The best perfume for women 2021
CNN —
As we do whatever we can to find joy these days, we’re realizing there’s nothing like a spritz of your favorite scent for a quick mood boost. But how do you find the perfume that’s right for you? Whether you’re searching for your signature scent or you’re just ready to try something new, there are so many lovely and tempting options.
From floral to spicy to light and fresh, we researched the bestselling perfumes for women so you don’t have to. With picks from Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and Byredo, you’re sure to find your perfect scent below. We also have you covered with our roundup of bestselling colognes to shop for the guy in your life. And, if you’re in the market for a Valentine’s Day gift, check out our gift guide for her and heartfelt gift options too.
Maison Margiela Replica Jazz Club (starting at $30; sephora.com)
With a 4.6-star rating and nearly 500 reviews, Maison Margiela’s Replica Jazz Club has earthy, wooden notes reminiscent of an old Brooklyn jazz club.
With hints of rum, pink pepper and tobacco, it’s a sensual option that’s great for date night — even though it’s touted as a male fragrance, Sephora has included it in its women’s section for a reason. As one reviewer writes, “If you are a woman who loves more ‘spicy’ and ‘exotic’ scents, you need this in your life!”
Gucci Bloom Eau de Parfum (starting at $34; sephora.com)
Sephora Gucci Bloom Eau de Parfum
Gucci Bloom is a classic floral fragrance that you’ll opt for again and again. It features notes of rangoon creeper, jasmine bud and tuberose for a scent meant to embody the Gucci woman.
Think of it as a light, soft, timeless option. One reviewer even notes, “Gucci has finally placed class and sophistication in a bottle.”
Philosophy Amazing Grace Eau de Toilette (starting at $24; sephora.com)
Nordstrom Philosophy Amazing Grace Eau de Toilette
Philosophy’s Amazing Grace is a classic floral scent that will never go out of style. It features notes of bergamot, muguet blossoms and musk for a perfume that feels ultra light.
Dior J’adore Eau de Parfum (starting at $49; sephora.com)
Sephora Dior J’adore Eau de Parfum
As its name suggests, you’re going to love this perfume by Dior (FYI: J’adore means “I love” in French). With nearly 800 5-star reviews at Sephora, J’adore is floral and fresh, housed in a bottle to match. Featuring notes of ylang ylang, Damascus rose and jasmine, you’ll never want to swap from this luxurious fragrance.
Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum (starting at $108; sephora.com)
A timeless classic, Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum is a sexy, modern option for the woman who loves to stand out from the crowd.
Featuring hints of orange, patchouli and Turkish rose, this scent’s selling point isn’t just its refreshing take on floral, but more so how long it lasts. “If your goal is to smell and seem like a young, fashionable Parisian, then this is for you,” writes one reviewer. “It smells amazing and lasts all day. Definitely gives me a confidence boost.”
Byredo Gypsy Water Eau de Parfum (starting at $190; nordstrom.com)
Nordstrom Byredo Gypsy Water Eau de Parfum
One reviewer of Byredo’s Gypsy Water says they “didn’t know tranquility” until using this fragrance. The eau de parfum is described as woody and aromatic, as an ode to Romani culture reminiscent of gypsy nights, through notes of bergamot, lemon, pepper, juniper berries and amber.
Yves Saint Laurent Libre Eau de Parfum (starting at $30; sephora.com)
With a combination of lavender and musk, Yves Saint Laurent’s Libre Eau de Parfum is a truly intoxicating mixture, and it’s already amassed a 4.5-star rating with over 400 reviewers singing its praises.
Calling it “different, but in a good way,” reviewers describe the scent as musky yet floral — one that “smells better the longer you wear it.” Perfect for an all-day affair.
Tom Ford Soleil Neige (starting at $65; sephora.com)
Sephora Tom Ford Soleil Neige
Multiple reviewers describe Tom Ford’s Soleil Neige as “heavenly,” so it’s pretty clear why this is worth your buy. This eau de parfum features notes of jasmine, bergamot and benzoin for a scent that’s both fresh and warm — meant to evoke a winter getaway at dusk.
Chanel Chance Eau Tendre Eau de Toilette (starting at $85; sephora.com)
A unique combination of fruity and floral, Chanel’s Chance Eau Tendre Eau de Toilette has notes of jasmine and citrus to create a light scent that works just as well during a flirty date night at home as it does during a busy day running errands.
“I spent so long trying to find the perfect smell for me. Everything was too sweet, too strong or too terrible,” says one reviewer. “This perfume is gentle, soft, yet feminine and amazing!”
