As fragrance trends go, autumn perfume trends are by far my most anticipated as a beauty editor and fragrance lover. As the season rolls around each year, I never fail to get a thrill from swapping in my autumn perfumes on my dressing table. Autumn perfumes lend themselves to a cosy vibe, and there's nothing I love more than reaching for warm fragrances or a smouldering vanilla scent that lingers on my knitwear as those crisp autumn days commence.

In honour of my favourite scented season, I decided to investigate the autumn perfume trends that will go on to define 2026. From the new perfume launches that have arrived on my desk, to the fragrances I've been smelling on my beauty colleagues and the trending fragrance notes that I haven't been able to ignore, one thing is for sure. We're all about to smell phenomenal this season. Scroll on ahead for the perfume trends that will ensure you're the best-smelling person going into the new season.

Autumn Perfume Trends 2026

1. Blackcurrant

It seems that almost every recent new perfume launch features blackcurrant this year, and as we head into autumn, I'm seeing more and more of this fragrance note popping up. It's fruitness makes it a great note to wear as we transition from summer into autumn, and it brings a tart burst of sweetness with a woody and almost creamy facet. Think of a French crème de cassis cocktail, or an autumnal walk through the British countryside.

One of my favourite new autumn perfumes is Byredo Future Memories, which has a juicy blackcurrant accord wrapped in velvety orris butter and creamy vanilla that radiates with a warm, golden and subtly fruity aura. I've been complimented on it every time I wear it. Additionally, I was one of the first to smell this new perfume from Matiere Premiere in Grasse, where perfumer Aurélien Guichard told me he was inspired by the nostalgia of the fruit for Black Currant. Combined with oud, this feels elevated, sophisticated and smouldering on the skin, with earthy patchouli and leather.

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2. Touching Grass Scents

After observing the newest fragrance launches, it's hard to ignore how many have drawn inspiration from the elements, and it feels like a welcome invitation to not only head into the great outdoors but also bring that grounding sense of calm to our day-to-day, too—it's time to touch grass.

Take Aesop's new Unforseen Aer, which captures the bracing air that whips atop a mountain with a mineral, fresh yet spicy scent. Like bottled mountain air, this herbaceous scent clears your mind and grounds you with every spritz. Or Jo Malone London's Sea Salt & Bergamot, which quite literally feels like you're at the seaside, with sparkling and invigorating bergamot and salt that are both uplifting and calming at once. This instantly brings to mind crashing waves, sparkling waters and the rhythmic pull of the tide that makes a trip to the coast so calming for the soul and your senses.

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3. Iris

Florals? For autumn? Kind of. The scent of the iris flower actually comes from its roots, as opposed to the flower itself, but it's been cropping up in a flurry of new perfumes for autumn. Iris is renowned for being one of the most expensive materials in perfumery, and the powdery scent makes for an elegant autumn fragrance that will undoubtedly make you smell luxurious.

One of the best iris perfume launches of late is Guerlain L’Heure Bleue. Inspired by the shade of blue that fills the sky just as the sun sets and before nightfall arrives, it captures the calmness of a vast sky at blue hour with iris and an ozonic accord that feels like a breath of fresh air. Meanwhile, Creed's new Iris Debonair is a devastatingly elegant scent that combines powdery iris with lavender and smooth, creamy sandalwood.

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4. Vanilla 2.0

Whilst vanilla can be divisive if you're not traditionally a fan of gourmand perfumes, this autumn might be the time it changes your mind. Rather than being syrupy sweet and cloying, autumn 2026's take on vanilla is smooth, smouldering and distinctively grown-up.

Bottega Veneta's Ricordami is inspired by Italian gelato and has a vanilla creaminess that is tempered with smouldering rum that makes it less saccharine and more sophisticated. Then we have Phlur's Vanilla Canyon, which takes the smoothness of vanilla and grounds it in oak wood, velvety plum and earthy patchouli that feels like throwing on your favourite brown suede jacket. If you don't already have one, prepare to develop a real sweet tooth for these autumn perfumes.

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5. Rain Scents

After months of heatwaves over the summer, I'm not surprised that Google searches for rain perfumes are up over 5,000% right now—it seems almost everyone is craving a refreshing scent to see them into autumn. And right on cue, petrichor-inspired perfumes are on the forecast, with brands launching scents that capture the refreshing, air-cleansing scent that fills the air after a downpour. Uni's new Rain fragrance smells like the scent of a forest after rainfall, with citrus and grounding vetiver, and Loewe's Smoky Rain captures the calmness after the storm with a smoky twist of incense and radiant amber.

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Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Look, I get it. Smelling "rich" is entirely subjective. Some people swear there's nothing fancier than a whiff of jasmine in a perfume, whilst others reach for a smoky cognac-infused bottle when they want to smell sophisticated. It all boils down to your olfactory memories, or the link between a scent and its lavish past. It's the leathery smell of a luxury handbag or the powdery musk of your mother's signature red lipstick. For me? Iris smells wildly expensive. I associate it with a well-loved cashmere sweater, one you'd find draped over the shoulders of a woman who somehow always looks put-together—classic, soft and painfully chic.

When I saw that Guerlain's newest scent (its first women's fragrance launch in almost 10 years, by the way) put the pretty note in the forefront, I knew I'd consider it a rich-smelling staple. Five weeks later, I firmly stand by the assessment. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that the fragrance makes you smell like an effortlessly chic French lady. After all, this is Guerlain we're talking about! If you're on the hunt for a new signature scent this season, I'd highly suggest scrolling ahead.

Guerlain L'Heure Bleue, Reviewed

As I mentioned, the perfume calls upon two special types of iris—a butter and a tincture, to be exact. These unique forms express differently on the skin, according to master perfumer Delphine Jelk, Guerlain's director of perfume creation. The proprietary tincture, which took Jelk three years to create, is "more airy, more diffusive, more immediate," she says. "It is a top note. It brings freshness, lightness, and an additional soul that envelops the entire fragrance, whereas iris butter is denser and sits more at the heart of the composition." Both types give the fragrance its noticeably soft, creamy, suede-like aroma without overpowering the senses. "Like an Impressionist painting, the fragrance has a strong presence but never overwhelms," Jelk adds.

While the first spritz may remind you of the petal-soft cheeks of your grandmother, it won't make you smell like powdery makeup. That's because Jelk included a contemporary blend of vanilla and Ambroxan in the composition, which cuts through the tenderness of the iris, marshmallow, and orange blossom. "Their combination is delicious," she notes. "Ambroxan brings a skin-like sensuality, almost salty, which tempers the sweetness of vanilla. Together, they create the effect of warm, sun-kissed skin."

She then spiked it with an ozonic accord powered by a synthetic aquatic molecule called Cascalone, which evokes fresh air. "I wanted to express a contrast between warmth and freshness, between the sensuality of fragrance on skin and the cool air that creates a shiver," she shares. This contrast gives it a touch of mystery that you can't quite put your finger on, which makes it even more alluring. In fact, the very first day I wore it home from the office, my husband immediately asked me if I tried a new fragrance. When I asked him to describe what he liked about it (a beauty editor's version of a pop quiz), he replied, "I can't explain it, but it smells really nice."

Essentially, the result is meant to transport you to a breezy twilight evening, when your skin clings to the day's warmth yet the air around you feels unmistakably crisp. Jelk describes it as "that precise moment when day is gone and night has not yet arrived—a moment of transition." This time of the year is a collective moment of transition. Summer hasn't totally disappeared from the rearview, yet the earthy colour palettes and sumptuous fabrics of autumn have already dominated the zeitgeist. L'Heure Bleue is the perfect scent to mark that shift, as it's not overwhelmingly summery (read: bright) or densely autumn-coded. "It is this contrast—between warmth and freshness, between intimacy and air—that makes it so right for that moment at the end of summer, when one season gently slips into another," Jelk agrees. Consider it the happy medium that makes you smell rich year-round.

