Best Perfumes for Women: 25 Scents You Must Try in 2023

Unless you’re one of the few unfortunate people who are allergic to anything under the sun, perfume shopping can actually be quite a lot of fun. With the holidays literally just around the corner, perfumes are always a great gift to give or a treat for yourself.

So, the question is: how can you pick a fragrance you’re guaranteed to love? Although it can sound pretty simplistic, you should always go with scents you naturally gravitate towards. If you prefer something floral but not too overwhelming, or you want a statement perfume which will be sure to draw attention, there’s lots of notes to choose from.

Gifting perfume can be a bit trickier, so hopefully you know the recipient very well so they will appreciate your effort by proudly wearing it. If not, next time maybe opt for something different!

If you do know the person’s signature scent, this time of year many department stores offer great gifts with perfume purchases, so why not take advantage?

Eau de Parfum vs Eau de Toilette

Another thing you might ask yourself is: What is the difference between eau de parfum and eau de toilette? The big difference is in the concentration of perfume that is present in the bottle. The higher the percentage, the stronger the scent as well as the price. Some eau de parfums can actually contain a higher amount of oils which can be a tad overwhelming, so be mindful of that.

Something else to consider is whether you want something light to wear everyday at work for example and which will not last all day, or you want something that can linger on all day? Certain ingredients will evaporate faster from your skin while others are just naturally stronger and more overpowering. It really just comes down to personal preference.

The best perfumes for women in 2023

This year we all need a little pick-me-up, so why not try something different? Since perfume can be a tricky thing, once we find a scent we love and it agrees with our body chemistry we tend to stick with it.

But if you’re ready for a change, or you just want to give a special female in your life a Christmas present, we’ve compiled a list of the 25 best perfumes for women out there. 

Private Blend Tuscan Intense Leather Eau de Parfum by Tom Ford

Tom Ford’s Tuscan Leather Intense is a strong, rich perfume which will bring back memories of an old library, a woodsy fireplace and leather. Although designed for women, this is probably one of the only perfumes men will feel comfortable borrowing from you.

Launched in 2007, its top notes are raspberry, saffron and thyme with undertones of leather and amber. Perfect for those cold chilly nights coming!

Fleur de Parfum Eau de Parfum By Chloe

The main accords in this feminine perfume are citrus, floral and fruity. Fairly newer, Chloe’s Fleur de Parfum was first launched in 2016 to complement the Chloe Eau de Parfum from 2008. It is for the elegant yet sensual woman.

When you spray it on it makes you immediately think of flowers in bloom, which makes this a perfect springtime perfume.

Light Blue Eau de Toilette by Dolce & Gabbana

Preferred by a lot of women, Dolce & Gabbana’s Light Blue is the perfect summer fragrance. But you can definitely wear it yearlong if you choose to, especially since it is suitable for those of you who are more prone to allergies.

Its light airy notes are pleasant and the citrus notes of lime and sicilian lemon are subdued.

Romance Eau de Parfum by Ralph Lauren

This gorgeous floral and fruity fragrance has been around since 1998 and to this day it’s still loved by many. When you wear Ralph Lauren’s Romance, you dream of moments full of joy and happiness taking a walk through fall leaves alongside your loved one.

Water lily and white violet will gently awaken your senses, while you can detect an undertone of spiciness from the ginger and carnation.

Pleasures Eau de Parfum by Estee Lauder

For the budget conscious, Pleasures by Estee Lauder is a lovely scent that was designed to suit all women, any season.  Another floral favorite since 1995, this one is here to stay.

Estee Lauder captured the smell of flowers after the rain in springtime in this light floral fragrance.

Black Opium Eau de Parfum by Yves Saint Laurent

The house of Yves Saint Laurent is all about sophistication and flare. Not exactly for those of you who want to remain unnoticed, Black Opium is one of those perfumes that will get anyone’s attention, whether you want to or not.

