Marie Claire Marie Claire
  • Celebrity
  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Culture
  • Power
  • Nice Talk
  • Fashion Month
  • More
    • Politics
    • Career Money
    • Health Fitness
    • Power Play
    • Travel
    • Promo Codes
    • Food Cocktails
    • About Us
    • Subscribe
    • Sex Love
  • Newsletter SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
  • Marie Claire
    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!


    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

    You are now subscribed

    Your newsletter sign-up was successful


    Want to add more newsletters?

    Marie Claire Daily

    Delivered daily

    Marie Claire Daily

    Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.

    Marie Claire Self Checkout

    Sent weekly on Saturday

    Marie Claire Self Checkout

    Exclusive access to expert shopping and styling advice from Nikki Ogunnaike, Marie Claire's editor-in-chief.

    Maire Claire Face Forward

    Once a week

    Maire Claire Face Forward

    Insider tips and recommendations for skin, hair, makeup, nails and more from Hannah Baxter, Marie Claire's beauty director.

    Livingetc

    Once a week

    Livingetc

    Your shortcut to the now and the next in contemporary home decoration, from designing a fashion-forward kitchen to decoding color schemes, and the latest interiors trends.

    Homes amp; Gardens

    Delivered Daily

    Homes Gardens

    The ultimate interior design resource from the world's leading experts - discover inspiring decorating ideas, color scheming know-how, garden inspiration and shopping expertise.


    An account already exists for this email address, please log in.
    Trending
    • NYFW
    • Life In Plastic
    • Cari Champion
    • New Books
    • Postpartum Psychosis
    1. Beauty
    2. Fragrance

    The Best New Perfumes of 2025 Will Have Every Passing Stranger Thinking, "Oh Baby, You Smell So Good"

    The future of fragrance is all about fresh spins on florals and gourmands.

    Brooke Knappenberger#039;s avatar
    By Brooke Knappenberger Contributions by Ariel Wilson
    Last updated 24 October 2025 In Buying Guides

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    product collage of stylized imagery of cyklar sex musk perfume oil, the 7 virtues clementine dream perfume, phlur golden rule perfume, Parfums de Marly Valaya Exclusif Eau de Parfum, and Kayali Fleur Majesty Rose Royale
    (Image credit: Courtesy)
    Jump to category:
    • The Best 2025 Perfumes
    • 2025 Perfume Trends
    • How to Layer Perfumes
    • Facebook
    • X
    • Pinterest
    Share this article
    Join the conversation
    Follow us
    Add us as a preferred source on Google
    Subscribe to our newsletter

    Nothing in beauty is quite as personal as your favorite perfume. I, for one, believe in keeping a diverse scent wardrobe for my many moods, but my sister finishes each trendy fragrance to the last drop before moving on. Then, there's my best friend, who has mastered the art of perfume layering for a distinct, long-lasting fragrance. In any case, the best new perfumes of 2025 offer a little something for every type of perfume consumer.

    With fall right around the corner, there's been no shortage of swoon-worthy new fragrance launches to add to your collection. From Henry Rose's creamy vanilla perfume to Kilian's gourmand tall drink of cognac and The 7 Virtues citrus Dreamsicle scent, the wave of sweet scents isn't slowing down. However, floral fragrances will continue to dominate 2025 by the looks of it.

    While I've always associated rose scents and jasmine fragrances as powdery and a bit stale, new launches from Phlur, Kayali, D.S. Durga, and more are flipping the classic category on its head. Have you ever tried a white floral fragrance with a wine and leather base? How about a luxury fragrance specially made to imitate your cool, eccentric aunt?

    Here at MC, our editors are obsessed with sniffing the latest and greatest releases. So to help you cut through the noise, we tested every new fragrance launch to bring you our edit of the best perfumes of 2025. Keep scrolling to see what made our list of the best of the best, then read on to hear from experts on the future of fragrance.

    The Best 2025 Perfumes

    • Best New Rose Perfume of 2025: Kayali Fleur Majesty Rose Royale
    • Best New Vanilla Perfume of 2025: Henry Rose Dave Eau de Parfum
    • Best New Intense Perfume of 2025: Parfums de Marly Valaya Exclusif Eau de Parfum
    • Best New Fruity Floral Perfume of 2025: Phlur Golden Rule
    • Best New Boozy Perfume of 2025: Kilian Angels' Share Paradis Extrait de Parfum
    • Best New Perfume Oil of 2025: Cyklar Sex Musk Perfume Oil

    Kayali Fleur Majesty Rose Royale

    Best New Rose Perfume of 2025
    Kayali
    Kayali Fleur Majesty Rose Royale
    $138
    SHOP NOW

    Kayali may be known for its sugary-sweet confections (Yum Pistachio Gelato is an all-time favorite), but the brand's first official foray into warm florals is not to be missed. Fleur Majesty Rose Royale celebrates the "Queen of Flowers" with rose as the hero note. The result is a blend of feminine, fresh florals that's easy to reach for nearly every occasion.

