The Best Perfumes for Women of All Time (2024)

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 0.5, 1.7, or 3.4 ounces | Top Notes: Violet, cardamom, musky, Australian sandalwood, smoky wood alloy, cedarwood, iris, leather, and ambrox | Cruelty-Free: Yes

A favorite among team Byrdie, this gender-neutral fragrance is a must-have. Rich and woody, it combines smoky accords with a touch of spicy cardamom for a blend that is truly intoxicating and extremely memorable. (Our editors also love this alternative woody scent by the brand.)

"Every time I wear it, I get a compliment. I've actually had Uber drivers ask me to write it down for them so they can buy it for their wives. The fragrance is actually considered unisex, so everyone can wear it. Le Labo describes it as 'at once gentle, smoky, and leathery,' and I agree," says former senior social media editor Kelly Gallagher. "The fragrance has so much depth that the more you breathe it in, the more it changes. I'm a Le Labo Santal wearer for life."

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.7 or 3.4 ounces | Top Notes: Peach, plum | Cruelty-Free: No

A library-inspired scent may sound strange, but trust us, it works. Originally one of the brand’s best-selling candles, it was shoppers’ demand that inspired the fragrance version. Peach, plum, peony, and violet are at the forefront, though the base notes of leather, vanilla, and patchouli are strong enough to make it totally unisex, as is the clean and minimalistic packaging.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.0, 1.6, or 3.3 ounces | Top Notes: Rangoon creeper | Cruelty-Free: No

This full-on floral is classic without ever veering into grandma territory, blending jasmine and tuberose with Rangoon creeper, a south Indian plant with a slightly powdery finish that rounds everything out. Our tester, Arnut, said that the scent burst with floral notes (and didn’t have any hints of alcohol), although he wished the subtle fragrance lasted longer. “It sits well but fades out quickly, too. It's subtle and not overpowering at all. Two to three sprays would suffice,” he said.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.2, 2.4, or 6.8 ounces | Top Notes: Jasmine, saffron | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Notes of ambergris and cedarwood balance the jasmine that’s out the forefront of the fragrance, making for a well-balanced, woody floral. It’s sophisticated and complex, an unexpected pairing that blends beautifully and is sure to appeal to those who like either woody or floral scents alike.

"The brand would say it has notes of jasmine, saffron, and cedarwood, but for me, it just truly smells like nothing else I've ever come across in the best possible way," says senior editor Karli Bendlin. "Every time I spray it on, I immediately feel like a more luxurious version of myself. It's not cheap, so I do try to save it for more special occasions rather than everyday wear—though sometimes I spray it on myself when I'm not even leaving the house, just for the joy of it."

Type: Eau de toilette | Size: 0.5 or 1.7 ounces | Top Notes: Lemon, mandarin, orange, Japanese citrus sudachi, pink pepper | Cruelty-Free: No

The top notes of this fragrance are citrusy—lemon, mandarin, orange—along with a touch of pink pepper, while the middle notes are where the florals come in. A combo of neroli, orange flower, and rose to add that floral hit, though the initial citrus effect, coupled with a musky dry down, make this an extremely modern and fresh take on the classic floral.

"Kimono Yui is floral, citrusy, and peppery," says editorial and strategy director Kathryn Vandervalk." It's one of my favorite perfumes of all time for the way it smells delicate and feminine while keeping its edge. It lasts a long time without feeling heavy."

Type: Perfume mist | Size: 3.04 or 8.1 ounces | Top Notes: Pistachio and almond | Cruelty-Free: Yes

You don’t have to pay a hefty price tag for a long-lasting, delicious fragrance, and this scent from Sol de Janeiro proves that. Notes of pistachio, jasmine petal, sandalwood, almond, and salted caramel are all included in the scent, but our tester, Amy, noted that vanilla was the strongest. However, Amy admits alcohol wasn’t strong in the fragrance. “I'd recommend it to someone who likes sweeter-smelling, more prominent fragrances or to younger people in general,” Amy explains.

Type: Cologne| Size: 3.3 ounces | Top Notes: Bergamot | Cruelty-Free: No

The best perfume for those in search of a fresh, minimalistic scent, this fragrance is straightforward. It emphasizes clean and crisp cucumber and bergamot, offset with the teeniest touch of musk (likely from the beeswax notes). Plus, all of the fragrances from this brand can be easily mixed, matched, and layered if you want to play perfumer. (Sofia Richie’s obsessed with , so you can’t go wrong with these perfumes.)