Shop Guerlain's L'Heure Bleue

More Rich-Smelling Guerlain Fragrances to Shop

After what has felt like an eternal heatwave here in the UK, the temperature has finally started to cool down. And with this, I haven’t been able to get the upcoming autumn season out of my head. There are so many reasons I’m excited about the new season—from seeing the crisp leaves on the pavement on my walks to pulling out my favourite cashmere knit. But the thing I’m most excited about? Finally being able to enjoy a hot cup of tea in the mornings. And recently, I’ve discovered a particular fragrance note that perfectly encapsulates the feeling of drinking a cup of tea on a chilly autumn morning. Enter tea perfumes.

What Is a Tea Perfume?

As the name suggests, a tea perfume is a fragrance that contains tea leaves, giving the scent a cosy, woody and warm quality. Whether it features notes of black, white, or herbal tea, these perfumes are often paired with spices, citrus, or musks to balance them out. This makes for a highly versatile fragrance that can easily be taken from day to night and feels equally as complex as it does timeless and elegant.

How to Choose a Tea Perfume

If you prefer a warm, cosy fragrance, opt for a perfume that features black tea. These scents are often paired with spices, woods and vanilla.

If you prefer an aromatic, uplifting fragrance, opt for a perfume that features white or green tea. These scents are often paired with notes of citrus, powder and light florals.

Below, I’ve rounded up seven of the best tea perfumes for autumn 2026 and beyond. So if you, too, require a fragrance that feels fitting for the upcoming occasion, or simply love a cup of tea as much as I do, and want a scent to emulate that, keep scrolling to discover the eight best tea perfumes, all of which come editor-approved.

The Best Tea Perfumes

• Best Overall Tea Perfume - Armani Privé The Yulong, £135
• Best Luxury Tea Perfume - Gucci The Alchemist's Garden A Floral Verse, £196
• Best Affordable Tea Perfume - Caudalie Thé Des Vignes, £29
• Best Daytime Tea Perfume - Escentric Molecules M+ Black Tea, £135
• Best Nighttime Tea Perfume - Vilhelm Parfumerie Dear Polly, £145

1. Armani Beauty Armani/Privé Thé Yulong

Probably the most accurate interpretation of a warm cup of tea, Armani’s Thé Yulong blends fresh green tea with smoky black tea to create a scent that initially starts as a bright burst of citrus but eventually settles down into a clean, soft musk. It is an eau de toilette, so be aware that it won’t last as long on the skin as other fragrances in this roundup, but if you’re looking for a truly accurate representation of a calming tea on an autumn morning, I couldn’t recommend this enough.

2. Gucci The Alchemist's Garden A Floral Verse

Bright and luminous but with a sophisticated earthiness that grounds it, Gucci’s A Floral Verse is one of the most unique interpretations of a tea scent I’ve ever smelt. It starts with a bright burst of Italian bergamot and cedrat that makes it feel light and earthy, but the spicy Sri Lankan black tea soon adds a smoky, woody element that’s honestly so addictive. I also have to mention just how beautiful the bottle will look on your dressing table.

3. Caudalie Thé Des Vignes

If you don’t like to stray too far away from a classic floral scent, then Caudalie’s Thé des Vignes is one to try. With elegantly muted notes of tea, orange blossom and the most subtle touch of ginger, this sophisticated scent is low-key and understated but still has the floral element to it that clean scent lovers will adore. I love it so much that I ended up buying the body wash to this scent as well. It’s that good!

4. Escentric Molecules Molecules 01 + Black Tea

An absolute masterclass on a tea fragrance that feels minimal and extremely elegant, Escentric Molecules’ Molecule 01 + Black Tea is a silky, earth skin scent that’s perfect for everyday use. It incorporates rich black tea without feeling too overpowering and uses the classic Iso E Super note from its iconic Molecule 01 to keep the velvety, clean smell we all know and love. If understated elegance is your vibe for autumn 2026, or you simply want a slightly more elevated take on a classic clean girl scent, you should definitely give this a try.

5. Vilhelm Parfumerie Dear Polly

I’ve been on the hunt for a cosy, tea scent that also feels fitting for a dinner date or veening out with friends, and Vilhelm Parfumerie’s Dear Polly is just that. A deeply romantic profile that features notes of zesty bergamot and apple, aromatic tea and warm amber, this striking perfume is sensual and addictive, but significantly less overpowering than your typical evening scent. To me, it's the perfect choice for chillier autumn evenings.

6. Dior Thé Cachemire

Certain perfumes are worth the higher price point, and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about Dior’s Thé Cachemire since I smelt it. It opens with a bright, airy sparkle of Italian bergamot, lemon, and orange before a delicate, calming white tea cuts in along with white florals, honeysuckle, and a soft touch of rose. Much like the name suggests, this scent feels like wrapping yourself in a designer cashmere sweater—warm, soothing, and oh, so elegant.

7. Miller Harris Tea Tonique

If you’re looking for a scent that’s uplifting and fresh, than Miller Harris’ Tea Tonique is the one for you. Opening with a zesty burst of Italian bergamot and lemon before settling into a base of smooth green tea and musk, this fragrance feels warm and comforting without any of the heaviness. It avoids the synthetic traps of a standard green tea perfume. Instead, it offers a realistic and deeply comforting profile that feels both elegant and effortless, making it perfect for daytime use. Not to mention that it lasts for hours at a time, meaning I don’t have to take it with me on the go.

8. Bvlgari Eau Parfumée Thé Impérial Eau De Toilette

Looking for a bright and uplifting scent that will mentally whisk you away to the Mediterranean even throughout the chilly and rainy autumn days? Look no further than Bvglari’s Thé Imperial. With bold notes of lemon, mandarin, and bergamot, you immediately receive the sparkling burst of citrus from the very first spritz. But the Sri Lankan black tea eventually cuts in with a warm and smoky base that smells extremely luxurious and expensive: if I could best describe this scent, I’d say it takes me to an all-inclusive Mediterranean hotel lobby. It truly is one of the most mood-boosting perfumes I’ve ever worn.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend

I'll admit that I'm a bit woo-woo when it comes to fragrance. (If we're being completely honest, I'm woo-woo about most things, but fragrance is definitely high on the list.) A perfume's scent, name, and inspiration have to strike the perfect balance to feel right in my psyche because, to me, each spritz is a ritual—a physical setting of intentions, a silent prayer wrapped around each atom.

For this reason, I stockpile sleek, clean-smelling scents for intense workdays, and those fine tendrils of musky sophistication offer soft confidence when my pulse starts to rise. It's why I adorn my neck and hair with warm florals for drinks under dim lighting, inviting my scent to say words my lips can't quite form as I stoke a new flame. According to neuroscientists, fragrance is beyond a vain beauty category. It has the power to influence how you feel about yourself and others and can even alter your memories. So when I found one that felt like the little black dress of scent—the kind that hugs your skin sinfully, offers a brush of bold confidence, and invites all kinds of "will they, won't they"-s—I became a woman possessed. Enter Noyz's most luxurious and hypnotizing eau de parfum yet: Loose Ends.

If you're currently unfamiliar with the Los Angeles–born perfumery, allow me to give you the SparkNotes. Noyz came into the world in 2024 with the sole intention of bottling emotions rather than selling the fantasies of fancy fragrance ads, offering refined scents at a reasonable price. You won't find anything over $100 here, though its newest addition to the lineup smells like it should be upward of $250.

