Vanilla perfumes: the 8 best and long-lasting – Marie Claire UK

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Vanilla perfume is having a major moment right nowsome of the best perfumes out there champion notes of warming vanilla. And turns out, its not just me reaching for the sweet, comforting scent, the stats show its in demand. LookFantastic reports a 41% increase in vanilla perfume compared to last year.

Theres good reason its one of the most popular perfumes, too. Vanilla is an incredibly versatile ingredient, which complements a whole host of fragrance notes, explains Sana Jardin Founder, Amy Christiansen.

Historically, vanilla is associated with water and Venus; it's commonly found in soothing, calming, personal empowerment, good luck and love rituals, Amy explains. Vanilla incense is burned to attract love, increase sexual desire, and to improve the powers of the mind, she adds. Pretty powerful stuff, Id say!

And while not all vanillas ooze the sort of expensive-smelling vibe we want out of fragrance, there are plenty that do. Ive rounded up 8 of the very best from old classics to niche perfumes, so keep reading if youre looking to add a new vanilla perfume to your collection.

(Image credit: Sana Jardin)

Doesn't smell like traditional vanilla

If you arent a fan of traditional vanilla fragrances then you might like this one. Its not traditionally sweet so it doesn't feel cloying at all. Thats all down to the clever inclusion of benzoin (resin), sandalwood and frankincenseall giving it a spicy feel.

(Image credit: Cult Beauty)

Great for layering

Fairly long lasting

Might be a bit too sweet for some

It can stain clothes due to colour

Known for its punchy, powerful scents is Huda Beauty Kayali and this vanilla number is no different. As with all of the Kayali perfumes, it is designed to be layered; with this one working particularly well paired with the brand's Eden Juicy Apple.

(Image credit: The Body Shop)

An affordable classic, this vanilla body mist is light, sweet and refreshing. Its beauty lies in being basic; not overcomplicating the star scent. Due to being a lightweight body mist, its definitely not the most long-lasting scent. But this is one you can keep in your handbag for top-up spritzes throughout the day.

(Image credit: Look Fantastic)

Fairly expensive for longevity

If you want your vanilla perfume to encapsulate the perfect, cosiest coffee morning, this is it. Its like being wrapped in the softest cashmere blanket with the best cup of coffee youve hadbonus points if its autumn and a little drizzly. Vanilla isnt the strongest note, but as the base, its creamy enough to warrant being in the list. Lavender also comes through on this one, adding a lovely cosy element.

(Image credit: The Fragrance Shop)

It isn't traditionally gourmand

Gourmand scents arent for everyone, especially when it comes to vanilla, but if youre in that camp then this is for you. It can be a little cloying to begin with but settles down to a lovely floral, citrus vanilla combo. What's more, this one lasts an impressively long time.

(Image credit: Sephora UK)

Possible too intense for close quarters

I'll admit, this is definitely expensive for a small bottle, but when I tell you this is the longest-lasting perfume I own, I really mean it. You need the teeniest drop of this and youll be enveloped in the gourmand scent for hours. If you love plenty of coconut to pair with your vanilla perfume, this is a beautiful option.

(Image credit: Jo Malone)

More masculine than other vanilla fragrances, but depends on taste

True to its name, this perfume contains equal parts earthy vetiver with comforting vanilla, making it more complex than your standard vanilla scent. The dry down leans more towards vanilla, giving a creamy lasting fragrance.

(Image credit: Floral Street)

Beautiful packaging

Sustainable brand

Not exceptionally long lasting

Yes, you are absolutely allowed to get this perfume for the stunning packaging alone, but I promise you, youll be even more pleased with the contents inside. To me, its the perfect wintertime vanilla as its incredibly creamy with floral notes coming through, finishing off with the slightest note of sandalwood (although the sweetness definitely cuts through). Its not super long-lasting but its also pretty affordable so you can go spritz heavy.

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Vanilla perfumes: the 8 best and long-lasting - Marie Claire UK