As a woman, I know that finding the best smelling perfume can be a daunting task. It can take hours of testing, sniffing, and research to try to find just the scent that makes you feel confident and special. But don’t worry, we are here to make your life easier and have compiled a list of some of the best perfumes for women out there, so you won’t have to do all the searching yourself! Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh or musky and sweet, this post covers everything. So let’s jump right in and see what amazing scents we smelled, loved, and kept in our collection.
Best Perfumes for Women
Our list of the best perfumes for women are:
- The best all-rounder perfume: Miss Dior Eau de Parfum $147
- If you want something floral: Gucci Bloom for Women Eau de Parfum Spray $88
- If you want something fresh & uplifting: Happy by Clinique Eau De Perfume $50
- If you are after a powerful scent: Chanel N°5 Eau de Parfum Spray $88
- If you love a celebrity perfume: Britney Spears Fantasy $22
Now that we’ve highlighted a few of our favorites let’s check out the complete list.
1. Chanel N°5 Eau de Parfum Spray
What we Like
- Timeless classic fragrance
- High-quality fragrance
- Sophisticated and elegant scent
- Perfume is a masterpiece
- Great for special occasions
What we Don't Like
- A strong love-it-or hate-it scent
I remember the first time I caught a whiff of Chanel No. 5. I was young, and my mother wore the iconic fragrance everywhere she went. As a curious child, I would always ask her what the smell was, and she would tell me the story of how it changed the world of perfumery forever. The use of aldehydes was nothing short of revolutionary, and it’s amazing to think that something synthetic could create such a pleasant scent. The crispness and sparkle that greet you when you first spray it on are truly unforgettable. For me, Chanel No. 5 is more than just a fragrance; it’s a piece of history that will always be on the top of the list of best perfumes for women.
What Customers Are Saying
“Classic and timeless. It’s the only thing Marilyn Monroe wore to bed. I have the 1980’s version with the added bourbon accord. This boozy accord provides the longevity and silage you expect of Chanel perfume. Wearing this makes you feel sexy and fabulous, and who wouldn’t want that?”
Top Notes: Aldehydes, Ylang-Ylang, Neroli, Bergamot, Peach
Middle Notes: Iris, Jasmine, Rose, Lily-of-the-Valley
Base Notes: Sandalwood, Vanilla, Oakmoss, Vetiver, Patchouli
2. Gucci Bloom for Women Eau de Parfum Spray
What we Like
- Suitable for formal or casual occasions
- Beautiful, balanced white floral scent
- Good longevity and sillage
- Evokes feelings of happiness and vulnerability
What we Don't Like
- May not be suitable for those who dislike white florals
- May be overhyped or overpriced for some
- May be too feminine for some tastes
When it comes to finding the best perfumes for women, Gucci Bloom Eau de Parfum Spray is one of my top picks. This fragrance’s fun packaging and rich floral scents instantly caught my eye. Developed under Alessandro Michele, it is a natural yet expressive aroma that I love. The top notes of orange and green, combined with the middle notes of jasmine, honeysuckle, and tuberose, create a beautiful bouquet of scents. The base notes of orris root, honeysuckle, and sandalwood give it a warm and comforting finish. Every time I wear it, I feel like I am walking through a garden on a sunny day. The baby pink lacquered bottle is just the cherry on top, making it a perfect addition to my collection of must-have fragrances.
What Customers Are Saying
“This was the first perfume I ever purchased, I fell in love with it immediately. It’s a simple, floral scent, very elegant, and lasts long”
Top Notes: Jasmine
Middle Notes: Tuberose
Base Notes: Rangoon Creeper
3. Black Opium Extreme Yves Saint Laurent Perfume
What we Like
- Boozier and sexier than the original
- More mysterious, darker, and heavier on the coffee
- Lasts a long time
- Great dark academic scent
What we Don't Like
- Less sweet than the original version
I have to tell you, as a perfume lover, Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Extreme has quickly become one of my absolute favorite scents. Its unique blend of coffee, cacao, and jasmine sambac is the perfect combination for a wintertime fragrance. It’s feminine without being overly girly, which is important to me as I like a perfume that is both playful and seductive. The addictive scent is powerful enough to leave a lasting impression yet not too overpowering for everyday wear. I always feel confident and beautiful when I wear it, and it’s definitely one of the best perfumes for women out there.
What Customers Are Saying
“I find this extremely addictive and sexy. Something in this makes me want to come back to smell it again and again. It also has great longevity!”
