A signature fragrance is a deeply personal preference. The right scent has the power to uplift, inspire confidence, and even call to memories you hold dear. (No wonder some folks keep the name of their favorite eau de toilettes under lock and key.) The classics—Chanel No. 5, Calvin Klein’s Obsession, Opium by Yves Saint Laurent, etc.—remain in devotees’ medicine cabinets for a reason. But why do fragrances stay with us years after we’ve caught a whiff? And which ones would we recommend other perfume enthusiasts add to their repertoire? In celebration of National Fragrance Day—you’re forgiven if you didn’t know such a day existed—the W editors have reflected on their favorite, most evocative fragrances of all time, which includes some newly purchased signature perfumes that won’t be leaving the boudoir anytime soon.
Ffern is a small-batch, organic, members-only perfumery in the English countryside, and their fragrances smell as romantic and fabulous as all that sounds. I joined their “ledger” in spring 2021, and once each season, an elegant flask of perfume arrives, along with a tiny test spray. If you’re not into it, you can simply send the bottle back, but I’ve cherished every one—each scent is an evolution of the last, like different chapters in the same book. The standout for me so far has been the rich, herbaceous Autumn 22, with notes of cardamom, citrus rind, and greenery over a base of lavender, vetiver, red cedar, and black tea. It feels light and cozy at the same time—and lingers beautifully on a cashmere sweater. —Andrea Whittle, Features Director
Every scent from Jo Malone’s newly released The Blossoms Collection is worth a sniff (I especially love the Star Magnolia Cologne). But the Waterlily variety’s crisp, clean, lightly floral scent simply cannot be beat. And even though I purchased it just recently, I’ve nearly gone through a quarter of the bottle (!). —Maxine Wally, Senior Digital Editor
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