20 Perfumes that Smell Similar to Baccarat Rouge 540

BR 540 is a very expensive, but also very popular fragrance from Francis Kurkdjian. In this post, I want to present some Baccarat Rouge 540 dupe alternatives for cheaper and other perfumes which have a similar style, but are ultimately different.

The good news is that there are plenty of options that can smell similar what you get with BR 540.

I am consistently updating this page, as I find more suitable perfumes that bear resemblance to BR 540…so, check back for new ones.


Favorite Perfumes Like Baccarat Rouge 540

For the first part of the list,  I am going to cover the fragrances which are ‘inspired by’ Baccarat Rouge 540 directly. The next section, will be those scents that are similar in style, but ultimately their own thing.


The Casino Scent

Casino Royale by Dua Fragrances– So, the Dua Brand specializes in creating inspired perfumes or similar smelling fragrances. Casino Royale is their version of BR 540.

But, they also have other perfumes that combine elements of BR 540 and Extrait, with notes of other perfumes to create a newer scent all together. So, it’s worth checking out these, since they sell at a reasonable price. None are super amazing, but they do a nice job.

Is it very similar to Baccarat? It’s certainly close, but the differences are noticeable, if one is paying attention. Though, that’s to be expected with the price difference.

To my nose, it isn’t as sweet or smooth, and has a larger floral presence. Jasmine and marigold. Also, has hints of the Extrait version of BR 540, it kind of leans that way.

baccarat rouge 540 dupe


Ambery Option 

Ambery Saffron by Dossier– Another good option for recreating the BR 540 aroma. This one does use some different notes, but the result actually comes out great.

Plum and orange blossom, are the main differences here. Again though, it still comes out nearly identical to the Kurkdjian scent. This one is a bit lighter with the sillage, yet still lasts for a long time on the skin.

Perhaps a bit sweeter, like the Dua isn’t as sweet, and the one below is more metallic. It kind of comes down to preference, as these three are so close in terms of execution.


The Popular Zara Smell a Like

Red Temptation by Zara– The similarities of Red Temptation to Baccarat made it a massive hit on social media posts and also caused it to be sold out for a long time. However, as of this update, this perfume is back and stock and offers a very similar fragrance at around $40.

This doesn’t have the same level of sweetness as BR 540, to me. The orange note up top is sharp and its power in the early stages is one of the main distinctions here. It’s smooth, fresh, and has a good deal of ambroxan in the middle act. That’s when it’s most similar.

The performance here is solid. The sillage for the first hour can pack a punch, but it does settle, into a more moderate wear. Decent longevity, not insane like BR. Also, a woodsy finish in the base notes.

Zara alternative to Baccarat Rouge


Caramelle Smell

Caramelle Rosse by Fragrenza– This is another inspired near dupe perfume that I bought recently. This is a good option. However, I will say that the saffron here is a bit louder than the sample vial of the actual 540 that I have.  Also, an almond note.

So, this does seem to have more of a metallic finish on my skin, than some of the others. Nothing too outlandish, some of you might even prefer this Fragrenza version, but just putting it out there.

The performance is good. I purchased other samples of their designer inspired perfumes and all of them were well done. So, order a sample lot, if you’re interested in this one.

 

 


Another Under $30

Ana Abiyedh Rouge by Lattafa- Rouge is another cheapie that does an impression of BR. The opening act, is admittedly a bit of a synthetic mess. It has that dry, plasticky, and alcohol aroma upon first spraying…but that’ll clear.

This has the saffron and a bitter almond note up top, that will be better after a few minutes. Yes, this does have that 540-like smell, almost like Ajmal’s Aristocrat (listed earlier above), in how it comes across. Maybe, a bit more sugary sweet in the middle versus earlier on.

The dry down does get muskier than BR. Less woods and the ambergris isn’t to the same quality. But, for $25 or so, this is solid.

 

 


Perfumes with a Similar Style (Not Baccarat Rouge 540 Dupes)

Now, we can get to the part of the list of perfumes that don’t try to exactly mimic the aroma of Baccarat, but have enough overlap to be of interest to fans of the perfume. Or those, who don’t like certain aspects of our target fragrance.


The Other Kurkdjian Perfume

Burberry Her Eau De Parfum Spray –  Burberry Her is a fragrance designed by Francis Kurkdjian that bears a lot of resemblance to his earlier Baccarat Rouge fragrance.

They aren’t however exactly the same and Burberry Her does indeed have a distinct aroma from our target. Strawberry, raspberry, and citrus notes gives this one an overall sweeter profile.

The latter stages aren’t as sweet, but this is a lighter and summery sort of perfume when compared to Baccarat. Actually, it’s pretty close to Cloud by Ariana Grande (my comparison post: Her vs. Cloud).  Read my Full Burberry Her Review

her edp vs edt

 


A Cheaper Similar Aroma

Ajmal Aristocrat, 2.5 Oz Aristocrat is another sweeter option that does share the jasmine and saffron notes found in Baccarat Rouge. Along with, amber and a musky dry down.

The citrus notes are a difference in the earlier stages, along with a heavy emphasis on sugar, that does settle down. Then, you will get muskier and drier notes, but also a big dose of that saffron note.

All in all, it is a close rendition at a cheaper price, but with a greater cotton candy-like aroma through much of the wear.

Ajmal Aristocrat dupe BR 540


The Untold Armaf

Club de Nuit Untold– Not the cheapest option on the list, but still does save some money versus an actual bottle of BR 540. However, Club de Nuit Untold provides a pretty strong and well-performing resemblance to what we’re looking for.