Top Notes: Coffee, Cacao
Middle Notes: Jasmin Sambac, Orange Blossom
Base Notes: Bourbon Vanilla, patchouli
4. Le Labo Santal 33
$310 ON NORDSTORM $188 ON SAX FITH AVENUE
What we Like
- Unique and polarizing fragrance
- Unisex fragrance
- Great longevity
- Worn on lazy days at home or afternoon outings
What we Don't Like
- Can smell like dill or pickle
- Expensive
It’s not often that a perfume can captivate me straight away, but Le Labo Santal 33 manages to do just that! There was a lot of talk about the perfume smelling like pickles, but I didn’t notice it at all. Its unisex scent and the unique notes make it a standout in a sea of same-same fragrances. And the best part? It manages to walk the line between cult status and widespread appreciation. Everyone can appreciate the beauty of this perfume, no matter their fragrance preferences.
What Customers Are Saying
“It is an amazing scent! A true long-lasting fragrance that is unisex but more on the masculine side of the spectrum, in my opinion. A woody wonderful scent that lives up to the hype”
Notes: Sandalwood, Leather, Papyrus, Virginia, Cedar, Cardamom, Violet, Iris Amber
5. Miss Dior Eau de Parfum
What we Like
- It is feminine and sophisticated
- It can be appropriate for various occasions and seasons
- It is a crowd-pleaser and generally well-liked
What we Don't Like
- It can be too sweet or synthetic for some people’s taste
If you have been searching for a sweet, floral scent that is long-lasting and extremely feminine, then look no further than Miss Dior for Women by Dior. It is fantastic for daily wear and is an intoxicating blend of rose, patchouli, musk, jasmine, violet, and mandarin notes. The packaging is also pretty, with the silver bow around the bottleneck, making it perfect for displaying in your bathroom.
What Customers Are Saying
“I really like this perfume a lot. It’s very gentle, with a touch of citrus and some rose. It has a comforting warm scent. Very subtle and beautiful!”
Top Notes: Italian Mandarin
Middle Notes: Rose, Egyptian Jasmine
Base Notes: Patchouli, Musk
6. Vera Wang Princess Eau de Toilette Spray
What we Like
- Classy and good-natured scent
- Suitable to wear any time of day in the summer or winter
- Great projection
What we Don't Like
- Can be generic and common
- May find it lacking in complexity
I love to indulge in sweet and floral scents, I can confidently say that the Vera Wang Princess Eau de Toilette Spray is one of the best perfumes for women. The enchanting combination of Tahitian Tiare flower, apple, vanilla, amber, and vanilla gourmand creates a tantalizing aroma that lingers on my skin for hours. Plus, the bottle design is simply stunning and makes me feel like I’ve stepped into the pages of my favorite fairy tale. Just be sure to apply it when your skin is warm and clean for a long-lasting scent that will turn heads and captivate hearts.
What Customers Are Saying
“My very first perfume I fell in love with. I wore this in high school and in college. Everyone loved this on me. It’s cozy yet at the same time it’s performance is strong. Longevity-wise, it lasts all day!!”
Top Notes: Water Lily, Apricot, Apple, Mandarin Orange,
Middle Notes: Dark Chocolate, Guava, Tiare Flower, Tuberose
Base Notes: Vanilla, Amber, Woodsy Notes
7. Byredo Gypsy Water Eau De Parfum Spray
$199 ON NORDSTORM $26 ON WALMART
What we Like
- Casual but not boring
- Easy to Wear
- Beautiful combination of notes
What we Don't Like
- Expensive
- Average Longevity and projection
As someone who appreciates a good fragrance, I can attest that Byredo Gypsy Water Eau De Parfum Spray is a luxurious scent that is worth every penny. With a blend of top notes that include bergamot, lemon pepper, and juniper berries, it has a unique woody aroma that is perfect for both men and women. The heart and base notes of incense, pine needles, orris root, amber, vanilla, and sandalwood are beautifully layered, creating a balanced fragrance that can be worn on a variety of occasions. While it is on the pricey side, I find myself saving it for special moments and formal events – it’s just that good!
