The Best Fall Perfumes, From Gourmands to Fresh Florals (2024)

The Best Fall Perfumes, From Gourmands to Fresh Florals (1)

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Many of us like to wear a perfume that matches the season's vibe. We shelve our summer perfumes—those light, juicy, and energizing splashes—and reach for the olfactive equivalent of a soft sweater. Fragrance experts say that these fall and winter scents are "warmer, deeper, richer, and bolder in intensity and ingredients," says Linda G. Levy, president of The Fragrance Foundation. The top trick to finding one you love? When you smell a great fall perfume "it's transportive, warm, and inviting. It envelops you," Levy says.

Which perfumes are ideal for fall?

First, the ultimate beauty rule: there are no beauty rules. Wear what you love! That said, if you want to emulate the notes of the season, look for a fall perfume that's spicy, woody, or full of big florals. Whatever you choose, though, Carlos Huber, a fragrance developer and founder of Arquiste, comes back to that feeling of being wrapped up. "It should feel like a warm hug. Don't get me wrong, fall fragrances can still have a certain level of freshness, but they should also have depth and layers," he says.

Levy says vanilla is one of the most popular fall notes. "Stronger berry notes, like cherry and black currant, are also making their way into more bottles," she adds. Gourmands, a category of fragrance inspired by food, are especially in demand, agrees Lush perfumer Alina Gliwinska. "Look for vanilla, yes, as well as caramel, coffee, maple syrup, and ripe-juicy fruity notes like apple, pear, figs, and dates."

How to choose a fall perfume

"Scents can smell different in cooler temperatures," explains Gliwinska, which is why she recommends testing a perfume by letting it sit on your skin throughout the day before making a decision. Also, look for notes that get you in the fall mood, whether it's the smell of pumpkin desserts, something with a spicy kick, like cinnamon or nutmeg, or a more woodsy and musky aroma to remind you of the change in foliage. Ahead, we've gathered the best fall perfumes loved by our experts and editors to offer ultimate cozy inspiration.

The experts:

1

Lush Chelsea Morning

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If you immediately think of colorful bath bombs when you think of Lush, then you may be surprised to know that the iconic brand also has a large offering of ethically sourced perfumes. Among their options, their in-house perfumer says she's gravitating to the gourmand scent Chelsea Morning (the name is a nod to the Joni Mitchell song) for the fall season. "It lightens my mood with its brightness thanks to lemon myrtle and its sweet caramel-like butterscotch smell," she shares. It feels rich and comforting, but not heavy.

2

Marc Jacobs Perfect Elixir Eau de Parfum

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If you're a fan of the Marc Jacobs Perfect Eau de Parfum, get ready to meet its warmer, cozier, and more fragrant sister, which comes highly recommended by Levy. While the original perfume combines rhubarb with florals, this purple option compliments the rhubarb with the sweetness of plum, liquid honey nectar, and vanilla bean extract. Golden amber woods and patchouli add an earthy layer.

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"I didn't think gourmand scents were my thing because I don't love scents that smell like dessert," says beauty editor Genesis Rivas. "Then I smelled this one, and immediately wanted to douse my entire body in it." This blend is a sophisticated and luxurious take on a French pastry. "With notes of fresh cream, vanilla beans, cocoa, mocha, and Fleur de Sel caramel, it's certainly sweet but not overwhelming. The citrus peel keeps it fresh and the sandalwood adds depth that makes it feel cozy and warm."

If you're going to do florals in the fall, consider this alluring pick."I am obsessed with this scent," says Holly Carter, Oprah Daily contributing lifestyle editor. "It's classic, super rich, and sexy." At first spritz, you'll get a whiff of opulent Turkish rose followed by woody tones, thanks to sandalwood, amber, and incense. It also has notes of blackcurrant, raspberry, and clove to give a sensual sweetness that's irresistible.

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5

Lake & Skye 11 11 Vanilla Eau de Parfum

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You've never met a vanilla perfume like this. "It reminds me of the experience of eating a chocolate-covered gummy bear: it's milky-sweet from the vanilla note and then a bit tart from the star apple. The combination feels really fresh and vibrant," says Rivas. There's also amber, teakwood, and a signature musk, which gives the scent that familiar fall coziness vibe. "I love it so much, I keep the new oil-based rollerball in my purse at all times," says Rivas.

