Modern perfume, by its very nature, is a luxury. We're well past the era of corseted ladies dabbing on rosewater to mask a lack of basic hygiene (although the Lynx-doused lads at my high school may have been working on a similar principle)

Nowadays, the best perfume for women is not a necessity, but a daily treat, a classy gift, and a bit of designer decadence on the dressing table. And, boy, does its cost reflect that. Have you noticed the £100+ price-creep on your average long-lasting perfume?

There are justifications for this: finite materials, hard-to-produce packaging, employment of niche creators, marketing and all that jazz. But surely someone can crack making a genuinely nice scent that's also genuinely affordable and not (sigh) a 'dupe', which - trust me - never smell like the perfumes they shamelessly ape. As it turns out, they can, and I've been wearing it every day this week.

Why this budget-friendly perfume is our beauty editor's buy of the week

While the liberally-aerosolled lads in my physics class risked going up in bunsen burner flames for the love of Lynx, I was in a fug of my own teenage dream - the '90s icon that is The Body Shop White Musk.

Times moved on, and so did my fragrance tastes via Tommy Girl, CK Be, and eau de Issey Miyake to my current, annoyingly expensive, rose perfume of choice Frederic Malle Portrait of a Lady.

But a heady mix of nostalgia and innate fondness for The Body Shop, plus surprisingly sophisticated packaging, drew me to the brand's Full Flowers fragrance collection, specifically Full Orange Blossom. And let me tell you, she is a sultry, sunshiney cracker.

Being a fresh perfume, this is more of a daytime thing for me - I'm back on my silly-money Frederic Malle at night. But I have been wearing this every afternoon the sun's been out, which, happily, has been most of them recently.

And in case you're expecting that old chestnut, nobody has stopped me on the street to ask what it is (does that happen? Not to me anyway, and if it did, I'd consider wearing less perfume.) But this is strikingly beautiful, with vegan, primarily natural ingredients, if that's your bag, at a democratic price.

If citrus isn't for you, I can also recommend the 'English cottage garden of my dreams' Full Rose eau de parfum, and I'd bet there's plenty more in the range worth a sniff, too. Sound good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday.

While perfume is subjective, some notes and concepts appeal to the masses more than others. Much like with fashion trends, a fragrance's popularity can ebb and flow - and according to industry pros, 2026 might not be the year for these particular blends...

If you're keen to invest in a new, long-lasting perfume but want to ensure you're selecting something modern and fresh, the 2026 fragrance trends are an invaluable source of intel. So far, they predict the rise in whisper-soft skin scents, mature gourmands, and textural blends - like cashmere perfumes, for instance. Inevitably, though, as some genres rise in popularity, others must dwindle. And while your scent is very much a personal thing, our tastes do change and so does demand, especially when a new year brings with it so many new launches and style shifts. So, if you're someone who likes to update their signature scent often, you may also want to be aware of the blends that are beginning to feel a tad 'outdated.'

Thus, we've asked the experts for their thoughts on which notes and fragrance styles might be phased out this year - and what to consider investing in instead.

6 'outdated' perfume trends we'll be avoiding in 2026

Now, this isn't to say that you must retire any of your favourite floral fragrances or fruity perfumes if they happen to be cited. Instead, these insights into what is reportedly in and subsequently, what is out can simply help to guide your next scent investment. This is especially true if you're feeling uninspired by your current faithfuls or need direction in what olfactory family to sample next.

At the end of the day, if you love a perfume or a specific genre of scent, then that's all that matters. But if you're looking for some guidance on finding a modern and crowd-pleasing blend, we've enlisted the expertise of three experts and fragrance brand founders.

1. Overly sweet gourmands

While creamy and indulgent, mature gourmands are definitely in for 2026, their sickly sweet and 'toothache'-y counterparts are very much not.

"Looking ahead to 2026, a lot of fragrance feels like it’s hitting saturation rather than pushing forward," says Richard Saint-Ford, Founder of Iggywoo, citing that very obvious sweetness, like frosting and brown sugar notes, are starting to feel very overdone. "Gourmands aren’t disappearing, but the sugar-heavy versions are losing relevance; sweetness now needs contrast, woods or bitterness to feel modern."

Almira Armstrong, Founder of Lumira, agrees, adding that, "Ultra-sugary, 'toothache' gourmands (very syrupy vanilla/caramel/candy) are starting to feel a little over-saturated. Consumers still love comfort, but they’re increasingly looking for sweetness with more texture, contrast, and nuance - less 'dessert,' more 'ingredient-led.'"

INSTEAD TRY: quieter, woody-musk compositions, gourmand notes with depth, like pistachio, rice and lactonic accords and warm, comforting solar scents.

2. Novelty dessert-inspired scents

Following a similar thread to sickly-sweet gourmands, dessert-inspired fragrances are also on the way out.

"The appetite is shifting toward grown-up indulgence (more texture, restraint and realism) with toasted, lactonic, woody or boozy notes replacing anything too literal," says Saint-Ford.

As Armstrong previously quipped, 2026's trendy gourmands are "less 'dessert,' more ingredient-led."

3. Niche for niche's sake

Niche perfumes were a hot topic last year, but this year, we'll be steering clear of those that feel like they're just obscure and unique for the sake of it.

Cherry Cheng, Founder of Jouissance, cites that "Overly expressive, unbalanced niche fragrances (niche for niche’s sake)" are on the way out. "Fragrances that prioritise shock over harmony risk feeling faddy. Today’s audience values a niche that balances risk with beauty: daring concepts should remain elegant, coherent, and emotionally engaging."

INSTEAD TRY: "savoury gourmands, where sweetness is tempered with earthy, spicy, or smoky accents, creating depth, sophistication, and emotional resonance," as well as interesting but familiar green notes, like fig and moss.

4. One-dimensional 'power' perfumes

According to Armstrong, "Overly loud, linear 'power perfumes' (one-note intensity without shape or story) can feel dated as customers lean toward wearable, intimate signatures that still feel distinctive."

INSTEAD TRY: trendy soft and powdery skin scents or multifaceted, long-lasting perfumes that boast timeless notes like Chanel No.5.

5. Cheap dupes

Now, don't get us wrong, nothing beats finding one of the best cheap perfumes that ticks all the right notes with you, but when it comes to dupes of very iconic scents, Cheng predicts that these imitations will become less popular. Instead, investing in high-quality ingredients and more conscious brands that offer something contemporary, elevated or timeless will become the focus.

Speaking on cheaper dupes of iconic fragrances, Cheng says, "While accessible, these can dilute originality and make signature scents feel less aspirational. Consumers are increasingly seeking unique, identity and narrative-driven fragrances that offer a sense of individuality rather than a mass-market imitation."

INSTEAD TRY: investing in brands that use concentrated and more premium ingredients, and those that prioritise brand identity, storytelling and luxury - like the best Diptyque perfumes, for instance, or Penhaligon's perfumes and niche blends from Jouissance.

6. Berry perfumes

As someone who has been monitoring and reporting on fragrances for some time now, I also have a few predictions for the year ahead, one of which being that berry perfumes will dwindle in popularity. Last year brought a burst in demand for cherry perfumes and raspberry fragrances, but I think softer, more unusual fruits like apricot, fig, passionfruit, melon and lychee will begin to take their place. Peach perfumes are also proving popular, thanks to their juicy opening but soft, almost fluffy dry down. To me, they feel more nuanced and interesting, compared to more sugary and sharp berry scents.

Indeed, more jammy sorts of fragrances are tipped amongst the trends this year, but they're softer and balanced with uplifting florals and other bright, juicy fruits, not just sickly-sweet berry hints.

Saint-Ford actually shares my sentiments, "Fruit remains big, but cherry as the default 'cool' note is not forward thinking if it's just standard cherry. What feels fresher are more life-like fruits like lychee, mango or wild strawberry, where you smell the skin and flesh of the fruit rather than syrup."

INSTEAD TRY: scents with a medley of fruit notes - fresher or tropical takes, like mango, peach and wild strawberry.

Boasting a versatile, harmonious blend of citrus and spicy notes, Trinny's expected fragrance of choice is a best-seller of Penhaligon's - so much so, that it is almost always sold out. But, we've searched the depths of the web to scout out remaining stock, plus some standout similar scents...

There's no denying that the woman&home beauty team love a celebrity-approved beauty product, from red carpet makeup to the best long-lasting perfumes, it's quite literally part of our job to seek out A-list-approved buys. Thankfully, Trinny Woodall is never short of product recommendations and beauty top tips, whether that's her go-to curly hair serum or a helpful magnifying mirror - which you can snap up on Amazon for £19.

So, when we discovered her somewhat surprising fresh perfume of choice, we just knew we had to share the word. While the uniqueness of scent makes it a wearable option for many, it can often result in the fragrance sporting an 'out of stock' label, but we've found some quality alternatives that will make equally as nice of an investment to your perfume arsenal.

The surprising scent Trinny relies on for a fresh start to her day

While we'll happily listen to Trinny unveil the beauty buys that make up her morning routine, we must admit, we were a tad surprised when she revealed her favoured luxury perfume of choice...

Trinny is known to be a fan of luxury British fragrance house, Penhaligon's, so it makes perfect sense that the brand makes home to her favoured scent. Speaking to CNN Underscored, Trinny lifted the lid as to her number one scent within her treasure trove of fragrances: “I love Blenheim Bouquet, which is actually a men’s fragrance, it’s citrusy and spicy and makes me feel so fresh and ready for my day.”