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.7 or 5.0 ounces | Top Notes: Papyrus | Cruelty-Free: No

Dry, smoky, and woody, the top of papyrus reigns supreme here. Still, because they’re complemented with touches of fresh and green notes, the result isn’t too heavy but rather light enough to wear even during the day. Not only will you smell fresh, but the bottle will also be chic and will be a decorative touch on your vanity.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.0, 1.6, 3.3, or 5.0 ounces | Top Notes: Red and dark berries | Cruelty-Free: No

Red and dark berries make up the top notes of this fruity gourmand scent, hitting you with a burst of sweetness—that users reported isn’t too overpowering. Floral jasmine and violet keep it feminine and flirty, though, like all the Burberry scents, it still has a touch of the brand’s signature amber and musk.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.7 or 3.0 ounces | Top Notes: Neroli | Cruelty-Free: No

This soft, silky scent is floral-forward, but it also has a touch of musk from the sandalwood inclusion that makes it sensual. It's the ideal fragrance for a summer night that will linger until morning. Users reported that the scent is refreshing and not overpowering. Plus, the highly detailed bottle will look gorgeous on your vanity.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.7 or 3.3 ounces | Top Notes: Cetalox | Cruelty-Free: Yes

The name really does say it all. This perfume is formulated entirely differently than any other fragrance, ensuring it smells like no other perfume and is sure to please even those who don’t like wearing fragrances. Rather than having top, middle, and base notes, it’s made of just one note—cetalox, a woody and earthy scent usually used as the base in most fragrances. It’s hard to explain, but it makes this a perfume that doesn’t smell like perfume. It just makes you smell great, and isn’t that the ultimate goal after all?

Pro-tip: The scent changes depending on who wears it and throughout time. “I was pleasantly surprised with how this fragrance reacted with my skin and my natural scent after it had set. On the first spray, it was very off-putting. Other testers sniffed my wrist and were immediately repelled by it, including myself,” our tester, Amy, says. “After more than 30 minutes, the change in the scent was so shocking. Everyone who was repelled came back to tell me that it was a nice scent on me.”

Type: Perfume oil | Size: 5 x 0.5 ounce vials | Top Notes: Varies | Cruelty-Free: Yes

“More and more brands are coming with discovery sets, featuring a variety of scents and notes for all preferences,” says Smith. She adds that it gives you the option to experiment before fully committing, noting that this is one of her favorite sets. It comes with five of the brand’s best-selling perfume oils and a mix of woody, tropical, and earthy fragrances.

Type: Eau de toilette | Size: 1.2, 1.7, or 3.4 ounces | Top Notes: Aldehydes, jasmine, neroli, sandalwood | Cruelty-Free: No

Often considered the world's first "abstract" fragrance, the best-selling Chanel No. 5 is not for wallflowers. The blend of aldehydes and florals is layered over a base of jasmine, neroli, and sandalwood to create a complex, lasting scent that leaves an impression. When applied to the skin, the perfume reacts with the wearer's body chemistry to create a highly subjective effect—though many women love it, others find it overwhelming. Our reviewer, Catherine Helbig, suggests buying a sample before purchasing the full-sized bottle.

And while the scent might seem a bit more mature, Aliyah, another Byrdie tester, said the fragrance is for everyone. “The first person that comes to mind is my mother, who is in her 60s, but I'd recommend it to younger girls, too, that want a more mature, sophisticated fragrance.”

Type: Varies | Size: 0.3 ounces monthly | Top Notes: Varies | Cruelty-Free: Varies

Luxury Scent Box offers an easy way to try a wide variety of options for those who aren't sure what they like. How it works: Every month, you get a 0.3-ounce sampler size of a fragrance (either selected by you or on recommendation from one of the brand’s fragrance specialists). There are both mainstream brands and smaller, more niche options. Find one that you love? You can then buy the full-size bottle at a discounted price.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.0, 1.7, 3.4, or 5.0 ounces | Top Notes: Cattleya orchid, Freesia, Centifolia rose | Cruelty-Free: No

As its name suggests, this best-selling scent is floral-forward, though the bouquet is balanced by base notes of patchouli, musk, and vanilla. It's a versatile but heavy perfume made for nighttime wear and better suited for winter. “My favorite thing about this perfume is how it smells on my skin and on the hair sample after 30+ minutes,” our tester, Talya, reports. “Once the flowery notes dried down, the remaining scent was warm, comforting, sweet, sophisticated, and sexy.”

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.0, 1.7, 2.7, or 5.0 ounces | Top Notes: Sambac jasmine, Tuberose crystal | Cruelty-Free: No

As the stiletto-shaped bottle suggests, Good Girl is a study in contrasts. It blends bright florals like tuberose and moody notes like tonka bean and coffee, making it a great pick for date night. “The scent is what I love most about this fragrance,” our tester, Nikki, says. “It's soft, sweet, and comforting. It has a romantic flair to it that reminds me of a garden of roses and peonies, tea, and biscuits.”

