These Are The Best-Selling Perfumes On The Planet Right Now

From timeless classics like Chanel No.5, to some newer, more modern contenders...

Best Perfumes 2020

by Renee Washington |
Updated on

Let's talk about the best perfumes in the business. Securing a spot as a global best-seller in the perfume and fragrance world doesn’t happen overnight. With literally thousands upon thousands of scented competition out there, achieving that cult classic status is an accolade only bestowed onto a certain few. And those that do get it, well, they’ve achieved the fragrant holy grail.

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Indeed, perfume is undoubtedly the most personal sector of the beauty world. While a lipstick might achieve cult classic status because it hits the sweet spot for formulation and shade combination, our tastes for perfume depend on primal elements, deep rooted in our psyche and highly influenced by our personal experiences and memories.

Habiba Suleiman-Adejoh, fragrance expert known as @femme.scents said, ‘Perfumes hold a special place in our lives because they have the power to evoke emotions, trigger memories, and express our individuality. The sense of smell is closely linked to the limbic system, the part of the brain that governs emotions and memories. A whiff of a particular scent can transport us back to cherished moments, remind us of loved ones, or even evoke a sense of place. This emotional connection makes perfumes more than just fragrances; they become a part of our personal history and identity.' So, yes, the scents we’re drawn to and subsequently choose to spritz on our wrists are VIP (very important perfumes) indeed.

How we tested the best perfumes:

First Impression: Our beauty journalists identified the overall scent profile (fresh, oriental, gourmand) and any dominant notes upon the initial spray.

Strength: We evaluated the strength of the fragrance (powerful, subtle) and its sillage (how far the scent projects).

Balance and Complexity: We assessed how well the notes blend and evolve, and if the fragrance has a simple or complex composition.

As beauty journalists, we typically receive fragrance samples from the brands themselves and often test multiple perfumes at once. To avoid olfactory fatigue, we cleanse our palates (noses!). We also apply fragrances to clean, dry skin, typically on the inner wrists or forearms. This allows for the most accurate scent assessment without interference from other products and to see how long it lasts.

READ MORE: The Best Fragrance Deals You Can't Ignore

The best women’s perfumes for 2024:

  • Best budget women’s perfume: Ariana Grande Cloud

  • Best gourmand women's perfume: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540

  • Best warm vanilla women’s perfume: Valentino Born in Roma Donna Intense

  • Best luxury women’s perfume: Chanel No.5 EDT

  • Best citrus women’s perfume: Matiere Premiere Neroli Oranger

  • Best bold rose women’s perfume: Frederic Malle Portrait of a Lady

So without further ado, we chart some of the best-selling perfumes for women in the world and dissect why they’re worth every single spritz...

Shop: The Best-Selling Perfumes 2024

Best signature fragrance

Why we love it: Launched in 2013, Si has now earned a spot in power perfume stakes, but quickly turns noses for its fresh and interesting take on chypre.

What does it smell like: Habiba Suleiman-Adejoh said, 'Si is a beautiful fragrance that balances sweet and woody notes perfectly. Its scent of blackcurrant nectar, airy florals, and musky blond wood is both modern and timeless. It can be someone's signature scent without a doubt.'

Pros

  • Great for autumn and cold weather
  • Lasts all day with one application

Cons

  • Patchouli can be a bit strong

Best bold rose women’s perfume

Why we love it: I love this perfume because it is a niche classic, Frederic Malle's best-seller is not only a head turner but a scent that many won't be able to put their finger on, which makes it ideal for those who prefer their scents to be mysterious. It's entirely unique and timeless thanks to a heady cocktail of Turkish rose, patchouli, sandalwood, and frankincense .

What it smells like: Renee Digital Fashion and Beauty Assistant said, 'It is like a huge bouquet of Turkish rose - confidence in a bottle. Imagine velvety rose notes muddled with warm spices and earthy woods that elevate the perfume to something more expensive smelling than your average floral perfume. There's a depth and body to the scent that lends it maturity. At first I didn't like it on me, but now I can't get enough. Funnily enough, I came to Frédéric Malle’s Portrait Of A Lady Eau de Parfum in much the same way as many of the strangers that complimented me on Saturday must have done. I caught the scent trail of a friend who was wearing it at a dinner and immediately asked what perfume she had spritzed on.'