What Customers Are Saying
“This is a gorgeous perfume! I get a soft, complex citrus with a beautiful, woody dry down. It’s perfectly unisex and great for everyday wear. I would say the longevity is a bit lacking in this fragrance but sill worth the buy”
Top Notes: Juniper, Lemon, Bergamot, Pepper
Middle Notes: Pine needles, Incense, Orris Root
Base Notes: Vanilla, Sandalwood, Amber
8. Marc Jacobs Eau so Fresh Eau de Perfume Spray
What we Like
- Fresh and clean scent
- Good blind buy
- Feminine and playful
- Great for spring and summer
- Suitable for casual occasions
What we Don't Like
- Average Longevity
What is not to love about Marc Jacobs Eau so Fresh Eau de Perfume Spray? Everything from the bottle to the smell is so dreamy, which is why it is among the best perfumes for women who want a sweet and sophisticated scent. The aromas are a blend of floral notes with hints of rose, jasmine, apple blossom, and violet. As well as fruity notes such as raspberry, pear, and grapefruit. I highly recommend this perfume to those who love sweet smells; it will become one of your signature scents for everyday wear or special occasions. To enhance your smell, you can also purchase matching body lotion.
What Customers Are Saying
“This is just beautiful!! So fresh, clean, and slightly sweet. I love it so much & definitely has the potential to be my summer signature scent! I always stayed away from the Daisy line because I was never interested, but now I regret that I discovered this so late!”
Top Notes: Kiwi, Red Litchi, Quince
Middle Notes: White Chocolate, Cupcake, Orchid, Jasmine
Base Notes: Musk, Orris Root, Woodsy Notes
9. Cashmere Mist By Donna Karan Perfume
$130 ON NORDSTORM $130 ON ULTA
What we Like
- Longevity
- Grounding and comforting feeling
- Sophisticated and classy
What we Don't Like
- Not suitable for those who dislike musk scent
- May feel too mature for the younger crowd
One thing I love more than anything is a perfume I can wear every day that makes me feel confident and ready to take on the world. Donna Karan’s Cashmere Mist perfume did just that! The floral jasmine, vanilla, and sandalwood blended perfectly to create a strong yet intoxicating scent. I love how the aroma lingers on my skin throughout the day and the compliments I receive. Another thing that drew me to this perfume was the bottle. The shape is so unique and creative; it’s like a piece of art sitting on my dresser! If you’re looking for the best perfumes for women that are timeless with a little something extra, give Cashmere Mist a try.
What Customers Are Saying
“I have been wearing this perfume for 10 years now. I spray a little in the morning, and it lasts for several hours. I get so many compliments on it. It’s light but yet heavy. I love wearing it during the winter. I will never get tired of this scent.”
Top Notes: Bergamot
Middle Notes: SuedeLily, -of-the-Valley, Jasmine
Base Notes: Cashmere, Musk, Sandalwood, Amber Vanilla
10. Red Door Eau de Parfum Spray by Elizabeth Arden
$29 ON Elizabeth Arden $26 ON WALMART
What we Like
- Powerful and long-lasting
- Vintage and classic appeal
- Affordable
What we Don't Like
- Can be overpowering
I absolutely adore Red Door Eau de Parfum Spray by Elizabeth Arden. From the moment I saw the fun, bold red packaging, I knew I had to try it out. The perfume has a classic signature scent of florals, honey, and sandalwood with a romantic and feminine vibe, perfect for any occasion where I want to feel pretty and sophisticated. I also love wearing it on special dates or events, and I make sure to spray it onto my pulse points to make it last. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter, and I always receive a lot of compliments when I wear it.
What Customers Are Saying
“I get so many compliments when wearing Red Door. It has been my signature scent for almost 20 years! Fits any occasion or setting from jeans and t-shirt to cocktail dress and diamonds.”
Top Notes: Rose, Orange Blossom, Plum, Violet, Peach, Anise
Middle Notes: Honey, Carnation, Rose, Tuberose, Ylang-Ylang, Jasmine, Lily, Freesia, Lily-of-the-Valley, Orchid
Base Notes: Sandalwood, Amber, Benzoin, Musk, Heliotrope, Vetiver, Cedar
11. White Diamonds by Elizabeth Taylor, Eau De Toilette Spray
What we Like
- Vintage classic
- Great for white floral lovers
- Affordable
What we Don't Like
- May be too sharp and loud for some
- May be associated with older women
I first discovered White Diamonds by Elizabeth Taylor many years ago, and it continues to be one of my favorite perfumes. The rich blend of lily and tuberose makes me feel sophisticated and confident, and I always receive compliments when wearing it. While it may appeal more to a mature woman, I think any age group can appreciate this fragrance’s sensual aroma. If you’re looking for a timeless scent to add to your collection, I highly recommend trying White Diamonds.
