 24 fragrances. In order to guarantee that brand loyalty would not impede the testing process, I numbered each perfume and covered the vials. I included numbers one through ten under each fragrance in a questionnaire (refer to the list below!). Participants were asked to circle the number they believed the fragrance deserved, with ten being the highest possible score.
(Image credit: @ktberohn)
Then we sprayed fragrances together, tasting coffee beans between scents to restore our senses. I let each editor think about each perfume, tell me what it smelt like, and rank it before revealing the fragrance name. The results surprised many because we have so many classic perfumes. One of the most popular scents on practically every best-of list scored a one out of 10, while several of our highest rankers were quite unknown.
I gave each editor a fragrance to test after group testing. I asked them to wear each fragrance for a day and report on longevity, skin scent, compliments, and how they would define it. We chose our winners after gathering all the data.