Heavier on the amber notes, resin, and saffron this can be a good alternative for those who don’t want as much jasmine in the mix. Untold kind of skirts the line between Baccarat and the Extrait version of that perfume.

Strong and long-lasting, but also has the softer and sweeter elements, paired with the resinous notes. Interesting. Not exactly the same, but the aroma will be very familiar.


A Taste of New York

Greenwich Village by Bond No. 9– This is another high end designer fragrance, much like our target. It’s not an exactly the same though, and very much retains its own style and charm. But, the similar style makes Greenwich Village a perfume to check out for Baccarat lovers.

Up top you will get much more fruitiness, almost a tropical sort of vibe. Mandarin orange and lychee, with a great touch of cassis. That juiciness is met with the freshness of waterlily and some light jasmine touches.

The dry down gets warmer with praline, vanilla, and musk. This has a sweeter, lighter, fruitier, and fresher aroma versus the Kurkdjian creation. The latter stages give you a nice creamy gourmand perfume.

Greenwich Village is a beautiful scent, which some may actually prefer to our target. Probably the most similar in the start. The sillage and projection isn’t as powerful, which again, you may well prefer.

A Popular Bond No. 9 Perfume


Massive Citrusy Silllage

Apres l’Amour by Thomas Kosmala– Similarities definitely abound with this and BR 540, but they are ultimately different enough to be appreciated separately.

Apres l’Amour is a massive scent, that goes heavy on the amber notes, and has a very citrus laden top. It has the sweeter elements of Baccarat, but can also have a lot more of the plastic/dentist office smell, that some people report with our target fragrance.

Kind of overpriced for what it is. I mean, the performance itself is long-lasting and beast mode. But, the actual smell isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Not a perfume that is trying to be a one to one match of BR 540 and can be polarizing.


More Floral, Patchouli

Stramonio by V Canto– Stramonio is another one that gets talked about with Baccarat. This is not an exact copy, but has similar traits to the Kurkdjian perfume.

The ambergris, saffron, and woody aspects are where this one shares plenty of overlap. Initially, though the saffron will be paired not only with the similar jasmine, but with notes like carnation and orchid.

Also, this one does seem to have a greater patchouli influence. Stramonio isn’t nearly as sweet as our target and the performance isn’t as good. Lighter and less longevity.

 


The Ariana Option

R.E.M. by Ariana Grande– Alright, Cloud by Ariana Grande shares more in common with Baccarat Rouge 540…but R.E.M. is the better perfume (versus Cloud) and has plenty of similarities.

It’s sweet, but more mature than the other fragrances that have been released by the singer. R.E.M. gives you a lot of what Cloud has to offer, but adding fig and lavender to make it stand on its own merit.

R.E.M. has a nice depth with its sweetness, creamy tonka bean and later woodsy/lavender base. BR 540 is definitely floating around in the DNA, but don’t expect an exact match, just a better version of the closer smell alike.

Ariana Grande better than Cloud

 

Super Cheap Alternative Fragrance

Dream Moon by Pacifica– As of now, this seems to be an exclusive to Target stores (update: Ulta and Amazon have it now also), which is where I got to experience this one.

The opening is very much like what you get from Baccarat Rouge, but it dries down like a more cotton candy-like Cloud.

You get rose, patchouli, and a fairly decent example of sandalwood for this price point. It also has other sweeter notes, giving it that vibe, but I haven’t seen what the exact listing of these notes are.

Here the notes are listed as pink rose, patchouli, and sandalwood. What else it has beyond that, I haven’t been able to track down. But there has to be some sweeter notes in here. I definitely get plenty of sandalwood and patchouli.

Dream Moon gives you a creamy sweet and patchouli gourmand aroma, that has a strong resemblance to what we want with BR 540. Also, for around $20, it delivers a nice performance to boot.

inexpensive fragrance like Baccarat

 


Sweet, Very Similar, a Bit Less Expensive

Manege Rouge by Al Haramain for Women 2.5 Oz / 75ml Eau de Parfum  Manege Rouge is pretty closely smelling scent to Baccarat Rouge 540.

The opening act is a blend of sweetness and floral notes, led by saffron. The saffron adds a fresh and almost leathery quality to the mix.

Manege has a nice amount of depth and gets sweeter, as it moves into the heart of the composition. That’s where you’ll get a greater amount of cotton candy and caramel. It’s not a thick or heavy sillaged scent and the sweetness is quite wearable.

Doesn’t have the same power of 540, it’s less woody, but otherwise a darn good smelling scent with similarities to the Maison Francis Kurkdjian perfume.

Manege perfume BR dupe


Bath and Body Works Cheapie

Bath and Body Works In The Stars Eau de Parfum 1.7 Fluid Ounce New In Box– In the Stars is a very inexpensive options that sort of skirts the line between Cloud and Baccarat Rouge. It’s lighter and fruitier than either, but has a warm base of sandalwood and amber.

In the Stars can be more appealing for some folks, because it doesn’t have the lavender note that the Ariana Grande scent has. It has a nice woody dry down period, where it’s initial sweetness starts to give it more of the 540 character that we’re looking for.

In the Stars is light, fresh, sweet, and actually gives a nice performance for a Bath and Body Works fragrance. Definitely worth a try to not break the bank.

in the stars similar to rouge


Not the Same, Close Style

Instant Crush by Mancera– The heavy use of amber, saffron, and wood often draw comparisons between this and the MFK fragrance. But, Instant Crush is not the same as BR 540 and gives you plenty awesomeness on its own.