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 3 x 07, 1.2, 1.7, or 3.4 ounces | Top Notes: Orange | Cruelty-Free: No

This citrusy scent is effervescent, with top notes of orange and mandarin and florals like Turkish rose and jasmine at its heart. It's strong yet fresh. “Orange notes stood out the most out of all of the notes. Although it is more of a feminine scent, I could see it working for any gender,” our tester, Michelle, reports. While the fragrance is delicious, Michelle notes that you might need a couple of sprays as the scent fades quickly.

Type: Eau de toilette | Size: .34, 1.0, or 3.4 ounces | Top Notes: Pink pepper, orange flower petals, clove oil | Cruelty-Free: No

This unisex offering from the eclectic designer is sweet, warm, and familiar without overdone. It's an iconic cold weather fragrance—essentially cozy vibes in a bottle. There are notes of clove oil, chestnut accord, and vanilla accord, which scream winter nights spent by the fire.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.7 or 3.4 ounces | Top Notes: Pink pepper and ambrox | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Our tester, Lindsay, was excited to review this scent after it went viral online. “Additionally, one of my buddies wore this the other day, and I was entranced,” Lindsay shares. “I couldn't help but ask what she was wearing, and to be honest, I chuckled when it was the most viral product on TikTok right now.” Glossier's signature scent has a bit of spice yet a beautiful floral aroma. The perfume blends with each person's natural scent differently to create an effect that is unique to you and, according to Lindsay, lasts well throughout the day.

Type: Eau de toilette | Size: 0.33, 1.6, 3.3, or 6.8 ounces | Top Notes: Wild berries | Cruelty-Free: No

As an eau de toilette, Daisy is light and less intense than other perfumes on the market. For this reason, this scent is fantastic for layering or for those who enjoy a more subtle fragrance profile, like teenagers. One reviewer purchased the scent for their 16-year-old daughter and had positive things to say. “This scent wasn't like the sickly sweet smells you get from the bath store, but it is still light enough for a 16-year-old,” the reviewer shared.

Type: Eu de parfum | Size: 0.8, 1.7 or 3.4 ounces | Top Notes: Bergamot, red fruits, patchouli | Cruelty-Free: No

If you're a fan of sweet scents, you really can't go wrong with Mugler Angel. Since its 1992 launch, this perfume has been a staple on vanities everywhere—but it's so much more than the iconic star-shaped bottle. The fragrance flaunts warm, fruity top notes with hints of sugary praline and a spicy whisper of patchouli. Our tester, Tayla, said the complex scent was super unique. “This scent is definitely unique. It's unlike anything I've smelled before and difficult to describe, but the overwhelming top note is sweet and fruity,” Talya reported.

Type: Eu de parfum | Size: 1.0, 1.6, 3.0, or 5.0 ounces | Top Notes: Coffee | Cruelty-Free: No

Looking for something sexy and seductive for a romantic night with your partner? YSL Black Opium might be the way to go. This warm and spicy perfume has opening notes of rich coffee and sweet vanilla and balances them out with soft florals. The result? An edgy, daring, captivating scent that's sure to draw your love interest in.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 0.7, 1.0, 1.7, 3.4 or 5.0 ounces | Top Notes: Lily-of-the-Valley, Centifolia Rose, soft musk | Cruelty-Free: No

Miss Dior perfume exudes elegance and sophistication for those looking for a timeless scent with 1940s inspiration. Its floral, citrus, and woody notes are harmoniously blended into a sophisticated and elegant perfume thanks to its masterful composition. This classic makes a great beauty gift courtesy of a complimentary three-step customization process. “This perfume definitely has a strong floral scent, with the scent of rose standing out the most,” our tester, Rebecca, says. “The scent is refreshing and reminds me of a nice spring day when the sun is shining.”