Its delightful flowers and coffee accords marry well in this sensual addictive fragrance.

Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum by Chanel

Another fashion house that has been creating long-lasting scents for decades now, Chanel is by all definition the epitome of classic. Chanel’s No.5 has been an icon, but our favorite scent from the French maison is the lovely Coco Mademoiselle.

With top notes of bergamot, mandarin and orange and base notes of musk and vetiver, this fragrance offers a perfect mix of sweet and woody scents. When you put this on you will surely get recognized as an elegant tasteful woman.

Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet Eau de Toilette by Dior

For the fans of roses and peonies, look no further than this gorgeous perfume. The house of Dior introduced this youthful eau de toilette back in 2014 and it was a massive hit ever since. Beautifully designed, the bottle itself is embellished by their signature Miss Dior bow for a feminine touch.

A softer scent, you can detect the base of musk which makes the fragrance more subtle. You can also check out the Miss Dior hair perfume. 

Bloom Gocce di Fiori Eau de Toilette by Gucci

Another floral option, Gucci captures the notes of tuberose and jasmine in this contemporary eau de toilette launched in 2017. The perfumer behind this scent, Alberto Morillas, wanted to transport you to a garden filled with different flowers, and he succeeded very well.

This unique combination that makes Gucci’s Bloom Gocce Di Fiori allows you to think of flowers in bloom.

White Tea Eau de Toilette by Elizabeth Arden

Work appropriate, this woody musk depicts the essence of white tea perfectly. Although new on the market, you just know Elizabeth Arden’s White Tea is one of those scents that are made to last.

It is a fresh and uncomplicated fragrance which does not overpower, so many women favor it. You can always opt for it and smell like a classic yet stylish lady.

Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum by Maison Francis Kurkdjian

Although not as well known as the previous ones, this amazing newcomer has definitely made a name for itself on the fragrance scene in these last couple of years.

Oriental undertones are enveloped by saffron, jasmine and amberwood to create an impressionable scent people will surely ask you about and men will be very attracted to. Baccarat Rouge 540 is very different from what you are used to, guaranteed.

Gypsy Water Eau de Parfum by Byredo

The outdoorsy type that craves adventure will adore this woody fragrance which is also appropriate for men. Launched in 2008, this aromatic yet fresh perfume has notes of juniper, bergamot and pine needles which will surely please you this time of year.

The sandalwood undertones of Byredo’s Gypsy Water balance out the spiciness into a pleasant experience.

Amazing Grace Eau de Toilette by Philosophy

This eau de toilette is perfect for those of you who prefer a subtle and delicate scent. Amazing Grace been around since 1996 and it’s always been one of the most budget-friendly floral fragrances on the market.

The grapefruit and mandarin notes give it a little crispness without making it too spicy. Freesia and jasmine can be too much at times but in moderation, like in this case, it is very pleasant indeed.

Mediterranean Honeysuckle Eau de Parfum by Aerin Lauder

Since this year most of us couldn’t enjoy a summer vacation by the water, these honeysuckle mixed with grapefruit accords will surely take you there. You can just spray this perfume on and pretend you’re by the Mediteranean seaside.

The bergamot, lily of the valley and mandarin orange are also fragrant notes without overwhelming your olfactory senses.

La Vie Est Belle Eau de Parfum By Lancome

La Vie Est Belle will tickle your senses in a very sweet way. If you lean towards fruity bright scents, this one will definitely please your senses. Some of its top notes are pear and black currant accompanied by iris and jasmine which gives out an intense joyful smell.

It is not a conservative scent but it’s made for the independent freethinkers. A real joy from Lancome.

For Her Eau de Parfum by Narciso Rodriguez

Even though it’s not as well known as other perfumes in this list, Narciso Rodriguez’ For Her is the perfect complement to the classic black dress. This musky floral fragrance’s main accords are rose, musk and patchouli.