But before we get into the base, middle, and top notes that make this androgynous perfume utterly intoxicating, it's important to understand just where Loose Ends gets its legs. "Everything Noyz and I have made together starts from a feeling people already recognize," says master perfumer Jérôme Epinette. He states that 12:00, a sugar-spun sophisticated scent, is meant to embody nostalgia, whereas Unmute, an ambery vanilla, is brazen confidence. "Those fragrances are, in a sense, resolved, and that's the point of them. Loose Ends doesn't get resolved. It's open-ended, and that's what makes it different," he explains. "It's the first fragrance I built for nighttime, and it holds on much longer. It's the most grown-up thing we've done together."

This seductive sophistication is evident from the first whiff lovers and friends catch as they lean in for a hug, and crystals of caramelized vanilla give way to woodsy amber the longer you stay perched on a cocktail barstool. It's the belly-warming cognac in Kilian's Angels' Share and the hearth-warmed sophistication of Baccarat Rouge, shaken and stirred into one (for $85, mind you). The more storied your night, the more complex and alluring your scent becomes—the warm, resinous profile glowing as the night grows darker.

For Epinette, the idea behind this scent was "the night that could go anywhere." How thrilling, when you think about it, to have zero expectations. Loose Ends "touches gourmand, but it doesn't live there," he states, dissecting this new-age amber. Each spritz appeals to the senses: black sugar and smoked vanilla for approachable sweetness, then cinnamon-spiked cognac for that intoxicating element that makes prospective lovers' heads swim. Indulgent cocoa and warm cashmere wood round out the scent, balancing the resinous profile without treading into saccharine territory. "This fragrance story stays open on purpose," he adds. "[It's] nocturnal, luxurious, and built to keep going."

When I say fragrance is a mode of manifestation, this is what I mean. Eyes squeezed shut, a hopeful plea to the New York spontaneity gods, and a finger on the nozzle, I ask the world to show me a good time as I adorn my skin with this scent. It's no wonder that everyone who smelled this smoky amber on me over the past week has leaned in a bit closer.

"I love the concept of Loose Ends. In life, the unsettled parts are often the most interesting and the inspiring. I wanted the fragrance to live there," Epinette muses. "[It's] a little dangerous. A little unknown. Sweetness layered into a darkness that pulls you in and never gives you the ending."

Date-night scents are a dime a dozen, but this elixir is so much more than that. It's fireplace warmth in a ritzy Aspen ski lodge, specifically during après-ski. It's the bottle your friends will want to borrow for a quick touch-up before approaching that guy across the bar. (Good thing there's a solid, portable version you can keep in your bag.) It's the sensorial backdrop to your fall apple-picking day and the romantic scent that clings to your cashmere scarf during a wintry museum visit.

Whether you're wearing this fragrance to invite a new and adventurous chapter into your life or simply because you want to smell divine, there's something chic about sporting a scent so intentionally designed. Don't be surprised when doors suddenly open for you after a few pulse-point mists—just be sure to walk through them when the right ones creak open.

Shop Loose Ends and Other Noyz Favorites

September is here, which means I've officially started my autumn beauty switchover. My gel moisturisers have been replaced by heavier, richer alternatives, glowy foundations have been swapped for soft matte formulas, and my summer scents have been packed away, not to be seen until June next year. Instead, I've been sorting through my best perfumes and pulling out my favourite autumnal scents for the season ahead. If there's one note I gravitate towards more than anything else at this time of year, it's tobacco.

I know you might be thinking it sounds a little strange, but hear me out on this one. Yes, tobacco perfumes have a smoky element, but this particular note actually smells incredibly sophisticated. There are so many iconic tobacco perfumes on the market, from Tom Ford's Tobacco Vanille to Guerlain's Tobacco Honey, which prove that when paired with the right notes, tobacco fragrances can become some of the most head-turning luxury scents around.

Of course, most tobacco scents do have a warm, smoky undertone, which makes them perfect for this time of year. This smoky undertone always makes me feel so elegant and bold, so whether I'm heading to work or meeting my fiancé for date night, I know I'll always have the right perfume for the occasion. Below, I've rounded up what I believe to be the best tobacco perfumes of all time, so keep on scrolling to shop.

The Best Tobacco Perfumes, Chosen by a Beauty Editor

• Best Overall: Le Labo Thé Noir 29, £176
• Best Sweet Scent: Tom Ford Tobacco Chocolat, £230
• Best Smoky Scent: Diptyque Orphéon, £170
• Best Luxury Scent: Maison Crivelli Tobacco Carnaval, £220
• Best Affordable Scent: Zara Tobacco Collection, £18

1. Le Labo Thé Noir 29

2. Tom Ford Tobacco Chocolat

3. Diptyque Orphéon

4. Maison Crivelli Tobacco Carnaval

5. Zara #Tobacco Collection Rich Warm Addictive

6. Guerlain Tobacco Honey

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Given the fact that testing and reviewing beauty products is a significant part of my job, I'm privy to buzzy launches several weeks—oftentimes months—before they officially become shoppable. It's definitely a perk, and to this day, my heart skips a beat whenever I get a secret, unlabeled lab sample in the mail. It also poses a slight problem, though, namely with fragrance. You see, whenever someone tells me I smell good (my favorite compliment) and demands to know what perfume I'm wearing, nine times out of 10, it's an unreleased potion I have to keep under wraps for the time being. I'll try to describe the notes without giving away the brand or name, but even that requires mental gymnastics.

Over the past couple of months, I've tested a lot of these gems, but I've had to be patient until now to make my official endorsement. Well, here it is: my list of exciting fragrance launches that stood out among the flood of press releases, blew me away at first spritz, and garnered plenty of "You smell amazing" comments. If you're looking for a new perfume for fall, trust me. These 10 are not to be missed.

The Best New Perfumes to Wear in September

1. L'Objet Alento Eau de Parfum

2. Voluspa Saddle Up Santal Eau de Parfum

3. Le Labo Shiu 25 Eau de Parfum

4. Sidia The Strike

5. Guerlain L'Heure Bleue Eau de Parfum

6. Chloé Le Nectar Parfum

7. Valentino Vendetta Donna Eau de Parfum

8. Old Navy Suede Embrace Hair & Body Mist

9. Vacanza Portofino Eau de Parfum

10. Ex Nihilo Demon Dancer

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.

I love summer, but each August, I start looking forward to fall. I can't help it. There are crisp apples, cool breezes, and changing leaves. I can bring out my favorite sweaters, jackets, and boots. I can even refresh my beauty routine by making certain seasonal swaps. What's not to love?

As always, a new season means new beauty drops. Right now, the best ones are at Nordstrom—at least I think so. There's an intoxicating new Chanel perfume that evokes "the power of attraction." There are iconic eye shadow sticks that have recently been reformulated to be better than ever. There are even new, glossy lip stains that provide a stained-glass effect. Did I mention the low-tech gua sha brush that sculpts the skin and stimulates lymphatic drainage? Keep scrolling to see 13 Nordstrom beauty arrivals that I can't add to my cart quickly enough.

Look, I get it. Smelling "rich" is entirely subjective. Some people swear there's nothing fancier than a whiff of jasmine, while others reach for a smoky cognac-infused bottle when they want to smell sophisticated. It all boils down to your olfactory memories, or the link between a scent and its lavish past. It's the leathery smell of a luxury handbag or the powdery musk of your mother's signature red lipstick. For me? Iris smells wildly expensive. I associate it with a well-loved cashmere sweater, one you'd find draped over the shoulders of a woman who somehow always looks put-together—classic, soft, and painfully chic.

When I saw that Guerlain's newest scent (its first women's fragrance launch in almost 10 years, by the way) put the pretty note in the forefront, I knew I'd consider it a rich-smelling staple. Five weeks later, I firmly stand by the assessment. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that the fragrance makes you smell like an effortlessly chic French lady. After all, this is Guerlain we're talking about! If you're on the hunt for a new signature scent this season, I'd highly suggest scrolling ahead.