    Notes: Mandarin; Juicy pear; Sweet Peach; Rose Centifolia; Violet Wood; White Peony; Vetiver; Vanilla; Musk

    Size: 1.7 oz.

    What I Love: A clean, fresh scent; Long-lasting; Ideal scent for layering; Great for any season or occasion

    What I Don't: May lean too feminine for some

    Review For MC: "I was lucky enough to get invited to a sneak peek of this fragrance launch and when I learned of the name, I won't lie, I was nervous. Rose perfumes come across grandmotherly to my nose, and I told Mona Kattan, Kayali's founder and CEO, as much when I sat down with her. However, I was delightfully surprised. Juicy peach and pear blend beautifully with rose for a scent that's incredibly fresh and long-lasting—I sprayed this perfume on before bed and could still smell it when I woke up. With its bright, airy feel, I could easily see this as my new favorite spring fragrance." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

    Kayali Fleur Majesty Rose Royale perfume bottle laying on grey blanket

    Brooke Knappenberger tests and names Kayali Fleur Majesty Rose Royale as the best new rose perfume of 2025.

    (Image credit: Brooke Knappenberger)

    Henry Rose Dave Eau De Parfum

    Best New Vanilla Perfume of 2025
    Henry Rose
    Henry Rose Dave Eau de Parfum
    $120
    SHOP NOW

    Michelle Pfeiffer, founder of Henry Rose, created a fragrance inspired by her husband, and the result is Dave, a warm, comforting vanilla perfume with a twist. This fragrance goes beyond your average vanilla with added depth from cocoa shell and tonka bean, with a slight touch of tangerine. It's light and sweet without being cloying, and has an intimate feel—just like what you would want in a relationship.

    Notes: Tangerine heart; Neroli; Orange Flower; Almond Blossom; Vanilla Bean Chantilly; Cocoa shell; Tonka bean

    Size: 1.7 oz.

    What I Love: A unique take on vanilla; Clean formula; Great for any season or occasion; Long-lasting

    What I Don't: Citrus note may be too strong for some

    Review For MC: "Vanilla perfumes were my first love when I started my fragrance journey so you can imagine I have a lot in my collection. None, however, are as soft and dreamy as Dave. Any time I wear this fragrance, I feel like I'm floating on a light and airy cloud of vanilla chantilly cream. Tangerine is an unexpected yet welcome addition as it adds to the overall fluffiness of this scent. I may not get much spice, and it is on the sweeter side, however I still find Dave to be a mature take on vanilla." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

    hand holding Henry Rose Dave perfume against grey wall

    Brooke Knappenberger tests and names Henry Rose Dave as the best new vanilla perfume of 2025.

    (Image credit: Brooke Knappenberger)

    Parfums de Marly Valaya Exclusif Eau de Parfum

    Best New Intense Perfume of 2025
    Parfums de Marly
    Parfums de Marly Valaya Exclusif Eau de Parfum
    $250
    SHOP NOW

    When this was released, it became a TikTok-viral fragrance nearly overnight, and the hype was well deserved. The Exclusif version elevates the fresh, sensual notes of Valaya even further with added richness from vanilla, velvety almond, and floral musks. It also gets a creamy warmth from the almond that's so enticing, others are sure to notice the moment you walk into a room.

    Notes: Velvety almond; Mandarin; Bergamot; Orange blossom; White flowers; Sandalwood; Vanilla; Ambroxan

    Size: 1 oz.

    What I Love: Long-lasting; Strong projection; Rich-smelling; Beautiful packaging

    What I Don't: May be too powdery for some

    Review For MC: "Parfums de Marly's Valaya has reached icon status, so I didn't think there was much room for improvement. However, I was wrong. Where the original is clean and comforting, this version is more velvety, warm, and sensual, thanks to almonds and vanilla. The akigalawood and sandalwood base give this scent a woodiness that screams 'sophistication.' It's one of—if not the—most luxurious fragrances in my collection, and I can't help but feel like a million bucks every time I wear it." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

    Parfums de Marly Valaya Exclusif Eau de Parfum laying on grey blanket

    Brooke Knappenberger tests and names Parfums de Marly Valaya Exclusif Eau de Parfum as the best new intense perfume of 2025.

