Confirmed: The Most Deliciously Unexpected Fragrances All Have This Intoxicating Note in Common

According to Instagram, TikTok, and my online shopping baskets, skin-like, gourmand scents are currently trending, and as Who What Wear's resident sweet tooth that likes to keep things fresh, I'm all for it. While the idea of gourmand scents isn't entirely new, there are a number of gush-worthy perfumes that have just hit the market that deserve the same amount of hype as the ones that have been around for decades. It's also no secret that these super-sweet perfumes have taken many forms over the years, from whipped cream and pure vanilla bean to dulce de leche and marshmallow, but the perfume industry we know today would be nothing without almond.

While almond scents generally fall under the gourmand category, they can take many forms, many of which tend to veer more sheer, fresh, and earthy than you would expect. When you bite into an almond, is your first thought that it's sweet? Sure, they're commonly added to your favorite desserts, but they can also read bitter. There are fragrances that explore both sides and everything in between. Keep reading to discover the top almond perfumes to try if you want to master the trend before everyone else catches on.

What are almond fragrances?

According to Tanya Gonzalez, cofounder of Eauso Vert, almond fragrances are creamy, skin-like, and versatile. "Almond fragrances can pull like a soft veil on the skin, creamy and quietly indulgent while still anchored in comfort and nostalgia," she says. Almonds also carry what she refers to as "a gentle sweetness blended with a subtle nuttiness." Sometimes, this is combined with a touch of marzipan, which Gonzalez loves.

Her top pick for an almond fragrance is Hilde Soliani's Orgasmo Eau de Parfum ($130), which combines the note with classic Amaretto liqueur accord. "It reminds me of my favorite almond buttered croissant found only in San Francisco but remains completely wearable while feeling modern and playful," she says. "It's also slightly woody, so it pairs well with your favorite cashmere wear or leather jacket."

Are almond perfumes ideal for layering?

Gonzalez tells me that almond perfumes are ideal for layering since they have a soft base that round out sharper ones and amplifies sweeter ones. They're also ideal to wear during the cooler months. "Almond is a bit of a shape-shifter—tilt it one way and it leans into something soft and edible. Tilt it the other and it becomes airy and buttery yet floral," Gonzales says. "The notes you pair it with shape the entire mood, which is why it's great to play with."

Almond complements several notes that are frequently used in the world of perfumery, including vanilla, tonka bean, citrus, sandalwood, and musk. "These pairings wrap the almond in a smooth, close-to-skin warmth that feels more like a quite whisper than a dessert, creating a scent that is intimate, subtle, and entirely your own," she explains.

The Best Almond Perfumes, Listed

• Best Gourmand Spices: Fugazzi Vanilla Haze Eau de Parfum
• Best Amber Gourmand: Caswell-Massey Almond Eau de Toilette
• Best Aromatic Woods: Liis Celestial Object Eau de Parfum
• Best Warm Gourmand: Arquiste Parfumeur Almond Suede Eau de Parfum
• Best Fresh Florals: Parfums de Marly Valaya Exclusif Parfum

How I Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To identify the 13 best almond fragrances on the market, I leaned on intel from perfumers, my industry knowledge, and experience with firsthand testing. As part of my research, I also considered several factors, including fragrance blends, longevity, sillage, and designs. I'm aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of preferences, so I made sure to list out all the helpful details. Of course, customer reviews were also kept in mind when creating this list.

Why Trust Who What Wear

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.