And therein lies the surprise. While many of Penhaligon's versatile scents are dubbed to be unisex, Blenheim Bouquet, which was originally created for the 9th Duke of Marlborough over 100 years ago, can often be found in the men's fragrance section of many stores. However, thanks to its versatile nature, with notes of lemon, lavender, black pepper and musk, this eau de toilette makes a great daytime scent for anyone who loves fresh perfumes with a certain element of spiciness.

What does Blenheim Bouquet smell like?

Hailed as "the scent of the British aristocracy", woman&home's very own Homes Ecommerce Editor, Laura Honey is a master perfumer and Penhaligon's expert who avidly recommends the fragrance to those who are seeking a fresh scent. If you're struggling to imagine what a sniff of this eau de toilette smells like, Laura says: "It has a zesty lemony top note, but as it settles you get some lovely herbal undertones (mainly lavender and thyme) coming through."

While this sounds like a fairly light fragrance, Laura acknowledges its surprising lasting power: "After you've worn through the clean and uplifting top notes, you'll get a woody, peppery fragrance that'll stay on your skin from the morning right through to the evening."

Penhaligon's Blenheim Bouquet Alternatives

Trinny's go-to perfume proves to be a popular choice amongst many, meaning it can be difficult to get your hands on. So, we've rounded up a few alternative scents, which boast similar spicy citrus notes, for you to snap up.

Ever since I first caught a hint of its expensive aroma back in 2017, Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Baccarat Rouge 540 made an impression on my senses that has never been matched since.

Of course, it made an impression on more than just me, with the now-cult fragrance firmly cementing itself as one of the best perfumes for women a couple of years later, when it seemed you couldn't walk through any major shopping district, airport terminal or talked-about restaurant without catching a whiff of its rich and elegant scent.

Regardless, I can't go more than a few days without a spritz of this long-lasting perfume - mostly because I'm utterly addicted to its warmingly sweet and sharp scent, but maybe a little bit because I miss the compliments too...

Why Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Baccarat Rouge 540 is 100% worth the investment

While my slightly irrational desire to smell unique and individual did leave me trying out other scents for a while, the perfect blend of sweet, woody, floral and animal kept me coming back to this time and time again.

What does Baccarat Rouge smell like?

A smooth blend of woods, florals and amber, with just a touch of rich saffron, the cult fragrance is an elegant journey of salty warmth that smells very expensive.

The perfect blend of warm, woody and just a little bit sweet, it layers warming heart notes of amberwood and ambergris over the sharp base notes of cedar and fir resin. And while that can all sound just a bit too warm and ambery, it's lifted by the subtle floral of the jasmine and - my favourite note - a hint of rich earthy sweetness from the saffron.

Sexy and animalic with an understated hint of woody sweetness and the most addictive scent opening I've ever experienced, it's ideal for those who want to smell magnetic, expensive and extremely chic.

But if its luxury pricepoint is just a little out of your budget, my favourite Baccarat Rouge alternatives really hit the spot too...

Finding a perfume that's long-lasting and makes an impression wherever I go, without breaking the bank, seemed like an almost impossible task. But, then I stumbled across Jones Road's 'Shower' Fragrance and it ticked all my boxes...

My fragrance collection makes home to a variety of long-lasting perfumes from a myriad of brands, including drugstore and high-end, meaning you'll often find me flitting between different scents - or layering them on top of each other at once. Although I may be on a journey to find my signature scent, one thing's for certain, perfumes do not come cheap nowadays. In fact, it's hard to find a quality fragrance that doesn't sport a hefty price tag, but that's where Jones Road's 'Shower' comes into play.

Resembling the feeling of having just stepped out of a soapy hot shower, this fresh and clean scent makes the perfect day-to-day perfume. What's more, it's the one standout fragrance in my arsenal that I've had the most compliments on...

My go-to affordable scent that gets me so many compliments

Marking Jones Road's first and only fragrance (so far) within their stellar lineup of cosmetics, the scent arrives housed in a sleek and minimalist glass bottle - which I must give kudos for looking incredibly aesthetically pleasing upon my dressing table. But, it's the fragrance inside that makes the true impact, boasting nearly 2500 reviews on the brand's site, averaging an impressive 4.5 stars out of 5, it's not just me who's a fan of this perfume...

This scent is probably the most wearable fragrance that I own, it's light and subtle, making it perfect for everyday wear. At first, I didn't think this scent would make a standout impression on anyone thanks to its relaxed and inoffensive nature. However, much to my surprise, I received way more compliments on this fragrance than any of my luxe perfumes.

Although the perfume only arrives in one option of a 30ml bottle, you don't need to spray a lot to make an impact, making it even more of a great value find. However, Jones Road has just launched the new Shower Rollerball Fragrance, a pocket-sized version which would be great for popping in your handbag on the go or as a beauty stocking filler under £25.

What does Jones Road Shower smell like?

When it comes to this fragrance, the clue is exactly in its name. There truly is no better way to describe this scent than it being incredibly reminiscent of having just stepped out of the shower. It's a light, fresh and squeaky clean scent of aquatic citrus notes, minus that bathroom cleaner-esque aroma some zesty fragrances can offer, with a slightly salty edge.

Once dried down, I find it seamlessly transitions into a softer powdery and soapy scent, that boasts a close resemblance to freshly laundered bed sheets. Its combination of neroli, orange blossom, and sea spray makes this such a relaxed and timeless scent that would be suitable for any occasion, day or night, all year round.

Who should buy Jones Road's Shower Fragrance?

This fragrance is set to be a hit with those who, like me, tend to opt for light and fresh perfumes that you can wear day-to-day and will suit any occasion - thanks to its balanced accord of zesty citrus and white floral notes. Equally, if powder perfumes are a firm favourite within your fragrance collection, this scent will make a worthy addition to your arsenal as it dries down leaving a beautifully subtle whiff of fresh laundry.

Combining traditional white florals with luxe hints of vanilla and warm, sparkling spices, Claudia Winkleman's signature perfume is as sensual as they come...

While the list of best long-lasting perfumes boasts many a delicate and timeless scent, from powdery florals to fresh citrus blends, if you're someone who gravitates towards warmer and sexier signatures, we have another suggestion for you. Or we should say Claudia Winkleman does, as The Traitors presenter let slip her own favourite fragrance and, per her description, "it smells of pure filth."

Before we lose you, she means that in a very good way. It's musky, warm and intoxicatingly spicy, the sort of scent that exudes sophistication - it's also a bonafide perfumery icon that first launched in 1977. Plus, best of all, it's refreshingly affordable for a celebrity-loved designer fragrance...

The sultry throwback perfume Claudia Winkleman always wears

When it comes to the best perfumes for women, while there are several niche and less mainstream scents to be found (like these French perfumes), a handful of iconic brands never stray from the rankings. Chanel and Dior, for instance, and of course, Yves Saint Laurent. And though Libre often steals the spotlight as a popular amber perfume, there's another iconic blend from YSL's lineup that marries creamy vanilla with warm, resinous amber. You may have already guessed - It goes by the name of Opium and it just so happens to be Claudia Winkleman's all-time signature.

Detailing her morning routine with Grazia, Winkleman also gave us an insight into her perfume preferences - along with the exact aroma she always wears.

"I only wear Yves Saint Laurent Opium," Winkleman said, adding that she always opts for the 'old, brown bottle.' As for why she loves it, the presenter quipped: "It smells of pure filth. It's the best smell - it’s musky and it's dirty."

This timeless scent, first launched in 1977, opens with zingy notes of mandarin and bergamot, which then give way to hints of white florals, including Lily of the Valley and jasmine, before drying down into something altogether muskier. At its base are patchouli, amber and vanilla, which afford this scent its bewitching and sexy appeal. It's rich, heady and ideal for those who steer clear of traditionally feminine or delicately fresh fragrances, which is also why Winkleman adores it.

"I don't want to smell girly, I don't want to smell like I've just walked across a meadow," she explains: "I don't want any of that. I want to smell like sex!"

As you can probably deduce from Winkleman's description and taste in scents, this iconic YSL number lends itself perfectly to the evening but will also grant its wearer a very chic and lingering scent in the daytime.

When one thinks of a traditional perfume, often rose-centric scents come to mind. That said, the note can sometimes get a bad rap for being old-fashioned. Hannah Waddingham's perfume, however, subverts that opinion - offering a luxe and sensual blend of spices, woods and of course, rose...

While the best long-lasting perfumes are by their nature lasting, paying close attention to the base notes of a scent is advised - as some linger longer than others. Rose is one such aroma that is known to command attention - and keep it - hence why rose perfumes are always a popular and timeless pick. As mentioned though, it does have something of a reputation for being too mature or powdery. Thankfully though, if you're someone who gravitates towards smokier blends but wants to incorporate florals into your collection, Hannah Waddingham's perfume of choice offers a modern elevation on rose.

The actor shared a glimpse of her current go-to on Instagram and let's just say, it's a worthy (and very chic) investment for any perfume buff - but especially for lovers of spicy florals. Even our Beauty Editor is a fan...

The warm and spicy rose scent Hannah Waddingham swears by

Taking to Instagram on August 27th, 2024, Hannah Waddingham shared a Reel touring all of her current beauty essentials - from the best sunscreens to her favourite facial tools - and nestled in amongst all those lotions and potions was a familiar little bottle, containing what appeared to be one of the best perfumes for women.

