8 Cult Fragrances Worth the Splurge

The Ultimate Perfume Review: 8 Iconic Fragrances Worth Trying

Finding the perfect scent is an intimate journey, one that blends personal taste with emotion and nostalgia. Today, we’re reviewing eight cult-favorite perfumes that have captivated fragrance enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you’re looking for something smoky and mysterious or light and airy, there’s something here for everyone.

All products on this page have been selected by our Editorial team, however we may receive a commission on some products.

Byredo - Eyes Closed, £220

Notes: Cinnamon, cardamom, carrot, ginger, orris, papyrus

Eyes Closed is an intriguing mix of warmth and earthiness, with an unexpected carrot note adding a velvety touch. The spices—cinnamon and cardamom—provide an instant cozy feel, while the orris and papyrus contribute a slightly powdery depth. It’s a scent that feels both familiar and unique, making it an artistic yet wearable choice.

Available at byredo.com

Le Labo - Santal 33, £234

Notes: Sandalwood, leather, cardamom, iris, violet, cedarwood, amber

Santal 33 is a modern classic—a fragrance synonymous with stylish urbanites and creative souls. It’s a rich, woody, and slightly smoky scent that is both warm and gender-neutral. The dry-down brings out soft, creamy sandalwood and a touch of leather, making it an intoxicating yet comforting wear. While it has a distinctive presence, some may find it overhyped due to its ubiquity. Nevertheless, if you love warm, woody scents with a touch of mystery, this is a must-try.

Available at lelabofragrances.com

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris - Baccarat Rouge 540, £245

Notes: Jasmine, saffron, amberwood, cedarwood

Baccarat Rouge 540 is the definition of luxury in a bottle. It opens with a luminous blend of saffron and jasmine, creating an almost ethereal aura. The signature ‘burnt sugar’ effect, courtesy of amberwood, gives it an addictive quality that lingers on the skin for hours. Some compare it to a sweet, woody cotton candy, while others describe it as metallic or medicinal. Love it or hate it, its projection and longevity are undeniable.

Available at johnlewis,com

Celine Paris - Parade, £230

Notes: Neroli, bergamot, musk, vetiver

Celine’s Parade is a minimalist dream, blending citrusy brightness with a powdery, musky finish. It’s reminiscent of classic colognes but with a refined, modern twist. The bergamot and neroli give it a fresh opening, while the musk adds an intimate skin-like warmth. It’s elegant, effortless, and perfect for those who appreciate understated luxury.

Available at celine.com

Diptyque - Philosykos, £160

Notes: Fig leaves, Fig tree sap, Fig tree wood, Black pepper

Philosykos is the ultimate fig fragrance, capturing the entire fig tree—leaves, fruit, wood, and sap—in a way that feels both refreshing and creamy. Unlike many fig fragrances that lean heavily on sweetness, this one is more green and natural.

Available at diptyqueparis.com

Juliette Has a Gun - Not a Perfume, £130

Notes: Cetalox (Ambroxan)

Not a Perfume is as minimal as it gets—composed solely of Cetalox, a synthetic ambergris molecule. It’s clean, musky, and subtly woody, adapting uniquely to each wearer’s skin chemistry. While some adore its simplicity and skin-like aura, others might find it too subtle or one-dimensional. If you love a ‘your skin but better’ kind of fragrance, this is a fantastic choice.

Available at sephora.co.uk

Loewe - Esencia, £162

Notes: Lavender, nutmeg, sandalwood, vetiver, amber, musk

Loewe’s Esencia is a refined, masculine-leaning fragrance that feels sophisticated and bold. The aromatic lavender and nutmeg provide a fresh, spicy opening, leading into a deep woody base of vetiver and sandalwood. It exudes confidence and class, making it perfect for those who appreciate timeless elegance.

Available at perfumesloewe.com

Escentric Molecule - Molecule 02, £115

Notes: Ambroxan

Molecule 02 is an intriguing exercise in minimalism, built around a single synthetic note: Ambroxan. It has a clean, slightly sweet, and musky quality that enhances your skin’s natural scent rather than overpowering it. This fragrance is perfect for those who appreciate subtlety and longevity, as it lingers close to the skin with a soft, radiant aura. It works well on its own or layered with other scents to add depth and warmth.

Available at escentric.com

Each of these fragrances tells a story—whether it’s the urban coolness of Santal 33, the opulence of Baccarat Rouge 540, or the quiet sophistication of Parade. No matter your scent preference, there’s something here to elevate your fragrance wardrobe. Which one will you try next?