So, consider this perfume if you want something in the ballpark, but with a greater use of floral notes (rose and jasmine). Along with vanilla and an opening burst of bright citrus.

Plus, this perfume goes spicy with less of that ‘clinical’ or ‘dentist’ type of aroma that some people get with BR 540.

Instant Crush is the more dynamic of the two, which many may prefer. That vanilla and spice really make this one something worth trying.

 


A Mix of Perfumes

Wild Rose from Coach– Wild Rose lacks the saffron and the fresh woody base of BR 540. But, you get ambroxan, moss, and jasmine in large amounts during the dry down that creates a very similar effect.

For the opening, you get something that is closer to Burberry Her (but better) and Delina by Parfums de Marly.

Red currant and bergamot give this Coach fragrance a fruitiness that BR doesn’t have, but which some people might prefer. Rose and a light tonka bean early gives it a soft Delina-like aroma.

Ultimately, it dries down to a fruity version of Rouge. Sure, not laden with saffron, but the moss does a good job replicating the dryness of the wood. Wild Rose Review

wild rose review

 


Cloud Itself

Ariana Grande Cloud Eau de Parfum Spray ,clear ,3.4 oz Personally, I’m not that big on Cloud. I mean, it’s fine, but it kind of has to go on the list of scents similar to BR 540.

This Ariana Grande scent, comes across as sweeter and targeted toward a young demographic than Rouge. While BR 540 leans feminine, it can be more of a unisex scent, but Cloud is pretty firmly in the ‘girly’ camp.

That being said, for younger women (teens through twenties), this is another very affordable option that can mimic much of what you get with our target scent. Lavender, sweet sugary warmth, creamy coconut, and a musky base.

The performance is actually very good, so, if you’re one who likes Cloud you’ll get your money’s worth. 

I actually think that Cloud 2.0 and Pink are slightly better perfumes than this, Pink is less like our target, though.

 

 


The Extrait Similarity

Amber Oud Rouge by Al Haramain– Just as Manage Rouge corresponds with the original BR 540, Amber Oud Rouge, matches up well with the Extrait edition (which I prefer).

Seeing as Extrait is even more costly than the original Kurkdjian scent, Amber Oud Rouge presents a great affordable option for those who prefer the concentrated version.

This one comes across with a strong saffron, maybe less of that almond note, and plenty of musk in the dry down. Not too shabby of a performer for the price either.


The Leathery Option

Spirito Fiorentino by Tizana Terenzi– This one isn’t going to save you much money versus our target and isn’t really an exact match. Yet, it shares a good deal with Baccarat Rouge, while doing its own thing.

The saffron and sweetness is where these two perfumes are a lot alike. Where they differ? This one utilizes a great leather note in the mid and late stages, with dry woodsy notes like birch.

It’s not as soft, still unisex, while leaning slightly more masculine than BR 540. A very interesting take on this style of fragrance.


 

So, thus concludes my page of fragrances that could be considered Baccarat Rouge 540 dupes, clones, similar styles, etc. No formula may be exactly the same as the real thing, but you can get pretty close to the same experience.

11 Best Smelling Yves Saint Laurent Perfumes for Women

Yves Saint Laurent is one of my favorite fragrance houses there is. Two of the first bottle of cologne that I bought were Body Kouros and Opium Pour Homme. Both of these are among my favorites to wear on the cooler days and nights of fall and winter.

Needless to say, there are also many YSL scents on the women’s side of things that I also absolutely adore. For this list, I have selected what I feel to be the best offerings by Yves Saint Laurent for ladies.


Favorite YSL Perfumes for Her

Note: During this update, I was planning on pruning off some of the older and discontinued fragrances. One that I did remove was Cinema. Well, YSL re-released it this year.

So, that’s definitely one to try out. Not sure for how long it’ll be available. But, I’ve kept some of these picks on here, in case they do find their way back into production too. Also, I’ve added newer picks to expand things. 

belle d'opium review


The Better Black

Black Opium Le Parfum- The Black Opium series is pretty bland with a lot of their releases. Fine, for the most part, but nothing seemingly that good.

That was, until Le Parfum was released. To me, this is the best of the bunch as of now. I’ve smelled Over Red once, which I liked, but I can’t say it’s better than Black Opium Le Parfum.

Cinnamon, vanilla, coffee, and a touch of green mandarin. This one starts off sweet, but it’s got that spicy kick. Sort of starts like a warm coffee drink.

Jasmine and orange flower will emerge out of that and give it more balance. But, this one isn’t too complicated, vanilla and coffee with a light floral blend. But, the perfume is very attractive and does the Black Opium name a great service. Black Opium Le Parfum review


Floral Powdery Scent

Paris By Yves Saint Laurent For Women. Eau De Toilette Spray 4.2 Oz.
A wonderfully feminine perfume named after The City of Lights. It is a long-lasting fragrance that isn’t overpowering and includes notes of rose, amber, mimosa, moss, sandalwood, and orange flower.

This is a classic type of floral, with rose, violet, and iris leading the way. It can be quite powdery, so, if that’s not your thing maybe stay away from this.

However, I wouldn’t put that down as too much of a deterrent, because this fragrance is still beautiful in its vintage presentation.

paris


Top Mon Paris Fragrance

Yves Saint Laurent Mon Paris Intensement Women EDP Spray Floral 3 Ounce– The original Mon Paris release wasn’t bad. However, I think that Intensement is for sure the better smelling overall perfume.