Guerlain L'Heure Bleue, Reviewed

As I mentioned, the perfume calls upon two special types of iris—a butter and a tincture, to be exact. These unique forms express differently on the skin, according to master perfumer Delphine Jelk, Guerlain's director of perfume creation. The proprietary tincture, which took Jelk three years to create, is "more airy, more diffusive, more immediate," she says. "It is a top note. It brings freshness, lightness, and an additional soul that envelops the entire fragrance, whereas iris butter is denser and sits more at the heart of the composition." Both types give the fragrance its noticeably soft, creamy, suede-like aroma without overpowering the senses. "Like an Impressionist painting, the fragrance has a strong presence but never overwhelms," Jelk adds.

While the first spritz may remind you of the petal-soft cheeks of your grandmother, it won't make you smell like powdery makeup. That's because Jelk included a contemporary blend of vanilla and Ambroxan in the composition, which cuts through the tenderness of the iris, marshmallow, and orange blossom. "Their combination is delicious," she notes. "Ambroxan brings a skin-like sensuality, almost salty, which tempers the sweetness of vanilla. Together, they create the effect of warm, sun-kissed skin."

She then spiked it with an ozonic accord powered by a synthetic aquatic molecule called Cascalone, which evokes fresh air. "I wanted to express a contrast between warmth and freshness, between the sensuality of fragrance on skin and the cool air that creates a shiver," she shares. This contrast gives it a touch of mystery that you can't quite put your finger on, which makes it even more alluring. In fact, the very first day I wore it home from the office, my husband immediately asked me if I tried a new fragrance. When I asked him to describe what he likes about it (a beauty editor's version of a pop quiz), he replied, "I can't explain it, but it smells really nice."

Essentially, the result is meant to transport you to a breezy twilight evening, when your skin clings to the day's warmth yet the air around you feels unmistakably crisp. Jelk describes it as "that precise moment when day is gone and night has not yet arrived—a moment of transition." Late August is a collective moment of transition. Summer hasn't totally disappeared from the rearview, yet the earthy color palettes and sumptuous fabrics of fall have already dominated the zeitgeist. L'Heure Bleue is the perfect scent to mark that shift, as it's not overwhelmingly summery (read: bright) or densely autumn coded. "It is this contrast—between warmth and freshness, between intimacy and air—that makes it so right for that moment at the end of summer, when one season gently slips into another," Jelk agrees. Consider it the happy medium that makes you smell rich year-round.

Shop Guerlain's L'Heure Bleue

More Rich-Smelling Guerlain Fragrances to Shop

The invite was simple: an exclusive beauty preview with Jérôme Epinette. No further brand details, except that it would be an "exciting new beauty launch" and an opportunity to hear directly from the French master perfumer himself. Considering Epinette is responsible for viral hits like Byredo Bal D'Afrique, Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa '62, and Lore Disfruta, I certainly felt intrigued to RSVP. Upon arrival, the brand remained shrouded in mystery as my fellow editors and I streamed through a factory line of unlabeled fragrances, swapping blotters and comparing favorites.

My personal pick? A warm, slightly sweet composition positioned next to a bouquet of delicate white flowers—a hint that the blend would likely include jasmine. Sultry jasmine perfumes are what I reach for when I want to drive people wild, so I'm not surprised that I gravitated towards this particular blend. The elegant fragrance note is also known for making any perfume smell expensive, which got my wheels turning. Was this a luxury launch? It certainly smelled opulent, like it could easily cost upwards of $300.

As you can tell from this headline, I quickly learned that this lavish composition had quite the affordable price tag. Introducing Suede Embrace, my favorite $15 scent from Old Navy's new fragrance and body care collection.

Old Navy Beauty Co. (ONBC) is launching with seven scents: Gourmand Thrill, Fresh Splash, Vanilla Crush, Floral Sweet, Amber Vibe, Sorbet D’lish, and—my favorite—Suede Embrace. Each comes in a hair and body mist, body wash, and body lotion that leave skin feeling refreshed, hydrated, and, of course, smelling delectable. After all, you don't partner with Epinette unless you want a fragrance that gets people talking.

"My starting point is always the same: What is the emotion, and what is the story I want the fragrance to tell?" Epinotte tells me of his creative process. "I don't begin by thinking that an accessible fragrance should be less creative or less sophisticated… For me, the important thing is having a strong signature. You can achieve that through contrast, through texture, through the way you balance familiar notes with something unexpected." Hence why his $15 body mists for ONBC smell just as expensive as my go-to designer blends. Epinette just has the ability to create scent magic with virtually any raw materials. "It's not about one expensive ingredient. It's about creating dimension, texture and contrast," he adds. "When the opening, heart and base work beautifully together, a fragrance can feel polished and sophisticated at any price."

When it comes to Suede Embrace, Epinette combines lighter notes like aldehydes and honey with creamy florals (like jasmine) and a warm base of amber, patchouli, and white musks. "That contrast between airy and warm is what makes it so addictive," he shares. "I think Suede Embrace could really surprise people. I wanted it to feel like skin wrapped in suede." It certainly surprised me, especially when I found out that the complex, sophisticated blend was tagged at $15 (or $8 if you snag the 3-ounce bottle).

I highly suggest you try the musky, velvety fragrance for yourself (it really does smell like luxe suede!), but for those craving something a little more enveloping, Epinette recommends pairing it with Vanilla Crush—a textured take on vanilla with black pepper, orange blossom, bergamot, and pistachio. "As vanilla continues to resonate with consumers, I’m always interested in finding ways to make it feel less expected," he explains. "What I like about Vanilla Crush is the tension. It has the warmth and comfort you want from vanilla, but there’s also a freshness and spice that keeps it from feeling too sweet or familiar. It has a lot of personality and keeps evolving as you wear it."

His other go-to layering combinations include Suede Embrace and Fresh Splash for "something fresh and sensual" or Sorbet D'Lish and Floral Sweet, which has a juicy, playful vibe. The great thing about a body mist format is that you can't really overdo the application; because they contain a lower fragrance oil concentration than an eau de parfum, you can feel free to experiment with different duos without overwhelming your senses. That also means you might want to snag the smaller 3-ounce size for on-the-go touch-ups, as body mists do tend to evaporate quicker. And trust me, as someone who literally can't stop spraying Suede Embrace, you'll be glad you have one in your bag at all times.

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As a beauty editor, I'm lucky enough to get my hands on new perfume launches before anyone else. This is so I have lots of time to test the fragrances and decide which ones I think will be trending for the season ahead. So, although it's still August, I've already found my autumn perfume of choice, and I just know that everyone will be talking about this scent come September.

Although it's only just launched, I've been wearing this perfume since the start of July, and I can't tell you how many compliments I've had. Whilst I personally loved spritzing it through the summer months, the rich, heady aroma is particularly fitting for the change in seasons. The scent in question? Byredo Future Memories. Whether you're already a fan of Byredo perfumes, or are totally new to the brand, I highly suggest you keep scrolling for my full review...

Byredo Future Memories

The first thing I noticed when spritzing this fragrance was its unique take on vanilla. It doesn't have that typically sweet, gourmand scent. Instead, a base of vanilla liquor accord, ambrofix and musks creates incredible depth, cocooning the senses in this soft yet rich aroma. However, the opening itself is crisp and juicy, with notes of blackcurrant and galbanum adding a green, earthy element. Again, totally unexpected, but when this green element meets the creamy, musky vanilla base, it comes together in the most beautiful of ways.

Before reading up on the fragrance, I thought there were notes of tobacco, but I actually think it's the boozy undertone that makes me think of cosy pubs and roaring fires.

What's really striking about this scent is how it settles on the skin. The vanilla shines through, yet it still maintains that green, almost woody element that keeps it from veering into overly gourmand territory. Plus, the heady base means it lasts all day long.

It's the kind of fragrance that has people gravitating towards you before you've even entered the room, and in true Byredo style, the bottle is just as appealing. It's these reasons alone that I know every fashion person will be wearing this perfume in autumn.