    (Image credit: Brooke Knappenberger)

    Phlur golden rule perfume in metallic gold bottle with large white cap on white background

    Best New Fruity Floral Perfume of 2025
    Phlur
    Phlur Golden Rule
    $99
    SHOP NOW

    As one of the first perfume releases of the year, Phlur's Golden Rule set the bar high for future launches. Meant to conjure your most confident self, this fragrance uses a blend of unexpected fruity and floral notes, resulting in a bold yet playful scent. It's nowhere near the traditionally mature scents you probably associate with florals—instead, it's more radiant, bright, and sweet with a creamy base and juicy opening.

    Notes: Mandarin splash; Pink Pepper; Golden Pear; Orange Flower Water, Jasmine Blossom, Coconut Milk; Benzoin; Sandalwood; Vanilla Cream

    Size: 1.7 oz.

    What I Love: A bold, youthful interpretation of florals; A versatile scent that's great for any season or occasion

    What I Don't: May be too fruity for traditional floral lovers

    Review For MC: "I always get excited when a new Phlur perfume drops—it never fails to be something interesting, and Golden Rule is no different. I'd always been a floral hater, but this one convinced me that florals can be fun and youthful. Its fruity touches of mandarin and pear give it a playfulness that lasts all day long, while vanilla cream and coconut milk add a lovely creaminess. I've been reaching for this scent for every occasion under the sun, so there's no doubt my bottle already has an impressive dent." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

    Brooke knappenberger marie claire associate commerce editor holding up bottle up phlur golden rule perfume against grey wall

    Brooke Knappenberger tests and names Phlur Golden Rule as the best new fruity floral perfume of 2025.

    (Image credit: Brooke Knappenberger)

    Kilian Angels#039; Share Paradis Extrait de Parfum

    Best New Boozy Perfume of 2025
    Kilian
    Kilian Angels' Share Paradis Extrait de Parfum
    $385
    SHOP NOW

    Kilian is known for its realistic, sexy odes to fine spirits, and Angels Share is undoubtedly one of the brand's most popular scents. The new, more intense version gets a fruity twist with the addition of raspberry liqueur, making this scent even more of a delicious olfactory experience. This flanker is sweeter, warmer, somehow more sensual, and a beast mode of a fragrance—one or two sprays are all you need for all-day and all-night wear.

    Notes: Raspberry liquor; Cognac; Oakmoss absolut; Sandalwood; Tonka bean

    Size: 1.7 oz.

    What I Love: Long-lasting; Strong-projection; Great for date night or special occasions; Unisex; Rich-smelling

    What I Don't: Not a safe blind buy

    Review For MC: "I knew the original Kilian Angel Share was a sexy fragrance through and through, but this flanker blows it out of the water in terms of sex appeal. This scent is the Mob Wife aesthetic bottled up—think of a lavishly clad woman in a rich fur coat sipping on cognac in a jazz club. I find the slightly sweet boozy scent mouth-watering, seductive, and rich. This will be my go-to date night perfume for the rest of the year, guaranteed." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

    hand holding up kilian angel share paradis perfume bottle against marble wall

    Brooke Knappenberger tests and names Kilian Angels' Share Paradis Extrait de Parfum as the best new boozy perfume of 2025.

    (Image credit: Brooke Knappenberger)

    Cyklar Sex Musk Perfume Oil

    Best New Perfume Oil of 2025
    Cyklar
    Cyklar Sex Musk Perfume Oil
    $24
    SHOP NOW

    From Cyklar's luxurious body lotions to its multi-sensory shower gels, team MC is a little more than obsessed with the body care brand. When Cyklar launched perfume oils, we all jumped at the chance to test them out and find our new signature scents. Each of the eight oils is complex and layered—something you don't find too often in a $24 formula. Sex Musk stands out for its warm embrace of a feel and easy-to-layer notes.

    Notes: Timur Nepal; Rose; Jasmine; Orris; Tonka Bean; Vanilla Infusion; Patchouli; Musk; Amber

    Size: 0.5 oz.