Pros

  • Wonderful sillage
  • Great for a date or special occasion
  • Nice dry down

Cons

  • Can be mature for some

Best fruity perfume

Why we love it: Fruity pear and blackberry make way for orange blossom and a kick of patchouli in this spritely little number. A guaranteed mood-booster.

What does it smell like: Habiba Suleiman-Adejoh, said, 'La Vie est Belle is like happiness in a bottle. The combination of iris, praline, and vanilla is warm and inviting, making it great for someone with a bubbly personality.'

Pros

  • Tends to receive compliments
  • Nice dry down
  • Refillable bottle

Cons

  • Very popular and ubiquitous

Best celebrity fragrance

Why we love it: Once an under-the-radar go-to for those in the know, this scent was popularised when it was revealed as Rihanna's signature scent in 2016 - and we've smelt her (she smells amazing).

What does it smell like: It is rich with sweet notes of marshmallow, vanilla, and caramel, and utterly delicious.

Pros

  • Nice scent for people who love gourmand fragrances
  • Good projection

Cons

  • Sickly for some people

Best pheromone perfume

Why we love it: Millennial favourite brand Glossier's only scent is an industry-backed classic. Neatly nestled in the bags of beauty editors the world over, Glossier's You is made up of bright pink pepper, powdery iris and warm ambrox, and is widely considered as one of the best skin scents on the market. It smells different on everyone and is suppose to enhance your body's pheromones.

What does it smell like: Sameeha Shaik Beauty Writer said, 'I am yet to meet a beauty journalist who doesn't love Glossier's You. The perfume adorns vanities the world over and flies off beauty shelves both in Glossier stores and online. Its you but better, on me it smells earthy with a slight floral hint.'

Best bridal perfume

Why we love it: I would best describe Dior J'adore as a sophisticated spritz, that has rightfully earned its place in the perfume hall of fame, J'Adore combines ylang-ylang, Damascus rose and jasmine for a hearty and complex floral. The perfume has quite a familiar smell, and throws me back to days were you use to find perfume samples in magazines. Even though its quite a clean fresh fragrance, it last all day on the skin. As for the bottle: dressing table GOLD.

What it smells like: Renee Washington Digital Fashion and Beauty Assistant said, 'If I had to simply this perfume into three words I would say the fragrance is, floral, sweet and balmy. Think the definition of ultra-feminine.'

Pros

  • Good bridal scent
  • Clear and pure jasmine note
  • Gorgeous bottle

Cons

  • May be too sweet for some

Best gourmand women's perfume

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540
Price: £235
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=3e7df617f02211af20ba9781fe3e0a60&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=WxFDFBUMHhgRR0UcRlANC1NCFk9aWFUeDxUcKFEIRVwLGiIUV19UD0MfeURDCgJYWQMPFHVZUgUEQQRETGRcEFABS3NQQkt0Vx9hUBMAR11PMVxFXkQLAB4DXxMbZApaAQgbAxpSHX1IHgNXVwUJWlkABw%3D%3D&x=v1&prdId=10400015772&barcode=A1YAVFYDBA5QAAEDAAc%3D
Alternative retailers
Nordstrom$210.00View offer
Nordstrom$210.00View offer
Groupon North America$294.00View offer
FragranceNet.com$328.99View offer

Why we love it: This single scent has become somewhat of a sensation in the perfume world and counts endless fans, from celebrities like Molly Mae to fragrance aficionados everywhere. Last year, the cult favourite gained 5,967,000 annual Google searches and 477.8M views on TikTok.

What does it smell like: It’s deep, resinous, and warm. It smells like burnt caramel, and the dry down is impeccable.

