Name something better than having someone tell you ‘you smell divine’. It’s a feeling one can’t describe. In my eyes your scent is one of the most important factors of self image. Hear me out. Oud or Oudh (also known as agarwood) is by far one of the most expensive fragrance ingredients in the world. It is an essential oil which is extracted from the heartwood of the agar tree, primarily found in Southeast Asia.
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Oud has gained a lot of popularity over the years, specifically in the western world and is a staple in my fragrance wardrobe. It was my father who first introduced me to Oud. I remember the distinct scent lingering as he walked by and remember him showing me a small bottle of oud which was meant to be dabbed on your neck and wrists, unlike the present day spray bottles. In modern perfumes, oud is used more as a base note that acts as a foundation for the other notes. The fragrance world can be very complex but don’t worry because I have listed some of the best oud perfumes that I currently have on rotation below.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Satin Mood
For someone who doesn’t often reach for floral scents, when mixed with oud well, it’s a different story. The first thing that comes to mind when I smell this fragrance is a romantic date night. The sweet, sophisticated notes of this perfume are like no other. It’s not what you’d typically expect from an ‘oud’ scent but it’s ideal for those who prefer something a little more feminine. The floral notes are rich and take president over the earthy notes. I am forever receiving compliments when I wear this from both men and women so if you’re looking for a showstopper this might be it.
Top notes: Bulgarian Rose, Violet and Strawberry
Middle notes: Turkish Rose
Base notes: Agarwood (Oud), Vanilla, Benzoin, Amber, Caramel and Cedar
Dior Oud Ispahan
A luring scent that cannot be forgotten. This perfume is something I’d reach for on an evening as it’s a scent that lingers on through to the night. It’s definitely a scent that is unforgettable and will have people turning their head due to its immense projection. It can be worn both by men and women without it being too feminine. This perfume will forever remain a favourite as it makes me feel sexy and powerful. If you’re like me and love intoxicating people with your scent, I would recommend pairing it with the body cream.
Top notes: Labdanum
Middle notes: Rose, Patchouli and Saffron
Base notes: Agarwood (Oud), Sandalwood and Cedar
Acqua Di Parma Oud & Spice
If you’re looking for an oud fragrance for autumn/ winter then look no further. At first glance this perfume when sprayed can lean toward more of a masculine scent but as time goes on, it develops into a beautiful but spicy floral scent. It’s not as intense as some ouds I’ve listed but it’s definitely got the wow factor. If you’re looking for a fragrance to make you feel sexy this is it!
Top notes: Raspberry, Rose and Bergamot
Middle notes: Cloves, Pink Pepper and Cinnamon
Base notes: Agarwood (Oud), Labdanum and Patchouli
Penhaligon’s Halfeti
An all time favourite of mine. I have been wearing this scent now for at least 8 years and it will never get old. Some would say this isn’t for the faint hearted as it is an extremely intense fragrance. I personally love that about it and think it’s perfect for the colder months. The warm, spicy notes mixed together with the exotic floral notes create a beautiful and inviting aroma that instantly fills the air. There’s just something so empowering about this perfume that makes me feel 100x more confident when I wear it. It’s opulent, seductive and powerful.
Top notes: Cypress Leaf, Saffron, Cardamom, Artemisia, Bergamot and Grapefruit
Middle notes: Bulgarian Rose, Nutmeg and Jasmine
Base notes: Agarwood (Oud), Cedar, Leather, Sandalwood, Amber, Tonka Bean, Vanilla and Musk
Guerlain Oud Nude
One of my feel good perfumes. If there’s one thing Guerlain are good at it’s their fragrances. This soft, fruity feminine scent can make anyone feel good about themselves. It’s subtle yet captivating which is ideal for those who are new to the oud family. It has a dash of oud that creeps to the surface every now and then which is quite intriguing. When I want to channel my inner femininity this is what I would reach for.
Top notes: Almond, Incense, Cumin
Middle notes: Atlas cedar, Raspberry
Base notes: Oud wood, Vanilla, Musk, Sandalwood
Hermes Oud Alezan
A new one to my collection but one I truly treasure. The Hermes Alezan bottle design it so chic and very Hermes. It smells incredibly sophisticated and can be worn both day and night without being offensive. It comes at a cost but I’m a firm believer in “you get what you pay for”. It’s a scent that truly captures beauty.
Top notes: Oud
Heart notes: Rose hydrolat
Base notes: Rose oxide
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