    What I Love: A fresh, clean scent; Great for layering; Provides a warm, comforting effect; Ideal scent for layering; Great for any season or occasion; Travel-friendly

    What I Don't: Longevity could be better

    Review For MC: "I was a little apprehensive of trying Sex Musk at first purely because of the name, but I'm so glad I did. This is one of those 'your skin but better' scents that smells like you just got out of the shower. It's warm, intimate, and familiar—like a hug from a loved one or being wrapped in a blanket. I love keeping it in my purse for when I need a fragrance boost throughout the day because it plays so well with most other perfumes in my collection." — Brooke Knappenberer, Associate Commerce Editor

    The 7 Virtues Clementine Dream

    Best New Citrus Perfume of 2025
    The 7 Virtues
    The 7 Virtues Clementine Dream Eau de Parfum
    $94
    SHOP NOW

    For those who love sweet scents, Clementine Dream is a refreshing summer perfume. It opens to the juiciest burst of clementine before settling into a warm, sweet vanilla base. Throughout the day, you'll still get whiffs of bright citrus and magnolia, so it's nearly impossible to feel down while wearing this sunny scent.

    Notes: Fruity cassis; Magnolia; Clementine; Vanilla; Black amber

    Size: 1.7 oz.

    What I Love: A sweet take on citrus; Clean formula; Ideal scent for layering

    What I Don't: May be too warm for traditional citrus lovers fans

    Review For MC: "With its sweet, easy-to-layer scents, The 7 Virtues is one of my favorite perfume brands on the market. When I heard they were releasing a citrus scent, I knew I had to get my hands on it. The brand's signature vanilla base combines deliciously with clementine to create a scent that reminds me of one of my favorite childhood desserts: Dreamsicle popsicles. It's equally fresh and creamy, so as a lover of sweet scents, it's the perfect choice for those warmer months when I don't want anything too heavy." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

    Prada Infusion de Rhubarbe Eau de Parfum

    Best New Vegetal Perfume of 2025
    Prada
    Prada Infusion de Rhubarbe Eau de Parfum
    $190
    SHOP NOW

    If you've been drowning in heavy gourmand perfumes, Prada's Infusion de Rhubarbe will feel like a breath of fresh air or, rather, a walk through a garden. It's as fresh as can be, with an interestingly tangy rhubarb note as the star of the show. Rose and green mandarin add more floral freshness to this airy scent. This is the perfect perfume to reach for on extra hot days or times when you need an invigorating mood-lifter.

    Notes: Rhubarb accord; Rose; Green Mandarine; White Musks accord

    Size: 3.4 oz.

    What I Love: A fresh, clean scent; Great for any season or occasion; Not overpowering or offensive

    What I Don't: May be better suited in the spring and summer

    Review For MC: "Never did I think I would look forward to reaching for a rhubarb perfume—I may have only ever tasted the vegetable once or twice, so I had no idea it could smell this good. Infusion de Rhubarbe is a green, vegetal scent that I find refreshing, but rose balances everything out. Because it's such an invigorating, fresh scent that isn't too strong, it's been my go-to gym scent. I even got asked what I was wearing by a fellow gym-goer, which is the ultimate compliment." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

    Maison Francis Kurkdjian Kurky Eau de Parfum

    Best New Nostalgic Perfume of 2025
    Maison Francis Kurkdjian
    Maison Francis Kurkdjian Kurky Eau de Parfum
    $265
    SHOP NOW

    A lot of gourmands can feel heavy and warm, but Kurky is the complete opposite. Legendary perfumer Francis Kurkdjian was inspired to create a fragrance in memory of the sweet treat given to him for his baptism. Enter: Kurky, which was Kurkdjian's childhood nickname, a light perfume that takes after a bag of fruity candies. The fruitiness sits on a not-too-sweet base of white musk and vanilla, making for a deliciously playful, yet clean scent.

    Notes: Tutti-frutti accord (peach and raspberry); White musks

    Size: 2.4 oz.

    What I Love: A playful gourmand for grown-ups; Soft enough for sensitive noses; Not overpowering or offensive

    What I Don't: Doesn't have a strong projection

    Review For MC: "I'm a big fan of fruity perfumes for the spring and summer, and after one spritz of this fragrance, I immediately knew it would be my scent of the upcoming season. It smells good enough to eat—like my favorite gummy candy—but it's not as sugary as most candy-like scents. Rather, this fragrance has a lightness that would work so well in the hot weather. My only gripe is that it doesn't have much projection, but that has its benefits too, like when I fly or go to the gym." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

    D.S. amp;amp; Durga Brown Flowers

    Best New Unique Floral Perfume of 2025
    D.S. Durga
    D.S. Durga Brown Flowers
    $210
    SHOP NOW

    Floral fragrances feel like a dime a dozen at this point, so a scent has to be unique to really pique my interest. Brown Flowers did just that. With its blend of vintage florals and earthy notes, this feels like a vintage perfume pulled from the '70s, and I mean that in the best way possible. It also caught the attention of MC's Beauty Director, Hannah Baxter, who says, "I always like my fragrance to feel a little off-kilter, a little funky, a lot intriguing, so when my go-to fragrance brand debuted this scent—with a cool bohemian aunt inspiration—I knew I had found my new must-have perfume for spring."