Indeed with some quick and expert pausing skills, we believe we've identified Waddingham's go-to scent as Frederic Malle's Portrait Of A Lady, which blends rose, patchouli, sandalwood, incense and benzion for a fragrance that is both timeless and effortlessly sexy...

Unlike some floral fragrances, which offer a fresh, spring-like impression, this scent treads into smokey territory - thanks to its multi-faceted musky notes - and clearly, it's a favourite of Waddingham's, who cited it as one of her 'epic' beauty staples. It's warm and features a strong base of rose that is grounded by spicy hints of cinnamon and frankincense, making it a distinctive and very luxe signature.

This is something woman&home's Beauty Editor, Fiona McKim can attest to as she too is a loyal wearer of Portrait Of A Lady: "I was never sold on the idea of having just one signature scent (so limiting) But then I tried Portrait of a Lady and thought, huh, I actually don’t want to wear anything else most of the time. It is smoky and spicy and extremely sexy - so sexy it even makes its ordinarily demure main ingredient, rose, feel sexy.

"It’s probably more of a night-time vibe but I wear it a lot during the day anyway. Obviously, the price is a bit of an obstacle, but I will say one spray of this projects and lasts like nine sprays of anything else, so you’ll get through it slowly."

Now, let's address the big price tag in the room, yes this fragrance is on the premium side. But as Fiona notes, its reach and longevity make it a worthy investment - as does this sophisticated celebrity endorsement.

We've spotted Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's perfume in a blink-and-you'll-miss-it photo clue - and it is the definition of a striking signature scent...

While the list of best long-lasting perfumes boasts blends to suit every preference, narrowing it down to just one chic buy can feel like an impossible task. This is where recommendations can come in handy, especially when they come from the mouths of those who are synonymous with style and elegance. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is one such star to fit that description and while she didn't necessarily vocalise her scent go-to, she did the next best thing - slipped it into an Instagram post.

So, if you're looking for a luxurious, less-mainstream fragrance to elevate your collection of best perfumes for women, here's why Huntington-Whitetely's deserves a moment of your time - particularly if you're a fan of tuberose...

Why Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's perfume is the blend to add to your collection

Tucked away in the depths of an Instagram carousel (posted in March 2024), detailing her outfit whilst travelling on a private jet, a certain orange-tinted glass bottle could be seen peaking out of Rosie's handbag.

Upon closer inspection, we have identified the model's scent of choice - with its crisp white label and chrome lid - as Maison Crivelli's Tubéreuse Astrale...

Ideal for floral fragrance fans seeking a blend with more of a rich and aromatic edge, Tubéreuse Astrale, as the name suggests, revolves around tuberose - or more accurately: "breathing in the scent of tuberoses while gazing up at the Milky Way and shooting stars," (per the brand, itself).

It's powdery but also boasts a musky quality, thanks to notes like leather and spicy cinnamon, while carrot seed oil adds an alluring, earthy warmth. The beauty of such a varied lineup means that this scent is versatile. Its warmth will lend itself well to the winter months, whilst its floral opening is ideal for early spring, for instance - as Huntington-Whiteley's post would suggest.

The one potential drawback to this premium blend is its equally premium price point. A 50ml bottle will set you back £205 but this cost is reflected in its formula as it's an extrait de parfum - the most concentrated form of perfume, which lasts longer on the skin than eau de parfum or eau de toilette.

Whether I’m in the Maldives or more likely, Milton Keynes, as soon as I spray Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche Skinscent, I know it’s summer. This creamy, coconutty aroma will inject some wanderlust spirit into your fragrance wardrobe.

As a Beauty Editor, I am fortunate to test new perfumes all the time, which makes me a bit of a fragrance flitter. At current count, I have seven on the go. But among these are those scented stalwarts that enjoy permanent status in my collection. In winter, I’ll switch to my best long-lasting perfumes, something nostalgic and ambery like Chanel Coco Mademoiselle or Chance. But with that first tease of early summer sunshine, out comes my best summer perfume, Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche Skinscent.

A masterful feel-good blend of coconut, vanilla and amber, it’s my go-to as soon as the sun makes an appearance. Here’s why you might want to buy it in bulk, too.

Why I wear Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche Skinscent every summer 

I don’t know whether it’s because I only wear it in summer, or it genuinely smells like holidays - probably a bit of both - but there’s nothing I want to wear more when it’s hot out.

One of the best solar perfumes around, the projection is pretty good and despite a lot of airy-floral notes, it does last moderately well (I still get wafts of tropical notes after a few hours. Although I can appreciate their appeal, I don’t usually do coconut scents. But this swerves ‘tacky tropical’ by blending the coconut with sensual, grown-up amber and sandalwood.

What does Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche Skinscent smell like?

This isn’t a subtle olfactory wink to summer - think a hint of sea salt, aquatic accords, or a splash of orange zest reminiscent of sipping an Aperol Spritz overlooking the sparkling waters of the Amalfi Coast. No, Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche Skinscent is a ballsy, punch-you-in-the-face kind of summer scent. Case in point: I wore it at the weekend and as soon as I greeted my sister with a hug, she beamed, saying that I 'smelled like summer'.

The thought of coconut and vanilla will sound a bit sickly to many but this isn’t at all sweet. I think of it as a warm, elegant summer scent. It opens with zesty top notes before softening into tiare flower, magnolia and jasmine. It’s the dry down that’s the real clincher for me - a creamy, lingering blend of coconut milk, vanilla, amber and sandalwood.

Who should buy Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche Skinscent?

If you love the smell of sunscreen, chances are you’ll fall for this amber-floral. It makes me think of sundowners on the balcony overlooking the beach. It’s the sort of warm, exotic aroma that perfectly complements sunny days and balmy nights.

If you’re a fan of solar perfumes, and looking for something sunny, warm and uplifting, Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche Skinscent will make you feel as if you’re bathed in sunlight.

As a Senior Beauty Editor, I’m incredibly lucky to essentially have my pick of perfumes, but this £31 buy has my designer buys gathering dust.

A lot of the best perfumes are quite an investment. While they’re a lovely daily luxury, I’ve witnessed the slow normalisation of scents costing upwards of £150 with a slight wince. Of course, I’m not immune to the allure of these designer buys - I’m only human, and Byredo smells lovely - but if I’m putting my pessimistic hat on, I’d say in most cases you’re paying for the name, the posh bottle and the marketing hype.

The best cheap perfumes smell just as lovely - if not in a lot of cases nicer than the expensive options. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a gorgeous-smelling scent - the best Zara perfumes are a testament to that fact - and so is this affordable buy. 

Why this £31 scent is better than all the other (posher) perfumes on my shelf 

French skincare brand Caudalie may not be one of the first names you think of when it comes to perfume, but their slightly under-the-radar Fresh Fragrances are real hidden gems. Available in 6 gorgeous scents, these buys are wearable, affordable and look pretty chic too. The sunny Soleil des Vignes scent is the one I can't stop wearing.

I'm a big fan of solar perfumes - they help you cheat that sunny, warm summer feeling no matter how gloomy it is outside. This is a particularly excellent one - one spritz instantly transports you to a sunnier climate, immediately lifting your mood. It smells expensive - think BA business class, not Ryanair, and I actually quite like the minimal design of the canary yellow bottle. It's the ultimate scent for summer - and all I plan on wearing for the next few months. 

The only downside I will flag is that because it's a fresh fragrance (as opposed to an eau de toilette or eau de parfum), it's not the most long-lasting perfume I've tried. I can still smell it for a few hours after spraying, but it's one that you'll likely need to reapply if you're out all day and into the evening.

It's not something that particularly bothers me, but if it concerns you, the scent is also available in a body oil and a shower gel, which is a great way of layering it up to last as long as possible.

What does Caudalie Fresh Fragrances Soleil des Vignes smell like?

This scent, to me, smells just like summer. Warm, sunny and inviting. It smells like suncream being massaged into skin, poolside. It smells like an Aperol on a sunlounger or tapas on a terrace. 

If you're looking for specifics, the notes are a layer of orange blossom water, coconut and jasmine. The combination makes for a warm, inviting scent that will immediately transport your mind to sunnier climes. 

While it's definitely more of a summer scent, I'd happily wear it all year round. It worked particularly well to lift my spirits in the depressing depths of January. 

Who should buy Caudalie Fresh Fragrances Soleil des Vignes?

If you're looking for an affordable, easy-to-wear perfume, you should buy Caudalie Fresh Fragrances Soleil des Vignes. They have five other scents available if you're after something more fresh or floral, but I can't see why someone wouldn't like this sunny, mood-lifting scent. 

It's also a great fragrance to wear if you're looking for something a bit more under-the-radar than your Santal 33 and Baccarat Rouges of the world. 

I'm a huge fan of this Caudalie scent - it's stylish, smells delicious and is impressively affordable. It's proof that you don't have to remortgage to get a gorgeous scent. 

While few things give us more pleasure than admiring our perfume collection front and centre on a dressing table, exposing these delicate blends to certain environments can outweigh any aesthetic benefit.

Though the best long-lasting perfumes are touted for their impressive staying power, they too can fall prey to certain scent-related faux pas – from rubbing your wrists together post-spritz to storing them in your bathroom. But there's another potential slip-up you may be making as far as storage is concerned, which brings us to the age-old question: should perfume be kept in the dark?

We've put this very question to the fragrance experts, quizzing them on whether you can store your signatures in well-lit areas – and, if not, where you should keep scents like the best perfumes for women instead.

Should perfume be kept in the dark?

