Editor-Chosen Top Scents
After an extensive blind testing process involving 11 Who What Wear editors, a curated selection of 24 fragrances underwent rigorous evaluation. The objective
was to identify scents that transcend personal preference and achieve broad appeal, even among discerning noses. Each perfume was rated on a scale from one to ten, with the average score across all tested fragrances landing at 5.8. However, several perfumes consistently surpassed this average, demonstrating remarkable quality and desirability. These top-tier selections represent a spectrum of olfactory profiles, from the softly feminine to the boldly unique, ensuring a discovery for every scent preference. The aim was to uncover fragrances that not only smell exquisite but also leave a lasting impression, making them worthy of a permanent spot in any fragrance collection. This process focused on unbiased assessment, with editors unaware of brand names during the initial testing phase to ensure fairness and objectivity.
Parfums de Marly Delina
Garnering an exceptional average rating of 9.3 out of 10, Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum stands out as the best overall fragrance. Described as 'soft, warm, feminine' by Anna LaPlaca, senior fashion editor, this scent is a masterclass in delicate yet captivating aroma. Its composition features notes of tart rhubarb, sweet lychee, bright bergamot essence, lush Turkish rose, and airy peony, grounded by a subtle base of vanilla and musk. While its longevity is noted at around six hours, requiring a potential reapplication for extended wear, testers appreciated its consistent scent profile from bottle to skin, which softened beautifully after application without losing its core character. The initial citrus note from the bottle mellows into a more integrated, sophisticated fragrance once settled.
Phlur Tangerine Boy
Phlur's Tangerine Boy Eau de Parfum earned an impressive average score of 8.7 out of 10, securing its place as the best fruity fragrance. Yusra Siddiqui, associate fashion editor, perfectly captured its essence with the words 'refreshing, juicy, and clean.' This vibrant scent features a harmonious blend of zesty lemon, spicy ginger, a hint of black pepper, crisp apple, and dominant tangerine, all softened by delicate jasmine petals. While its longevity is around four to five hours, the scent remains delightful. Siddiqui noted that the fragrance's initial brightness calms slightly on the skin, retaining its sweet and spicy character without becoming overwhelming. Unlike many fruity perfumes that can lean towards the artificial, Tangerine Boy offers a sophisticated and genuinely delightful experience, even for those who typically favor floral notes.
Tom Ford Ombré Leather
Tom Ford Ombré Leather Eau de Parfum is celebrated as the best unisex fragrance, captivating with its 'musky, warm, intoxicating' profile, as described by senior beauty editor Jamie Schneider. This scent is a bold statement, characterized by rich black leather at its forefront, complemented by the delicate nuances of violet flower and the floral sweetness of jasmine flower. Its remarkable longevity of over 12 hours ensures a persistent and alluring presence. Schneider highlights its appeal for sharing with a partner, noting that its strong leather core makes it ideal for those who appreciate edgy, powerful fragrances. The scent is a perfect choice for individuals seeking a sophisticated and deeply sensual aroma that commands attention and exudes confidence.
Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt
Jo Malone London's Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne is recognized as an excellent choice for a wedding day scent, achieving an average rating of 7.9 out of 10. Natalie Gray-Herder, editor for branded content, describes it as 'light, sweet, warm,' a sentiment she's held for over five years, making it a long-standing favorite. The fragrance is built around the earthy notes of ambrette seeds and sage, interwoven with the fresh essence of sea salt. While its longevity is typically between three to four hours, its elegant and balanced profile makes it suitable for special occasions. Gray-Herder finds it to be a perfect equilibrium of light sweetness and comforting warmth, steering clear of overly floral or saccharine notes and offering a sophisticated, versatile aroma that complements any formal event.
