Finding your signature scent is kind of like hunting for the perfect pair of shoes — there are tons of choices available in fancy packaging that might match certain moods or occasions. And you’ll have to kiss a lot of proverbial frogs (or sniff some unpleasant scents) to get your Cinderella moment. But choosing your go-to perfume doesn’t have to be a royal hassle, as there are easy ways (more on that at the end) to pinpoint the one that is the right fit for your needs.
To help you start your scent journey on a high note, we reviewed the best perfumes for women to create this list of 15 for floral fanatics, spice sensationalists, celebrity fragrance collectors, and more. Here’s a hint: Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum takes the top spot for best overall thanks to its universal appeal.
Without further adieu, here are the best perfumes for women that are floral, spicy, fruity, sexy, and undeniably timeless.
1.Best Value: Sol Janeiro Cheriosa ’62 Brazilian Crush Hair & Body Fragrance Mist
What We Love: Spritz away! This affordable pick can be used on hair and body.
What We Don’t Love: It may not be as complex, or long lasting, as other finer fragrances.
Thanks to an energizing blend of pistachio, jasmine petals, vanilla, and sandalwood, this sunny fragrance is like a summer vacation in a bottle, sans the sunblock. We love that it’s affordable and can be used on the hair, body, and even clothing whenever you need a refreshening boost. Overall, it’s flirty and beachy without being too overpowering, making it a great pick for those who love sweet summer scents in a less potent formula than a eau de parfum.
Size: 3.04 oz.｜Type: Fragrance Mist｜Notes: Pistachio, Jasmine Petals, Vanilla, Sandalwood
2.Best Woody: Maison Margiela Replica By the Fireplace Eau de Parfum
What We Love: It starts off spicy and unfolds into a beautiful vanilla base.
What We Don’t Love: It can require frequent touch-ups.
If unique and woody scents are what you’re after, then this fragrance is worth adding to your wishlist. Think of chestnuts roasting on an open fire? It’s not surprising, after all, it is reminiscent of just that thanks to clove oil, chestnut and vanilla accord notes. While it starts off strong with spicy top notes, it eventually dries down to its sweet vanilla base, making it intriguing from start to finish. Bonus: the unisex scent is appreciated by all genders.
Size: 1 oz.｜Type: Eau de Toilette｜Notes: Clove Oil, Chestnut Accord, and Vanilla Accord
3.Best Fresh: Clean Reserve Warm Cotton Eau de Parfum
What We Love: It can be used as a day and night scent.
What We Don’t Love: Its clean smell can be reminiscent of laundry products to some.
Need a quick burst of clean during the workday? You’re in luck — this bergamot, peony, and amber-filled scent is a great pick-me-up worth adding to your bag, as it’s light, airy, and boasts staying power. It has that freshly laundered sheets on a spring day with the windows open kinda vibe, but in the best way possible as it’s neither too musky nor overpowering. The layer of peony and amber keep it from being too citrusy or light, so this scent is appropriate for all seasons and hours of the day.
Size: 2 oz.｜Type: Eau de Parfum｜Notes: Bergamot, Peony, and Amber