So, should you keep your favourite solar perfumes and floral fragrances where the light of day can't reach them? According to Emma South, Fragrance and Lifestyle Expert at Jo Malone London: "It is best to store fragrance away from direct light and heat sources as these can degrade the composition, so away from windows and radiators is preferable."

South adds that, "Once open, air can begin to oxidise the fragrance but alcohol inhibits this process and atomised bottles also limit the exposure to air. If you have a much-loved limited-edition fragrance that cannot be replaced, I always recommend keeping it in a cool, dark cupboard."

Though recommended, you of course don't have to keep your go-to scents locked away. The key point to take away is avoiding heat and direct light exposure. "Experts say that you can store your perfume in the fridge because keeping it at a steady cool temperature preserves its components, however, I personally don't," says Floral Street founder Michelle Feeney. "I just keep mine out of sunlight and away from heat and it lasts a long time! Places like drawers and cupboards tend to stay dark and cool, which is best for your fragrance."

Where should your store perfume?

As mentioned, direct light and heat are real saboteurs of a perfume's longevity, so experts suggest keeping your favourites tucked away in a drawer or cupboard. That said, if you have a place where you can proudly display your fragrances that doesn't get any direct sunlight and isn't near a heat source, that's okay, too.

Our 3 timeless perfume picks

In case you're in the market for a few new and vetted scents to add to your collection, we've rounded up three of our beauty team's favourites...

Featuring a seamless blend of florals, rich fruits and musky amber notes, Victoria Beckham's signature perfume is our latest scent obsession - and we'd wager it's about to be yours too...

While the best long-lasting perfumes offer an array of just florals and the like, sometimes you're in the mood for everything, all at once. A scent that changes throughout the day, opening with bursts of citrus, fading into florals and landing somewhere between musk and warm woods. This type of multi-faceted blend lends itself to every occasion and season, earning the mantle of 'signature,' which is definitely one word we would use to describe Victoria Beckham's reported go-to.

So, if you're looking for a layered fragrance among the best perfumes for women, that is fresh and at the same time powdery and warm, we have a rather Posh scent to introduce you to - along with a few other Beckham-approved blends...

The indulgent fragrance Victoria Beckham loves for a chic impression

While we're already clued in on Helen Mirren's perfume of choice - and Kate Moss' perfume, for that matter - if you're looking to add another icon's signature to your scent shelf, Victoria Beckham has also previously let slip one of her favourites.

And what is it, you ask? Vilhelm Parfumerie Room Service. Taking to her Instagram Stories, the fashion and beauty mogul dubbed it, 'super chic' (per Who What Wear) and it's not hard to understand why.

Encased in a stylish and vintage-looking glass bottle, with Vilhelm's distinctive yellow label, Room Service offers a blend of mandarin and blackberry top notes, followed by floral pink orchard, bamboo and powdery violet and finally, warming hints of black amber, musk and sandalwood.

It's complex and will likely appeal to everyone - from fruity perfume lovers to fans of floral fragrances and even ambery scents. And in case it doesn't hit the right notes for you, Victoria Beckham has since brought out her own, equally chic, perfume collection - one of which our woman&home Beauty Editor adores...

The other Victoria Beckham signatures that deserve attention

In case you're looking for more Victoria Beckham recommendations, you're in luck, because the style icon released her very own scent collection in 2023, made up of three hero fragrances; Suite 302, Portofino ‘97 and San Ysidro Drive, all of which boast very decedent and chic scent profiles.

Woman&home's Beauty Editor, Aleesha Badkar is a big fan of Portofino ‘97 and describes it as having, "really lovely summery salty aquatic notes but with a sharp hint of smokiness from the incense - which gives it a really interesting depth - and soft musky base."

She also adds that it's perfect for summer and says the blend and salty and smoky is, "a bit more interesting than the usual salty summer offerings." So, if you're in the market for a unique holiday scent, we highly recommend.

Prefer your perfumes un-perfumey? Diana Kruger's signature features a fresh blend of fruity and floral facets, grounded with warm woods, for a lightweight and infinitely wearable scent...

While the list of best long-lasting perfumes houses an aroma to suit every taste and occasion, if you're a lover of floral fragrances and fruity blends, you'll often be hard-pressed to find a scent that is not, quote-on-quote, 'perfumey.' Often florals feature a powdery or soap-like quality, while more grown-up fruity perfumes carry a sharpness that can be overpowering and obvious. Diana Kruger however, might just have the perfect solution for you.

Offering a fresh and multi-faceted impression, Kruger has revealed that a certain, cult-classic Calvin Klein perfume is her go-to - and spoiler alert, it's perfect for spring/summertime.

The fresh and lightweight perfume Diane Kruger has been wearing for years

When it comes to selecting from the array of best perfumes for women, often going by recommendation - especially if you have to order online - is the best course of action. More so, when that recommendation comes from a celebrity known for her elegance and chic style.

Sharing the contents of her beauty bag in video for Harper's Bazaar, Actress Diana Kruger revealed that there's one scent, in particular, that she keeps returning to: Calvin Klein's Euphoria.

Kruger said: "My signature scent? I still love the Euphoria by Calvin Klein that I’ve used for many years. It’s fresh, you know? It doesn’t feel too perfumey, it’s not too heavy.”

The scent features a flattering blend of fresh, sparkling pomegranate, with rich and enticing black orchid and lotus blossom, warmed with creamy woods and amber. It's fresh but also warm, a combination that lends itself perfectly for both day and nighttime wear, making it the true definition of a signature.

It's ideal for those who typically steer clear of very heady scents, with Kruger describing it as not being 'too heavy.' It's also under £100 (and currently on sale and under £50 at Boots for 100ml), making it great value for money - in case you're in the market for a new, budget-friendly addition to your collection.

And if you're looking to take more beauty cues from the actress, woman&home learned the ins and outs of Diane Kruger's haircare routine, aswell as her skincare and beauty secrets.

If you're an avoider of ultra-sweet gourmand scents or powdery florals, Sarah Jessica Parker's perfume is a breath of fresh (and aromatic) air...

While there's always a time and a place for delicate florals and sultry vanillas - particularly if you're in the market for one of the best long-lasting perfumes - there's just something about a warm and woody signature that is so darn chic.

An opinion clearly shared by SJP herself, who let slip that she's a fan of a very fresh and earthy perfume, the likes of which is technically marketed as a men's cologne...

The timeless and woody scent Sarah Jessica Parker always reaches for

Skin-like and unisex scents are becoming increasingly popular, with many counted amongst the best perfumes for women - and for good reason. They're hypnotizing but often hard to pin down, offering a warmth and richness to your person that just oozes sophistication. A perfect example of this is one of SJP's signatures, which features a blend of green and woody notes - perfect for every season and occasion.

And what is this timeless perfume that has captured the heart of Carrie Bradshaw herself? Answer: Guerlain Vétiver. The actor told Who What Wear: "Right now I'm wearing the old Guerlain Vétiver, which is great. It's a men's fragrance that has now been around for, what, 15-plus years?"

Encased in a glass, square bottle, Vétiver combines notes of vetiver (hence the name), tonka bean, nutmeg, pepper and tobacco - offering that distinctive woodsy and smoky intensity - with fresh hints of orange, bergamot and lemon.

It's described by Guerlain as smelling like "the earth in the pale dawn light," so if you're a lover of crisp, early mornings and gravitate towards more natural scents, this perfume is sure to be a hit.

Price-wise, it's also refreshingly reasonable, with the eau de toilette costing £99 for 100ml. You can also shop the scent in a more intensive parfum.

If its olfactory notes aren't quite what you're looking for though, Sarah Jessica Parker also revealed that she's a fan of some of the best Diptyque perfumes.

3 similar scents to layer (or swap) SJP's perfume with

If Sarah Jessica Parker's perfume has piqued your interest but you prefer your woody scents to have a touch of sweetness or perhaps a powdery air - creating a more subtle blend - we've also rounded up a few other warm and chic options to either layer it (or to wear in its stead)...

In the market for a lasting floral perfume this spring/summer? Naomi Campbell's perfume houses a fresh and timeless bouquet that the model confirms, "lingers all night."

When selecting from the list of best long-lasting perfumes, flowery blends are often a very popular choice, after all, some of the best perfumes for women have starring notes of either jasmine, rose or the like. However, it can be difficult to discern which of these powdery and delicate floral fragrances will actually go the distance. Sometimes going by word of mouth is key and thanks to model and fashion icon, Naomi Campbell, your search just got a whole lot easier.

Taking pride of place in Dior's fragrance family, Campbell's signature scent comes with both a good-smelling and enduring reputation - and is the epitome of a springtime scent...

Why Naomi Campbell's favourite, lingering floral is a must-buy for spring

While the likes of Miss Dior and J'Adore may already be on your radar (what with them topping the list of best Dior perfumes) and perfume shelf, Naomi Campbell's go-to from the brand is a true classic - but one that is perhaps lesser known. It's something of a well-kept fragrance secret if you will, one the supermodel let slip in a 2018 interview for the Fragrance Foundation Awards.

As per Harper's Bazaar, Campbell revealed that her all-time favourite is Dior's Lily of The Valley-centric scent, Diorissimo. "I wear a blend of many of my old favourites. But one of my all-time favourite fragrances is Diorissimo," Campbell enthused, adding: "I love florals, florals that linger and that’s what Lily of the Valley does, it lingers all night."

As mentioned, Diorissimo features Lily of The Valley - which offers a sweet freshness and green impression - paired with ylang-ylang and delicate jasmine. The result is a chic and timeless signature, that is known to cling to the skin, offering an aura of elegance.

