Whether you’re looking for a signature scent to wear on special occasions or a fresh fragrance to carry throughout the day, there are many different women perfume options out there. Some of the most coveted scents are from legacy brands you’d expect—long-held classics adored since their debut nearly a century ago, such as Chanel No. 5. Other scents are from contemporary newcomers with fresh formulas that bring a modern twist to the fragrance landscape.
Fragrance is a powerful form of personal expression, so finding a scent that’s unique and alluring can have an impactful effect. If you’re searching for a perfume that will make you feel confident and empowered, a floral or oriental scent may be your best option. The lingering fragrance of these types of scents can help leave a lasting impression on those around you, helping you to stand out in a crowd.
The top perfumes for women tend to lean more heavily on natural notes. While you might think a natural fragrance would smell bland or unscented, scent expert Onyi Ifeguini says this isn’t always the case. Some of the top fragrances feature fruit, woody, or earthy notes that can smell just as beautiful as more complex scents.
For a more delicate fragrance, try a floral-fruity combination like Delina or Safanad. Both fragrances from Parfums de Marly feature peony and lychee notes that are both very popular right now. Another great choice is Jo Malone’s English Pear and Freesia, which features notes of orange blossom and jasmine that are also very popular with women.
In addition to choosing a perfume with the right scent, you also want to consider how long the fragrance will last and how it will smell on your skin. According to Ifeguini, “Perfume projection and longevity varies from person to person, as it depends on your body’s chemistry.” You can also choose the type of fragrance you want based on how much scent you prefer, with some people liking more of a subtle scent while others like something that is a bit more pronounced.
A scent’s bottle is also a big part of its appeal. Some brands opt for a sleek, minimalist design that’s ideal for carrying around in your bag while others go for a more recognizable bottle that looks more luxurious on a vanity or dresser.
While it’s impossible to say what the best perfume is for every woman, there are a few standouts that are highly regarded by fragrance experts. These include the Chanel Ndeg5 and Jo Malone’s English Pear & Freesia, as well as Dolce & Gabbana’s Light Blue. Some of these perfumes are also available in a roll-on version for on-the-go convenience, making them an easy choice for anyone who wants to take their signature scent with them wherever they go. Ultimately, the best women’s perfume is the one that makes you feel the most confident and comfortable. Fortunately, with the right fragrance, that’s never hard to achieve.