It starts off with the same black currant and berry accord as the original. Though, Intensement tones down the use of datura, and has a more prominent rose note.

With the fruits and patchouli early on, Mon Paris Intensement has a fruit-chouli vibe, but the rose and peony will take over the composition.

The sillage and longevity are good here. In testing, this one got me 8-9 hours on the skin, and it wasn’t a weak skin scent for that duration. Read my Full Review


Favorite Libre Perfume

Libre Le Parfum– Le Parfum is my personal favorite from the YSL Libre series of perfumes. I wasn’t big on the original, Intense was better, and Platine is fine.

This, however, is a really fantastic release from the designer.

This is warm and cozy with a toned down lavender note, especially in the beginning. The citrus top notes are paired with ginger, saffron, honey, vanilla, and orange blossom. Yes, there’s a lot going on, but it’s well put together.

It will move toward being a honeyed vanilla and the lavender will really come into its own. Still, not as dominant as in the EDP for example.

Plenty of body with this one, it’s rich, with a great projection and lasts beyond ten hours on skin. Worth trying out for sure. Libre Le Parfum


Best Le Vestiaire des Parfums Scent

Trench by Yves Saint Laurent- Trench is my favorite Le Vestiaire des Parfums option from YSL, that leans toward women while being unisex. A lot of designers now have these higher priced niche perfumes, but most of them seem to be loaded with amber, oud, rose, etc.

Trench on the other hand, is a beautiful citrus floral with notes of iris, cedar, musk, and bergamot. What sets it apart is the infusion of fig and a nice tangerine. Yes, the iris is powdery, but it isn’t overly so despite it being the lead ingredient.

This one is a musky citrus floral up top, which dries down into a woody floral. The citrus notes are there but don’t come across as a super tart and juicy. Instead, they play the background and support the main structure.

Very subtle fragrance, so don’t expect a huge sillage. Though, the longevity is actually great in its understated elegance.


Best Winter Fragrance

OPIUM For Women By YVES SAINT LAURENT Eau de Toilette Spray 3 oz
An exotic classic that is spicy and oriental in its presentation. Mandarin, myrrh, jasmine, and bergamot. Opium is a sensually intriguing experience that drives the imagination to dream up distant lands.

Beautiful. Obviously, since the release in the 1970s, this perfume has undergone reformulations as just about everything has to.

However, the newer incarnation, is still a very nice fragrance. It still has its spicy, warm, and sweet notes with its underlying herbal and citrus tones that waft up throughout the wear. Opium has retained its charm and is actually a breathe of fresh air when compared to many newer releases.

Having access to the classic formula, would be great, but Opium is still a fantastic option for women; especially when compared with many other perfumes out there. Opium EDT review


Classic Yves Saint Laurent

Rive Gauche By Yves Saint Laurent For Women. Eau De Toilette Spray 3.3 OzA blast from the past, this 1970s fragrance is a sure fire classic.

Notes of sandalwood, oakmoss, honeysuckle, gardenia, and others form an intense, clean, and powdery scent. Unique, inspiring, and long-lasting.

Rive Gauche opens up with a icy shot of aldehydes, light crisp fruit notes, and a further dewy/greenish sort of aroma. Personally, I tend to pick up a peach note, as the main aspect of the fruit accord.

At least, with the latest decant I tried out, that’s what really came across early. Not massive, but it’s there.

It blends together as a powdery smell, but underneath you can pick out the floral notes such as rose and gardenia.

Plus, the fresh oak moss, vetiver, and other woody elements come together to create a clean and simply sophisticated perfume. Rive Gauche review

rivegauchew


Another Libre Scent

Yves Saint Laurent for Women Libre 1.6 oz Eau de Parfum Intense Spray– Libre Intense is the follow up to the popular YSL Libre. The thing is, Intense is the better perfume, due to its balance and deeper profile.

As I wrote earlier in this post, Le Parfum is now my favorite so far in the series.

Libre Intense begins as a sweeter fragrance and less of a complete lavender bomb. This allows Intense to not be as much of a soapy sort of scent and they really ramp up the vanilla and orchid notes in this version.

The performance is also fantastic. The original was no slouch, but Libre Intense will go for over 12 hours, and maintains a powerful stillage. If you do want the super lavender punch, go with the original. Intense is still better for most folks, however.


Soft and Sweet Vanilla

Yves Saint Laurent Manifesto Eau de Parfum Spray for Women, 3 Ounce
A discontinued YSL release which features notes of lily of the valley, black currant, bergamot, and other green notes.

Manifesto is a lovely and soft fragrance  that is both sweet and captivating.

It starts out with the black currant and bergamot, which are both sweet and tart together, and get paired with a creamy vanilla note.

Manifesto dries down to a green/woody floral, with vanilla and tonka bean sitting on top. This is an attractive daily wear fragrance, that isn’t too loud, but still smells wonderful.

I’m not sure how much this is around still. So, you might have to track Manifesto down online, if you’re interested in trying it out.

manifesto


Most Unique Fragrance

Belle D’Opium FOR WOMEN by Yves Saint Laurent – 1.6 oz EDP Spray– Belle D’Opium is now discontinued, so, if you want to get a bottle it’s pretty much online only. This take on the Opium name is laden with fruits like peach and mandarin.

However, it also features warm and smoky incense. Plus, floral notes like lily, rose, and gardenia.