Best budget women's perfume

Ariana Grande Cloud
Price: £42
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=3e7df617f02211af20ba9781fe3e0a60&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=WxFDFBUMHhgRR0UcRVATAVdETAJWWhdBSQRBDFEPVx4CRQUIUlQaBVxdR1UcBAdHHQYEFEdZQwAQXkgBTFBfSFgeS0NdQwcdUFdQRBUfHR1NIBQPCgdRUgpdBw%3D%3D&x=v1&prdId=7242617105&barcode=A1UPVVQEBAFWAgEBAQM%3D
Alternative retailers
Sephora$28.00View offer
Walmart$43.88View offer
Ulta$48.00View offer
Kohl's$48.00View offer

Why we love it: The world is not short of celebrity perfumes, but not all are created equal. Ariana Grande's Cloud has emerged as one of the category's biggest standouts, amassing a whopping 122.9M views on TikTok alone. It is creamy with coconut and vanilla, yet sweet with pear and praline. It is a great alternative for Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 450.

What does it smell like: Like a cashmere blanket it envelopes and hugs the senses. Its smells like a cotton candy cloud.

Best amber vanilla perfume

Why we love it: A gourmand (sweet) floral, YSL's best-selling spritz comes with an interesting combination of coffee, vanilla and white flowers, that keeps diehard fans coming back time and time again. It's sweet but also leaves and element of mystery.

What does it smell like: Whitney Jones Editorial Assistant said, 'This is a scent for a women that lives in the city, I put this on and feel ready for the day. Its dark meets light, a deep spicy coffee scent with a blend of sugar.'

Pros

  • Sweet vanilla note
  • Feminine with a twist

Cons

  • Poor siliage

Best woody fragrance

**Why we love it:**Known as the ultimate 'fash-pack' perfume, Santal was on the Cartier-laden wrists of every big-name fashion editor in the business. Now, it's gained momentum worldwide, with its head-turning concoction that truly lasts all day long.

What does it smell like: Sameeha Beauty writer said, 'If there was a scent out there intended to smell like fresh, crisp, white bed linen, it would be this. It's not the loudest of scents, it's not heady or offensive in any way, instead it softly lingers thanks to its musky, skin-like qualities which lends it an alluring clean, quite luxury appeal which I'll never get enough of'.

Pros

  • Heavily complimented
  • Unique fragrance

Cons

  • Packaging could be better for the price

Best musky fragrance

Why we love it: This fragrance is ennchantingly unique without being overpowering. You've probably smelt nothing like this.

What does it smell like: Renee Washington Digital Fashion and Beauty Assistant said, 'I love musky fragrances because they end up sticking to my skin and lasting a good amount of time. Gypsy water smells like the scent of fresh soil, deep forests and campfires. It is vibrant and subtly woody and perfect for those who aren't into florals. I loved it so much I had to get the shower gel.'

Pros

  • Long lasting
  • Unisex
  • Unique

Cons

  • Quite masculine

Best lavender perfume

Why we love it: With Angelina Jolie as the face, Mon Guerlain was always going to have flare. The standout? A touch of lavender that lends an old-school Parisian flare.

What does it smell like: Habiba Suleiman-Adejoh said, 'This is for lovers of lavender! Mon Guerlain is like a comforting embrace. The lavender, jasmine, and vanilla create a soothing yet sophisticated scent that I adore wearing daily.'

Pros

  • A nice vanilla perfume
  • Natural and light

Cons

  • Not that long lasting

Best unisex perfume

Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 EDT
Price: £80.75 (was £95)

www.cultbeauty.co.uk

Why we love it: A best-selling fragrance in Liberty, Molecule 01 is the musky, woody fragrance that lead the unisex perfume movement. Launched in 2006, it consists of the molecule Iso E Super – a comforting note that settles onto skin like a dream.

What does it smell like: Habiba Suleiman-Adejoh said, 'Molecule 01 is fascinating in its simplicity, which makes it a great unisex perfume. It adapts uniquely to skin, creating a subtle, almost invisible aura that feels effortlessly chic.'

