Looking for a fragrance that turns heads? As Escentual's Beauty Expert, I'm sharing my list of the most complimented perfumes, from Amouage Guidance to Initio Oud For Greatness. Discover the scents that linger and leave a lasting impression.
Finding Your Signature Scent (That Everyone Else Loves, Too!)
As our in-house Beauty Expert, I'm lucky enough to spend my days surrounded by incredible fragrances. I love having variety, but there's a special list of scents that consistently earn genuine compliments from everyone around me. These are the most complimented perfumes in my collection. And I thought it was time I shared my coveted list.
I'm always looking for a fragrance that stops people in their tracks. It’s a testament to its quality, its ability to linger beautifully, and its unique power to become an extension of your personality. These aren't 'just' perfumes I wear; they are the ones that have woven themselves into my life, each with a story.
Let's discover the perfumes that will get people asking "What are you wearing?"
"OMG can you send me the link to that perfume you had on the other day? I can still smell it on my jacket.”
1. Amouage Guidance
Amouage Guidance is the perfume that gets me the most reactions. And now my friends, bartenders at my favourite cocktail bar, know this scent as 'me'. I wouldnt have it anyway.
Guidance is the most feminine, floral scent I've ever worn or loved. Because it's experience on the skin - lush, creamy, and with an almost otherworldly quality that makes people lean in closer.
With its notes of pear, hazelnut, and jasmine, this is a beautiful and frankly unforgettable aroma. It’s a bold statement, but in the most sophisticated way possible. Its ability to last from morning right through to evening is my favourite quality; it never fails to leave a trail of compliments and fun memories in its wake.
"Are you wearing that expensive perfume again? It smells so good.”
2. Parfums de Marly Valaya
I must admit, this scent has become a bit of a staple, and I've even passed it on to my best friends. It’s a wonderfully fresh yet deeply sophisticated perfume that feels like wearing a beautifully ironed shirt on a sunny morning. The blend of mandarin, white peach, and musk gives it such a clean, radiant quality. One friend wore it to a wedding and felt absolutely elevated, while another saves it for her most special occasions. Hearing about the compliments they get makes me so happy; it’s a fragrance that whispers luxury and makes anyone who wears it feel completely put-together.
"That doesn't smell smoky like an oud; it smells sexy. I need it.”
3. Initio Oud For Greatness
This is absolutely not your typical heavy, smoky fragrance. Initio Oud For Greatness is bright, vibrant, and so utterly magnetic. I find it to be one of the sexiest scents I own, and for that extra boost, I even layer it with the matching hair mist. Without fail, I always get stopped and asked what I’m wearing. My favourite compliments on this one, though, come from my sister. I’ve always looked up to her and her incredibly chic fragrance choices, so hearing her say how gorgeous it is feels like the ultimate validation. It truly is a masterpiece.
"Ok, whatever that perfume is, I need it.”
4. Goutal Tenue de Soiree
This perfume feels like a bit of a celebration. Goutal Tenue de Soirée is a playful, lush scent that embodies the epitome of glamour, both in its appearance and scent. With its notes of iris, patchouli, and raspberry, it's both powdery and fruity, creating an intoxicating and elegant mix. People often comment on how feminine and fun this scent is. It's the kind of perfume that makes you feel a little bit dressed up, even in jeans and a t-shirt. The lasting power is great, and the compliments are a testament to its ability to make any day feel special.
"What's that creamy, figgy deliciousness I can smell?”
5. Acqua di Parma Fico di Amalfi
This scent always gets positive feedback; it’s one that gets picked out immediately, because it's a blissfully serene fragrance that feels like a delicious, fresh fig.
The juicy fruit is at the heart of this scent, surrounded by a subtle, creamy sweetness and a zesty, clean freshness. People notice this one in the best way, often leaning in and saying, "Oh, it's delicious!" or "I love fig." It perfectly captures a scent that is both comforting and invigorating, making it a unique and beautiful perfume.
Are these perfumes unisex?
While some are traditionally marketed as feminine, many of these scents blur the lines beautifully. Initio Oud For Greatness is a fantastic example, it’s very much a unisex fragrance, and in my experience, it smells incredible on everyone. Amouage Guidance and Goutal Tenue de Soirée lean more feminine, but if you love them, wear them!
How long do these fragrances actually last?
Longevity is a key reason these scents made the list. Initio Oud For Greatness and Amouage Guidance have phenomenal staying power, often lasting a full day on my skin. Goutal Tenue de Soirée and Parfums de Marly Valaya also perform very well, with impressive staying power that gets you through a good six to eight hours. Acqua di Parma Fico di Amalfi is a little lighter, as is typical for a fresh scent, but it still has a decent four to five hours of wear time on me.
Is Valaya a good everyday scent?
Absolutely. I’d say it’s one of the most versatile on the list. Its clean, sophisticated scent is perfectly suitable for a professional setting, a casual weekend brunch, or even a lovely evening out. It’s elegant without being too "much" for day-to-day.
Which one is best for a special occasion?
All of them, depending on the vibe you're going for! If you want to make a powerful, unforgettable statement, Guidance or Oud For Greatness are your best bet. For classic glamour and elegance, you can’t go wrong with Goutal Tenue de Soirée or Parfums de Marly Valaya.
Find Your Next Compliment-Worthy Scent
There you have it - the perfumes that have become a real part of my story. They’re more than just bottles on a dressing table; they're moments, feelings, and the compliments that remind me of the power of a perfect scent.
What are your most complimented perfumes? I’d love to hear all about them @escentual!
Chelsey, Escentual Beauty Editor
With eighteen years immersed in the beauty world, from the shop floor to the present. Chelsey has cultivated a deep understanding of fragrance and its power. She leverages this experience to guide you, offering tailored advice and product insight to help you discover the perfect scent and achieve your personal fragrance goals.
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