If you're a lover of perfumes with jasmine, this scent will likely be a very welcome addition to your arsenal. Equally, if you favour mature and traditional florals, you're sure to love it - and it's especially apt for the spring and summer seasons, though florals can also lend themselves perfectly to year-round wear.

We all love to smell good, all day, every day but while our full-size signature fragrances look great on the dresser, they don't exactly lend themselves to travel - which is where perfume atomisers come in...

Though we love our best long-lasting perfumes dearly, lugging them around in our handbags is sometimes the bane of our existence. First of all, there's the anxiety that their glass bottles might shatter, spilling their precious (and often very expensive) contents all over our things. Then there's the issue of the added weight and space taken up - esepcially if you've opted for the full-size version of one of the best perfumes for women, not that we would blame you.

Being able to top up your scent whenever the chic notes are waning is a powerful thing and can help solidify your good-smelling reputation - making the hassle almost worth it. However, it does seem we've all been overlooking a certain lipstick-sized, atomising contraption that could end this fragrance-related issue...

Why perfume atomisers are our go-to trick for lasting scents

Enter the humble perfume atomiser, which allows you to decant a portion of your favourite floral fragrance or pistachio perfume from the full-size bottle, without spilling or wasting any - or even splashing out on another, smaller-size perfume.

Ranging from anywhere between five to ten millimetres, a perfume atomiser is perfect for travel and just taking your go-to fragrance on the go, to whip out and spritz whenever you want/need a top-up.

Woman&home's Digital Beauty Editor, Aleesha Badkar is a big fan of the mini spritzers and says: "I like to top up my perfume in the afternoons, especially if I have plans after work, but I'm not one for carrying around full-sized bottles (although so much admiration for those who can) - so I end up being limited to any little testers that I happen to have or a 30ml Jo Malone spritz I was gifted once.

"That is until, on a whim, I bought a perfume atomiser. First of all, it's so easy to use and means I'm not longer limited to what scent I wear and take out with me."

Our 3 perfume atomiser picks

To ensure your scents go further (literally), we've rounded up a few perfume atomiser options, which can be used on any of your signatures, to decant a small amount that can slip into your bag for perfume-related emergencies or just a refresh.

You can of course, also shop many of your signature fragrances in smaller travel sizes or rollerball variations - like that of Glossier You and even Chanel's Coco Mademoiselle (7ml refillable mini available at Boots) - but an atomiser is refillable and as mentioned, can be used on your full-size scents, so win-win.

We've found a bargain M&S fragrance that smells so much like one of the most iconic Marc Jacobs perfumes - and it's under £8

When it comes to the best perfumes for women, Daisy by Marc Jacobs is up there with the top tier scents that have stood the test of time. The fresh and floral fragrance was launched back in 2007 and has secured a place as one of the most beloved, best-selling perfumes in the world since then. 

That being said, we're always so excited when we discover another of the best cheap perfumes on the market that goes on to become a staple in our collection of spritzes - especially if they happen to be smell-alikes of designer favourites. 

Enter Gardenia and Vanilla by M&S. A bargain perfume that you can pick up during your next food shop that has had the woman&home team in awe of its similarity to Daisy by Marc Jacobs. 

Shop the Scent

The Gardenia & Vanilla Eau de Toilette from the M&S Discover Intense range is a sweet mauve bottle of surprisingly long-lasting perfume. Perfect if you're after a bargain scent that's vibrant and flowery, its rich notes of sandalwood and vanilla pair dreamily with gardenia and grapefruit to provide the ultimate scent for enrobing your skin with freshness throughout spring. 

One thing we couldn't help but notice when the spray was passed around the woman&home team was how similar the smell of it is to that of Daisy. It would make sense though, as key notes in the Marc Jacobs cult favourite include red grapefruit, gardenia and vanilla, along with musk, white wood and wild strawberry. 

There's a big difference in price between the iconic Daisy and the M&S offering, though. While the Gardenia & Vanilla Eau de Toilette is priced at just £7.50 for a 30ml bottle and £12.50 for 100ml, Daisy by Marc Jacobs can cost as much as £50 for a 30ml bottle and £97 for a 100ml bottle. 

We did notice that while the M&S fragrance lingers on the skin, it, unsurprisingly, doesn't have the staying power that the Marc Jacobs creation boasts. 

However, if you're after an everyday perfume that you can freely douse yourself in without worrying about the impact a refill could have on your bank account, all while smelling remarkably similar to a distinctive designer smell, we recommend it. 

Something we can all relate to is the desire to be enveloped by our signature scents all day long and according to the experts, there are indeed a few long-lasting perfume tips we can adopt to boost their luxe blends...

While there is a plethora of vetted long-lasting perfumes on the market - many of which have been dubbed the best perfumes for women, in general - if there are ways to push our scent's defining and good-smelling notes even further, you can best believe we're trying them all. And while we're already in the know about where to spray perfume for an enduring aroma, there are a few other expert-recommended ways to give our fragrances boosted staying power.

In fact, fragrance experts from both Floral Street and MALIN+GOETZ have shared seven such ways to increase the lifespan of our favourite perfumes - and the tell-tail signs to look out for when searching for an indelible scent.

The 7 expert-approved tips for lasting scent signatures

Regardless of whether you're a floral fragrance lover, or prefer the green and savoury hints of pistachio perfumes, finding a scent that lingers on the skin for hours - garnering compliments and earning you a good-smelling reputation - is the ultimate goal. 

And for those who have already found such a scent, or are looking for ways to push their entire perfume collection further, there are a few tricks to try...

W&h's vetted long-lasting perfume picks

For those who are all about the scent though - or are yet to find an enduring signature - we've rounded up a few favourites of the woman&home beauty team, all featuring the long-lasting perfume notes we swear by.

1. Apply to moisturised skin

Applying perfume to moisturised skin is an underrated trick to ensuring your scents last. As Michelle Feeney, Founder of Floral Street explains: "To enhance the longevity of your fragrance, start by ensuring your skin is well-moisturized before application. Hydrated skin holds onto scent molecules better, helping your perfume last longer throughout the day."

Isabelle Pierre-Emile, Senior Vice President of Brand Marketing + Global Communications at MALIN+GOETZ also adds: "Perfumes dissipate much faster on dry skin, or when the air is particularly dry. Therefore, make sure your skin is well-hydrated before applying fragrance."

Many of the most popular fragrances - like the best Jo Malone perfumes - are available in coordinating creme and lotion form, to allow you to not only double up on your favourite scent but to spritz your eau de parfum or toilette on moisturised skin.

2. Mist and spray

While it's not recommended to just mist your perfume, as spritzing directly onto the skin (focusing on the pulse points) is famously the best way to ensure the notes linger - and develop through the day - Feeney recommends doing both. 

In the morning, apply your perfume as normal to your wrists and neck, then mist your perfume around you, to ensure your hair and clothes also get a dusting of scent molecules. Then you can refresh your scent through the day with another mist or two. As Feeney notes: "There is nothing like a fresh application just before entering a room, guaranteed a positive reaction!"

MALIN+GOETZ's Pierre-Emile then explains that misting can actually help to bolster your scent and allows you to layer fragrances together easily: "Since perfume mist is so lightweight, you won't have to worry about the two (or even three!) scents competing. This method also prevents your skin from absorbing the fragrance oils too quickly, which helps the scent to last longer."

3. Pulse points, pulse points, pulse points....

If you're not applying your favourite milk perfumes to your pulse points, you're truly missing a trick.

"Pulse points are the warmest parts of your body and heat lends to the dry down process and helps to emit the scent," says Pierre-Emile - and for those who don't know, adds: "These areas include your wrists, the nape of your neck, behind your knees, behind your ear, and inside your elbows."

4. Don't rub your wrists together

We've said it once and we'll say it again - don't rub perfume into your wrists. While it's a method that has become so intrinsically linked to scent-application it's actually very detrimental to the complex anatomy of perfumes.

As Pierre-Emile explains: "You should avoid rubbing for two reasons. First, rubbing your wrists together can dull top notes (or the scents you smell in the first five minutes of applying perfume). Secondly, it mixes the perfume vigorously with your natural oils, which can change the way it smells. 

"The exception would be for a perfume oil which contains no alcohol. After applying the perfume oil, massage it lightly into the skin for the perfume oils to express their olfactive quality." A great option for this is the MALIN+GOETZ's Leather Perfume Oil (available at Space NK).

4. Spray on an accessory

While it's important to be mindful of where you spray your perfumes - as some formulas can stain and effect delicate fabrics like silk and satin - adding a spritz to the neck of your jumper, turtleneck or favourite outfit accessory can help to spread those good-smelling perfumes notes around you. 

"I also personally like spraying on a scarf," shares Feeney, "as not only does it help me smell it personally but you can waft it around before entering a room."

5. Layer complimentary scents

Combining different but harmonious scents is also a good trick for a boosted aroma. Indeed, Feeney says to consider, "layering your fragrance with complementary scents to create a more complex and enduring aroma," and recommends perfumes like Floral Street's Sweet Almond Blossom (at Space NK) as a delicious layering option.

6. Go for vanilla

For those who are still in the market for a lasting fragrance, the best vanilla perfumes are a popular choice, as Feeney explains: "Vanilla is known to be an ingredient that really lingers and using vanilla in fragrance helps to bind the other ingredients together to make your fragrance last longer on the skin."

7. Study the notes

When selecting your new long-lasting signature, it can also be helpful to know what ingredients and note blends are often tell-tale signs of a potent aroma. 