Perfumehead Reine Des Anges
Perfumehead's Reine Des Anges Extrait De Parfum stands out as the most effortlessly cool fragrance, earning an 8.3 average rating. This scent is described as 'sexed-up rose,' exuding a powerful yet subtle allure. Its complex notes include Turkish rose, Moroccan rose, schinus molle, saffron, geranium, patchouli, and amber, creating a rich and captivating aroma. With an impressive longevity of over eight hours, it remains present throughout the day and into the night. One tester shared a particularly positive anecdote, noting her boyfriend's strong endorsement, calling it 'subtle but powerful,' a significant compliment from someone knowledgeable about fragrances. This perfume is ideal for those who appreciate a modern, sophisticated take on rose, infused with an intriguing spice and muskiness that makes it truly memorable.
Carolina Herrera Good Girl
Carolina Herrera's Good Girl Eau de Parfum is highlighted as the best date-night scent, with an average rating of 7.7 out of 10. Assistant shopping editor Ana Escalante describes it as evoking 'Victoria's Secret Angel,' capturing a glamorous and nostalgic feel. The fragrance is a rich blend of sweet vanilla, creamy almond, opulent tuberose, delicate jasmine sambac, dark cocoa, and warm tonka bean. Its longevity ranges from four to five hours, making it suitable for an evening out. While it carries echoes of early 2000s pop culture, Escalante finds it to be a more refined and sophisticated iteration, perfect for when one desires to embody a sense of chic extravagance and playful confidence.
Ellis Brooklyn Sun Fruit
Ellis Brooklyn's Sun Fruit Eau de Parfum is crowned the best beach vacation scent, achieving a 7.6 average rating. Assistant editor Grace O'Connell Joshua succinctly describes it as 'beachy, flirty, fresh.' This captivating fragrance conjures images of a tropical getaway with its primary notes of fresh fig, bright bergamot, green plum leaves, juicy pear, and sweet jasmine, all touched by delicate orange blossom. Its wear time is approximately two to three hours, best suited for lighter, summery occasions. O'Connell Joshua notes that friends often describe the scent as a delightful combination of lime, suntan lotion, and coconut, underscoring its evocative and universally appealing vacation vibe.
Gucci Bloom Eau de Toilette
Gucci Bloom Eau de Toilette is recognized as a top floral fragrance, scoring an average of 7.3 out of 10. Freelance fashion and accessories editor Copelyn Bengel characterizes it as 'light, floral, springy.' The composition opens with a vibrant accord of neroli, bright lemon sfumatrice, and mandarin essence, complemented by bergamot essence. The heart of the fragrance blooms with jasmine buds and tuberose, creating a lush floral bouquet. Bengel observed that the scent is lighter and more overtly floral when first sprayed, developing into a slightly richer, more nuanced aroma on the skin, which she found particularly appealing for its fresh, springtime feel.
Byredo Vanille Antique
Byredo's Vanille Antique Extrait de Parfum is lauded as the best vanilla scent, with an average rating of 6.7 out of 10. This fragrance offers a sophisticated and sultry interpretation of vanilla, moving beyond the typically sweet or cloying profiles. Its notes include freesia, juicy plum, warm amber, cozy cashmere woods, and rich vanilla beans, creating a heady and provocative aroma. With an impressive longevity of over 12 hours, it's a scent that endures. This fragrance is highly versatile, suitable for almost any occasion, and is a consistent favorite, often recommended for its uniquely sexy and captivating take on vanilla, making it a go-to for many.
Ariana Grande Cloud
Ariana Grande's Cloud Eau de Parfum is celebrated as the best budget-friendly option, earning a 6.6 average score. Senior fashion editor Eliza Huber describes it as 'sweet, youthful, musky.' This popular scent features notes of lavender blossom, sweet pear, bright bergamot, creamy coconut, and vanilla orchid. Its longevity is impressive, lasting between 10 to 12 hours. Huber notes that the fragrance develops significantly on the skin, mellowing from a brighter, sweeter initial spray into a more relaxed, musky aroma, which is often perceived as getting better with time. It's a delightful and accessible fragrance that has surprisingly broad appeal, even among those with more refined scent preferences.
