Seductive, spicy, mysterious, dominant amber - welcome to the world of oriental scents. I’m a floral fragrance lover by day, but when the sun goes down, the heat comes up! Here’s my guide to seven of the best oriental scents, featuring some modern, some vintage, and perhaps something for the woman who never explored the spicier side of fragrance.
1. Flowerbomb by Viktor & Rolf
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The exquisite Flowerbomb exploded onto the scene in 2004, leaving all other oriental scents reeling. With fragrance notes of bergamot, jasmine, orchid, rose and patchouli, this is a fascinating oriental-floral. I would be remiss if I didn’t add these words of caution: You are not a flowerbomb. You might well be (and I hope you are), a flowerbombshell, and the difference is all in the application. Spray lightly; this perfume will radiate from up to six feet away from its source and last a good nine hours!
2. Prada Candy by Prada
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Wrapped in a haze of benzoin, vanilla and caramel, is the intoxicating oriental-vanilla fragrance of Prada Candy. You don’t have to be a caramel lover to love this perfume, but I am, and I do! Don’t be fooled by the Barbie Dollesque packaging; launched in 2011 to flirtatious females the world over, this Candy is not for kids. It's good for about 4 hours after initial spritzing – you might realize more or less. This is not a scent-shouter, I’d say it radiates to about 3 feet.
3. Opium by Yves Saint Laurent
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If you wore Opium many years ago and moved on to newer oriental-spicy scents, it might be a good idea to check out the reformulated 2009 version. This luxurious fragrance includes bergamot, mandarin, jasmine and myrrh. Opium is a super, long lasting perfume that can fill a space of 6 feet and beyond! I think this is too rich to wear as a daytime fragrance. It’ is however, perfect for a night out when you want to turn heads and collect compliments.
4. Cashmere Mist by Donna Karan
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Like comfort food, like a favorite sweater, Cashmere Mist, will envelop your senses and make you feel all is right with the world. Cashmere Mist counts Moroccan jasmine, lily of the valley, bergamot, sandalwood, amber and musk, in its fragrance notes. I was never a fan of the bottle, but the juice inside is warm and inviting and for many, a signature scent. While I love it, I am too fickle to attach myself to any one fragrance, but it is my absolute favorite oriental-woody perfume of all time.
5. Passion by Elizabeth Taylor
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A pure oriental scent as only Liz Taylor can do. Passion has been around since 1988, but it’s still glorious enough to make my top seven. With a multitude of fragrance notes that include jasmine, musk, sandalwood, incense, patchouli and woods. A very long lasting scent that can fill a room. Super sensuous, for the adventurous! Nobody puts Passion in the corner!
6. Tresor by Lancome
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If you love Tresor, you’re in good company. This oriental-floral scent has been uber-popular since its debut in 1990. By now, most of you know that tresor is French for treasure, and this fragrance was sure a treasure for Lancome. The beautiful fragrance notes include peach, apricot, rose, lilac, musk and amber. I must admit that while I love this perfume on me, it is 100 times nicer on my niece… and I’m jealous!
7. Dior Addict by Christian Dior
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When I decided to add Dior Addict, I realized I was partial to oriental-florals. This scent has particularly awesome notes – mandarin leaf, jasmine, blackberry, vanilla, night-blooming cereus, Tonka bean and sandalwood. This is not a shy fragrance, so prepare to have it last a good 10 hours if not longer, and fill a room. I think this is well-named because it is certainly addicting. A perfect wintry evening fragrance. Now go find a room to fill.
Now that I've shared my seven sensuous oriental scents, how many do you agree with? Which ones have I left out that are your favorites?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes oriental perfumes so special?
- Oh, oriental perfumes are like a warm, exotic embrace! They’re rich, spicy, and often have notes like vanilla, amber, and musk. Perfect for when you want to feel a bit mysterious and sensual. They're truly captivating!
- Are there oriental perfumes for those who prefer a softer scent?
- Absolutely! Not all oriental perfumes are heavy. There are plenty that are softer and more floral. They strike a nice balance between the warmth of oriental notes and the freshness of florals. So you can enjoy a gentle, yet enticing aroma.
- Which oriental perfumes are popular among women?
- Oh, there are so many to choose from! Some classic favorites have been around for years and never go out of style. They often get top marks for their unique blend of spicy and sweet notes. You’ll definitely find a few that catch your fancy.
- Can oriental perfumes be worn year-round?
- Definitely! While they’re often thought of as fall or winter scents because of their warmth, there are lighter versions perfect for spring and summer. So you can enjoy oriental scents anytime, really!
- How do I find the best oriental perfume for me?
- It’s all about experimenting and having fun! Try different ones and see how they make you feel. Do you like spicy or floral notes more? Trust your instincts. If it makes you feel amazing, it’s the right choice. Go ahead, dive into this fragrant journey!