Finding a fragrance that resonates with you can be a long process. There is no right or wrong when choosing a perfume, as each individual has a unique taste. Some like zesty and robust scents, while the other flock shifts towards sweeter, floral, and calmer notes. Yet, the hunt to get your hands on the one that matches your mood and aura is intimidating. The walk-in fragrances aisle can take a toll on you, thanks to the never-ending sniffing of perfumes in fancy packaging. Some come as a breath of fresh air, while others can be unpleasant.
As someone who has spent hours searching for the best note and made all the rookie mistakes while buying perfume – getting hooked to the appealing packaging without considering the tones, not trying, the list is endless. If there is anything I’ve learned regarding fragrance is that it’s subjective. Every scent evokes different emotions in people; some excite them, while others make them nostalgic. So you should get a creation that speaks to you. The goal is to be comfortable while wearing it. Ahead find some classic perfumes that will make you fall in love with them. Shop your favorite new or old scent now and add it to your collection.
Comparing the Most Classic Perfumes
Chanel N°5 Eau De Parfum Spray — Best Overall
Since 1921, this Chanel N°5 Eau De Parfum became an instant sensation and grabbed a timeless spot in our vanity closet. Known for exuding the very essence of femininity, this extravagant smell inspires independence and freedom. Heavy with bourbon vanilla, may rose, jasmine, and citrus top notes, this is the iconic perfume of all time. What’s more impressive is that it was the first fragrance to be layered with aldehydes – a practice that lends the perfume an airy quality.
Gabrielle Chanel described this fragrance as a bouquet of flowers, and we can see why. The alluring blend of floral leaves a lasting impression with its signature abstract scent that is subtle yet powerful. It’s the best overall pick on our list because no matter what, you really can’t go wrong with this timeless classic.
Pros
- Flirty and powerful
- Long-standing formula
- Elegant bottle design
Cons
- The smell may be strong for some
Lancome La Vie Est Belle Eau de Parfum — Best Fruity Scent
Beautiful and luxurious, this Lancome Paris La Vie Est Belle Eau de Parfum is a cult favorite, and for all the right reasons. True to its French expression, “life is beautiful,” this spray is about paving your path and living life to the fullest. The grand notes of iris flowers and a whisper of patchouli with hints of vanilla are a perfect getaway from the hustle of life. What’s more impressive is that this fragrance is a unique blend of fruity and floral scents, making it all the more energizing and refreshing. The subtle notes of fruity blackcurrant and zingy pear with exotic Arabian jasmine sambac and sparkling Tunisian orange blossom are a modern yet classic touch to this lavish perfume. Perfect for a romantic night, this exuberant fragrance would make you fall deep in amour with it.
Pros
- Warm, inviting scent
- Classically feminine
- Long-lasting fragrance
Cons
- Smell might be overwhelming for some
Versace Bright Crystal Spray — Best Fruity Floral Scent
Versace Bright Crystal Spray has earned a devoted following over the years for its lively, flirtatious, unique fruity scent. This scent is fun and exciting with the rich mix of pomegranate, yuzu, and florals such as magnolia, peony, and lotus flowers. The base notes of amber and musk add more depth to this gorgeous perfume.
Inspired by Donatella Versace’s favorite floral notes, this spray is the epitome of grace. The price point may tempt you to run in the opposite direction, but do yourself a favor and give this great scent a whirl and you’ll see why it’s worth splurging on. Its sensual, refreshing fragrance shines luminously through gloomy days. It’s great for everyday wear and can be worn day or night.
Pros
- It’s versatile
- Light, sweet fragrance
- Beautiful packaging
Cons
- It’s on the higher end of the price
Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum — Best Citrus Scent
Make room for the timeless fragrance that is sure to transcend you into heaven. Drumroll: Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Perfume. It’s a modern composition that evokes all the right emotions and senses. The sparks of fresh and vibrant orange with a feminine ambery fragrance have a distinct character that exudes curiosity. Designed to capture the young essence of Coco, this citrusy scent perfume is a sexy option for any woman who loves to create her own mark.
This spray is a hit among the ladies, featuring hints of patchouli, Turkish rose, jasmine, orange blossom, and vetiver. It’s incredibly refreshing and lasts longer. While the smell starts off as a solid musky floral formula, over time, it unfolds to a subtle, warm scent that is alluring. The fact that it’s a sister to an iconic Chanel No5 makes it worth all the hype it gets. It’s perfect for everyday wear, so just spritz lightly on your back and wrists and let the magic unfold.
Pros
- A youthful, alluring scent
- Comes in a spray bottle, easy to apply
- Fragrant but not overpowering
Cons
- Expensive
Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum Spray — Best Floral Forward
Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Parfum is a gorgeous combination of grand floral notes such as jasmine, rose, and cattleya. The warm vanilla, patchouli, and musk base notes balance the incredibly rich flowery scent. The smell does start off as powerful but tones down to a more inviting and warm scent over time.
This pink diamond grenade makes a perfect gift for your loved ones as they will surely fall deep for a glittering explosion of sweet, calm, and fresh sensations that energize them. It is a top-seller fragrance that bagged an award and has been in heavy rotation ever since its launch. So don’t try to resist and give in to the temptation and give yourself a treat by basking in this luxuriously elegant scent that hits all the right chords. Wear it at night and let the magic begin.
Pros
- Long-lasting scent
- Better suited for colder months
- Addictive smell
Cons
- Has a strong scent
Buying Guide: Perfume
As we have said above, there is no one rule when shopping for a new fragrance. Instead, it all comes down to your preferences, taste, and mood. The scent matters, yes, but what takes the stage is how the fragrance interacts with the wearer’s body chemistry, thus making it more subjective and personal. But still, with so many of them on the market, it can be overwhelming. To help you pick your signature scent, we curated this buying guide to make the journey easier and more enjoyable.
Things to Look for
Size
While the bigger is mostly always better, there are times when this is not the case. Before splurging your money on the huge fancy bottle, it’s essential to know your needs. Are you looking for a perfume to keep on your dresser or want something you can easily travel with. If the first scenario is the case, getting your hands on the bigger bottle is the right choice. But if your priorities are lying with the latter, it’s good to get a portable size that is lightweight and convenient for you to carry around. Just spritz your signature scent over the way to the office, party, or any other place, and voila, you’re good to go.
Notes
It’s important to know that there are three notes when it comes to perfume: top, middle, or heart and base. Top notes are also referred to as the main or head notes, as they are the first ones you smell right after putting on the perfume. However, they are also the first to fade. Usually, it takes around eight to ten minutes for a smell to tone down and reveal most of its notes. The rest of the ones often shine through once the head notes fade. So the middle and base notes are the ones that linger around and become the main theme of the spray. So make sure that you do your research well. Read about what notes your favorite scent features and break it down into these three. See if the one you like comes under the middle or base categories. Finding the right one is a struggle, but the process is worth it. Try the sample to get an idea of how the smell interacts with your body.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to apply perfume?
It’s recommended to apply perfume on your pulse points first, such as the wrist, inside of the elbows, neck, and back of the knees.
What is the shelf life of a perfume?
There is no definite answer. Make sure you store your bottle in a cool place that is free of humidity. If the smell changes, it’s time to replace your fragrance.