The 18 Sexiest Fragrances of All Time

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The sexiest perfumes feature a range of scent blends that are easy to wear again and again. There's something intoxicating about their unique combination of notes, whether musky, gourmand, or floral, that draw us closer to each other, something experts say is by design.

"Fragrances which belong to the Narcotics olfactive family, for their addictive aspect, are the sexiest," founder of Kilian Paris Kilian Hennessy tells Bazaar. "Because ultimately, when it comes to seduction, you want to wear a scent that is intoxicating to your partner." For anyone who finds picking out a sexy scent as difficult as choosing a new polish color at their local salon, the perfumer advises sticking with notes like tuberose or orange blossom that share particularly addictive aromas.

While what we consider the most alluring fragrance notes can be subjective, Nordstrom national beauty director Autumne West says most shoppers tend to gravitate toward earthy, woody scents for ultimate sex appeal. "I find that when most people describe a scent they think is ‘sexy,’ it's almost always one with hints of vanilla mixed with something woody, spicy, or sometimes rose," she explains. "It’s usually the balance of sweet and strong that can bring forth those moody vibes with extra appeal. Our customers generally love to mix their already known favorite fragrances with a new refresh on a classic. We expect they will love scents for Valentine’s Day from Dior, Jo Malone, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Creed, and Valentino."

Experts also suggest layering fragrances to extend the life of your scents while creating a totally new olfactory experience. According to Bond No. 9 founder Laurice Rahmé, "Amber, patchouli, and vanilla notes layer well, and last for hours.” She also adds that floral fragrances are among her brand's top sellers around February 14 in particular. "For Valentine’s Day, we sell many rose-noted scents, like Nolita and Gold Coast," Rahmé explains.

But whatever your combination of choice, it's ultimately based on what makes you feel best. "Fragrance layering comes down to personal preference. There are no rules in fragrance, but it must work for the individual, and give them a feeling of pleasure," Hennessy continues. "Layering products from the same line is an effective way to make a fragrance last." West agrees, noting that this kind of scent customization is also an easy way to take a signature fragrance up a few notches on special occasions. "Layering is a great way to differentiate you scent, especially if you love a classic," she says. West advises starting with a scented lotion or cream, and finishing with its companion parfum, colonge, or eau de toilette for longer wear.

For those looking for a quick confidence boost, or to entice a current (or potential) beau, Hennessy notes that the best spots on the body to spritz on a fragrance are, "Everywhere you want to be kissed." Here, we've rounded up a few standout scents that professionals and Bazaar editors consider among the sexiest fragrances of all-time.

Thé Vanille Eau de Parfum

Consider Thé Vanille from Nette the fragrance equivalent of chillin' with no makeup on in the best way. Sometimes the sexiest scent a person can wear is next to nothing, which is exactly what this gourmand perfume evokes. Notes of cardamom, magnolia flower, and vanilla combine to create a warm blend that smells like your skin, but better, once it dries down.

Santal 33 Eau de Parfum

"Le Labo Santal 33’s woody earthiness demands to be noticed, yet manages not to be cloying. It’s also the only fragrance I’ve ever worn that my husband routinely compliments—and even requests I wear. I think its appeal lies in the fact that the scent is sensual and warm, but understated, with a vibe that’s more crackling fire and cashmere PJs than high heels and red lipstick." —Genevieve Monsma, contributing beauty director

Donna Born In Roma Intense Eau de Parfum

Valentino's Donna Born In Roma Intense eau de parfum is so popular, it's almost completely sold out at Sephora—but that's only one reason why it tops our list of sexiest perfumes. Its floral-amber scent reveals a darker side to traditional floral fragrances, featuring notes of jasmine and vanilla.

Replica Jazz Club

"This woody fragrance smells true to its name in that it has the warm hazy scents of mezcal cocktails and smoking cigars. I originally bought it for my boyfriend, who loves jazz clubs so much I thought he might like to smell like one too. I recently started to wear it as well because it feels a little bit more unexpected on a girl, which in my opinion makes it even more sultry.

There's something so hot about a scent that smells like a place. It makes me feel like maybe I could be the woman who stays out at a jazz performance in a New York basement somewhere until 3am and then rolled out of bed miraculously on time to make it work the next morning—with perfectly tousled hair and an air of spicy mystery." —Tara Gonzalez, senior fashion editor

Herod Eau de Parfum

Parfum de Marly's tonka bean- and cinammon-scented Herod fragrance provides a more mysterious take on vanilla perfumes. Its blend of heart notes, like tobacco leaf and incense, add depth and a slight spiciness to its warm, musky finish.