Valentino Donna Born in Roma Eau de Parfum (starting at $100; nordstrom.com)
Nordstrom Valentino Donna Born in Roma Eau de Parfum
Valentino’s Donna Born in Roma is a woody yet fruity perfume inspired by Roman street culture. It features notes of blackcurrant accord, three qualities of jasmine, vanilla bourbon and guaiac wood essence for an edgy scent that reviewers are obsessed with.
Lancôme La Vie Est Belle (starting at $29; sephora.com)
Both sweet and spicy, Lancôme’s La Vie Est Belle is a grounding fragrance with hints of vanilla.
Translating to “life is beautiful,” La Vie Est Belle aims to re-create the carefree spirit of a typical Parisian — so if you want to imagine transporting yourself to a fabulous getaway without leaving home, this is the perfume for you. One reviewer writes, “It’s feminine, sweet and sophisticated, but so sexy and heavenly at the same time. Plus, this lasts forever (especially on clothing)!”
Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Eau de Toilette (starting at $29; sephora.com)
If citrus scents are more your jam, Dolce & Gabbana’s Light Blue Eau de Toilette is a fresh take on traditional that’ll give you the energy you need to get through your day.
Reminiscent of a lazy Mediterranean vacation, it might just inspire your next trip with its fruity scents. “This is a light and elegant fragrance that is great for daily use,” writes one reviewer. “It is so casual, and the smell changes slightly throughout the day — to the best degree. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is not quite sure as to which fragrance to get.”
Jo Malone London Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne ($142; nordstrom.com)
Nordstrom Jo Malone London Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne
If you’re looking to smell sweet like a warm, sunny day, Jo Malone’s Nectarine Blossom & Honey is for you. Inspired by a morning market in London’s Covent Garden, this cologne features fruity notes of nectarine, cassis, honey and peach that’s sure to brighten even your dreariest day.
Lancôme Idôle Eau de Parfum (starting at $29; sephora.com)
Created by three women perfumers, Lancôme’s Idôle Eau de Parfum combines vanilla, rose and jasmine to create a sophisticated scent that still has modern touches. One reviewer writes that they would “recommend this to anyone who loves floral and/or vanilla scents.”
Chanel N°5 Eau de Parfum (starting at $108; nordstrom.com)
Nordstrom Chanel N°5 Eau de Parfum
Chanel N°5 is one of those iconic fragrances that every woman should try at least once, especially as reviewers continue to share stories of buying the fragrance after seeing their elders wear it growing up. A first-of-its-kind perfume originally described by Gabrielle Chanel herself as a bouquet of abstract flowers, N°5 gained popularity because of its floral aldehydic fragrance, with notes of rose, jasmine, citrus and bourbon vanilla. Even better: This will look timeless on your vanity too.
Versace Bright Crystal (starting at $30; sephora.com)
If you’ve ever wondered what Donatella Versace herself sprays on in terms of fragrances, Versace’s Bright Crystal will put that question to rest.
With unique, fruity ingredients like yuzu and pomegranate mixed with florals such as peony, magnolia and lotus flower, this scent sounds like it would be fun and flirty — but this is Versace, after all, and nothing is ever ordinary. Instead, this fragrance adds on musk and amber to give depth while still letting the refreshing scent shine through. One reviewer writes, “This perfume is perfect if you don’t want to knock others down with your scent. It has such a light, pretty smell that is perfect for the office.”
Viktor&Rolf Flowerbomb (starting at $55; sephora.com)
Sephora Viktor&Rolf Flowerbomb
Warm and spicy, sweet and sexy, Viktor&Rolf’s Flowerbomb is seriously addictive. With notes of jasmine, orange blossom and patchouli, this perfume is meant to be an explosion of floral scents; reviewers share that it’s unique compared to the other flowery scents you’re used to.
Chloé Eau de Parfum (starting at $34; sephora.com)
A bold yet powdery option, Chloé Eau de Parfum is inspired by roses, but that doesn’t mean it’s boring.
Instead, this vibrant scent explores cedarwood, magnolia and lily additions to make sure that there’s a hint of freshness to each spritz. With 80,000 “loves” on the site, it’s a bestseller for a reason. As one reviewer put it, “It’s feminine, sexy, romantic, classy and even a bit adventurous all at the same time.”
Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Eau de Parfum (starting at $76; sephora.com)
Sephora Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Eau de Parfum
The first word that comes to mind when we think of Yves Saint Laurent’s Black Opium is “seductive.” If you’re looking for a fragrance that smells like pure luxury, look no further. With notes of black coffee, white flowers and vanilla, this will be your go-to date-night scent for sure.