    Notes: Acabia; Dried cedrat; Queen anne’s lace; Brown orchid; Coffee flower; Sambac jasmine; Aged musk; Roots; Coffee

    Size: 1.7 oz.

    What I Love: A unique interpretation of florals; Great for any season or occasion; Strong projection

    What I Don't: May lean too feminine for some

    Customer Review: "I’m genuinely captivated by D.S. Durga Brown Flowers. Its unexpected blend of delicate florals with a subtle hint of coffee and aged musk creates a uniquely alluring scent that always attracts compliments. I feel both sophisticated and daring whenever I wear it, making it a true standout in my collection." — Nordstrom

    House of Bamp;#333; Ave Maramp;iacute;a

    Best New White Floral Perfume of 2025
    House of Bō
    House of Bō Ave María
    $365
    SHOP NOW

    When one of my favorite perfume TikTokers, Kathleenlights, made multiple mentions of this fragrance, I knew it was a good one. It's a white floral scent through and through with gardenia as the hero note, but merlot and leather on the dry down keep it interesting. I've seen its fresh blend described as "heavenly" across the internet on many occasions. In fact, MC's Beauty Writer, Ariel Baker, says, "Gardenia, neroli, and wine combine to make one of the most ethereal perfumes I've ever smelled."

    Notes: Dewy gardenia; Rain Drops; Oakwood; Cashmere; African neroli; Merlot wine; Indonesian jasmine; Sweet pear; Napa leather

    Size: 1.35 oz.

    What I Love: Great for any season or occasion; A light, refreshing scent; Beautiful packaging

    What I Don't: May be better suited in the spring and summer

    Customer Review: "I’m not typically a floral fan but this was the perfect opening note that leads you to the next. The rain and pear notes are subtle like a feathery kiss along the neckline. The leather and oak moss paired with the Merlot is Chef’s Kiss. As the perfume continues to dry down you get the flirting bubble of powder. Love it! 10/10" — House of Bō

    L#039;art amp;amp; La Matiamp;egrave;re Vanille Planifolia Extrait 21 amp;ndash; Extract 50 Ml / 1.69 Oz

    Best New Beast Mode Perfume of 2025
    Guerlain
    L'art La Matière Vanille Planifolia Extrait 21
    $645
    SHOP NOW

    There are perfumes and there are beast-mode fragrances that stop people in their tracks. Guerlain's Vanille Planifolia Extrait 21 falls in the latter camp, and as a gourmand lover, I can unequivocally state that this is one of the best gourmand perfumes that have launched in 2025. Vanilla, opopanine, and musk are a few of the notes that make up this mouthwatering perfume. The resulting juice is housed in one of the most stunning bottles I have ever seen. This is luxury perfumery at its best.

    Notes: Vanilla; Musk; Opopanine

    Size: 1.7 oz

    What I Love: Extra-strong sillage; Stunning packaging; Exceptional ingredient quality

    What I Don't: Most expensive option on this list

    Customer Review: "Everything they say about this vanilla is true. It is truly the final boss of vanillas. It’s comforting, familiar, and so beautiful. You can smell the quality of the ingredients. It has wonderful performance and lingers on your clothes throughout the day. This perfume will be in my top five for life. And the customization of the bottle was beautiful." — Guerlain

    Aka Eau De Parfum - the Fragrance of New Energy

    Best New Fresh Perfume of 2025
    WA:IT
    Aka Eau De Parfum
    $175
    $175 AT WA:IT

    What do you get when you combine that fresh out of the shower scent with a hint of notes like saffron and musk? Wa:it's Aka eau de parfum. On first sniff, grapefruit is the note that stands out from this concoction the most. Still, give it a few minutes, and the complexity of the perfume will truly shine, thanks to additional notes like pink pepper, amber, lavender, and even cinnamon. The combination adds a sweet, airy element to a fresh citrusy perfume that I've often found others in the category lacking.

