Vanilla perfumes are always a reliable choice for pretty much any occasion. Whether you’re getting ready for a date, simply heading to the office, or even drinks with the girls, a spritz or two of a vanilla fragrance will go a long way!
While some may dismiss vanilla as too ‘basic, ‘ it’s important to remember that vanilla fragrances are considered an aphrodisiac with a well-documented ability to soothe, seduce, and even enhance arousal, which is why vanilla scents are currently trending on TikTok.
The ‘vanillaperfume’ hashtag has now amassed over 97K videos on TikTok, with many users recommending and sharing their favourite and affordable scents. One TikToker who goes by the name @vanilla_swirlxx posted a video to the platform recommending her favourite must-have sweet-smelling vanilla perfumes, which received over 500,000 likes.
Maria Mukaranda, the Beauty Editor at Cosmetify, agrees, explaining: “Vanilla scents are the ultimate sweet companion to help us power through spring.” However, vanilla fragrances aren’t just limited to spring, she says, “they are highly versatile. If you choose a fragrance with the right complementing notes, you can rock it all year round.”
There’s no doubt that perfumes have recently risen in price, and finding the right fragrance that doesn’t break the bank can be tricky. Luckily, we’ve done the hard work to bring your five top picks to have you smelling your sweetest this spring.
Lush Sticky Dates Body Spray, £28.00
If there’s anything Lush is known for, it’s probably for being an overwhelmingly nice-smelling shop. So, you can trust the beauty brand to offer an irresistible scent. While not exactly a perfume, the best-selling Sticky Dates Body Spray is the perfect affordable option for providing a lasting scent that will land you all the compliments this spring.
This enduring fragrance blends 25% softening date syrup, aromatic vanilla, and sweet sandalwood. Infused with luxurious sandalwood oil and carob resinoid, it evokes the scent of baked goods and chocolate. Indulgent and irresistible, shoppers consistently rave about it. One reviewer said: “10/10. It lingers on my clothes for days. Plus, one spray goes a long way, so this bottle will last me 6 months easily.”
Use the spray generously over the body for a lasting scent. However, steer clear of the underarms to avoid irritation. Also, when applying after a shower or bath, allow your skin to cool first is advised to ensure the fragrance lingers more effectively.
The Body Shop Vanilla Eau De Toilette, £15.00
Smell seriously sweet with this Vanilla Eau de Toilette, which is not only delicious smelling but also great for the environment. This sweet scent is made with 93% natural ingredients, all of which are certified by The Vegan Society. The natural fragrance will leave your skin smelling sweet and creamy all day, with customers saying that “the fragrance is so long-lasting and iconic.”
While this is an Eau de toilette (EDT), a lightly scented perfume with usually 5-15% fragrance, it still has an intense and lasting smell. To smell unbelievably sweet, generously spritz over the neck and pulse points.
KAYALI Vanilla 28 Eau de Parfum, £73.00
The Mirror team adores Kayali’s Vanilla 28 Eau de Parfum. This sweet, delicious, and addictive scent boasts one of the most desired notes in fragrance, a harmonious blend of rich vanilla, warm brown sugar, and velvety tonka. Think, adding whipped cream to your favourite dessert. This scent is the perfect final touch to your spring outfit. While it’s an EDT, you can layer it with other floral scents for a more unique smell.
This enchanting fragrance has top notes which include a delightful blend of naturally sourced Madagascan vanilla orchid and lush jasmine, pairing effortlessly with the tenderness of Brazilian tonka at its core. At the base, a harmonious blend of brown sugar, amber woods, musk, and patchouli envelops you in rich and comforting layers, establishing it as one of the most versatile and alluring fragrances Kayali offers.
While undeniably pricier than other options, this sweet scent is incredibly versatile and perfect for those who want to experiment with mixing perfumes.
LOVENOTES by Ariana Grande Vanilla Suede, £75.00
While many often choose to turn a blind eye to celebrity perfumes, there are some fragrances that shine despite their celebrity status. LOVENOTES by Ariana Grande was released last year exclusively in the UK and is a personal endeavour by Ariana to make scent the ultimate and universal love language. While it is pricier, at £75, the fragrance comes in a massive 150ml bottle with such a strong scent that a little goes a long way.
This perfume provides an irresistibly beautiful second-skin sensation, delivering a memorable, tasty, delicious scent for a sensory experience. The top note offers a teasing introduction with Italian bergamot, while the fundamental scent of intimate warmth unfolds in the heart through sandalwood and rice milk. The notes of vanilla beans and liquid musk in the base amplify this smell, enhancing the cocooning sensuality and skin-like allure and leaving you with a lasting sweet smell.
Burberry Goddess for Women Eau de Parfum, £54.40
A personal favourite of mine, the Goddess for Women Eau de Parfum by Burberry, is a luxury scent without the obnoxious price tag. This scent is so distinct it really is incomparable to most and will have everyone asking, “Where is your perfume from?”
This smooth and sensual Burberry Goddess perfume is a bespoke, aromatic Eau de Parfum that offers a balanced trinity of alluring vanillas. The top note of this Burberry fragrance reveals an infusion of vanilla, which is subtly intertwined with woody aromas. The heart note of vanilla caviar lends the juice its profound sweetness and mysterious fullness. The base notes, enhanced with vibrant and refreshing lavender, exude a rich, layered, instantly memorable scent.