"One key indicator of a long-lasting perfume is the presence of robust base notes. Look for fragrances with deep, rich base notes such as sandalwood, patchouli, vanilla, or musk. These base notes linger on the skin for hours, providing a solid foundation for the fragrance to develop and evolve," says Feeney.

"Additionally, perfumes with high-quality ingredients and a well-balanced composition tend to have better-staying power."

The new Gisou Wild Rose hair perfume smells like golden hour, bottled and is as much a treat for your senses as it is for your tresses - here's why it's set to be a spring/summer go-to...

Hair perfumes can be true game-changers when it comes to curating an enduring scent, whether you're looking to bolster your signature long-lasting perfumes by layering with a complimentary fragrance, or you just love the way your hair, in general, distributes the good-smelling molecules around you. That's why so many of the best perfumes for women are actually available in coordinating hair scents (as well as body lotions) to help extend the lifespan of the precious aromas.

And if you've found yourself in the market for a radiant fragrance, one that mists your hair in notes that evoke the spring and summer months - whilst simultaneously refreshing and boosting shine - we have the perfect £34 recommendation for you... 

Why the new Gisou Wild Rose Hair Perfume is a spring/summer go-to

This latest edition, joining the brand's original honey-infused scent, features the same minimalistic packaging we've come to expect from Gisou but with a few key differences; the brighter pink lid and cute floral label that promises the rosy glow within.

Ordinarily, I'm not actually a lover of rose perfumes, or sweet florals in general (my signature is the woody and musky Diptyque L'eau Papier, to give you some indication), but after one whiff of this, I found myself hooked. Because it's a hair perfume, it's not too overpowering or in your face, in fact, it diffuses nicely but still clings to the ends of my hair - offering a reminder every time it swishes around me.

The honey really balances out the more heady rose, offering a comforting warmth that just smells so summery.  For me, it's the perfect option for those days when I'm not in the mood to wear a full-on perfume and instead, just want to refresh my hair and have it waft good-smells - as if I've just washed it with deliciously scented shampoo (even though in reality, it's 3-day-old hair).

What does the new Gisou Honey-Infused Hair Perfume it smell like?

As the name suggests, this floral edition of the Gisou Honey Infused hair perfume smells like rose but thanks to the inclusion of honey, there's a syrupy sweetness and irresistible warmth to it.

While the first few spritzes are quite strong the scent does dry down, leaving a more subtle fragrance. It's definitely an accompanying perfume - ideal for layering with similar scents - or one to wear when you just want your hair to smell fresh and clean.

What are the benefits of the Gisou Wild Rose perfume?

This hair perfume features Mirsalehi honey and argan oil which are said to refresh your hair by adding hydration and shine to your locks. I found this helped to smooth some of my flyaways but be careful not to use too much, as it can make your hair look a little oily and flat.

Who should buy the Gisou Wild Rose perfume?

As mentioned, if you're a lover of floral fragrances, particularly rose-centric scents, I can see you loving this hair perfume. I would also recommend this to anyone who is on the hunt for an easy and affordable travel scent for your next summer getaway - after all, it costs just £34 for 50ml.

And if your signature perfume falls in the sweet rose category but you're finding that it fades, Gisou's Wild Rose Hair Perfume could be a welcome addition to your arsenal, to compliment and boost the rose aura around you.

Wondering which perfume notes to look out for when selecting a long-lasting signature? Our woman&home beauty team have shared the specific aromas that always earn them compliments - and have been proven to linger...

When selecting from the lineup of our vetted best long-lasting perfumes, it can be helpful to know which notes are actually known to endure - even after the initial concentrated aroma has dispersed. Typically, it's the base notes that are designed to linger, but it's really only with a spritz to our skin that we can tell which scents seem to cling and react with our unique chemistry. This then leads us to the other point to consider: which of these said notes seems to garner the most compliments, so that you might build your collection of the best perfumes for women around it.

Our team of perfume-obsessed beauty experts has shared which long-lasting notes they've noticed receive the most attention - to help inspire or inform your choice...

The lingering perfume notes our team swear by for compliments

Our signature scents, whether you favour floral fragrances or more gourmand milk perfumes, are a very personal thing and often come down to personal preference. That being said though, if you're looking for tried and tested perfumes that are proven to be universally appreciated - and most importantly long-lasting - you've come to the right place.

1. Saffron

Woman&home's Beauty Editor, Aleesha Badkar swears by saffron-centric blends and cites Maison Francis Kurkdijian's Baccarat Rouge 540 as her all-time favourite. "I love the richness of saffron and have really found that it lingers on my skin. It's a slightly sweet but fragrant scent, that others are always quick to compliment." 

2. Musks

Beauty Editor, Stephanie Maylor notes that: "Anything with a musky base note seems to linger well on me. It's a common thread between two of my forever favourites - Chanel Coco Mademoiselle and Le Labo Santal 33. I still enjoy wafts of their spicy, ambery scents well into the day, long after that first spritz."

3. Jasmine

Senior Writer, Amelia Yeomans says: "One of my all-time favourite perfume notes is jasmine and it is easily the one that gets complimented the most out of the countless perfumes I wear regularly. It just seems to cling to me and last pretty much all day no matter what particular perfume it is that I'm wearing." 

Gucci Bloom is one of her top picks, and the one people always seem to comment on, "I think because it is so unmistakably jasmine-y but it isn't at all artificial or overpowering. Another one of my most complimented and long-lasting perfumes with jasmine is Do Son by Diptyque. I bang on about this perfume any chance I get, but it really is beautiful and sticks to me for hours - and is always noticed by other people."

4. Woods

It's warm, woody notes for Beauty Writer, Naomi Jamieson - particularly sandalwood and blonde woods, the latter of which feature in her favourite Diptyque L'eau Papier perfume. "I always find that wood notes cling to my skin the longest and always seem to be the ones that others notice. I often get told I smell 'warm and soft' which, I think I can safely assume is the aromatic and earthy aromas at work."

The w&h team's proven compliment-bringers

If you’re looking to boost the longevity of your signature scent, you might want to reevaluate where you’re spritzing, as the experts have shared the spots that will be doing those precious blends no favours…

While finding an enduring fragrance can be as simple as selecting one from the list of vetted and aptly-named long-lasting perfumes, there are also a few things that we can do to help bolster their lifespans - but equally, a few habits that could be doing the exact opposite. For instance, spraying perfume on your wrists and subsequently rubbing them together is a no-no, where experts are concerned - and it turns out, there are a few other areas that should also be avoided.

So, if you’re looking for a way to ensure your best perfumes for women linger all day long, these are application missteps to avoid…

Where not to spray your perfume, according to experts

For most of us, our perfumes - whether you favour floral fragrances and perfumes with jasmine, or more unusual milk perfumes - are very personal and have the ability to make us feel put-together and downright chic. So naturally, we want them to stick with us for as long as possible.

And while we all have our preferred spritzing ritual, there are a few areas on your body you should avoid - or at the very least, not trust to carry your precious perfume notes alone.

Our go-to long-lasting scents

Now, before we dive into the dos and don'ts of where to spray perfume, here are a few long-lasting scent recommendations, in case you find your own collection lacking...

1. Dry skin

According to Floral Street Founder, Michelle Feeney, we should: “Avoid spraying perfume on dry or rough skin, as it may not hold the fragrance as well. Instead, focus on pulse points where the skin is warmer, such as the wrists, neck, and behind the ears. These areas help to diffuse the fragrance more effectively and ensure it lasts longer.”

Perfume famously reacts well to damp or moisturised skin, which is why experts often recommend applying your favourite scents soon after a shower or bath - when your skin is still slightly damp. Furthermore, some of the most iconic perfumeries also offer their hero scents in lotion form - to layer with your corresponding eau de toilettes or parfums. This helps to not only double up on the scent but also allows the notes from your fragrances to cling to your skin better.

2. Hair

Now, this might be a tad divisive, as hair perfumes are a popular option for layering and even our woman&home Beauty Editor, Aleesha Badkar loves to add a spritz or two to her hair, but it’s not the best place for a really lasting scent impression.

As Feeney notes: “It's best to avoid spraying perfume on areas where the scent may fade quickly or where it might not be as effective. For instance, spraying perfume directly onto your hair can cause the scent to dissipate quickly.”

Adding a spritz of your go-to perfume to your tresses can be a good accompanying area to apply your scent - to ensure the aroma envelops you, or to get a reminder of the chic notes every time your hair swishes - but we’d suggest not having it as the sole place you apply it. Instead, add your perfume to your neck and wrists (which are pulse points) and then finish with a flourishing mist to your hair. 

3. Clothes

While spraying your clothes is another popular method, we wanted to include this as some perfumes can stain and have adverse effects on more delicate fabrics. Beauty Ed, Aleesha says to avoid spraying on silks and satins.

Where should you spray perfume, instead?

Our pulse points (located on our neck, wrists and knees) are widely acknowledged to be the best places to spray perfume, as these areas are warm and well, pulse - helping the notes to emanate.

Feeney also recommends applying your scent behind your ears, as again this is a pulse point and a place of natural body heat. Applying body lotion/moisturiser before perfume - especially one with a corresponding scent can also help your signature fragrance to cling and absorb into the skin.

Finding that your signature scents fade throughout the day? According to the experts, simply applying moisturiser before perfume can make all the difference...

