In the vast world of perfumes, vanilla is particularly popular. Here are three references that will definitely earn you compliments.
Vanilla perfumes have never been so popular. Long considered regressive and a little too heavy, notably because of its association with the tiare flower in the 90s/2000s, vanilla is getting a second lease of life. Much more sophisticated this time. Today, vanilla has completely lost its image as a “cheap” or “too sweet” perfume thanks to the strong comeback of exceptional raw materials and niche perfumery. It is now worked in the form of an absolute which, unlike synthetic vanilla, has a woody, spicy and even a little leathery side. A little revolution that does a lot of good for fragrances, and for our nostrils!
Ever since I was little, I have been a total fan of vanilla perfumes, so much so that I have a hard time moving away from them. For me to adopt a juice sustainably, it must have this precious spice. On the other hand, it should not be too “obvious”, but well worked. So, as a beauty journalist, I was able to test numerous references, from the most well-known to the most confidential. In my quest for the perfect vanilla perfume, three stood out and even earned me quite a few compliments when I wore them. There is no question of keeping these references secret.
The first is the one I adopted for several years. Even though I change sometimes, I always end up going back to Goddess by Burberry. Its particularity? It is composed of three forms of Madagascar vanilla: infusion, caviar and absolute. A rare bias in perfumery. This pretty trio is enhanced by a touch of luminous lavender. The result is chic, sensual, modern and addictive. Since its discovery in 2023, I have lost count of the number of times I have been asked what I am wearing.
The Rolls-Royce of vanilla perfumes is indeed Vanilla Powder by Matière Première. Imagined by the nose Aurélien Guichard (to whom we owe Hero by Burberry, or Narciso Poudré by Narciso Rodriguez), it mixes Madagascar vanilla with coconut powder, heliotrope, musk and palo santo. Result ? A sophisticated, luminous scent, but also very enveloping and magnetic, with a trail that lasts all day. I can’t do without it anymore.
This is undoubtedly the most unexpected vanilla: 9:50 p.m. Rêverie, by Victoria Beckham, opens with very particular notes of tobacco leaf, giving way to the most delicious of vanillas, mixed with cedar wood and tonka bean. The perfume evolves so quickly that you shouldn’t stop at the first impression.
In addition to that, it has a special story: it was inspired by a romantic surprise from David Beckham to his wife. As the couple dines in the heart of a rice field on the island of Java, Indonesia, thousands of small candles begin to glow all over the field as the sun sets. It’s also a perfume that gets me a lot of compliments. Three very different creations, but which will undoubtedly conquer the hearts of vanilla lovers.