What Customers Are Saying
“I’ve been wearing this for years. Every now and again, I have the urge to try something new, but I always end up going back to my white diamonds. People comment on what a nice clean fragrance it is. It’s not too light, but not one of those fragrances that hits you in the face, either. Love it!!!”
Top Notes: Aldehydes, Lily, Neroli, Orange, Bergamot
Middle Notes: Egyptian Tuberose, Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Narcissus, Carnation, Italian Orris Root, Turkish Rose, Cinnamon
Base Notes: Amber, Musk Sandalwood, Oakmoss, Patchouli
12. Happy by Clinique Eau De Perfume Spray
What we Like
- A classic uplifting scent
- Good for spring and summer
- Great for teenagers and young adults
- Great longevity
- Affordable
What we Don't Like
- May find it too sharp on the nose
- Longevity could be better
Whenever I need a fragrance that makes me happy, I reach for my bottle of Happy by Clinique Eau De Perfume Spray. This scent is perfect for everyday wear and adds a touch of playfulness to my day. The blend of citrus and floral notes is just the right balance, with watery citrus, pear, hibiscus, and syringa flowers all working together to create an inviting aroma. And while it may not last as long as some other perfumes I’ve tried, that doesn’t detract from the appeal of this classic scent. If you’re looking for an easy-to-wear fragrance that will make you smile, you can’t go wrong with Happy by Clinique.
What Customers Are Saying
“I love it. Very fresh and bright. It really does smell “happy” to me. It brightens my day when I wear it. Lasts long enough to be worth the money. And the sillage is decent.”
Top Notes: Orange, Blood Grapefruit, Indian Mandarin, Bergamot, Apple, Plum
Middle Notes: Lily-of-the-Valley, Freesia, Orchid, Rose
Base Notes: Mimosa, Lily, Magnolia, MuskAmber
13. Giorgio Armani Si Perfume
What we Like
- Fruity scent made classy and chic
- Perfect balance of notes
- Great for fall and cooler weather
- Seductive and intoxicating perfume
- Affordable
What we Don't Like
- May be too sweet for some
- May find it too fruity or girly
As soon as I took a whiff of Si, Giorgio Armani’s perfume, I was immediately struck by how gracefully it blended sandalwood, cassis nectar, and musky wood aromas. With just a few sprays of this perfume, the gorgeous fruity scent lingered on my skin, captivating my senses and drawing me deeper into its rhythmic, elegant aroma. Si is a reinvention of a classic chypre scent, and it’s clear that Armani has crafted something truly unique and irresistible.
What Customers Are Saying
“Definitely one of my favorite fragrances. It’s soft, sweet, elegant, pleasant, inviting, inoffensive, and suitable for day, night, and all weathers and occasions. If signature scents were for me, this one would be it!”
Top Notes: Cassis
Middle Notes: May Rose, Freesia
Base Notes: Vanilla, Patchouli, Woody Notes, Ambroxan
14. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb
What we Like
- Well balanced notes
- Makes some users feel girly and sexy
- Great for all seasons
What we Don't Like
- May find it too sharp on the nose
- Longevity could be better
I have to admit, when I first heard the name “Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb,” I was a little apprehensive. Would I smell like a field of flowers? Would it be too sweet? But after trying it for myself, I was pleasantly surprised. This perfume truly is an explosion of floral scents – in the best way possible. The combination of bergamot, tea, freesia, jasmine, orange blossom, orchid, rose, and patchouli creates a full-bodied and opulent yet fresh and sweet aroma. I love spraying it lightly onto my neck and wrists during the warmer months. And can we talk about the bottle itself? It’s absolutely stunning and is one of the best perfumes for women money can buy.
