Women perfume is more than just a scent—it’s a reflection of one’s identity, and a way to leave an olfactory impression on those around them. While the search for a signature scent is still alive and well, many have moved towards creating a “scent wardrobe,” a collection of aromas to match different moods and identities. Whether you’re searching for something sweet, fresh, sultry or romantic, there is a scent out there for you.
For centuries, perfume has been mostly a men’s game—from the opulent compositions of Aime Guerlain to the refreshing citrusy blends of Napoleon’s Eau de Cologne, the noses who have crafted the world’s most popular juices have almost always been male. But in recent decades, a few shrewd female perfumers have managed to break into this closed universe and create their own mark.
If you’re looking for a scent that is both sophisticated and girly, look no further than this peony and lychee-infused bestseller from Parfums de Marly. You’ve likely seen its pastel bottle gracing the walls of beauty blogs and Instagram feeds, but this is more than just a pretty face—it’s an aromatic powerhouse that’ll have you feeling like a princess from first spritz.
A cool-girl classic that took three years to compose, this chypre’s notes of orange blossom and petit grain are guaranteed to wake you up with a fresh, clean smell. Its unisex formula makes it a great choice for Sunday brunches with the girls, or just tossing on before work.
The most popular feminine perfume for women in the United States, this sultry YSL scent was designed to evoke a sense of sensuality and sexiness. Its complex mix of white florals (tuberose, Sambac jasmine and orange flower absolute) are paired with rich, vibrant woods (cedarwood and musk) to make it a perfect pick for a night out on the town.
As a bonus, this fragrance is free from any of the common phthalates found in most perfumes—diethyl phthalate (DEP) and di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP). These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin and ingested into the bloodstream, which has been linked to health issues like asthma and dermatitis. This scent is also safe for kids, so you can feel confident to spritz some on them. For best results, apply it to your wrists, neck or behind your ears and reapply throughout the day. The scent will develop and evolve with your body, and will smell different on each individual person. It is best to avoid using it on irritated or broken skin.