Scentbird Subscription ($14.95 per month; scentbird.com)
Scentbird Scentbird Subscription
Not ready to commit to a perfume right now? Consider a fragrance subscription service like Scentbird instead. For only $15 per month, you can choose which fragrance you’d like to try (from brands like Acqua Di Parma and Versace) and you’ll receive an 8-milliliter bottle in a refillable case. Even better: You can cancel your subscription anytime without penalty — perfect for someone who wants to test out perfumes before buying a full bottle.
What is the cheapest Gucci item in the world? Shocking prices here!
The fashion industry is among the most prominent sectors globally, generating billions in revenues every year. There are several famous brands that have become so famous in the industry. Gucci is among the top brands known for its high-end items; however, it has some relatively cheap goods that you can easily acquire. Do you know the cheapest Gucci item in the market? Well, stick around to find out.
The GG brand name. Photo: @mariekitsova
Source: Instagram
Prada, Chanel, and House of Versace are among some of the bestselling brands in the world. Since its inception, Gucci continues to be a leader in the industry. Some of the brand’s main products include handbags, clothing lines, shoes, and watches, to name a few. The Gucci belt is one of the brand’s biggest sellers.
What is Gucci’s cheapest item?
The prices for certain commodities vary depending on the type and the stores they have been brought from. Therefore, it is important to note that the items listed may change from store to store. As you will see in the list below, most of these items are beauty products.
Gucci items under $50
The list below contains products from an online store. There are a few items that retail at $42.00, and they include:
Rouge à Lèvres Mat Matte Lipstick shades. Photo: @mymakeup_jm
Source: Instagram
Rouge à Lèvres Mat Matte Lipstick Rouge à Lèvres Satin Lipstick retails Rouge à Lèvres Voile Sheer Lipstick Baume à Lèvres Lip Balm Mascara L’Obscur is the cheapest Gucci item in the world, and it retails at $35.00 The Flora Gorgeous Gardenia Eau de Toilette For Her Mini Set goes for $39.00. however, it is valued at $49.00
Gucci items under $100
Many of the items within this pricing have a price range. The prices range between less than $100 to $150. The commodities include beauty products and perfumes and are priced based on the specific online store. Below are the items:
The GG collection of beauty products. Photo: @glidderandglossbeauty
Source: Instagram
Bloom Eau de Parfum price range: $64.60 – $114.75 Flora - Gorgeous Gardenia price range: $34.00 - $115.00 Poudre De Beauté Mat Naturel Beauty Setting Powder retails at $62.00 Poudre De Beauté Éclat Soleil Bronzing Powder retails at $62.00 Bloom Eau de Parfum For Her price range: $34.00 - $135.00 Fluide De Beauté Fini Naturel - Natural Finish Fluid Foundation retails at $68.00 Flora Eau de Parfum price range: $76.00 - $118.00 Flora Emerald Gardenia Eau de Toilette price range: $85.00 - $115.00 Guilty Intense price range: $78.00 - $132.00
What is the cheapest Gucci bag?
The Ophidia GG Supreme mini bag. Photo: @kiangsu00
Source: Instagram
The cheapest Gucci item in store for designer handbags is the Ophidia GG Supreme Canvas Zip Pouch. The bag retails at $630, making it the cheapest Gucci item ever. Other affordable bags in the Gucci line are the Super Mini Metallic Leather Crossbody Bag and the small GG Mormont bag.
The cheapest Gucci item on the list is a beauty product. For some, it may be costly, but for others, it is worthwhile. Nonetheless, the mascara is a great price option to choose from if you are into designer beauty products.
READ ALSO: Woman Transforms Louis Vuitton Shopping Bag Into Stunning Handbag
Briefly.co.za recently reported on a woman who transformed a Louis Vuitton shopping bag into a stunning handbag. Creativity can only be limited by your imagination, and this lady goes to prove that you can turn something ordinary and make it into an exquisite, classy item.
The talented young lady showcased her end product on social media and received great responses from people. Some even wanted her to teach them how to do it.
Source: Briefly.co.za
‘Liquid gold’ oud is making its way into skin and hair products
One of the most expensive fragrance ingredients in the world, oud, is being expanded beyond perfumes into a wider range of beauty products.
Used for centuries in the Middle East, oud comes from a group of tree species known for agarwood, which contains fragrant resin produced by the trees when infected with mold. The ingredient is making its way into a growing number of skin-care and hair-care products, even as it becomes increasingly difficult and expensive to procure.
