As a beauty editor, I’m sure it comes as no surprise that I have an affinity for designer perfume. There’s just something so special about owning a bottle of sophisticated Chanel or alluring Dior. There’s one special designer perfume, however, that I can proudly say I’ve bought and worn for over 10 years—it’s just that good.
Any time I catch a whiff of a Vera Wang fragrance, my nose automatically perks up. Like I said, I’ve been a fan of Vera Wang perfumes for years because they’re classy, timeless, and never go out of style. Today, I thought I would take on the task of picking out Wang’s absolute best aromatic concoctions—an almost impossible task if I do say so myself. If you’re curious to know which of the designer’s creations I’ve been crushing on for years, keep on scrolling. The best Vera Wang perfumes are ahead.
Key notes: Iris, lily, sandalwood. This classic self-titled fragrance from the brand is brimming with aromatic notes of iris, lily, and earthy sandalwood for a headier touch. It’s the perfect mix of floral and woody.
Key notes: Guava, mandarin orange, angelica, tuberose, musk, woody notes. Lovestruck is definitely for the fruity and floral fragrance-lovers out there. I love guava notes in a perfume because they add something a little sharper and unique to an otherwise solely sweet or floral fragrance.
Key notes: Damask rose, mandarin orange, magnolia, vanilla, musk, sandalwood. Rose Buds & Vanilla is one of three fragrances in the Embrace family. Its classic notes of rose really shine through, but it soars far above average with the additional notes of mandarin orange, magnolia, and vanilla. To top it off, it has a muskier, woody base of sandalwood that compliments the rest of the notes perfectly.
Key notes: Water lily, apricot, apple, mandarin orange, dark chocolate, guava, tuberose, vanilla, amber, woody notes. True story: Princess has been a longtime favorite of mine. So much so, that I’ve bought and worn it for over 10 years now. I remember the first time I smelled it in the fold-out of a magazine (remember those?), I was hooked. It’s the rich notes of dark chocolate, tuberose, and vanilla for me. The notes of mandarin orange also add a pleasantly zesty kick to the scent that I just can’t get enough of.
Key notes: Lily, lavender, violet, rose, gardenia. Sheer Veil has a slightly powdery finish, but has enticing floral notes like lavender, lily, rose, and gardenia. It wraps the wearer in an air of sophistication and has some seriously strong lasting power.
Key notes: lavender, bitter orange, cedarwood
Key notes: Guava, pear, red currant, vanilla orchid, honey, African orange flower, cashmere wood, marshmallow, ambrette, cedar. This extra gourmand take on Princess makes the list for its syrupy sweet notes of marshmallow, honey, and African orange flower. Sure, it’s definitely not for everyone, but I will say that its sweet notes are elevated and never too overpowering. It brings just the right amount of crispness, warmth, and sweetness to the table.
Key notes: Pear blossom, green tea, bergamot, peony, freesia, orange blossom, musk, cedar, sandalwood. Floral, woody, and musky, this scent brings to mind a balmy spring day. I always love a balanced mix of floral, fruity, and earthy—this fragrance does that all perfectly.