6

Litoralle Aromatica Isola Rosa

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"This gorgeous scent wafted off a chic colleague recently, and I had to ask her what she was wearing. Turns out, she gets that question weekly. Her fragrance, Isola Rosa, is a green floral meant to emulate the Italian seaside. That might not scream fall to you, but its base note—the part that stays on the skin longest—is a warm musk and other notes smell of crisp wind, like the coast in the off-season," says Oprah Daily's beauty director Kate Sandoval Box. It also contains white peony, jasmine, and fresh bergamot. Gorgeous.

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7

Fragrance Du Bois Santal Complet

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Let's say you aren't ready to part with your bright summer scent, but wish it was a bit punchier for fall. Consider layering another scent on top. "Layering scents builds more depth and increases the staying power or intensity," says Levy. This soft scent is the perfect complement to a summer perfume, turning it into something cozy and creamy. With top notes of lemon and coconut, the vibrancy and refreshing aroma peaks through its base of black pepper, musk, sandalwood, amber, and vanilla.

8

Arquiste A Grove by the Sea

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"For fall, I like green fragrances with deep woody backgrounds," says Huber of his recommendation. This scent will instantly transport you to a Mediterranean olive grove. There are notes of Adriatic fig, dried pine needles, wild rosemary, thyme and the subtle, nutty scent of olive oil.

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9

Lancôme Absolue Les Parfums Rose on the Moon Eau de Parfum

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"Recently, Lancôme dropped a collection of 11 rose-inspired fragrances. I've smelled them all, and while each is unique—a fascinating feat since they all contain rose—this one stood out the most," Sandoval Box says. "It feels different from the usual floral blends and especially right for this season because of its warm, creamy sandalwood note." It also has vanilla essence, which plays with the honey sweetness of the centifolia rose that's special to the brand.

10

Bath and Body Works Platinum Eau de Parfum

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Perfumes can be investments. If you aren't looking to spend a lot on a new bottle right now, but still want something that looks, feels, and smells lavish, consider the options available at Bath and Body Works. Levy says this pick is perfect for the season with its notes of bergamot, silver blooms, and patchouli musk. It's a scent that works for everyone because it isn't overtly feminine or masculine.

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11

PHLUR Somebody Wood Eau De Parfum

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"This eau de parfum reminds me of fresh lumber in the best way," says Justine Anthony, Oprah Daily associate market editor who loves this androgynous scent. "It’s not too woodsy, nor is it too sweet. Instead, it’s a bit spicy—but still playful. The sandalwood and amber bring the warmth while notes like jasmine and bergamot add a burst of brightness. It’s a subtle woodsy scent that lingers well into a crisp autumn day."

12

Orebella Nightcap 1.7 oz

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This gourmand-inspired scent is sultry enough to wear for date night. It's a sweet vanilla-based scent with spicy notes of ginger, cardamom, and patchouli. As it wears, though, the woodsy warmth of sandalwood comes through to add a layer of depth. Orebella is a fragrance brand founded by Bella Hadid and all the scents are infused with essential oils for the aromatherapy benefit. To activate, it's recommended to shake the fragrance before applying.

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13

D.S. & Durga Big Sur Eucalyptus

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“I’m a big fan of unique, inspired scents," says Carter. "I don’t like to smell like everybody else—even if they smell great! With notes of wet wood, pacific spray, rosemary, cypress, and an olfactory ode to eucalyptus, this eau de parfum is meant to conjure up the green groves on the California coast. "It’s all the things that scream fall—spicy, crisp, and fresh. It even has an accompanying playlist to help immerse yourself in some full-on sensorial California dreaming."

If you want a perfume that makes a statement but isn't overbearing, then you've found your sweet spot. "I often come back to this scent because it transports me to a cabin that has a blazing fire and desserts baking," says Rivas. It strikes the perfect balance of sweet and spicy wrapped in a blanket of comforting musk. There's also a tinge of tangerine to give it a subtle zesty kick.

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15

Dolce&Gabbana Devotion Eau de Parfum Intense

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This is categorized as a "bright gourmand" per the brand because in addition to the warm notes of vanilla and creamy hazelnut, orange blossom adds a delicious freshness and vibrance. "It feels like a very luxurious and sophisticated take on gourmands," says Rivas

How We Chose the Best Fall Perfumes

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Our beauty team is dedicated to finding you the best of the best formulas. We spoke with experts to learn about what to look for in a fall perfume and got their go-to recommendations. We also researched and tested top-rated and brand-new formulas that hit the market to help you find the best products out there.

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Genesis Rivas

Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok

The Best Fall Perfumes, From Gourmands to Fresh Florals (2024)
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