Orphéon Eau de Parfum

"Have you ever wondered what a sultry night out smells like? Diptyque bottled a smoky, late-night jazz club with its Orphéon fragrance, which was inspired by the lively night life of Paris' Saint Germain quarter in the '60s (where the brand's boutique was at the time). It's woody from the cedar and patchouli, yet warm from the tonka bean, and ends with a subtle jasmine note that will make you feel hot and alive." —Katie Intner, associate beauty editor

Mon Paris Eau de Parfum

"One of the sexiest perfumes I own is Mon Paris by YSL. It has berry and floral fragrance notes that aren't overwhelming because the perfume also has a bit of musk in it as well. It's great for date night, but has also become my signature daily perfume. Anytime I wear it, people always stop me and ask what perfume I'm wearing, and I've convinced so many of my friends to buy their own bottle." —Mariah Morrison, contributing social media editor

Aventus Fragrance

"Creed Aventus is oh so smooth with its base note of oakmoss, musk, vanilla and added hints of jasmine, apple and bergamot. This complex scent is spicy yet not abrupt with its hint of fruit, strong but inviting, almost masculine and then hits you with a fresh softness that cannot be replicated. This fragrance is addicting, you will want to keep smelling this on whomever is wearing it or wear it yourself." —AW

Marque-Page Eau de Parfum

"I don't know what scientifically makes a scent hot, but this musky-yet-citrusy fragrance from Ormaie is it for me. I'll dab it on my wrists and neck when I have a special date or simply want to feel a little more confident." —Halie LeSavage, contributing fashion commerce editor

Pour Homme Eau de Toilette

"In the mid-nineties, I worked evenings at a Parisian department store, and the cosmetics floor was perpetually doused in Dolce & Gabbana Pour Homme, which had just launched. It smelled expensive, hot (in a clean, classic way) and grownup. It also smelled nothing like the Phish-loving fraternity boys I’d just gone to college with, which was a good thing. And though it’s been more than two decades, I still think this crisp blend of citrus, bergamot and lavender spiked with sandalwood is an under-the-radar sensual star." —GM

Mojave Ghost Eau de Parfum

"This fragrance is like a viral TikTok song you can't get out of your head—in a good way. Its woody and floral notes of ambrette, magnolia, cedar wood, and violet are deeply intoxicating, and it's perfect to wear year-round." —Tiffany Dodson, associate beauty commerce editor

My Way Eau de Parfum

"Another extremely hot scent is Armani Beauty’s My Way. It also includes vanilla and bergamot, but its bright sweetness from the orange blossom gives it a sweet juiciness. It's airy, petal soft, and not overpowering, but distinct. I personally feel pretty, confident, and hot whenever I wear it." —AW

Eau de Parfum

"Rihanna's Fenty Eau de Parfum is equal parts spicy and sweet. You only need the most subtle spritz of the musky amber fragrance to leave a lasting impact that allows the scent to memorably linger. (And who doesn't want to feel—and smell—like Rihanna at all times?) I love it for date night." —Bianca Betancourt, culture editor

J'Adore Eau de Parfum

"J'Adore is my go-to for fashion parties and evenings when I want to just feel really great in my skin." —Rosa Sanchez, senior news editor

Tobacco Vanille Eau de Parfum Spray

"I fell in love with the intoxicating scent of Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille because one of my chicest, sexiest friends drenches herself in it—and it’s magic on her. I’m not sure I carry it with the same aplomb, but I do adore the fragrance’s spicy, warmth—especially during the winter months—and it’s also terrific in candle form." —GM

Love Don't Be Shy

"This fragrance is one of the first scents I created while launching Kilian Paris 15 years ago, and today is still one of my absolute top sellers. There’s a reason Love, Don’t Be Shy is completely irresistible: it’s a tasty gourmand dream. Marshmallow, vanilla, and orange blossom combine to create a scent reminiscent of a heavenly dessert. I really wanted the perfume to make the wearer smell like something you just wanted to take a bite out of. " —KH

Amber Musk Eau de Parfum

"My hot fragrance pick is Aerin Amber Musk. It smells like when my husband wears a cashmere sweater, and I pick it up three days later and it still has that lingering cologne smell. It's cozy, simple, lightweight, and not overpowering. It smells like a snuggle on a cold day with someone you love." —Jenna Rosenstein, beauty director

Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum

"Coco Mademoiselle is my daily casual-sexy scent. Even if I'm just in jeans and a T-shirt, I always put it on before leaving the house, and it makes me feel elevated and ready for the day." —RS

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