    Notes: Grapefruit; Saffron; Cinnamon; Cypress; Frankincense; Patchouli

    Size: 3.4 oz

    What I Love: An unusual take on a citrus perfume; Light enough for year-round wear; Clean fragrance brand

    What I Don't: Only available online, so most people will have to blind buy

    Customer Review: "This is one of the most beautiful, fresh perfumes I've ever smelled. I typically shy away from perfumes that have heavy citrus notes, but this one is balanced so beautifully with others like saffron, musk, and pink pepper that most times, I don't even notice the more zesty note. If I were to label one perfume from this list as 'likely to be the most crowd-pleasing,' it'd be this one." — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer

    The Alchemist#039;s Garden Muschio Mineralis Eau De Parfum

    Best New Woody Perfume of 2025
    Gucci
    The Alchemist's Garden Muschio Mineralis Eau De Parfum
    $280
    SHOP NOW

    I will keep shouting it from the rooftops if I have to—Gucci’s Alchemist's Garden line is the most underrated collection from this brand. I’m doing my part to change that by recommending yet another gem from the line. This time, it’s Muschio Mineralis. This perfume skillfully blends notes of musk, vanilla, and woods to create a scent that is as cozy as it is sexy, making it the perfect choice for a sexy night out (or in), as well as a great everyday signature perfume, especially during fall and winter.

    Key Notes: Pink pepper; Musk; Gayo Patchouli Essential Oil

    Size: 3.4 fl oz

    What I Love: Whimsical bottle; Musk-forward woody perfume, which makes it much more wearable for the everyday person

    What I Don’t: Appears to only be available at select retailers, which can make it hard to smell before buying

    Review for MC: “If a perfume has musk in it, my interest is 50 percent piqued. If it also has woody notes and vanilla? Sign me up immediately. This fragrance from Gucci embodies all of these characteristics, and it comes in a bottle that is as dark and academia-coded as they come. Because of the musk-forward formula, it starts off a little muted, like a skin scent, but as it wears on the skin, it blooms—I'm able to pick up a hint of spice, the creamy warmth of vanilla, and a touch of pepper. The notes aren’t necessarily complex, but they are executed so well that I dare say this might be the closest I’ll get to a universally pleasing option on this list.” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer

    Atelier Des Fleurs Cedrus Intense Eau De Parfum for Women

    Best New Green-Smelling Perfume of 2025
    Chloé
    Atelier Des Fleurs Cedrus Intense Eau De Parfum
    $190
    SHOP NOW

    Chloé Cedrus Intense is for the tree lovers. If you're drawn to perfumes that are figgy, woody, and smell like the stems of your favorite plants, I can almost guarantee that this would be your vibe. In fact, MC's Beauty Director, Hannah Baxter, says this formula is one of her favorites to smell like a "sexy witch." "This perfume offers up a feminine take on a quintessentially woody aroma, with plenty of grounding florals and musks to soften the base," she says.

    Key Notes: Crushed leaves; Lemon; Cypriol; Ambrofix; Akigalawood

    Size: 1.6 oz

    What I Love: Green, stemmy scent; Unisex

    What I Don’t: Not blind-buy safe

    Review for MC: "Lemon isn’t a note I thought I’d find in a woody perfume, but Chloe’s Cedrus Intense starts with a healthy dose of the fruity profile, before settling down and revealing the rose, cedarwood, akigalawood, and more in the formula. The result is a scent that is deep and so so sexy, perfect for snuggly date nights in." — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer

    Alto Astral Eau De Parfum

    Best Coconut Perfume of 2025
    Byredo
    Alto Astral Eau De Parfum
    $235
    SHOP NOW

    Alto Astral is a gourmand scent that features notes of coconut water, aldehydes, jasmine, sandalwood, cashmere, and salted amber. The fragrance is meant to capture the energy of Brazilian culture, and perfumer Jérôme Epinette was inspired to create it after spending time in the country. "Having traveled there and spent time immersed in its vibrant culture, I was truly inspired by the optimism and energy that pulse through everyday life," he previously told MC. "I wanted the scent to capture that unique blend of warmth and vitality that’s so deeply rooted in Brazilian culture."

    Key Notes: Aldehydes; Coconut water; Musks; Incense; Sandalwood

    Size: 1.6 oz

    What I Love: Sleek, minimal packaging; Simultaneously fresh, fruity, and a little woody

    What I Don’t: Not as long-lasting as I wished for it to be

    Review for MC: "Byredo cracked the code on how to transition your favorite coconut perfumes for fall. While this opens with a fresh, almost sparkling burst of coconut water, it transitions into a warmer, muskier scent that's perfect for cooler weather. PerfumeTok likes to throw out the term 'compliment-magnet' a lot, but I'm not kidding when I say I've been asked about this perfume twice while wearing it." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

    Power Self Extrait De Parfum, 3 Oz.