It a deep and exciting blend, which hits many different aromas, and goes from sweet to spicy to floral to woody and everything in between. Oh, and let’s not forget to mention, the prime role that the tobacco note plays in the whole thing.

The tobacco is more of a sweet and cured note than an unprocessed green-ish type of fragrances. Blended with the smokiness, you get a sweet and woodsy fragrance, with a lot of depth. If you can find a bottle around, it is well worth a try. Belle d’Opium review


Most Popular YSL Perfume

Yves Saint Laurent Eau De Parfum Spray for Women, Black Opium, 3 Ounce– Black Opium has become a best seller in the women’s perfume space over the past few years. I think that it is good enough to include it on the list of the top YSL offerings, now.

Black Opium, would seemingly seem like it would be a darker fragrance, but it is actually quite sweet.

It is led by coffee and vanilla, as its main notes, along with warm pink pepper and cedar. This is warm, sweet, and powerful but not for everyone. Sure, it has mass appeal, but some think that the sweetness is too much and the perfume can become too enveloping.

I generally like Black Opium and I think that it has also spawned some fairly nice flanker scents, as well, such as Intense. Though, none of them are all that amazing, when compared to the original.

It’s pretty much a cold to moderate climate wear, so, it won’t get too much use in summer or if you live in a tropical area. Black Opium Review

11 Best Smelling Burberry Perfumes for Women

Burberry is an English design house which is known for its distinctive check pattern and is now becoming very well known  for its line of fantastic fragrances for both men and women.

Burberry perfumes are fashionable and usually best suited for everyday wear, the sensuality is subtle in these fragrances but it is definitely there.

For this list, I have chosen the 11 best Burberry perfumes for women, in my opinion. I will present them as my favorite picks and then add some honorable mentions.

Each one of them, brings something different to the table and will fit well with a particular woman’s style and chemistry.


Favorite Women’s Fragrances by Burberry

her edp vs edt

Best Overall Burberry Perfume

BURBERRY London for Women Eau de Parfum, 3.3 fl. oz
The men’s version of London is a deep, woodsy, spicy, and highly masculine fragrance. The women’s version of London is something quite different but equally attractive. Rose and honeysuckle really dominate at the start of the wear.

However, it is a very well-blended, floral arrangement. Then, these notes are joined by a juicy tangerine, that gives Burberry London a citrus zest.

Even with the tangerine note having its moment to shine within the composition, this is still more of a floral perfume. Peony and especially jasmine add to the bouquet effect as the fragrance dries down, along with some slight musky spice/sandalwood.

London is a great performer, which will give one an all day, 8+ hour longevity and nice sillage.  Burberry London full Review

burberry londonw


Top Burberry Her Scent

Burberry Her Intense– Burberry Her Intense is one for the lovers of sweet fruity fragrances. This one has a lovely blackberry leading the way, flanked by other berry scents. What gives it some distinction is the benzoin note, in the base, which creates a syrupy kind of finish to the fruits.

The original Burberry Her, is more of a BR 540 sort of aroma, in comparison. However, I like Her Intense better as a perfume. While the berries aren’t photorealistic in how they smell, I do enjoy the dynamism from the start and the performance overall.

The dry down is going to consist of the jasmine and benzoin notes, with the berry sweetness still lingering, just with less punch.

To me, none of the Burberry Her releases have been really great, but Intense can claim a spot on this list for sure.


Another Her

Her EDT by Burberry– The EDT version is my next favorite perfume from the Her lineup thus far. Though, it’s not too far ahead of the next in line.

Pear, black currant, and strawberry start things off. It’s mostly going to be about that pear note and this has more of the black currant than does the EDP.

Lily of the valley and peony will quickly emerge as the floral heart. I don’t like the opening act as much as the EDP, but the rest of the way is more interesting to me.

Plus, the performance isn’t too far behind the longevity and power of the eau de parfum edition.


Most Popular Fragrance

BURBERRY Brit for Women Eau de Toilette, 3.3 fl. oz
Another popular choice, Burberry Brit is a sweet, modern fragrance for ladies. It is best used during the colder months of the year, where it’s vanilla, almond, and rich tonka bean notes can really perform.

The lime top note, draws you in, before fading into the warm embrace of the rest of this comforting perfume.

As it dries down, Brit’s sugary side really comes through with that beautiful almond note, being almost coated in it.

Later, its wood notes really solidify and take the fragrance, the rest of the way home.

britw


Another Mainstream Hit

Goddess EDP by Burberry– Goddess EDP isn’t a super unique perfume, but it is a very good one, that has plenty of appeal.

Gourmand and fresh led by an opening of vanilla and ginger. Not too heavy, but sweet, and some cacao will also move into the picture rather early.

To me, this isn’t a warm or enveloping gourmand fragrance. It feels kind of cold and the lighter aspects stick around well. Lavender and vanilla are the main notes. Jasmine, tonka bean, and patchouli round things out.

Just know that Goddess is mostly a vanilla-centric perfume. So, if that’s not your style, you can probably avoid it. This should be a popular scent for a long time, just based on the public reaction to it thus far. Goddess EDP review


The My Burberry Pick

My Burberry Black– Now, I’m not a huge fan of the My Burberry line, but Black is the best of the bunch and worth a shot (Blush, is also pretty good).

My Burberry Black gives you a nice mix of jasmine, candied sweetness, and a lovely peachy top to open things up. As it dries down, there is a well-behaved patchouli note swimming in a pool of rich amber.