Dior Miss Dior EDP
Dior's Miss Dior Eau de Parfum is identified as a top choice for women, with an average rating of 6.5 out of 10. Huber describes its character as 'feminine, sexy, unexpected.' The fragrance is built upon a base of soft musk, with heart notes of centifolia rose and delicate lily of the valley. Its longevity extends to over five hours. A notable aspect of Miss Dior is its ability to garner compliments; one wearer reported being approached by a delivery driver inquiring about the scent. While feminine, it transcends 'girly' associations, offering a mature and alluring profile that subtly sweetens as it melds with the wearer's natural scent, creating a sophisticated and captivating aura.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540
Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum is highly regarded, particularly for its amber profile. While specific rating details are not provided for this category, its reputation precedes it. The scent is a powerful combination of jasmine, saffron, cedarwood, and ambergris, often described as embodying the essence of an 'unbothered rich woman.' Its exceptional longevity lasts over 12 hours, making it a statement fragrance. Baccarat Rouge 540 has achieved significant popularity, frequently lauded for its sophisticated and impactful aroma, and is associated with successful individuals, projecting an image of confidence and luxury.
Krigler English Promenade 19
Krigler's English Promenade 19 Eau de Parfum is celebrated as the best citrus fragrance, with an exceptional longevity of over 12 hours. Aniyah Morinia, editor for branded content, simply calls it 'A citrus delight.' The fragrance features a refreshing blend of grapefruit, sweet jasmine, uplifting neroli, bright orange blossom, and a base of white musk and ylang-ylang. Morinia recounts receiving a compliment from a stranger in a bakery, noting how her scent was strong enough to be noticed even amidst delicious aromas. While initial notes of grapefruit might be subtle in the air, the perfume reveals its floral heart and musky undertones when applied to the skin, offering a captivating and confidence-boosting experience.
Maison Margiela By the Fireplace
Maison Margiela's 'Replica' By the Fireplace Eau de Toilette is highlighted as the best cozy fragrance, noted for its inviting warmth. Associate editor Sierra Mayhew describes it as 'cozy, inviting, warm.' The scent opens with notes of pink pepper essence, orange flower absolute, and clove oil, leading into a comforting heart of chestnut accord and Gaïac wood oil. Mayhew notes that while the initial spray might reveal sweeter notes, including vanilla, it harmonizes beautifully with the familiar woodier and spicier notes reminiscent of the brand's popular candle. This fragrance creates an atmosphere of comfort and warmth, perfect for cooler weather or when seeking a sense of tranquil embrace.
Viktor&Rolf Flowerbomb
Viktor&Rolf's Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum is recognized as the best sweet fragrance, receiving high marks for its longevity of over 12 hours. Senior fashion editor Anna LaPlaca describes it as 'sweet, fresh, glamorous.' The fragrance is a potent blend of freesia accord, rose accord, jasmine, and patchouli oil. LaPlaca notes its remarkable staying power, even after a sweaty workout, and how its initial bright, floral, and youthful impression transforms on the skin into a deeper, more mature fragrance with emphasized vanilla and musk notes. This evolution makes Flowerbomb a captivating and enduring scent that balances sweetness with sophisticated depth.
Byredo Young Rose
Byredo's Young Rose Eau de Parfum is praised as the best rose fragrance for those who typically shy away from traditional floral scents. Its unique profile features ambrette seeds, a surprising hint of Sichuan pepper, orris, Damascena rose, and musk. With an impressive longevity of over 12 hours, this fragrance offers a distinctive twist on a classic. The Sichuan pepper provides a noticeable 'bite,' adding an unexpected edge to the rose, making it akin to a creative cocktail. This scent is for those who appreciate a floral fragrance that is complex, intriguing, and offers a delightful, unconventional experience, defying typical rose perfume expectations.