    Best White Floral Perfume of 2025
    Initio Parfums Prives
    Power Self Extrait De Parfum
    $430
    SHOP NOW

    The ability for a musk note to somehow smell clean yet well-worn needs to be studied. Until then, experience the magic of juxtaposition with Initio’s Power Self. White flowers, pink pepper, cedarwood, and more elevate this fragrance from just another run-of-the-mill skin scent to a unisex masterpiece that seriously smells good on everyone.

    Fragrance Family: Floral Woody Musk

    Key Notes: White Flowers; Osmanthus; Pink Pepper; Ambrox

    Size: 3 fl oz

    What I Love: Stunning presentation; Soft notes but not a skin scent; Great longevity

    What I Don’t: Heavy jar that is not great for travel

    Customer Review: “This perfume is creamy, slightly peppery, and has great sillage. It’s like a combination of my two favorite perfumes from the brand: Musk Therapy and Atomic Rose. A recent release, this has already made it into my everyday perfume cabinet, which says a lot about how much I enjoy it.” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer

    2025 Perfume Trends

    • "Mood-scaping"

    Gone are the days of sticking to a signature scent day in and day out. While the average wearer still wants to express their individuality, how a fragrance makes them feel, or an olfactive personality, will come into play in 2025, too. "We’ll see a rise in 'mood-scaping,' the idea of choosing fragrances based on how one feels or wants to feel," says Gil Clavien, Principal Perfumer at DSM-Firmenich and the nose behind Sweet Tooth, Fragrance by Sabrina. This could look like layering different scents to create a unique blend for your tastes or switching your scents throughout the day to match your mood. For example, you may choose to wear a light fragrance to relax at home and then spray a bolder, floral scent for a night out—the choice is yours.

    • Clean-Girl Scents

    Any avid scroller of TikTok has likely come across the term "clean-girl scent" more than once. It's also reached the ears of Kattan. "We've seen a lot of talk around the clean scent coming back in. It's very chic, very trendy," she says. So, what exactly are "clean" scents? Think of that fresh-out-of-the-shower feeling—Kattan specifically hints at musk fragrances as the clean-girl scents, but anything with sheer florals, citrus, laundry-like scents, or powdery notes can be interpreted as clean, too.

    • Comforting Gourmands

    Gourmands have been in the beauty zeitgeist for years now, and despite what some may say is a saturated market, the popular fragrance family isn't going anywhere in 2025. Instead, Clavien says the olfactory treats will include new, yet recognizable combinations with evolving notes like trendy marshmallow, indulgent coffee, and soft suede, which will add layers of warmth and sophistication.

    • Perfume Oils

    Regarding innovations, Kattan predicts oil-based perfumes will start to catch on in the wider market during 2025. "It's becoming very trendy online in our community. It's more popular with the indie brands, almost like the brands that are very hard to get," she says. Perfume oils have a high concentration of fragrance, so they tend to last longer. They also don't contain any alcohol, so they're a great option for those with sensitive noses and skin.

    • Perfume Collections

    Another innovation Kattan sees for 2025 is the release of entire perfume collections all at once. A range of fragrances goes hand-in-hand with the trending idea of scent wardrobes, but collections go a step further in that they offer consumers a more comprehensive view of a brand rather than individual launches.

    How to Layer Perfumes

    Layering two (or three) perfumes could be the key to unlocking your new signature scent, but figuring out which ones is easier said than done. Below are some expert tips to get you started on your scent discovery journey:

    • Start with a musk fragrance

    Just like you would with your makeup, you can use a "primer," if you will, to extend the longevity of your fragrance. What makes the best first layer? "Musk is the best base for your fragrance foundation, it's got a great structure," Kattan says. The fragrance family is made up of skin-like scents that typically have a lighter, cleaner feel, which means that they play well with others.

    • Always use your own body chemistry

    Both Kattan and Clavien agree that when testing a fragrance, it's always best to spray it on your skin over blotters (aka mouillettes if you want to get technical). "The most important thing is to wear the fragrance—spray it on your skin and give it time, at least 15 minutes, to settle," advises Clavien. "This lets the top notes soften and reveals the true heart of the perfume, allowing you to experience how it unfolds throughout the day and how it blends with your skin."