Khalm Skincare, a U.S.-based luxury brand specializing in oud-infused products, launched in September this year via DTC e-commerce after being in development for three years. The brand states that, in addition to aromatherapy, oud provides skin-care benefits including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Its product range includes a cleanser, overnight oil elixir, and moisturizer that range from $75 to $180.
“When I was a young girl growing up in Pakistan, my parents used to light oud incense, and it would reverberate through the hallways of our home. If I went to mosque or a temple, it would also be there,” said Khalm Skincare founder Yasmin Charania Khan. “In the U.S., it’s really just marketed in fragrances, candles and in home scents.”
The brand is the latest skin-care label to adopt the ingredient, following oud-focused skin-care brands Milèo and Oud Essentials. Milèo was founded in 2018 and its oud elixers range from $45 to $295. Founder Matthew Milèo created the U.S.-based brand after he learned about the ingredient during his time working at Chanel fragrances. The brand promotes skin benefits including increased collagen production, moisture and protection against environmental stressors.
Oud began to captivate the U.S. and European luxury houses when Tom Ford Fragrances released its $250 Oud Wood fragrance in 2007. Since then, the ingredient has been used by a wide range of the world’s top luxury brands that sell it at a price point reflective of the rarity of the ingredient. Dior’s Oud Ispahan fragrance retails at $320 for an 8.5 ounce bottle, while Guerlain’s Absolus d’Orient Santal Royal sells for $200 for 4.2 ounces. Other brands with oud fragrances include Thameen, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Jo Malone, Byredo, Gucci, Acqua di Parma, Atelier Cologne and Le Labo.
Luxury hair-care label Philip B released a line of oud-scented products in 2008, after the brand’s founder Philip Berkovitz learned about it while styling the hair of the Kuwaiti royal family and visiting their royal perfumier. The brand’s Forever Shine shampoo with oud retails for $85 for 7.4 fluid ounces.
“The cultural understanding of it was really a wonderful immersion to me,” said Berkovitz, who described going to the perfumier as “like being in the story of Aladdin.”
In hair care, oud is typically used exclusively for its fragrance. For example, luxury hair-care brand Raincry makes an oud-scented hair mist for $53. Raincry founder and managing creative director Feisal Qureshi was inspired to create the hair mist after collecting oud for several years.
“It was largely used since antiquities to fend off negative energy,” he said of his initial interest in the fragrance. “I started burning it as an incense basically to ward off negative energy around me and, at the time, my salon.”
According to Milèo, the biggest growth markets for his oud skin care are the Middle East and China. While luxury sales have been slow in the U.S. due to the pandemic, and many of its U.S. retailers have closed, the brand’s China sales tripled in the third quarter of this year. Likewise, Berkovitz noted that his biggest customer base for Philip B’s oud products are in the Middle East; the brand is stocked at Harvey Nichols in Dubai as well as other luxury department stores in Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait and the UAE. He noted that the King of Bahrain is one of his clients, and added that many of his Europe sales are generated by wealthy Middle Eastern customers purchasing his products at luxury retailers such as Harrods.
Already wildly expensive at a range of $100-$100,000 a kilogram based on quality, the luxury price point of oud is increasing as a result of depleted supply due to high demand, environmental regulations and pandemic-driven supply chain disruptions. All agarwood tree species in the Aquilaria genus are included in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and on the IUCN red list of threatened species. Milèo said he purchased his brand’s oud supply from a government-sanctioned wild source of the Aquilaria malaccensis species in Thailand in 2016. The species is currently listed as critically endangered, and with stricter regulations now in effect, “you actually cannot purchase it unless it’s farmed,” he said.
“Thank God I bought enough of it,” he said, “because now it’s almost impossible to find the version that I got.” When he returned last year for a new supply, the supplier had been shut down by the government. Many dealers are still buying wild-sourced oud on the black market, he said, selling amounts for $100,000 that used to cost $25,000. With new restrictions in place by major source countries such as India and those in Southeast Asia, brands using oud must find legal farmed sources and pay higher prices due to export quotas.
“There’s always a responsibility,” said Berkovitz, who said he sources his oud from a distributor in Egypt. “Everyone’s just so reckless; I’m not doing it like everyone else. I procure everything. I take responsibility and have my name on it.”
Raincry has sold out of its supply of all hair mists during the pandemic.
“We saw a significant increase in our sales. Being a new brand, that was nice to see, but certainly something that we couldn’t anticipate, in terms of our inventory levels,” said Qureshi.
“My biggest challenge here is scale,” said Milèo. “I like to keep it small. I really want to retain the integrity of the product.”