Top 5 eau de parfums

As students search for new scents to add to their wish-list, certain brands land on top.

By Aly Dusing, Editor-in-Training • September 5, 2024

Chanel does not make the the list – but what does? (Photo illustration created by Wildcat Chronicle Staff using images by Aly Dusing and Diana via Pexels)

Overview

Citrusy. Floral. Fresh. Musky. Oriental. Sweet. Woody.

Walking down the halls of West Chicago Community High School, one cannot ignore the various aromas filling the air. To some, the strong scent of perfume induces headaches, while others’ heads turn. Whether as a gift or an impulse purchase, it is essential to understand the most enjoyable tones and hues of a signature scent.

Starting in their early teen years, students begin looking for ways to boost their character, and one of the most popular outlets lies in the hands of perfume companies. In the past few years, teenagers have played a major role in promoting the usage of fragrances, whether it be spraying too much or reapplying hourly. Not only is the idea of a signature perfume well-known but also the struggle to find one that surrounding peers find pleasant and preferably alluring.

Amazing Grace presents a simplistic floral hint to any setting that refreshes the mind with remnants of spring bloom. With feminine touches of soft pink, this perfume is charming innocence in a bottle. (Photo by Aly Dusing)

#5 Philosophy Amazing Grace

As noted in this review, no other heavily flower-hinted perfumes gained a spot. Still, the formula of Philosophy’s Amazing Grace piles in at number five, bringing along its reasonably mid-range $74 price tag. Floral scents tend to give off a poorly executed – ‘grandma’s bar soap’ as some would describe – smell that fills the air with stale and outdated aromas. Amazing Grace, on the other hand, lives up to its title and simple bottle design by combining graceful hints of lilies of the valley, bergamot, and musk that create a feminine scent for both flower lovers as well as the people around them.

The accented gold and peachy color scheme of Burberry Her aligns perfectly with its title. This perfume guarantees an elegant and refreshing scent, which is portrayed through its product design. (Photo by Aly Dusing)

#4 Burberry Her

If someone is looking for a strong, lasting scent, Burberry Her is a perfect choice. This perfume leans heavily on the mature side, with strong tones of dark berry and white wood, an arguably powerful and bold combination above all. Although Burberry offers a unique scent, customers are not only paying for the perfume but also the luxury of the shiny brand name, totaling $168 for a 100ml bottle. This perfume is the cherry on top for special events and would be a great go-to for achieving sophistication, while casual use may be a bit overdone – but not impossible.

Attracting the teenage eye, the minimal but colorful packaging of Glossier represents a multi-use perfume. With subtle but long-lasting hints of a personalized signature scent, this perfume captures the essence of growth and positivity. (Photo by Aly Dusing)

#3 Glossier You

Popularizing all over social media, Glossier You is the median of this list, offering a unisex but personalized scent to all. Possibly the most eye-opening feature of this perfume is its ability to work with an individual’s skin and formulate an aroma specific to themselves, hence the name of the product. Scent-wise, the perfume in the bottle gives off a warm “pink pepper” scent with bright, sweet, and spicy tones. This is a great starter perfume for students looking to expand their collection, starting at $28 for a simple 8ml rollerball, which can easily fit in a backpack pocket or purse.

The well-known Valentino logo laid across the packaging draws shoppers into a well-loved scent, creating a powerful combination of bliss and beauty. The color scheme varies between versions, offering a unique decision for all users. (Photo by Aly Dusing)

#2 Valentino Donna Born In Roma

Topping the second half of the list, Valentino Donna Born in Roma makes a perfect gift idea for those who are searching for a flexible, every-occasion perfume. Unlike some luxury perfumes, Valentino carries a sweet scent that is not too childish, but also a professional scent that does not seem too similar to cologne. The rich scents of jasmine, cashmeran, and vanilla bourbon account for the $165 it takes to own 100ml. From experience, this perfume will turn heads and spark curiosity “Which perfume is that?” conversations.

The luxury packaging of Tom Ford offers a sneak peek of the even richer scent waiting to be sprayed. Along with the pleasant aromas inside, the bottle adds a chic touch to any vanity or nightstand. (Photo by Aly Dusing)

#1 Tom Ford Vanilla Sex

Keeping the whopping $395 for 50ml price in mind, Tom Ford Vanilla Sex proves this expense excruciatingly worthy for its pure and timeless smell. Imagine baking cookies and adding the extra splash of vanilla extract – that is this perfume’s scent. The sweet and well-loved scent of vanilla does not fail to cling to Tom Ford users, and the high-end brand packaging brings it together with a gourmet golden theme. Vanilla Sex offers many choices for perfume users; whether they are looking for something sweet or classic, this fits all categories and is sure to lure any person in with its warm and welcoming hue.

About the Contributor

Aly Dusing, Editor-in-Training

Alyson (Aly) Dusing is an outgoing and engaging junior who enjoys making new connections and spending time with people she values. She strives to earn inspiring opportunities and continue to grow in academic, social, artistic, and other aspects. Once she graduates, Aly plans to pursue her dream career as a criminal defense attorney, hopefully somewhere where harsh winters do not exist.

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