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 0.33, 1.0, or 2.5 ounces | Top Notes: Magnolia, musk, Bulgarian rose | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Rihanna has already made waves in the cosmetics industry with the release of her makeup and skincare lines, and now she is expanding into fragrance as well. Magnolia, musk, and Bulgarian rose come together to create a seductive scent. In addition, imagine how lovely this amber-brown glass with gold accents would look on your vanity.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 0.3, 1.0, 1.7, or 3.4 ounces | Top Notes: Coco de Mer, Ylang Ylang Comores Islands, Cardamom | Cruelty-Free: No

Captivating summer aroma, to describe this fragrance in three words. With its sun-kissed and tropical aroma, this white and gold bottle of Soleil Blanc perfectly encapsulates the essence of a lavish beach vacation. It evokes feelings of warmth, relaxation, and leisure, making it an ideal scent for summer and beach vacations. You will get many compliments whenever you wear this perfume, which has floral amber and coco-de-mer notes.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 0.33 or 1.7 ounces | Top Notes: Dewy lemon, grapefruit, sage leaves | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Skylar is known for its clean and non-toxic approach to fragrance. Therefore, this is an option for people who value their health and the environment and either have sensitive skin, are expecting, or are simply looking for clean scents that don’t sacrifice their love of luxurious fragrances for harmful chemicals. We love the feminine and heavenly earthiness that grapefruit, pink salt, and cedar bring to the table with their floral freshness.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.7 ounces | Top Notes: Italian bergamot, lemon sfuma, Lily of the Valley, pear | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Those who prefer floral scents will find that the Ellis Brooklyn perfume in the pink bottle best captures the beauty of freshly cut flowers in the spring. Italian bergamot and Lily of the Valley make up the top notes, while golden gardenia and honeysuckle anchor the middle, and sandalwood rounds out the composition. It’s versatile enough to be worn in formal and informal settings, depending on the wearer’s taste and the occasion.

Type: Eau de toilette | Size: 1.7 or 3.4 ounces | Top Notes: Musk, linen, and pink peony | Cruelty-Free: No

Unique and refined, the scent of 001 Woman Perfume sets itself apart from other perfumes on the market. It is made from high-quality ingredients and expertly blended to produce a distinct and memorable aroma. The perfume is an attractive combination of floral, woodsy, and musky undertones. This harmonious blend produces an intoxicating aroma that is both complex and versatile. It strikes the perfect balance between femininity, sensuality, and modernity.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.7 or 3.38 ounces | Top Notes: Mandarin, pear, pink pepper, liquorice | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Some situations—like going into the office—require a more subdued scent to not give the people around you headaches. That’s why this subtle Dossier scent is a great choice. (It’s also a YSL dupe.) “The scent of this fragrance is a subtle mix of fruitiness, sweetness, and woodiness,” our tester, Amy, says. “It is very light in scent and not overwhelming at all. Upon first whiff, you can tell that there is some orange sweetness, followed by a hint of plum and woodiness.”

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: 1.0 or 2.5 ounces | Top Notes: Rhubarb, lychee, bergamot essence | Cruelty-Free: Yes

When heading out for a long day away from home, I want to spritz a perfume that’ll stick with me throughout the day. And, boy, does this Parfums de Marley scent deliver. While wearing the floral fragrance (which has notes of bergamot, vanilla, peony, and musk), several people stopped me to compliment the scent and ask for its name—hours after applying and walking around outside.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: .33, 1.0, 1.7, or 3.3 ounces | Top Notes: Candied citrus | Cruelty-Free: No

The candied citrus, warm vanilla, and striking orange blossom notes in this fragrance have made me devoted to Devotion by Dolce&Gabbana. It’s an alluring and sensual scent that will draw people closer and is perfect for date night. The scent’s depth is also long-lasting and will stick with you through day and night. Plus, you can bring the fragrance with the convenient travel-sized option if you're traveling.

Type: Eau de parfum | Size: .32 or 1.7 ounces | Top Notes: Skin musk, bergamot nectar, sheer jasmine | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Some scents are so good you need them around you in more than just fragrance form. Well, you’re lucky to have this product from Phlur. Not only does it come in fragrance form (multiple sizes, too!), but you can buy it as a perfume, soap, and body lotion. “[The scent is] a mixture between floral, sweet, airy, and musk with the notes leaning more musky and floral,” our tester, Tina, explains. “It feels like a 'warm hug' since it reminds me very much of my mom.”

FAQ

• How do you choose a perfume for women?

  While perfume choice is totally personal, the key thing is to make sure you try it on yourself first. “The way a fragrance smells can vary based on body chemistry, so it’s important to make sure you like it while actually wearing it before committing to the full bottle,” suggests Smith.

• How do you apply perfume for women?

  Smith suggests spritzing it onto your pulse points: the wrists, neck, and crook of the arm. (This will help intensify and diffuse the scent.) But, if you’re spraying it on your wrists, do not rub them together, as so many people do. “This generates heat, which can end up altering the scent,” explains Smith.

• When does perfume for women expire?

  There’s no set answer here, but if your fragrance is properly stored, it can last for years and years on end, says Smith. Make sure to keep all your bottles in a cool, dry environment; if and when the fragrance starts to change or smell ‘off,’ that’s when it’s time to replace it, she says.