What Customers Are Saying
“This has easily become my signature scent. I wear it every day, and it lasts a super long time. I always get compliments on how good I smell, and I’m super happy with the sweet, light residual scent as the day passes. I have the 3.4 oz bottle, and it lasted me about a year and a half”
Top Notes: Tea, Bergamot, Osmanthus
Middle Notes: Orchid, Jasmine, Rose, Freesia, African Orange Flower
Base Notes: Patchouli, Musk, Vanilla
15. Tory Burch Absolu Perfume
What we Like
- Fresh and happy Floral Scent
- Well balanced
- Great for fall and cooler weather
- Seductive and intoxicating perfume
- Affordable
What we Don't Like
- Average Longevity
- Expensive
As a fan of Tory Burch’s first scent, I was excited to see what she had in store for me, and I wasn’t disappointed! Absolu takes everything great about the original and amps it up with a bold intensity and refinement that’s unexpected but oh-so-welcome. The blend of tuberose, pink pepper, and pure rose is just divine, and the earthy vetiver and sandalwood give it a sophistication that’s perfect for the cold weather. But beyond the fragrance itself, the bottle is a true standout. The gold fretwork top and clear base make for a chic and contemporary design that’s as eye-catching as the scent inside.
What Customers Are Saying
“I love this fragrance. Its professional, chic, cool, sophisticated. I feel (and smell) great when I put it on in the morning. I’ve received many compliments from my husband and strangers alike. You can’t go wrong with this one.”
Top Notes: Lily-of-the-Valley, Pink Pepper, Black Currant
Middle Notes: Rose, Tuberose, Jasmine Sambac
Base Notes: Cedar, Vetiver, Sandalwood, Vanilla
16. Ariana Grande Cloud Eau de Parfum for Women
What we Like
- Creamy, soft, warm, and inviting scent
- Enjoyable and crowd-pleasing
- Long-lasting projection
What we Don't Like
- May not be suitable for those who don’t like gourmand scents
Whenever I see a new celebrity fragrance on the market, I tend to be skeptical. Yes, I love the celebrity in question, but can their fragrance really live up to the hype? However, when I caught a whiff of Ariana Grande’s Cloud Eau de Parfum Spray, I knew I had possibly found one of the best perfumes for women. Even if you’re not a fan of hers, the scent is hard to resist – it’s playful, dreamy, and uplifting. And let’s not forget the adorable bottle, complete with a little blue cloud perched on top. Every time I wear this fragrance, I feel like I’m floating on a cloud of pear, bergamot, and lavender blossom. And the creamy coconut, caramelized praline, and vanilla notes give it a warmth that makes it perfect for summer days.
What Customers Are Saying
“I don’t care what nobody says, this is one of the best (if not the best) celebrity fragrances I have ever smelled. It’s so freaking delicious!”
Top Notes: Lavender, Pear, Bergamot
Middle Notes: Whipped Cream, Praline, Coconut, Vanilla Orchid
Base Notes: Musk, Woody Notes
17. Britney Spears Fantasy Perfume
What we Like
- Affordable
- Well balanced
- Popular fragrance that is recognizable
- Sweet, sensual, warm, and floral scent
- Great longevity
What we Don't Like
- May find the scent too sweet
- May not be suitable for formal occasions
- May find the scent too common
I first discovered Fantasy by Britney Spears many years ago, and ever since then, it has become a staple in my perfume collection. There’s something about the sweet and seductive scent that I just can’t get enough of. It’s no wonder why it continues to be a top-selling fragrance within the industry. The combination of lychee, quince, kiwi, jasmine, white chocolate, musk, orris root, and wood creates a charming and elusive aroma. I always receive compliments when wearing it and can’t help but feel like I have a little bit of magic love potion with me. If you’re looking for one of the best perfumes for women that is a timeless scent and affordable, I highly recommend giving Fantasy a try.
What Customers Are Saying
“I have been wearing this for years, and it will always be in my collection. One of my favorite perfumes of all time. On me, this smells like a fruity vanilla cupcake. I find the white chocolate is dominant on me at least. Crowd-pleasing and a safe blind buy if you enjoy sweet fragrances!”
Top Notes: Green Notes Raspberry, Pear, Grapefruit
Middle Notes: Violet, Litchi, Apple Blossom, Rose, Jasmine
Base Notes: Musk, Plum, Virginia Cedar
Best Perfumes for Women FAQs
What is the most popular women's perfume?
Chanel No.5 is often ranked as the most popular women’s perfume, selling consistently well since its launch in 1921. It’s a classic scent that comes in an elegantly simple bottle and makes a great gift.
What is the number 1 selling perfume?
Chanel No.5 is the one selling perfume due to its popularity, brand, legacy, and of course, iconic scent.
Alexandra Linde is an experienced writer holding a bachelor's degree in Journalism. She is the owner of Alexandra McKiterick Creative and has expertise in travel, fashion, fitness and lifestyle. Alex has previously written for Flightcenter, Travello, and Backpacker Deals.
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