I've Tried Lots of Luxury Perfumes, But These Body Mists Earn Me Just as Many Compliments
Penhaligon's perfumes have long held a special place among editors. Now, the brand has launched body mists. Read my honest review below.
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
Key notes: Soft rose, spices, fruit
Key notes: Bergamot, rose, balsam fir
Key notes: Blood orange, patchouli, vanilla, peach
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.