Pros

  • Unisex
  • Pheromone perfume

Cons

  •  May not be able to smell this on yourself 

Best vanilla perfume

Valentino Born in Roma Donna Intense Eau de Parfum
Price: £61.20(was £72)

www.lookfantastic.com

Why we love it: Valentino’s Born in Rome Donna Eau de Parfum celebrates femininity with a contemporary edge, disrupting traditional perfumery norms. With luxurious vanilla bourbon and sensual jasmine, it leaves a captivating, rebellious trail that embodies the spirit of Rome’s distinctive street culture. This innovative scent will undoubtedly garner compliments.

What does it smell like: Renee Digital Fashion and Beauty Assistant said, 'If I was forced to wear one perfume for the rest of my life, Born in Roma would be a strong contender. I first came across this perfume on a solo trip to Copenhagen and found the scent super comforting. It is an ambery-floral fragrance, with a base of vanilla and jasmine. And as it sets on the skin it gets so much better.'

Pros

  • Addictive
  • Beautiful dry down
  • Long lasting

Cons

  • Not similar to original Born in Roma

Best classic perfume

Why we love it: This skyrocketed to stratospheric heights when Marilyn Monroe announced she wore 'five drops of No.5' to bed and nothing else. Decades of dedicated fans followed, with an unwavering love of the unique powdery floral, which combines rose and jasmine with aldehydes and vanilla.

What does it smell like: Chanel No. 5 is iconic for a reason. Its elegant blend of floral and aldehyde notes makes one feel timelessly classy and sophisticated.

Pros

  • Sophisticated and elegant
  • Good for special occasions

Cons

  • A love it or hate it scent

Best oud perfume

Why we love it: Penhaligon’s Halfeti Rose exudes luxury with its captivating blend of fruits, spices, jasmine, and mysterious rose. Suited for both men and women, Halfeti Rose leaves a lasting impression of sophistication and charm. Its quality and longevity make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a rich and captivating fragrance.

What does it smell like: 'This perfume is highly addictive, I find myself trying to get a waft of the fragrance throughout the day. Think leather, oud and amber. It smells like wealth.'

Pros

  • Nice projection
  • Addictive

Cons

  • Masculine

Best lime fragrance

Why we love it: Jo Malone's best-seller, Lime Basil and Mandarin, is a cool and confident scent that will transport you to a world of calm.

What does it smell like: Habiba Suleiman-Adejoh said, 'This perfume is refreshing and uplifting. The bright citrus notes combined with the peppery basil give it a distinctive, invigorating scent that’s perfect for daytime. Notes of amber wood, peppery basil and aromatic white thyme make for a signature classic.'

Pros

  • Comforting and familiar
  • Fresh scent

Cons

  • Not long lasting

Best warm spicy perfume

Why we love it: Rich, dark and moody, Tom Ford's Black Orchid is not for the fainthearted. It is a confident fragrance for when you're feeling your most powerful. We also happen to love the chic architectural bottle.

What does it smell like: Habiba Suleiman-Adejoh said, Black truffle, plum and patchouli (with a hint of spice) smell luxurious and decadent. Its dark and sensual blend of black truffle, ylang-ylang, and patchouli makes me feel bold and glamorous and the perfect date night scent.'

Pros

  • Unisex
  • Formal occasions

Cons

  • Very strong might be overpowering to some

Best light and fresh perfume

Why we love it: As eternal as its name suggests, the clean, floral notes in Calvin Klein's Eternity make it a timeless fragrance to fall in love with. Also available for him with additional layers of mandarin and sage, wear your complimenting fragrances together for scent-sual harmony.

What does it smell like: Eternity is a beautiful classic. Its fresh floral notes of freesia, lily, and sandalwood and it evokes a sense of timeless romance and purity.

Pros

  • Fresh scent
  • Timeless

Cons

  • Not long lasting

Best winter perfume

Why we love it: It is as it states on the bottle, warm and cosy and by the Fireplace. The androgynous appeal makes it suitable for both men and women.