Shop Byredo Future Memories

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Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

On a cloudless spring afternoon in a terraced suite at Six Senses Rome, Florence Pugh sits on a bouclé sofa discussing the yeasty whiff of her dog's feet. "It's not a nice smell, but it's an amazing smell," she says, breaking into that famous gravelly laugh. I'm catching the award-winning actress on her fourth hour of back-to-back press interviews, yet she appears freshly polished in a white button-down and black mesh skirt, her bob slicked back, her complexion lit gold as if she's made a deal with the sun. Pugh has roughly 50 minutes before she needs to head back to the glam chair to reset for tonight's dinner, and if it weren't for the smattering of publicists in the corner, ready to swoop in, I'd assume she had nothing but time to rattle off her comfort scents. To round out the list: self-tanner, the park at 4 p.m., garlic and onion sizzling on the stove, and, as of a few months ago, Max Mara's Le Parfum.

Pugh, with a "very sensitive nose" and a penchant for rich, "feminine" aromas, has long considered herself a fragrancehead. "I've grown up with perfume my whole life. I remember watching my mom apply her perfume, really studying where she put it," she says. "She would let me have some on my wrist when we'd go out for dinners, and I would just be so excited." Today, perfume remains an integral part of her daily regimen, personally and professionally. "Every character of mine has a different perfume. I find it really important to locate who that woman is and what she smells like," she says. "Perfume will be the last thing that I apply [before] I go on set. I get myself into costume, I put my scent on, and it's the final piece that builds that person for me."

Some bottles stem from local boutiques in far-flung destinations, while others are mainstream players she stumbles upon in duty-free. ("Sometimes, I'm like, 'Oh, wow! That was it!'") Yet she approaches each aroma with meticulous research based on what raw materials her character would have access to in that particular moment in time. Method perfuming, if you will. It's not like Amy March could easily head over to her local Ulta. "My mom actually made me a perfume for Little Women. She built a perfume based around Amy's lifestyle and what she would have been able to trade with or buy—minerals that she would have been painting with," Pugh recounts. "It was really sophisticated, floral, and beautiful. It made me love Amy even more."

With East of Eden, the highly anticipated adaptation of John Steinbeck's 1952 novel, premiering on Netflix this fall, I have to ask: Does Le Parfum fit into any of her roles? For now, the jury's still out. "I'm really excited to figure [it] out. Who is that lady?" Pugh muses. "It might take a while. It's an incredibly unique and bold scent that I don't want to just put on anyone—other than myself."

Le Parfum draws inspiration from Max Mara's iconic 101801 coat, down to the bottle's lacquered belt and gold button cap. The juice inside is just as textured, enveloping the wearer in a cloak of musky sandalwood, cedarwood, tuberose, benzoin, and a velvety blue vanilla sourced from Réunion Island. It functions like a second skin, one with an intentional mix of traditionally masculine (woods) and feminine (tuberose) facets, just like how the original 1981 Max Mara garment was initially inspired by menswear. "It took us months to find the right balance," perfumer Fabrice Pellegrin tells me during an exclusive brand presentation. The painstaking process paid off: According to Pugh, who had eyes on the production from soup to nuts as the face of the fragrance, it "actually smells like cashmere."

Despite its softer dry-down, though, Le Parfum is a scent that lingers—on your skin and on your clothing—to the point where it becomes an extension of your personality. For Pugh, that's precisely what makes a fragrance so captivating. "It's an invisible DNA," she shares. "Whether I'm working on set, on a press tour, [or] at home, it is part of my identity."

For a magnetic fragrance, a magnetic individual like Pugh makes a lot of sense to front the campaign. She holds court with her disarming grin and sharp wit—the kind of presence that makes the room exhale, leaving everyone unaware of the ticking clock. When my cohort of editors wrap up our interviews and say our goodbyes, a faint trace of Le Parfum follows me out the door, to the airport, and to my closet, where it clings to my blazer to this day. Every time I give my own bottle a spritz, I flash back to Pugh—her silhouette framed by buttery rays, her quick "You all look beautiful!" as we file out of her hotel suite. An invisible thread connecting me to that sun-dappled spring afternoon. I think she'd like that.

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It should come as no surprise that, as someone who works in beauty, I’m a little bit obsessed with all things fragrance. And I’m not trying to brag, but I get a lot of compliments on how I smell. From my commutes to work to nights out with friends, rarely a day passes by when someone doesn’t ask me what perfume I’m wearing. But I’ll let you in on a secret: most of the time I’m actually wearing a body mist.

In my opinion, some body mists can smell just as good as your favourite luxury fragrances. Luckily for me, one of my favourite high-end fragrance houses has launched a range of body sprays that are giving my perfume collection a run for its money. Enter the Penhaligon’s body mists.

With the brand's first scent launching back in 1872, this British fragrance house knows what it’s doing when it comes to creating exquisite perfumes. It’s gained a cult following amongst fragrance experts, editors and beauty lovers alike due to its luxurious packaging and storytelling-driven scents. However, with eau de toilettes starting at £180 and eau de parfums at £220, it definitely sits in the luxury market. Which is why, when I heard that the brand had taken some of its most popular scents and created a line of lighter body mists, all at £62, I knew I had to give them a try. Keep scrolling to read my honest review of Penhaligon’s new body mist collection.

Penhaligon’s Body Mists

The Bottle

First of all, how gorgeous do they look? These might be the chicest body mists I've ever laid eyes on. Packaged in a weighty sage green glass spray bottle with a slightly darker metallic green cap, they were made with your dressing table in mind. The mist is very fine and lightweight, dispersing evenly rather than as a direct stream of liquid that can stain or dampen clothing.

The Scents

Halfeti

Well regarded as the brand’s most popular scent, Halfeti now comes in the form of a slightly more affordable body mist. The moody floral fragrance contains notes of rose and spices, giving it impressive depth. However, unlike the original perfume, the lighter essence of the mist makes it work for both day and night. If you're looking for a captivating and opulent scent, then this might be the one for you.

Luna

Inspired by the softness of moonlight, Luna is an ethereal, bright floral scent with notes of bergamot, rose and balsam fir. It starts bright and citrusy but then gently settles into a delicate rose base that feels elegant and sophisticated. Not to mention that its airy nature means it's virtually impossible to overdo it. Citrus notes don’t usually call to me, but this scent is so addictive and moreish. In fact, out of all three body mists in the range, this is by far my most complimented.

Empressa

If you’re looking for a bold, attention-grabbing scent that’s guaranteed to earn you compliments, then I highly recommend Empressa. With notes of blood orange, patchouli, vanilla and peach, this vibrant fragrance is sweet yet luxurious, perfectly toeing the line between feeling playfully bright and seductively rich and deep. It works well for both the day and night; however, I personally think it’s better suited for more formal events and evenings out.

The Verdict

Overall, I'd highly recommend Penhaligon's body mists. Whether you want to try one of the brand's most iconic scents before investing in the perfume itself, or simply want to use these as on-the-go fragrances for top-ups throughout the day, these body mists are long-lasting, smell expensive and look just as good as a luxury perfume.

At £62, they sit at a significantly higher price point than other body mists on the market; however, the quality of the scents, sophistication of the packaging, and the fine mist make them feel way more elevated than your standard body spray.

Shop the Penhaligon's Body Mists

How I Tested

As a fragrance-obsessed beauty writer, I tested these body mists myself to put them through their paces and see if they are worth the investment. I tested them not only for their scent profiles, but also for their longevity and the quality of the packaging in comparison to their price point.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If you know me, you know I love a seasonal reset. That's why, no less than four times a year, I set aside time to refresh my beauty routine, update my wellness regimen, and even re-decorate my living space. It helps me stay on track, achieve my annual goals, and stay present throughout the year.