The rose and jasmine notes are present, but they actually take a backseat to the rest of the bunch. Early on, I get more jasmine. Then, more rose in the latter stages.

It’s not a super massive bomb of a perfume, but you get plenty of strength and a long lasting wear.


Best Burberry for Summer

BURBERRY The Beat for Women Eau de Parfum, 1.7 fl. oz
The Beat is a change of pace from the rest of the scents on this list. It doesn’t have that usual fruit or floral dominance and is instead highlighted by a tea note.

This along with the other ingredients, gives this particular Burberry fragrance a fresh and spicy quality.

The pink pepper isn’t a heavy spice, but it helps to shape The Beat into an herbal green and woody aroma, at times.

Also, it has added depth from cardamom, orange, and a solid iris note. What a unique personality this one has and works extremely well during the summertime.

burberry the beat


Best Unique and Classy Scent

BURBERRY Touch for Women Eau de Parfum, 1.0 fl.ozThe Beat is a different scent from Burberry, but Touch for Women, is kind of in its own zone entirely. One of its main notes is red pepper, which you don’t see often, in a ladies fragrance.

However, it is still soft and has fruity highlights with berries and the ubiquitous Burberry peach.

Touch is light and feminine but has woodsy/earthy moments that include cedar, among other notes. This is nice and a safe bet for school, work, or casual occasions.

Touch isn’t going to overpower, but it delivers an experience that stands alone while being somewhat familiar.

burberry touch


Other Great Options (Honorable Mentions)

BURBERRY for Women Eau de Parfum, 3.3 fl oz
The original and formerly most popular of the Burberry scents for women since being released in the mid 1990s.

Burberry for Women is a softer fragrance, with a lovely opening of peach and vanilla notes, that is later followed by a woody base.

It’s mostly a fruity type of scent but it doesn’t have a super candy-like sweetness, as some other fruity perfumes do. The peach is flanked by pear and apricot notes that subtly come out during wear.

The vanilla and fruit combo gives off an overall creamy/powdery type of aroma, that’s quite beautiful, and suitable for everyday wear. Its clean profile allows Burberry for Women to shine in a versatile amount of occasions from casual to dressed up.

burberry


BURBERRY Body for Women Eau de Parfum, 2.0 oz
Burberry Body hits right off the bat, with a wonderful peach note, that is flanked by rose and musk. Initially, that creamy fruit scent is what it’s all about, until about ten minutes in and a shift takes place.

From that point, Body becomes much more floral with the rose note, and iris. It’s kept together with additional vanilla and sandalwood notes, but the overall composition is warm and floral.

This is an ideal casual or office wear scent, as it gives great performance, and works well in moderate temperatures.  Burberry Body Full Review

burberry body


BURBERRY Weekend for Women Eau de Parfum, 1.0 fl.oz
Burberry Weekend is a feminine and energetic perfume, that’s also been around since the late 90s, and still manages to have a loyal following.

Weekend has a nice developing character, throughout the wear, and starts off with that unique hyacinth floral paired with citrus. This is a very fresh and clean scent with a bit of a watery/aquatic element hiding underneath. Weekend Review

burberry weekend


11 Best Smelling Gucci Perfumes for Women

Gucci has a long history as a top notch fashion design house. The Italian firm is well known for its clothing and accessories. Their fragrance line for women is also fantastic, but we want to know, which Gucci perfume smells best?

For this list, I have selected 11 fragrances, which I consider to be the top smelling from the women’s line as of this latest update.


Favorite Ladies Gucci Fragrances

Most Popular Perfume

Guilty by Gucci for Women, Eau de Toilette Spray, 2.5 Ounce
This scent from the Italian design house is sexy yet not overpowering and it’s use of pink pepper notes gives it a seductive spice.

Also, has notes of peach and lilac which softens the scent and gives off a terrifically feminine vibe.

At times, it makes me think that this is a cousin of sorts, of Gucci Rush (listed below). As, they both have floral notes, peach, and patchouli. However, Guilty has its own distinct vibe, which has made it so popular over the years.

It’s spicy floral combination, gives way to a lilac and musk dry down, with a bit of sweet vanilla warmth. I still think that the original, is the best Gucci Guilty for women.

gucci


The Better Gucci Guilty

Guilty Absolute Pour Femme– While the original is a top seller, Guilty Absolute is the best smelling of the Guilty Pour Femme line. Eau de Parfum Intense, is second, in my opinion.

Absolute gives you a fantastic blackberry note that is joined by woody notes, a light pink rose, and patchouli in the base. The opening gives you some additional bergamot citrus and pink pepper for a bit of spicy sweetness.

Blackberry having the leading role, doesn’t make this one a super sweet or too youthful of a perfume. No, the cypress and golden wood notes give this a darker feeling than something like that.

Not too much rose, not overly spicy or smoky. Though, it has all of that too. Really great stuff.

absolute femme review


Floral Springtime Fragrance

Gucci Bloom for Women Eau de Parfum Spray, 3.4 Ounce– Gucci Bloom is a very popular and rather simple release from the brand.

However, it has already gained plenty of popularity, and spun of flankers of its own. It is a tuberose led fragrance, that maintains a balance, and becomes a gorgeous floral perfume.