    Another genius tip? If you run out of clean skin like on your wrists or elbows while testing fragrances, Kattan says you can use your fingers as blotters when in a pinch.

    Why Trust Marie Claire

    For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

    How We Tested

    To compile this list of the best 2025 perfumes, Marie Claire Associate Commerce Editor Brooke Knappenberger tested and reviewed dozens of 2025 perfumes and combed through countless customer reviews to find the top-rated options on the market.

    Each 2025 perfume was evaluated on notes, staying power, and its overall scent as the day went on.

    Meet the Experts

    Mona Kattan founder and CEO of Kayali headshot wearing a purple suit
    Mona Kattan
    Social Links Navigation
    Founder and CEO of Kayali

    Mona is the founder and CEO of Kayali, as well as the co-founder of Huda Beauty alongside her sister Huda Kattan.

    Gil Clavien headshot principal perfumer at dsm-Firmenich
    Gil Clavien
    Social Links Navigation
    Principal Perfumer at DSM-Firmenich

    Gil is a principal perfumer at DSM-Firmenich and the nose behind Sweet Tooth, Fragrance by Sabrina. She created each of the four scents in Sabrina Carpenter’s fragrance collection, drawing inspiration from Parisian patisseries, world-class chocolatiers, Sabrina’s New Year’s Eve performance in Times Square, and, of course, her hit song Espresso.

    Explore More
    fragrance
    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
    Brooke Knappenberger
    Brooke Knappenberger
    Social Links Navigation
    Former Associate Commerce Editor

    Brooke Knappenberger is the former Associate Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she specialized in crafting shopping stories—from sales content to buying guides that span every vertical on the site. She also oversaw holiday coverage with an emphasis on gifting guides as well as Power Pick, our monthly column on the items that power the lives of MC’s editors. She also tackled shopping content as Marie Claire's Editorial Fellow prior to her role as Associate Commerce Editor.

    With contributions from
    • Ariel Wilson Beauty Writer
    Read more
    white background with the guerlain new l#039;heule bleue parfum and lipstick
    Fragrance All the French Girls Are Wearing This Fresh, Powdery Fragrance for Fall It’s the scent of the season.
    By Samantha Holender
    florence pugh next to max mara fragrance
    Fragrance A Woman Chased Me Down the Street In the Hamptons to Ask What Perfume I Was Wearing Lucky for her (and you), it was released today.
    By Samantha Holender
     
     
    a background with fig fruits and three glass bottles of fragrance with black labels
    Fragrance This Sexy and Deeply Underrated Perfume Will Change Your Mind About Fruity Scents Multifaceted, evocative, and guaranteed to please.
    By Sophia Vilensky
    a close up of a hand holding a glass bottle of perfume
    Fragrance What Happens When You Give Top Perfumers an Unlimited Budget and a Taste for Luxury? Meet Contrapposto.
    By Hannah Baxter
     
     
    Latest in Fragrance
    victoria beckham next to her new hotel portofino extrait on a brown marble background
    Fragrance I Took Victoria Beckham’s Advice and Swapped My Floral Fragrance for This “Sensual” Fall Scent
    a close up of a hand holding a glass bottle of perfume
    Fragrance What Happens When You Give Top Perfumers an Unlimited Budget and a Taste for Luxury?
     
     
    A hand holding a yellow and pink tube of lotion on a green background.
    Fragrance Old Navy Is Getting Into Beauty—With the Help of a Master Perfumer
    a three image collage of a woman posing in a mirror, a Diptyque candle and a heretic fall candle
    Fragrance I’m a Total Snob About Candles—I Always Burn These 10 Cozy Scents in the Fall
     
     
    Latest in Buying guide
    Cos, Reformation, and Zara
    Fall fashion I Edited Down Fall's Best Fashion—Under $350
    three zara models with plaid tweed and a trench coat
    Fall fashion I Edit Fashion for a Living—Here's What I'd Buy From Zara Right Now
     
     
    model wearing white tank top
    Fall fashion A Minimalist's Guide to the Only Wardrobe Basics You Really Need
    collage of fall 2026 boot trends
    Fashion The 5 Runway-Approved Boot Trends to Know
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
    Marie Claire
    RSS
    • About us
    • Contact Future's experts
    • Contact us
    • Advertise Online
    • Newsletter
    • Terms and conditions
    • Privacy policy
    • Cookies policy
    • Careers
    Add as a preferred source on Google Add as a preferred source on Google

    Marie Claire is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site.

    © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.