The summer-to-fall reset is my favorite one, mostly because it's the one I need the most. After a summer full of social plans, short trips, long days, and late nights, my routine needs a massive overhaul. And since I'm a beauty editor, it's only natural that I start with my hair, skin, and makeup collection. Ahead, see the 16 beauty products I recommend buying for anyone who, like me, is in need of a major fall reset. Luckily, Walmart's Beauty Event is on now through September 4, and a selection of these editor-approved items are on sale. Let's go!

If I had to pick one celebrity as my beauty muse, it would probably be Hailey Bieber. Her glowing skin and natural, dewy makeup looks (courtesy of her brand, Rhode) are big factors in this—but the star also has impeccable taste in fragrances—especially when it comes to luxury French scents. In an interview with Harper's Bazaar UK back in 2023, Bieber revealed that one of her favourite perfumes is Fleur Narcotique by Ex Nihilo.

Founded in 2013 by Sylvie Loday, Olivier Royère and Benoît Verdier, Ex Nihilo is a niche fragrance house that breaks conventions and creates head-turning, experimental scents for those of you wanting to stand out from the crowd. Sitting in the luxury market, each perfume ranges from around £180 to £365. Because of the higher price tag, I was very keen to try the fragrances out for myself. Of course, I was intrigued to know what Bieber's go-to scent smelt like, but I also wanted to see whether the other bestsellers from the brand were worth the luxury price tag.

I've been testing Ex Nihilo perfumes, from old favourites to new launches.

Alongside Fleur Narcotique, I've been testing some of the brand's newest and most popular scents, and below, I've rounded up my top Ex Nihilo picks, alongside my honest thoughts on each fragrance. If you want to smell like your most expensive self, I highly suggest you keep scrolling...

The Best Ex Nihilo Perfumes

• Best Overall: Ex Nihilo Fleur Narcotique, £180
• Best Summer Scent: Ex Nihilo Lust In Paradise Extrait, £365
• Best Sweet Scent: Ex Nihilo Honore Delights, £180
• Best Fresh Scent: Ex Nihilo Demon Dancer, £180
• Best Floral Scent: Ex Nihilo Iris Porcelana, £260

1. Ex Nihilo Fleur Narcotique

2. Ex Nihilo Lust In Paradise Extrait

3. Ex Nihilo Honore Delights

4. Ex Nihilo Demon Dancer

5. Ex Nihilo Iris Porcelana

6. Ex Nihilo Fleur Narcotique Extrait

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

We've all had a crush (I've had more than I can count), and everyone knows that magical rush of butterflies when your crush texts you or pulls you in for a kiss. Chanel has bottled this magnetic, euphoric energy in its latest fragrance, Coco Mademoiselle Crush Absolu ($195), which launches today.

Formulated by Chanel's in-house perfumer Olivier Polge, Crush Absolu is the bold, charismatic sister of the beloved Coco Mademoiselle ($154). The enchanting blend opens with a juicy lychee-grapefruit accord and, like any elegant classic, has a floral heart of romantic rose and soft jasmine. The patchouli base is elevated by rich amber, warm vanilla, and sultry vetiver, making it an irresistible and unforgettable scent. TLDR: It's a love spell in a bottle. It doesn't matter if you're a hopeless romantic, deeply in love, or playing the field—spritz on this fragrance before your next date, and it'll do all the talking.

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It feels like sacrilege to admit that I’m not the biggest fan of summer. As a Brit, sunshine season is fleeting but intense, and I know that we should make the most of it, but I have to come clean: I cannot stand the hot weather. Regardless, I do have a soft spot for solar scents. I might have very little desire to spend my days actually reclining in the blazing sun, but give me a holiday perfume that smells like warm skin, coconuts and sun cream and I’m sold. Come summer then, my fragrance wardrobe inevitably fills up with tropical body mists and beachy scents that make even the dullest Monday morning feel slightly Mediterranean. But as much as I love them, there comes a point in late August when I start to feel ready for something else.

For me, September has always had that back-to-school feeling of wanting a fresh start—new stationery, a slightly more considered wardrobe and, naturally, a new fragrance. And as a collector of the best perfumes, I’m confident that my heart lies with autumn scents. I’m ready to break up with my summer perfumes (for now, at least) and reach for scents that feel a little more layered and intriguing.

That doesn’t, however, mean going straight from coconut and citrus perfumes to heavy oud or syrupy gourmands. There’s a whole world of transitional fragrances that sit beautifully in between. Think delicate florals and flashes of ripe fruit, perhaps with the faintest reminder of the sea, softened by creamy vanilla, toasted nuts or warm amber. They still have that lightness that I crave in late summer, but with a little more depth and cosiness—perfect for when that first chill starts creeping in.

Ahead are the summer-to-autumn perfumes I’m reaching for as the new season calls.

The Best Summer to Autumn Perfumes

• Best Overall Summer to Autumn Perfume: Byredo Future Memories, £155
• Best Transitional Vanilla Perfume: Phlur Vanilla Canyon, £99
• Best Woody Perfume: AllSaints Naked Woods Unisex Fragrance, £80
• Best Summer-to-Autumn Floral Perfume: Miutine Eau De Parfum, £105
• Best Late-Summer Scent: Ghost Lunar Goddess Eau De Parfum, £45

1. Byredo Future Memories

2. BORNTOSTANDOUT Nuts

3. Phlur Vanilla Canyon

4. AllSaints Naked Woods

5. Maison Margiela Afternoon Delight

6. Neal's Yard Rubor Rose

7. Le Monde Gourmand Chai Épicé

8. Miu Miu Miutine

9. Prada Infusion de Figue

10. Ghost Lunar Goddess

11. Gucci Flora Gorgeous Orchid Intense

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I'm a beauty editor, so it's part of my job to trial and document the eye creams that blast away dark circles and the serums that revive dull skin. While these lotions and potions get us to the finish line, everyone knows that the real driver behind bright under-eyes and plump skin is adequate sleep.

While I have a seemingly endless number of products that can place a Band-Aid over a bigger issue, I know enough about the human body to recognize that I'll never achieve the complexion, energy, or metabolism I desire until my sleep quality improves. But as someone who—thanks to anxiety, stress, and the inability to unplug—has struggled with sleep for the past 10 years, achieving a solid eight hours of sleep has been my white whale. That was until I recently decided to beautify my wind-down routine with a small fragrance experiment that made a sizeable impact.

Aromatherapy is nothing new to the world of wellness. Its roots date back to the aromatic herbal practices of ancient Egypt, late Neolithic China, and 4th-century BCE India, but as the category continues to expand with modern-day technology, products like supercharged body oils and electric diffusers are being implemented everywhere from spas to homes to calm stress, boost serotonin, and, in some cases, improve sleep quality. In the desperate search for something to inspire better rest that wasn't another nightmare-causing melatonin pill, I came across Drift's Rest & Relax Home Scent Diffuser—a neuroscience-backed fragrance designed to calm the body and mind before bed for deeper, calmer sleep. Forget the night creams; this sounded like exactly the beauty step my nighttime routine was missing.

About Drift's Home Scent Diffuser in Rest & Relax

If you're worried about emitting toxins into the air, fear not—Drift's fragrances are made without phthalates, parabens, or harsh chemicals, and the brand makes a point to call them out as pet- and child-safe.

I tracked my sleep with an Oura Ring for 40 days while filling my bedroom with this functional fragrance, and the results don't lie.

How It Works

"From a neurological standpoint, smell is unique among the senses because of how directly it connects to the brain,” triple-board-certified neurologist Leah Croll, MD, previously told Who What Wear. Croll describes the short distance between the brain and nose as an expressway that no other sense has access to, directly linking smell neurons to the brain's emotional and memory centers. This explains why buried memories are suddenly resurrected with a whiff of a nostalgic scent and how fragrance can truly change your emotional and physical state.