It’s a clean floral with a solid dose of jasmine, with a hint of honeysuckle. Fresh, green, with some spice at the top. Bloom gives a good performance, with a not too powerful sillage, and a creamy sandalwood ending.

best gucci perfume for women


Exudes Confidence/Elegance

Gucci Women’s Gucci Premiere Eau de Parfum Natural Spray, 2.5 fl. oz. A gorgeous and sensual experience, Gucci Premiere will make a lady feel both strong and elegant. It also comes in that great looking gold bottle.

It is a bit citrusy and fresh, with an underlying note of orange blossom, giving it a floral appeal. As Premiere moves on, it becomes a more of a floral scent with a light musk appeal.

The fruit notes stick around, in a less prominent capacity. Finally, orange blossom and sandalwood, seem to be the remaining ingredients that shine with a lovely appeal.

Notes include: leather, bergamot, orange blossom, wood, and white flowers. Premiere opens with a juicy blend of bergamot and blackberry.

gucci premiere


Elixir

Guilty Elixir Pour Femme– The Guilty series on the women’s side of things has a ton of different flanker releases. The problem is, only some of them are any good.

Guilty Elixir was released with both a men and women’s version. To me, the men’s was overrated, but the women’s is one of the best Guilty Pour Femme they’ve come out with.

I still like Guilty Absolute and the original, more than this, but I think this might edge out Intense.

Elixir starts out with a light blend of citrus and osmanthus, which gives it a jammy sort of aroma. The violet gives it a bit of a powdery scent, as it transitions into being much more about the floral notes.

Wisteria and violet provide the clean and somewhat soapy smell, with tonka bean and vanilla solidifying things in the base.


The Alchemist’s Garden

Tears of Iris– This is my first pick from the higher end Alchemist’s Garden line by Gucci. Tears of Iris features the title signature note, sandalwood, musks, and angelica.

It does indeed have a powdery scent to it, but it to my nose it is pretty earthy/musky, and has a colder subtlety. When the sandalwood really comes in, after the initial burst, that’s when it becomes a much creamier and powdery perfume.

The Alchemist’s Garden line scents aren’t too complicated in their development. Tears of Iris is particularly linear. However, the quality of the ingredients is superb, and this is for sure one to check out if you love iris.


A Classic Gucci Scent

Gucci Rush By Gucci For Women. Eau De Toilette Spray 2.5 OuncesThis is a very bold and energetic fragrance that won’t be everyone’s favorite.

However, this blend of jasmine, gardenia, vanilla, peach, and patchouli is highly unique and can be a signature scent for the right woman.

It was released back in 1999, but still has plenty of fans, to this day.

It opens up with the rose note and gardenia, along with the peach aroma, and patchouli. It’s smooth yet has an energetic disposition and an attention grabbing opening act.

It’s a strong sillaged perfume, built for the nightlife, where you don’t get as many floral scents. Rush is sexy, provocative, and a classic. My full Gucci Rush Review

rush


Another Bloom for Summer

GUCCI BLOOM PROFUMO DI FIORI by GUCCI– Profumo di Fiori was released by the brand in 2020 and it’s one of the top Bloom flankers, in my opinion.

The floral notes of jasmine, ylang-ylang, and tuberose do compete for the lead throughout. I get mostly jasmine for much of the wear. However, tuberose does have its moments.

It feels bright and has a creamy warmth to it, with enough woodiness to make things interesting. Ylang-ylang mixed with the base notes, give it that summery feeling.

Gucci calls one of the base notes, sun-drenched wood. A very solar sort of aroma does indeed permeate through this perfume during the wear.


Tiger Eyes

The Eyes of the Tiger– This is an entry of the Alchemist’s Garden haute perfume line by Gucci. This one is rather simple, but provides you with a great resinous amber and a dark, slightly smoky vanilla note.

But, it definitely doesn’t go full medicinal with its presentation. The Eyes of the Tiger retains a sweetness, and most noticeably, a powdery aroma that makes this a delightful perfume to smell. There is a slight floral scent also lurking underneath.

I like that this one isn’t just another luxury oud fragrance. Plus, the sweet/powdery aroma with amber is pretty great. Somewhat similar to Le Lion de Chanel, but I think that’s spicier and more complex than this Gucci.


Bamboo

Gucci Bamboo Eau De Parfum Spray for Women, 2.5 Ounce– Bamboo opens up with the citrus freshness of bergamot, before the floral notes come in, and blend with light woods.

It’s a lovely option for daily wear, as the lily and orange blossom notes, don’t get overbearing.

Gucci Bamboo surrounds the wearer with a delicate and clean aura, with a somewhat sweet undertow. Has a subtle dewiness at times.

This is a floral for those who don’t want a huge sillage bomb, but want to smell plenty attractive, when others get close by.


Citrus, Peony, and Rose

Flora by Gucci by Gucci for Women – 2.5 Ounce EDT Spray
Softer than some other Gucci scents. Feminine, sweet, floral, with citrus notes. Flora has since its release, spawned a number of other fragrances, under this banner.

Nonetheless, we will list the popular EDT here, as a starting point.

Flora is bright, playful, and elegant. It has a citrus top, that is paired by peony, and the two mix amazingly well during the entirety of the wear.

It has a freshness to it, with a bit of rose peaking through, and a lightly spiced base of patchouli and pink pepper. Sweet, citrusy, and peony.

flora


guilty femme review

9 Best Smelling Carolina Herrera Perfumes

Carolina Herrera is known in the luxury fashion world for designing elegant clothing for women, including First Ladies of the United States. The fragrance line is no different in terms of its scope and accomplishments.

Herrera provides scents for all personality types, fashion tastes, and occasions. For this list, I have selected nine perfumes which I feel are the best of the bunch.