While the best long-lasting perfumes are guaranteed to leave a lingering, good-smelling impression, we're always looking for ways to push our favourite notes even further. After all, there's nothing worse than discovering that your fragrance has seemingly evaporated from your skin when you're not able to reapply and are still hours from returning home. Even more so, when the best perfumes for women are often the most premium of our beauty buys.  

According to the pros though, there is one simple and inexpensive bodycare step that could help those luxe scent molecules cling to your skin for longer...

The easy and inexpensive trick to lasting signatures

So aside from applying our scents to our pulse points and then refraining from rubbing the perfume into our wrists, how else can we try to boost the lifespan of our favourite milk perfumes and floral fragrances? The answer: moisturiser.

Michelle Feeney, Founder of Floral Street says to, "moisturise the skin well before applying [perfume], as this helps with longevity." This step is especially key in the winter months, as Feeney notes that, "perfume won't cling as well to dryer skin." 

Several iconic brands - from Chanel and Jo Malone to Le Labo -  have actually capitalised on this trick, offering body washes and lotions that are infused with their hero perfumes, to double up on the scent.  As Jo Malone's Fragrance and Lifestyle Expert, Emma South explains, layering our perfume with its corresponding moisturiser can indeed boost its lasting power. "At Jo Malone London, many of our fragrances are available in a lotion or crème, providing a way to layer and intensify the fragrance whilst increasing the longevity." All the while, leaving your skin nourished 

Perfume is known to cling well to damp and oily skin, so it makes sense to prep with a hydrating lotion, before then spritzing yourself in perfume. This also offers the opportunity to slightly customise and experiment with your signatures, as you can layer them with a vanilla-scented moisturise, for example - to create a unique aroma. That being said though, an unscented lotion is preferable (unless you're opting for the corresponding lotion, as mentioned) if you want your chosen perfume to take centre stage - and not risk disrupting or compromising the delicate balance of notes. 

Woman&home's Beauty Writer, Naomi Jamieson is a big advocate of this trick, "Every morning without fail, I cover my entire body in a lightly scented moisturiser. This creates a subtle but good-smelling base, the slight residue of which my perfume can then cling to. My go-to is a cocoa butter and vitamin E lotion (from Boots and under £2) as it smells so soft and comforting - like a skin scent - and pairs beautifully with my preferred woody/floral scents. I really find that this helps my fragrances to melt into the skin and linger."

Our perfume and body lotion staples

And for anyone looking to add a scented or budget-friendly cream into their routine - to push their perfumes to the next level, here are a few body lotion for fragrance options to consider...

Spraying perfume on your wrists and subsequently rubbing them together is perhaps the most iconic way of applying fragrance - but what if I told you it can actually do more harm to those perfectly balanced notes than good?

When it comes to our signature long-lasting perfumes, whether your collection comprises the best perfumes for women or more niche milk perfumes, we understandably want their chic and impression-making blends to linger - especially as they're often the most expensive items in our arsenals. And while we can of course seek out vetted formulas proven to last all day long, even the more concentrated blends might still fall short if you're making this common application faux pas. 

If you had asked me - a beauty writer - a few years ago how I applied my own fragrances, I  too would have cited the classic "spray on the wrist and rub together" method. That is until an expert told me that it can actually disrupt those precious and good-smelling molecules...

Why rubbing perfume into your wrists is a no-no, according to experts

Spraying your wrists and rubbing them together is certainly a quick and easy way to spread your scent around - and seemingly to help the skin absorb the residue faster - but according to the experts, it can have a negative impact on the formula's longevity.

Emma South, Fragrance and Lifestyle expert at Jo Malone says: "This ritual curiously lingers with us. Although atomizers have been used for over a century, the bygone era of oil droppers and the associated application has stuck. The reason experts advise against this is the friction created through rubbing generates a sudden and uneven heat - this accelerates the evaporation of certain scent molecules, distorting the fragrance." 

Michelle Feeney, founder of Floral Street also reiterates this, adding: "Rubbing your wrists after applying perfume can alter the scent, create uneven distribution and generate heat, affecting the fragrance's longevity and complexity." 

That's not to say though, that you shouldn't continue spritzing your favourite floral fragrances on your wrists. They are pulse points and thus one of the most recommended places to apply your scents - the issue lies with the rubbing. 

Instead, Fenney says it's best to let the perfume dry down naturally as "this preserves the scent's integrity and ensures even distribution for a longer-lasting fragrance experience." So, we'd suggest adding a spray to each wrist - resisting the urge to rub - before letting them air dry. 

Where to spray your perfume instead

Aside from letting your perfume dry naturally on your wrists, there are also a few other ways to apply it - and boost its lifespan. 

Spritzing on the pulse points is the most well-known way of ensuring your signatures envelope you all day. They are located on your wrists (as we know), neck, elbows and the back of your knees. Spraying behind your ears is another popular option, as Feeney notes it's an area that "produces natural body heat."

South recommends spraying your fragrances approximately 20cm away from your skin - particularly your pulse points, as this "avoids saturation and the temptation to rub but also minimizes the amount misted into the air. The fragrance will be well distributed and dry naturally, allowing the true journey of the scent to be revealed."

Applying perfume to damp skin is also a good trick, whether it's straight after a shower or when you've slathered on your favourite body lotions.

Our go-to long-lasting perfume picks

And, in case this has inspired you to add a new, long-lasting number to your collection - with which you spray on your wrists - we've rounded up three, woman&home-approved picks.

Wondering where to spray your perfume to ensure it lingers all day? While most of us spritz on our wrists and neck, there is actually another body part that can help our signature scent endure...

When it comes to the best perfumes for women, they are often the most premium buys in our beauty arsenals and thus, we tend to look for long-lasting perfumes that make the spend feel like a worthwhile investment. That being said though, where you spray your perfume can also have a big impact on the longevity of your go-to scents.

Pulse points are likely the most well-known places to spray perfume, but according to the fragrance experts - and our woman&home beauty team - there are a few other areas to consider, one of which, might surprise you...

Where the experts say to spray your perfume for lasting scent

As mentioned, the most common places to spritz your favourite milk perfumes or floral fragrances are your neck and wrists - which are pulse points. As the name suggests, these spots are where you can feel your pulse through the skin and are typically, very warm. Perfume reacts to warmth and when applied to these areas, in particular, the slight...well, pulse of the skin helps the scent to emanate. 

But while many of us usually aim a spray onto the base or centre of our necks, by doing so we're missing another key area: the back of our ears.

Floral Street's founder, Michelle Feeney says: "Spraying perfume behind your ears is a popular technique because the area behind the ears tends to stay relatively warm and produces natural body heat, which can enhance the fragrance of the perfume. Additionally, the skin behind the ears is often less exposed to harsh environmental factors, so the scent may last longer there compared to other parts of the body." The area can also be quite oily, which is another pro for ensuring your scent lasts, as perfumes perform best when applied to damp skin.

Feeney does remind us though, that there are no rules on where to apply your perfume (it comes down to personal preference) but notes that the pulse points are best - and recommends, "behind the ears, on the wrists and even behind your knee!"

We would also recommend initially spraying your perfume onto your finger, before dabbing it behind your ears, to test how your skin and scent react. Also, when applying fragrance to your neck area in general, be mindful of your jewellery - as some metals can become discoloured.

Where to spray your perfume for a long-lasting impression

As mentioned, your pulse points are the best places to apply your go-to fragrances, which are located on the:

• Neck
• Wrists
• Behind the ears
• Insides of elbows
• Behind the knees

If you've tried out all of these locations and are seeking other suggestions, our team have also shared their favourite places to spritz their signatures...

• "I tend to do 3-4 sprays - mostly around my décolletage and mostly out of habit," says woman&home's Senior Beauty Editor, Rhiannon Derbyshire. "I always do an extra spritz towards the back of my shoulders, so whenever I get hugged, the hugger gets a whiff of the scent. Excessive? Maybe, but I don't think there's a better compliment than being told you smell nice."
• Naomi Jamieson, Digital Beauty Writer at w&h says that in prep for a long day or evening out, the back of her neck gets a dousing: "Day-to-day, I typically spray my perfumes on my wrists and neck (really original, I know) but when I want to make sure it lasts, I also apply some to the back of my neck and let my hair fall over the spot before it dries. This allows some of the liquid to transfer into the ends of my hair and so, every time I move, the scent whips around me. Being at the back of my neck also means that when people hug me, they get a good nose-full."
• Aleesha Badkar, woman&home's Digital Beauty Editor on the other hand, likes to mist her perfume on her clothes and hair: "When I really want to leave a good-smelling impression, I like to mist my perfumes on my clothes and hair. I find this helps the notes emanate throughout the day - and it usually works as I always get asked what scent I'm wearing. But I suggest doing a very light mist, from quite far away so it doesn't impact the fabric too much. And I never do it when I wear delicate fabrics or ones that show up liquid easily - like silk or satin."

Our team's go-to perfume picks

Combining cool, airy softness with sweet hints of almond and velvety cream, milk perfumes are truly food for the senses - and they're proving even more popular than classic vanilla scents this year.

While the classic olfactory families will always claim spots among the best long-lasting perfumes, from floral fragrances to smoky ouds, several modern updates are becoming increasingly popular. And with the 2026 fragrance trends predicting rises in whisper-soft skin-scents and 'grown up' gourmands, there's one genre, in particular, that is poised to be in very high demand, as it blends elements of both into one, deliciously creamy aroma. But rather than relying upon musky and vanilla hints to give them that signature appeal, these perfumes draw on a different and potentially polarising note: milk.