"Yes, calming scents can help sleep, and lavender has the best evidence," double-board-certified psychologist and clinical sleep specialist Michael J. Breus, PhD, tells WWW. "It seems to work through the olfactory system and brain pathways involved in relaxation, helping some people fall asleep faster, sleep more deeply, and feel that their sleep quality improves." Randomized trials recorded by the National Library of Medicine have, too, found that overnight inhalation of lavender essential oils can shorten latency, quell anxiety, and promote deeper sleep.

While I've relied on lavender-infused pillow sprays to lull me to sleep in the past, the scent fades within a few hours and requires reapplication when I, like clockwork, awake periodically throughout the night. This diffuser, on the other hand, plugs into the wall and emits the soft, lavender-sweet aroma into the room—gentle enough not to irritate sensitive noses but consistent enough to wrap yourself up in it from wind-down to wake-up.

"The scent itself appears to influence brain systems involved in calming and sleep regulation," says Breus. "More specifically, lavender improves sleep through olfactory perception and GABAergic neurons of the central amygdala." In layman's terms, it triggers the wind-down sensors in your brain once you enter your room after a long day of work, Pavlov conditioning your body to go into relaxation mode when Rest & Relax's vanilla, chamomile, and lavender scent reaches your nose.

The Results

After 24 hours of wearing my Oura Ring and plugging the diffuser into my bedroom wall, I was greeted with my first Sleep Score, which clocked in at nearly six hours of sleep (yes, the one with the pale-red warning font) and a 65/100 rating. The app showed that I achieved a meager 37 minutes of deep sleep—which is, unfortunately, just another Tuesday in my household—and that my latency was four minutes, indicating overtiredness. In short, my wind-down routine needed some TLC.

With consistent use, my Sleep Score skyrocketed to 87 in just two weeks. All categories, from hours of sleep (over eight!) to REM and deep sleep, improved dramatically—with deep sleep advancing by almost an hour. Could it be that I was suddenly hypervigilant of my sleep habits, given my every move was being recorded by a chunky silver ring? Maybe. But does it change the fact that I was now inhaling a relaxing lavender-and-chamomile concoction as I settled into bed with a good book and silk sheets? Not a bit.

It's worth noting that the few nights I was away from my diffuser in a hotel room, my restlessness came back with a vengeance, and my Sleep Score wasn't shy about showing it. But after five weeks of testing the diffuser, my sleep quality has continued to stay in the good graces of my Oura app, with my deep sleep (the stuff that matters) showing the most improvement.

Is It Worth It?

I won't lie—the sleep results from my Oura Ring were shocking. Despite a handful of stressful days at work, early-morning workouts, and late-night beauty events, my sleep quality and deep sleep improved significantly while using this diffuser. While I still believe that a consistent bedtime and healthy wind-down routine (e.g., no doomscrolling or late-night glasses of wine) make a significant difference, vaporizing lavender in your sacred space is a science-backed benefit.

The Drift Home Scent Diffuser Starter Kit comes in at $36, including a reusable plug-in diffuser and a single scent pod. Each pod lasts for 30 days, and each refill order ($35) comes with two refills, giving you two more months of use. One year of use will set you back $246, but really, can you put a price on better sleep?

The Wind-Down Routine

I'm a strong believer that half the battle is your wind-down habits, and Breus would have to agree. "A good wind-down routine is really about giving your brain and body consistent signals that the day is over and sleep is coming," he states. The sleep doctor recommends you follow these five simple steps:

• Start an hour early: "Sixty minutes before bed, stop work, problem-solving, and anything emotionally activating. You want to reduce cognitive arousal before your head hits the pillow."
• Set the mood: "Lower light exposure, especially bright overhead light, to allow your natural melatonin production to rise."
• Run the fan: "Keep the bedroom cool, and consider a warm shower or bath. Warming the skin can actually help the body release heat afterward, supporting the natural drop in core body temperature that accompanies sleep."
• Practice a routine: "Do something relaxing and predictable. Reading, stretching, breathing exercises, meditation, calming music, or even lavender aromatherapy can become a conditioned cue for sleep."
• Empty your head: "Write down your to-do list, worries, or anything you're trying to remember. The goal is to get it out of your head before you get into bed."

More Products That Improve Sleep Quality

If you’re anything like me, apple probably isn’t the first fruit that comes to mind when choosing one of the best perfumes. I’m far more easily tempted by addictive citrus blends (such as my all-time favourite Diptyque Eau des Sens), or the creamy, modern interpretations of fig that have become so popular in recent years.

Yet, when done well, apple can bring something entirely different to a scent: crispness, freshness and a subtle juiciness that makes you want to keep going back for more.

Michelle Feeney, founder of Floral Street, tells me that apple fragrances are finding popularity again as they tap into the nostalgia of the late '90s and early 2000s, when crisp, fruity scents were everywhere. "As Y2K beauty continues to make a comeback, apple fragrances are enjoying a revival too," she explains. "Apple is also a familiar note in shampoos and haircare, giving it a clean, just-washed feel that many people naturally associate with freshness."

When it comes to perfume, Feeney tells me that as a note, apple is also incredibly versatile, working just as well in bright, everyday scents as it does in more floral, woody, or even gourmand creations. And if the thought of an apple fragrance conjures up images of overly sweet, synthetic body sprays, it’s worth reconsidering. After testing over twenty apple perfumes, I'm happy to announce that today’s apple scents range from crisp and green to creamy, woody and sophisticated. Here are my top picks...

What Is an Apple Fragrance?

While apple is often associated with sweetness, its versatility makes it far more interesting than you might expect. "Apple is a fruity fragrance note that can smell crisp, juicy, tart or subtly sweet, depending on the composition. It's most commonly found in the fruity fragrance family, but it also adds a fresh, playful touch to floral, woody, green and gourmand scents," reveals Feeney.

How to Choose the Right Apple Fragrance

The first thing to do is think about the vibe you're after. "If you love crisp, refreshing scents, look for apple paired with citrus or green notes," advises Feeney. Think rose, jasmine and cyclamen. "These help give the floral bouquet a bright, modern feeling while softening some of the sharper green notes," she adds.

If you're drawn to light, pretty fragrances, apple and florals are a beautiful match. "The apple adds brightness, while notes like peony, rose or jasmine keep the scent soft and airy. For something cosier, look for apple blended with woods or vanilla," explains Feeney.

The Best Apple Fragrances, Tried & Tested

• Best Apple Perfume Overall: Floral Street Almond Blossom Eau de Parfum, £78
• Best Floral Apple Perfume: Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede, £125
• Best Gourmand Apple Perfume: Ellis Brooklyn Apple Love Eau de Parfum, £126
• Best Affordable Apple Perfume: Phlur Mrs Smith Hair and Body Mist, £39
• Best Luxury Apple Perfume: Byredo Pulp Eau de Parfum, £225

1. Floral Street Sweet Almond Blossom

If crisp linen and freshly baked apple pie had a fragrance baby, I imagine it would smell something like Floral Street Sweet Almond Blossom. It has that irresistible contrast between clean, airy freshness and warm, comforting sweetness that makes you want to inhale it and also tell everyone "here, smell this!" Utterly addictive, I found this to be the softest and most inviting, with a polished quality that makes it incredibly easy to wear.

2. Phlur Mrs Smith

Phlur's Mrs Smith is a little more understated, but that’s exactly what I like about it. It has the freshness of a crisp, freshly cut apple, with a soft, clean quality that could never be OTT. It's light, airy and just a little bit fruity, rather than sweet or syrupy. It’s the kind of scent I’d mist through my hair before heading out, when I want to smell fresh without feeling overly perfumed. Perfect for hot days in the city or beach holidays.

3. Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede

This Jo Malone London perfume has been a firm favourite in my fragrance wardrobe since it launched in 2013. The red apple is crisp and juicy when it first hits the skin, but it quickly softens into a lush mix of peony, rose and jasmine. For me, the suede is what makes it really shine. It gives the florals a soft, velvety warmth, while the apple keeps everything feeling fresh and juicy. It’s less apple perfume and more like a beautiful peony bouquet with a crisp bite of red apple. It's romantic, pretty and a stellar choice for wedding season.

4. DKNY Be Delicious

5. Ellis Brooklyn Apple Love

6. Maison Noir Icarus 347

If you want a sophisticated apple fragrance, this one is definitely worth a try. It opens with a juicy mix of melon, green apple, raspberry and red apple, giving me the impression of fizzy apple sours, only much more elevated. As it settles, the sweetness gives way to a warmer, more refined base of tonka bean, ambroxan and patchouli, adding depth without losing that fresh, fruity character.

7. Byredo Pulp

8. Vyrao The Sixth

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As a beauty editor, I'm lucky enough to test hundreds of new product launches per year. I also consider myself a scent collector, which is why I currently have 50+ perfumes sitting atop my vanity. (Yes, I counted.) Some are classic floral fragrances. Others feature luxurious gourmand notes (vanilla, caramel, pistachio, you name it). Others still have a woody, smoky, or earthy quality. The point is that I have a lot of perfumes to choose from, including some that are worth a small fortune ($400 or $500+). Yet, despite my incredibly wide collection of scents, I keep coming back to the same $28 hair and body mists. Keep scrolling to see the exact ones and learn why they're currently causing my other bottles to collect dust.

Ouai St. Barts Hair & Body Mist

Notes: Dragon fruit, orange blossom, tuberose, and musk

Did you guess Ouai's Hair and Body Mists? I don't blame if you if not. After all, Ouai is first and foremost a haircare brand (it was founded by celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin), but it does fine fragrance extremely well. It has a whole line of eau de parfums, which I've been wearing on and off for years, but lately, I can't get enough of the brand's lightweight mists.

Neither can the rest of the Who What Wear beauty team. Last year, I, along with my beauty-obsessed colleagues, crowned Ouai's St. Barts Hair & Body Mist with a coveted Who What Wear 100 Beauty Award. (That's how you know it's *really* good.) With notes of dragon fruit, orange blossom, tuberose, and musk, it's basically an all-inclusive beach vacation, bottled. The warm-solar fragrance is tropical yet not too fruity or sunscreen-forward the way others tend to be. Instead, it's elevated, luxurious, and expensive-smelling—perfect for collecting all kinds of compliments when you wear it in the wild.

The sun-soaked scent is hands down my most-worn Ouai Hair and Body Mist. I can't get enough of it. That's why I also bought Ouai's other St. Barts–scented items, including the Leave-In Conditioner ($18), Moisturizing Body Cream ($22), and Gentle Body Wash ($18). I also highly recommend Ouai's Mini St. Bart's Body Set ($36). It's perfect for traveling.

Ouai Santorini Hair & Body Mist

Notes: Peach, orange, honeysuckle, and amber

If St. Barts is the warm, sun-soaked scent of summer dreams, then Santorini is the light, bright, and clean-smelling scent that's "as refreshing as a dip in the Aegean Sea." It's fresh and slightly citrusy, with notes of peach, orange, honeysuckle, and amber. I find myself reaching for it A) on particularly hot and humid days when I want to smell cool and refreshed or B) whenever I want to smell "clean" and not necessarily like I'm covered in a heady perfume.

When my sister smelled it on me, she asked (and I quote), "Why do you smell so good?" When I told her it was thanks to Ouai's Santorini Hair & Body Mist, she requested I bring her the bottle so she could test it on herself. When I did, she immediately placed a Sephora order on her phone. If that's not proof it's something special, I don't know what is.

Ouai Ibiza Hair & Body Mist

Notes: Cocoa, tonka bean, vanilla, sugar, cinnamon, and rum

As a beauty editor, I strongly believe there's a time and place for every fragrance category, and rich, sultry, date-night scents are no exception. This, dear reader, is an elite "come closer" concoction. It's the perfect mix of sugar and spice with notes like rich cocoa, creamy tonka bean, smooth vanilla, and warm cinnamon. Spray it on your skin, and it dries down to a soft, alluring, and radiant aura—never heady, obvious, or over the top. It's utterly beguiling. I must agree with the brand when it says, "[It] smells like dinners at midnight and dancing the night a-Ouai."

Ouai Melrose Place Hair & Body Mist

Notes: Champagne, bergamot, rose, lychee, pink peppercorn, and white musk

Last but not least, I have to talk about Ouai's first and perhaps most signature scent: Melrose Place. Inspired by the West Hollywood side street of the same name, it features sweet, sparkling notes of champagne, bergamot, rose, lychee, pink peppercorn, and white musk. Soft, airy, and traditionally feminine, it's a romantic, swoon-worthy scent for anyone who loves classic floral fragrances.

The Limited-Edition Mini Set

This limited-edition Mini Set contains travel-size versions of all four scents.

Whilst I might not own a Bottega Veneta bag (yet—a beauty editor can dream, so consider this my manifestation), I can now at least smell like I do. The Italian fashion house has added a new collection, Alta, to its line of perfumes.

When Bottega Veneta's original eau de parfum collection launched back in 2024—inspired by its Venetian heritage, with glass-blown bottles nodding to Venice's artisanal roots, accompanied by their own Italian marble stand—I didn't think they could top it. So when I was invited to preview the new Italian perfumes this summer, I had high hopes. And I don't want to spoil anything, but each and every Alta perfume is as expensive-smelling as the next, and many are amongst my favourite new perfumes I've tried all year.

Alta consists of 10 fragrances and pays homage to the most treasured and recognised Italian ingredients—think Italian stracciatella gelato, or basil picked from a herb garden. Drawing on the concept of Bottega's intrecciato technique of weaving leather, the Italian ingredients are woven with guest ingredients from all around the world, from South Asian oud to North African neroli, pairing together cultures from all four corners of the globe.

The emblematic weaving is also embossed around each of the glass bottles, and is topped with a wooden cap and gold ring, harking back to Venetian architecture and the history of jewellery making. Honestly? It feels like a work of art in itself, and you'll want to treasure the craftsmanship forever on your dressing table. They're also refillable and come in travel-sized vials. But if you can't make it into a boutique to smell them for yourself, fear not. There are two discovery sets: the Alta Mini Set (£290), which houses the most luxe 10ml minis of the Alta bottles, and the Alta Discovery Set (£65), which has 2ml vials that are perfect for finding your favourite before committing to a full-sized bottle.

I've now worn each and every scent over the past two weeks, so I'm sharing my thoughts on the full collection below.

Best Bottega Alta Fragrances

• Best Overall: Bare Morning Eau de Parfum
• Best Vanilla Perfume: Ricordami Eau de Parfum
• Best Fresh Perfume: Always Now Eau de Parfum
• Best Citrus Perfume: Montebello Eau de Parfum
• Best Oud: Crepuscolo Eau de Parfum

1. Always Now

2. Montebello

3. Balliamo

4. Bare Morning

This is easily my absolute favourite of the entire collection, and if you're a fan of skin scents, then you'll probably adore it too. It draws inspiration from Borotalco, an Italian personal care brand known for its talcum powder and vintage, powdery scent. And it's stunning. Imagine stepping out of your shower, dusting your skin with the Italian powder and slipping on your cosiest, fluffiest white dressing gown. It's clean-smelling, creamy and powdery, and I want to douse my entire skin in the scent.

5. Slow Rise

6. Ricordami

7. Moment After

8. Night Sounds

9. Velvet Steps

10. Crepuscolo

Shop the Alta Discovery Sets:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.