Favorite Carolina Herrera Perfumes for Her

Most Popular CH Perfume

Good Girl– Good Girl has been out for a few years now and has become a best seller for Carolina Herrera. Also, one of the bigger sellers in popular women’s fragrances.

Obviously, the high heel bottle grabs attention from the start, but its powdery aroma is also quite captivating. Is it wholly unique? Probably not, but it is distinct enough to carve out a niche for itself.

Good Girl is sexy and versatile, with a balance between a spicy opening and a sweeter later act. Floral notes of jasmine and tuberose, sits underneath sweeter notes of cacao, coffee, and tonka bean. This is a safe wear and one that will definitely spur further flanker releases. My Good Girl Review


Blushing Beauty

Good Girl Blush– This Good Girl flanker came out in 2023 and has already become a fan favorite and best-seller. 

Blush is more floral and doesn’t have the same cacao influence as the original. Though, there is a vanilla and tonka bean combination in the mix.

Yet, this one is clean and fresh rather than just being heavy and sweet. Although, it does have a sweetness to it. Early on, the peony and ylang-ylang are balanced, but the peony seems to get the upper hand later in the wear.

Bergamot, vanilla, and almond are the main support for the flowers. Each has its time to shine in the mix.

There is also an Elixir version of this scent. I haven’t tried it out, but it’s supposedly heavier on patchouli and vanilla. Possibly, even more ylang-ylang.


Top High End Perfume

Saffron Lazuli– This one can be tough to find in a retail environment it seems. But, I linked to the Herrera website, as they still carry it right now.

Saffron Lazuli is a part of the expensive Herrera Confidential Collection of unisex fragrances. A lot of them skew more masculine, but this one is the most interesting to me, that I’ve come across.

Saffron is obviously the main note. But, you get a fruity top, with smooth warmth and woody spicy touches (cardamom). Notes like iris, vanilla, tonka, and the namesake saffron are excellent. The black currant up top gives it a nice sweetness with some tart. Not too heavy, though.

It starts off bold, but it will settle into something more moderate. The performance is excellent, as it should be with this type of scent, at this price point (around $260).

best herrera perfume


Best Classic Floral Perfume

Carolina Herrera– A smart and versatile fragrance that can be worn on almost any occasion. This perfume is fresh, light, and clean. Plus, it tends to get a lady noticed.

The Carolina Herrera namesake scent kicks off with the light freshness of citrus and orange blossom. The other floral notes, quickly follow, and are led by: jasmine, ylang-ylang, and tuberose.

Later on, it really becomes about the tuberose, but I also have detected hyacinth in this. It’s got enough of that fruitiness, to keep it from becoming overly ‘green’ and plant like. Nonetheless, this is a great little pickup for those who want a throwback floral perfume.

carolina


Chic in the Warmth

Chic– Chic is a sophisticated and feminine fragrance that is probably best served in the warmer months of the year. However, this blend of floral and woodsy notes is a long-lasting and fashionable perfume to be worn with confidence.

Update: Unfortunately, it looks like Chic was changed from its original formula. It was a really nice clean floral. More of a pure rose and freesia scent, versus the option above. I think you can still find older bottles, so, I’ll leave it up here.

chic


Top Nightlife Pick

212 VIP This one beckons the exclusivity of the NYC nightlife along with all of its excitement and energy. Rum, vanilla, passion fruit, and others combine to give the notes a unique spirit and beautifully youthful vibe. Great stuff.

The men’s version of this namesake is a vodka and gin mixed drink. It’s also bold and unique. 212 VIP for Her, is a great rum mixed drink with fruity undertones up top. Then, as it dries down, the perfume gets smoothed out by a mix of vanilla and tonka bean.

This is a nice boozy scent, with fantastic longevity, but not as much of a powerhouse as the men’s version. Still pretty strong sillage, just not a monster.

vip


Best Sexy Fragrance

212 Sexy– A sweet blend of seductive fruit notes and cotton candy, 212 Sexy is a playful and passionate formula bound to put one in the mood. An excellent choice for romantic evenings out.

Beyond the sweetness of this scent, 212 Sexy also features a warm and slightly spicy pepper note. Vanilla and musk act as supports and help to give this its attractive aroma.

As it dries down, it falls more into that warm pink pepper aroma, with light floral notes and the remaining sweetness. Good performance overall and can be worn in plenty of situations outside the nightlife, too.

212


Smooth Fatale 

Very light fruit and spices from cinnamon and patchouli, dot the perimeter of this fragrance. Good Girl Velvet Fatale might still be a bit difficult to find, but it is a really pleasant example of a warm and gourmand blend of notes, done right.

For me, it is among the top of the Good Girl line. Better than the original and at least the Very Good Girl variants of this perfume. 

As of this update, it’s probably only available online, since I believe that it was a limited edition run a few years back.

 


Very Good Girl

I’m adding this to the list, as it is one of the better newer options. But, I will say it’s not my favorite of the Good Girl perfumes. Actually, a similar one to this that I prefer is from Mugler.

That being said, Very Good Girl has enough to recommend about it. The litchi note is powerful up front, when combined with the red currant, the fragrance is sweet and tart. Then, it will shift to a more powdery scent with the rose note.

It is a fresher fragrance, when it dries down. Not as tart, with a nice rose, and the vanilla note. The performance is solid, this lasted 7-8 hours on my skin with a quite noticeable sillage. Very Good Girl Review