What does it smell like: Renee Digital Fashion and Beauty Assistant said, 'The easiest way to describe this fragrance is Christmas. It captures a timeless essence, reminiscent of burning wood and chestnuts. The fragrance opens with fruity, spicy top notes of pink pepper, orange flower petals, and clove oil, evoking the sensation of gathering around a crackling fire. Its heart reveals earthy tones of chestnut accord, gaïac wood oil, and cade oil, akin to the aroma of fresh firewood. Meanwhile, the sweet base notes of vanilla accord, Peru balsam, and cashmeran add a cozy warmth, reminiscent of toasted marshmallows.'

Pros

  • Evocative fragrance
  • Unisex

Cons

  • May smell too much like a Christmas candle

Best summer perfume

Prada Paradoxe
Price: £55.20(was £69)

www.debenhams.com

Why we love it: A light but ambery fragrance with crisp notes of neroli snipped from the buds of the flower. Housed in Prada's signature triangle bottle, this is a nice pick for spring/summer.

What does it smell like: Renee Digital Fashion and Beauty Assistant said, 'This is looks and smells like a wonderful cocktail, but in a bottle. And with notes of pear, tangerine, and bergamot you can't convince me otherwise. This makes for a perfect summer companion.'

Pros

  • Nice bottle
  • Girl-next-door scent 

Cons

  • Can be too sweet to some

Best seductive women's perfume

Why we love it: A daring fragrance for the femme fatal's, it has notes of almond, tuberose, jasmine sambac, tonka bean, cocoa and is housed in the signature navy shoe-shaped bottle.

What does it smell like: Habiba Suleiman-Adejoh said, 'Good Girl is dualistic. The blend of sweet and dark notes like jasmine and cocoa reflects the dual nature of modern femininity, making me feel both feminine and strong.'

Pros

  • Seductive
  • Long lasting

Cons

  • Can be strong - a little goes a long way

Best citrus women’s perfume

Matiere Premiere Neroli Oranger 
Price: £155
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Alternative retailers
Neiman Marcus$205.00View offer
Saks Fifth Avenue$205.00View offer
Nordstrom$205.00View offer

Why we love it: Neroli Oranger by Matiere Premiere is an exceptional fragrance, known for its captivating blend of floral and citrus notes, perfect for summer evenings, and sure to garner compliments wherever you go.

What does it smell like: Renee Digital Fashion and Beauty Assistant said, 'During the summer I always keep a fragrance in my bag and I can't let go of this one.This smells like wonderful summer evenings. Think citrus and spicy, and paired with Matiere Premiere's Crystal Saffron... chefs kiss.'

Pros

  • Powerful
  • Great for special occasions

Cons

  • Hard to find

Best feminine perfume

Why we love it: Delina Exclusif by Parfums de Marly is an enchanting amber fragrance for women, launched in 2018 and crafted by perfumer Quentin Bisch. This luxurious blend promises a sophisticated and alluring olfactory experience, perfect for those seeking elegance and depth in their scent.

What does it smell like: Habiba Suleiman-Adejoh said, 'Delina is exquisitely feminine. The combination of rose, peony, and lychee is beautifully fresh and romantic, perfect for making a memorable impression. I would recommend this for first dates.'

Pros

  • Pretty bottle
  • Versatile for casual or formal wear

Cons

  • Expensive

Best comforting perfume

Why we love it: Missing Person by Phlur is a captivating fragrance that intertwines delicate floral notes with comforting musk and woody undertones. From the moment it touches your skin, you’re enveloped in a soft veil of jasmine and orange blossom, reminiscent of a tender embrace. As the scent settles, the warmth of white musk and Australian sandalwood emerges, creating a lingering sensation that’s both familiar and intoxicating.

What does it smell like: Sameeha Beauty Writer said, 'If there was only one scent I could wear for the rest of time, i'd choose this. Viral for good reason, it was carefully crafted to be reminiscent of a lover's warm embrace and it certainly achieves that. Comforting, calming and soft in every way, this delicate scent is one for the beauty hall of fame.'

Pros

  • Familiar scent
  • Musky and warm

Cons

  • Projection and longevity could be better

Renee Washington, Grazia's Digital Fashion and Beauty Assistant, lives online. With a penchant for wispy lashes and streetwear, she writes about the worlds of fashion and beauty from the viewpoint of the modern fashion girlie.

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