Now, of course, we're not asking you to retire your best perfumes for women in favour of dousing yourself in the semi-skinned milk you've got kicking about in the fridge. Nor do these scents boast any similarities to that sour smell that emanates from the bottle, post-expiry. Instead, they combine rich and delicate lactonic accords to capture everything, from the smooth nuttiness of an almond milk latte to the sweetness of whipped cream - and these are our nine favourites.

The 9 best milk perfumes to make your mouth water

Whether you're looking for a sweet, coconutty fragrance for summer or a comforting, everyday skin scent, these cool and creamy milk perfume picks are surprisingly versatile and smell good enough to eat (but please don't)...

What are milk perfumes?

• Standout perfume notes: milk accords, latte accords, marshmallow, condensed milk and ice cream

Now that we've perused the most popular creamy scents on the market, let's now address the elephant in the room - what are milk perfumes, exactly?

"More commonly referred to as 'lactonics,' milk perfumes have notes or accords that evoke a glass of fresh milk, milky beverages or creamy desserts," says Vicken Arslanian, founder of Commodity (a modern perfumery renowned for their hero Milk scent). "They fall under the gourmand category, which are fragrances with food-inspired notes."

As for what notes constitute a "milk" perfume: "A variety of notes can be used to create a milk-like aroma. To name a few: milk accords, latte accords, marshmallow, condensed milk and dessert notes like rice pudding, ice cream and more."

Certain musk, cashmeran and wood notes can also afford a perfume that signature, milky softness.

Why are milk perfumes popular?

"Milk-like scents are becoming more and more popular because they bring a sense of cosiness and comfort to a fragrance," explains Arslanian, adding, "They call forth a fond childhood memory of eating milk and cookies or indulging in a favourite dessert."

They're also the perfect choice for those who steer clear of very heavy and powerful scents, like oud perfumes or very feminine floral aromas. Milk perfumes are sweet but also often layered with woody and musky notes to create a warm and subtle fragrance.

Are milk perfumes like skin-scents?

Yes and no, "Milky perfumes can be skin scents, but the two are not mutually inclusive," says Arslanian. You can find some creamy perfumes that are just that - and don't feature the tell-tale notes of a skin scent (like that of musk), though still offer a similar soft and comforting smell.

What seasons are milk perfumes best for?

"Milk perfumes can really be worn year-round," says Arslanian but "traditionally, fragrance wearers gravitate toward lighter scents in the warmer seasons and heavier scents as the weather cools. Someone newer to fragrance may want to follow this trend to start and try a milky skin scent in the summer or a heavier version in the winter.

"For those familiar with fragrance and already know what they like, we encourage wearing a milky fragrance whenever you want. There are no rules."

Never have I been so attached to a perfume as to the famous Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540. From the very moment I caught my first whiff back in the autumn months of 2017, I was hooked - and ever since it has been my go-to scent whenever I want to feel elegant, sexy and, quite frankly, very expensive.

But when one of the best perfumes for women is that good, it's only a matter of time until it flies off into the world of the mainstream. So what was once my mysterious little saffrony amber secret, is now emanating from the pores of every fashionista, beauty enthusiast and luxury department store regular walking the streets of the UK. And while I always hero a great product getting the reputation it deserves, my slightly irrational, maybe subconscious desire for a unique scent did leave me quietly wanting a new go-to long-lasting perfume.

Enter: my favourite perfume discovery of the year. And while I'd hate to lose individuality, I'm actually not really one to gatekeep, as I always love an amazing product to get its dues. So, throughout the festive season, when everyone has questioned me about what to ask for for Christmas, this year, I had a slightly different answer for them...

The perfume I'm telling everyone to get for Christmas

Every year when my friends ask me which perfumes they should put on their Christmas lists, my first and foremost answer is always Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Baccarat Rouge 540. However, for 2024, there's another elegant scent that has overtaken my everyday use of this industry icon.

I smelt Sydney-based fragrance brand Who Is Elijah's Nomad perfume earlier this year - and I fell in love at my first spritz.

While I'll always recommend my forever favourite, Baccarat Rouge 540, Who Is Elijah's Nomad is not only a few years newer and a lot less commonly worn among perfume fans, but it also comes in at £95 less than the famous gold bottle – and for 20ml more.

So while Baccarat Rouge 540 will always have my heart, I'm telling my girls to go for a touch of chic newness this year.

Affordable Baccarat Rouge 540 alternatives

But if you want to stick with the Baccarat Rouge 540 scent without splashing out, these are my favourite alternatives that feature a very similar scent profile...

While we'd love to have an extensive fragrance collection stashed full of luxury perfumes, they often require quite the investment. With that in mind, we made it our mission to scout out the very best perfume deals so you can expand your scent arsenal, with the likes of YSL, Prada and Dior, for less.

When it comes to finding your signature scent, you may turn to the best perfumes for women or one of the best long-lasting perfumes in hopes that your friends will ask what fragrance you're wearing, but they can often sport hefty price tags to match. So, what if we told you that you could bag a designer perfume for a fraction of its usual cost? Yes, you did hear that right.

As a team whose job roles consist of being beauty bargain hunters, we've collated our shopping expertise and uncovered the crème de la crème of perfume deals available to snap up right now. Spoiler, we stumbled across discounts of up to 63% on best-selling luxury fragrances, including Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia, Jo Malone's Dark Amber & Ginger Lily and the iconic CHANEL No 5.

The best perfume deals: The quick links

If you're looking to snap up a steal on a luxury fragrance, the key is to scour the web, scrolling through an array of e-tailers' websites, in order to find the very best bargains. This can be a lengthy task but, luckily, we've done the hard work for you and curated a list of the must-have shopping destinations offering notable savings on a number of designer scents...

• Amazon: Enjoy up to 70% off scents from Vera Wang, Calvin Klein and Estée Lauder
• Boots: Get up to half price off best-selling fragrances from Marc Jacobs, YSL and Dolce & Gabbana
• House of Fraser: Discounts of up to 52% off perfumes from Gucci, Jimmy Choo and BOSS
• John Lewis: Huge savings on scents from YSL, Prada, Carolina Herrera and more
• Look Fantastic: Boasting up to 60% off on popular perfumes from Versace, Burberry and DKNY
• Sephora: Make savings of up to 60% on fragrances from the likes of Tom Ford, Kayali and Sol de Janeiro

Our top editor-approved perfume deals

Throughout our bargain hunting endeavour, we spotted an array of discounts on some of the woman&home beauty team's very own signature scents, with savings of up to 40% on big name brands.

The best perfume deals this month

If those scents didn't catch your eye, fear not as we stumbled across a plethora of unmissable, money-saving perfume deals. Think discounts up to 63% off some of the most popular fragrances currently available on the market, including buys from the likes of Valentino, Jo Malone and Estée Lauder...

Top tips for getting the best perfume deals

Backed by years of shopping experience, searching for the best deals out there, beauty editor Fiona McKim shares her insider knowledge for snapping up the best discounts on luxe, designer scents...

• Think ahead of the seasons: Fiona's number one top tip to snapping up a good deal on a top-shelf fragrance is to be planning ahead, she explains: “Designer brands often release limited edition versions of their most popular scents in Spring [and] richer, more intense versions in Fall and Winter." This means last season’s scents can often be found in retailer's sales, however they are "just as gorgeous as the classic versions", according to Fiona.
• Opt for discounted gift sets and boxes: Alongside an array of new fragrance launches each season, brands are also known to release gift sets around seasonal holidays such as Valentine's Day or Christmas. The key to nailing this top tip is by making sure to "seek out collections with two sizes or strengths of a fragrance, rather than 'filler' body lotions and creams," says Fiona. You’ll often find these gift sets’ price tags marked down even further as the holiday season comes to an end.
• Go big or go small: Keep in mind the size of perfume you’re looking for when on the hunt for fragrance bargains, as being unsure will only make the task at hand harder. Fiona advises: "If you have a signature perfume on repeat purchase, investing in the largest size and strongest possible concentration will save you money in the long term." Alternatively, "if you want to try a luxe fragrance but it's prohibitively expensive, look for travel rollerballs, solid versions and hair mists", Fiona suggests, adding that these are "reliably cheaper than eau de parfums, but you'll still smell as sweet".

How do you know if you're genuinely getting a good deal?

As with any case shopping for bargains, it can be incredibly easy to be swayed by the thrill of reduced price tags, that said, it can also be equally easy to regret your sale purchase later down the line. The key to making responsible yet money-saving buys throughout sales periods is in the prep. Before shopping, it's worth considering the fragrances you'd like to add to your most reached-for perfume arsenal, Fiona advises: "cheap perfume is only a good deal if it's something you would have considered buying at full price," she adds: "15% off your signature scent is a better deal than 75% off the one you'll never wear."

When it comes to restocking your signature scent, it's a simple and straight-forward task of buying perfume online, but it can be a trickier task for those looking to invest in a new fragrance that you haven't smelled before. In order to avoid disappointment, Fiona recommends that you, "get to a shop and have a sniff for peace of mind that you're truly getting a bargain perfume, not a useless desk ornament". This is a very handy tip but we can appreciate it isn't always a possible option for virtual shoppers, in which case she suggests checking and understanding what's meant by perfume notes - plus, researching the "fragrance family of a scent you already love, then using it to inform your shopping".

A red discounted price tag can be enough to sway us into thinking we’ve secured a great deal, however make sure to always cross-reference the price with other retailers, Fiona stresses: "Make sure the price reduction you are being offered is really the best out there, and that the original price stated reflects that on other stores".