10 of the most complimented perfumes
Don’t buy anything until you’ve read this edit of the most sought-after scents
Fragrance is a deeply personal and subjective thing. However, there are a few extra-special perfumes that those in the know swear by. They’re in a class of their own; timeless and indisputably irresistible. These scents are more than head-turners, they’re shoulder-tappers; people will stop to ask what you’re wearing (and quickly save the name in Notes). Here is our guide to the best perfume for women (in no particular order) to help you find your new signature scent.
1. Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum
Why it's special
Proving that it is possible to be both sweet and sensual, this floral bouquet is a genuine case of ‘once experienced, never forgotten’. Damascena rose is the star of the show here, but this is certainly not your typical rose scent; Delina opens with bergamot and rhubarb, and grows in complexity through sensual vanilla, grounded by white musk and vetiver.
Key notes
Damascena rose, rhubarb, vanilla, cedarwood.
2. INITIO Parfums Privés Oud for Greatness Eau de Parfum
Why it's special
This is a firmly modern take on one of the most desired scents in the world: the intensely fragrant and smoky oud. By combining its earthiness with the freshness of lavender and the warmth of nutmeg and saffron, the result is striking and seriously moreish. A joy every time you catch a waft as you move about your day.
Key notes
Oud, agar wood oil, lavender, saffron, patchouli, musk.
3. Maison Crivelli Hibiscus Mahajad Extrait de Parfum
Why it's special
The shimmering sophistication of the bottle and the staying power of this vibrant and exotic scent are both unreal; every spray lingers without ever feeling overpowering. A perfect balance of complex fresh, floral, and warm notes, with hibiscus, crushed pomegranate, cinnamon and vanilla orchid. Prepare for constant compliments.
Key notes
Rose, hibiscus, vanilla and leather.
4. NISHANE Hundred Silent Ways Extrait de Parfum
Why it's special
Taking its name from a quote by 13th-century Persian poet Rumi, Hundred Silent Ways was created as a tribute to the most-liked perfumes in history. As you’d hope – given that inspiration – this is a superbly textured fragrance, with heady florals, zesty mandarin and syrupy peaches on a deep base of sandalwood and vetiver. A forever fragrance.
Key notes
Tuberose, mandarin, sandalwood and vetiver.
5. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait de Parfum
Why it's special
What began life as a celebration for the 250th anniversary of French crystal house Baccarat has turned into a truly iconic fragrance. Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait de Parfum is a deeply woody, ambery perfume, with intense staying power. An opulent scent that commands attention; frankly, it was well worth waiting two-and-a-half centuries for.
Key notes
Cashmeran, ambroxan, jasmine and saffron.
6. Le Labo Santal 33 Eau de Parfum
Why it's special
The cult buy manages to transport you to a defining image of the American West; sitting by an open fire in the desert after the light has gone, the soft drift of smoke rising. Complex and intriguing, this powerful unisex scent weaves cardamom, iris and ambrox into spicy, leathery, musky notes to make something truly unmistakable.
Key notes
Sandalwood, cardamom and cedarwood.
7. Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 Eau de Toilette
Why it's special
Boldly unique, Molecule 01 is a single aroma-chemical containing Iso E Super, which lends the wearer a radiance, or pheremonic-like effect. Dreaming it up redefines the idea of what a fragrance is and what it can be. ‘Molecule 01 is for the individual who might be a bit bored with fragrance and would prefer to radiate an aura’, says Escentric Molecules. We say, sorcery.
Key notes
Iso E Super.
8. Byredo Bal d'Afrique Eau de Parfum
Why it's special
Inspired by founder Ben Gorham’s memories of time spent with his father in Africa, Stockholm-based luxury perfumer Byredo’s Bal d’Afrique is a truly evocative fragrance. Opening with citrus and florals, it moves through earthier notes to ground in a warm base of woods and tonka bean. Liveliness and depth, combined. Just like you.
Key notes
African marigold, bergamot, violet, cedarwood and vetiver.
9. Penhaligon's Halfeti Eau de Parfum
Why it's special
What. A. Bottle. A masterclass in understated elegance, it contains an opulent fragrance that marries dark Turkish rose and grapefruit with precious oud, leather and warm Levantine spice. Intoxicating and extremely rich, this is the undeniable scent of luxury. One sniff and you’re completely hooked for life.
Key notes
Oud, bergamot, saffron and rose.
10. Memo Paris Madurai Eau de Parfum
Why it's special
Created as a love letter to India, breathing in this floral and fruity whirlwind transports you to that vibrant land. This is a fragrance steeped in the rich and airy fragrance of jasmine sambac with vibrant notes of citrus, sweet peach and turmeric - like a colourful market stall - and a rich and creamy base of sandalwood and suede. Intoxicating, nuanced and frankly impossible not to love.
Key notes
Jasmine, sandalwood, lemon and suede.
