Like jewellery, fragrance is one of those deeply personal gifts that says “I know you, and I adore you” without a single word. This season, we’ve sought out the most exquisite fragrances to suit every sensibility, from bold woody blends that exude confidence and allure, soft gourmands that feel like silk on the skin, and rich chypres that envelop you in an air of mystery and sophistication.
Best Christmas fragrances of 2025
"This is the perfect scent for the sophisticated woman in your life. If she loves classic movies, old-school cocktails, and interesting totchkes, then she will fall head over heels for Hermès' Barénia Intense. A modern-day retelling of the chypre structure, this fragrance features soft butterfly lily, deep oakwood, leather and patchouli absolute. It's not for the faint of heart" - Nessa Humayun, Beauty Editor
"Looking for a new scent for the autumn/winter months? Maison Margiela Replica fragrances perfectly capture a moment in time and Jazz Club is inspired by smokey bars in Brooklyn, New York. It’s a sexy and seductive scent, with typically masculine notes—it’s boozy, leathery and woody. A real compliment receiver" - Katie Thomas, Senior Beauty Editor
"Everyone needs a bottle of Chanel N°5 in their fragrance wardrobe. After all, it remains one of the world’s most iconic perfumes and the perfect introduction to Chanel’s scent collection. Often described as the very essence of femininity, N°5 is a luminous floral bouquet built around May rose and jasmine, lifted by sparkling citrus top notes. Aldehydes add its distinctive effervescence, while a smooth touch of vanilla leaves an irresistibly sensual trail" - Lottie Winter, Beauty Director
"I've long adored Initio Parfums Privés for their innovative approach to scent—and it's been a wonderful thing to introduce new noses to their back catalogue. One favourite, that you can't go wrong with, is their bold unisex: OUD FOR GREATNESS. Capturing the natural essence of oud wood, it is balanced with patchouli, musk, and the fresh vibrancy of lavender, as well as warming nutmeg and saffron" - Nessa Humayun, Beauty Editor
"As one of the world’s most storied fragrance houses, Creed has long epitomised craftsmanship and quiet opulence, making this discovery set a true indulgence for perfume connoisseurs and newcomers alike. Showcasing five of the brand's most celebrated creations (Aventus for Her, Wind Flowers, Royal Princess Oud, Carmina and Queen of Silk), the limited-edition collection offers a refined 10ml edit of scents that explore the many facets of modern femininity. Together, they're a masterclass in character, composition and timeless allure" - Lottie Winter, Beauty Director
"Gifting fragrance is one of the most difficult things to do, which is why I so often recommend a perfume set of minis. In this Diptyque collection are five incredible scents, inspired by nature. Whoever you gift to is sure to find a favourite (or five)" - Katie Thomas, Senior Beauty Editor
"Known for its beautifully unconventional fragrances, Perfumer H reimagines the classic rose with Rose With Insect. Founder and perfumer Lyn Harris layers fragments of rose isolates (single molecules that capture facets of the flower’s true essence) with a sultry blend of peach and neroli, offset by musk and cardamom. The result is radically modern: a scent that unveils romance in its purest form—addictive, complex and quietly poetic" - Lottie Winter, Beauty Director
"I've always said that it's a crying shame that more people don't know about Bibbi Parfum. The brand, founded by Stina Bibbi Seger, is quickly amassing a cult following, thanks to its graphic visuals and super evocative, unique scents that conjure up everything from swimming pools to the future. A great way to get acquainted is their beautifully packaged Discovery Set—it's great for the woman who has everything" - Nessa Humayun, Beauty Editor
"There is something so chic about a solid perfume. Yes you could take a fragrance bottle from your handbag for on-the-go top ups, but wouldn’t retrieving this stunning jet-black metal case look so much smarter? Housed inside is the brand’s signature Seymour scent which is super wearable and unique—there’s a botanical edge to it, which is entwined with grapefruit and geranium" - Katie Thomas, Senior Beauty Editor
"Each of Les Soeurs de Noé’s fragrances tells a story, acting as a celebration of shared humanity and cultural connection. Mitsio Vanille is an olfactory homage to Madagascar, inspired by founder Nadia Benaisa’s time supporting an educational initiative in its remote villages. The scent blends comforting warmth with timeless sophistication, weaving together bright bergamot, sensual vanilla, and the grounding depth of liquid musks and driftwoods" - Lottie Winter, Beauty Director