You can also detect hints of peach and amber in this unique scent, but not so much that will shock your senses. A solid choice for the more conventional woman.

Daisy Eau de Toilette Spray by Marc Jacobs

This adorable bottle is reason enough to give this eau de toilette a try. Although it does not smell like daisies, the cap is beautiful on its own. Its youthful uplifting scent will brighten the most dreary day.

Strawberries and blood grapefruit paired with violet and gardenia will bring you back to pleasant memories of warmer weather and fragrant flowers.

Si Eau de Parfum by Giorgio Armani

Launched in 2013, this cassis, freesia and patchouli fragrance made headlines when actress Cate Blanchet became its campaign face. Giorgio Armani’s Si features woody accords and aromatic notes that will surely romance your palate.

Sophistication at its best, you will not go unnoticed when you’re wearing this perfume. If you’re a shy, more low profile type of person this might not be your first choice, but why not step out of your comfort zone?

Good Girl Eau de Parfum by Carolina Herrera

This gorgeous ‘Good Girl’ bottle is a statement on its own. For the bold woman who loves shoes, this will impress you. Not only beautiful to look at, the smell of this perfume is intoxicating as well. A blend of sweet and spicy, it is not exactly for the ‘good girl’.

When she launched it in 2016, Carolina Herrera made the perfume’s motto: “It’s so good to be bad”, so draw your own conclusions.

Replica Beach Walk Eau de Toilette by Maison Martin Margiela

Sea side and sunshine are a very accurate interpretation of this fragrance. Reproducing a relaxing beach walk, the sweet coconut milk is brought out by the lemon and black pepper, while its woody accords finish it off in this floral fruity scent.

Even though you might not be able to enjoy a walk on the beach right now, take a virtual one while spraying this eau de toilette on.

Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche Skinscent by Estee Lauder

If you’re wondering what eau fraiche means, the literal translation is “fresh water”, but in this context it really means a light scent. Probably the newest kid on the block from this list, Estee Lauder introduced this oriental light fragrance called Bronze Goddess in 2019.

With the main note of coconut, followed by Tiare flower and sandalwood, it is perfect for all goddesses.

Mon Guerlain Eau de Parfum by Guerlain

Designed with the sophisticated woman in mind, this exotic perfume was created in 2017 with Angelina Jolie as their muse. Another new scent which will surely be around for a while, Mon Guerlain is definitely a treat for our senses.

Lavender and vanilla are the main accords in this oriental fragrance and the flowery notes of iris and jasmine are brought together by sandalwood and patchouli.

Wood Sage and Sea Salt Cologne by Jo Malone

When it comes to perfume, Jo Malone knows what she’s doing. The epitome of London lifestyle, this earthy scent is for the women who do not favor flowery sweet scents, which makes it a viable option for the significant others in your life as well.

The main notes of this aromatic fragrance are basically mentioned in its name: wood sage and sea salt. This rather expensive perfume provides a feeling of being free with nature.

Un Jardin Sur la Lagune by Hermes

Christine Nagel, the nose behind the Jo Malone perfume we’ve mentioned earlier, is also the creator of this new perfume which launched in 2019: Un Jardine Sur La Lagune by Hermes.

Floral notes of magnolia and lily are vibrant while the sea breeze and woody hints caress your senses. Allow yourself to daydream of being on the water while surrounded by an english garden while wearing this fresh smelling perfume.

Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum Spray By Viktor & Rolf

Launched in 2005, Viktor & Rolf’s Flowerbomb perfume has quickly made it to a classic status. This floral embodiment of perfection might the best perfume you could choose right now. We all need a treat every now and then, maybe more so this year, so give Flowerbomb a try.

With notes of tea and bergamot, you can depict hints of several flowers, most noticeable being freesia, jasmine and orchid. A sophisticated oriental perfume will be a great option for any woman.

There’s lots of wonderful fragrances to choose from, hopefully this list eased your task a little and helped you find the best perfumes.