Top Ten Perfumes of 2024 Olya and Steven
2024 has been a busy year for the world of fragrance, with over 6,000 launches keeping noses busy and hearts racing. Testing, reviewing, and curating the year’s standouts has been a challenge, sure—but one I’ve tackled with joy, caffeine, and an unwavering love for the art of scent. From designer classics to niche creations, the olfactory scene has been brimming with creativity. Gourmands have held onto their crown, serving up a buffet of savory, fruity, and floral decadence. A surprising MVP are the bread accords – croissants, buttery brioches, and even puff pastries wafting through this year’s releases. Lychees and strawberries also made a juicy splash, showing up in everything from candy-sweet concoctions to elegant floral bouquets. Cherry accords have had their moment too—and as someone who loves to eat, smell, and wear it, I’m thrilled it’s here to stay. Salt stepped up as a star ingredient, no longer just about sea breezes and tropical getaways. Instead, it’s morphed into complex, savory-fresh blends that transport you to far-flung shores, minus the coconut cocktails. And let’s not forget—the florals made a serious comeback this year. From light, airy whispers to bold, extravagant bouquets, they’ve brought a fresh, feminine elegance to the scene. In a year dominated by unapologetically sweet releases (sometimes too sweet), these florals felt like a breath of fresh air—chic, timeless, and perfectly balanced.
It’s an electric time to be in the fragrance world, where every launch feels like an invitation to a new adventure, the one I happily and gratefully accept. Keeping up with it all is no small feat, but it’s a challenge I embrace every year—with a brave heart, an eager nose, and a lot of excitement. So, let’s close out 2024 on a high note. Here are my top ten perfumes 2024 in a year that’s been anything but ordinary. –Olya Bar, Editor
Top Ten Perfumes of 2024 Olya
Roja Parfums Elysium Pour Femme (Roja Dove): An ode to femininity, this fragrance was love at first spritz. Fresh, airy, and luminous, it instantly transported me to a serene floral shop—sunlight streaming in, elegant blooms basking in their delicate beauty. Roja Elysium Pour Femme is a celebration of an unwavering, independent spirit, capturing the essence of feminine energy with grace and power. In the Elysium universe, our heroine strides across an imagined landscape, her presence as commanding as nature itself. The scent evokes long green stems, freshly cut and glistening with morning dew, their crisp, earthy aroma mingling with the air. Then, the florist opens the refrigerator door, and a chilled burst of fragrance greets you. Inside, pristine blooms stand like regal ice queens, their delicate petals perfectly preserved in their crystalline habitat. It’s a scent that feels alive—vibrant, sophisticated, and utterly unforgettable.@rojaparfums
Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Pavlova (Patricia de Nicolaï): Inspired by the grace of a ballerina en pointe, the fragrance pirouettes on the skin with an opening of zesty passionfruit and sun-ripened pineapple. It gracefully settles into a creamy whisper of peach—just shy of ripeness, its fuzzy softness kissed with a hint of rum for depth. Much like the dessert’s airy meringue, it’s not overly lactonic but perfectly balances the crunch and softness of whipped egg whites. As Nicolai’s first foray into gourmands, this composition is nothing short of spectacular, achieving an exquisite harmony of fruity sweetness and light, airy elegance. @nicolaïparfumeurcréateur @michaudenicolay
The 7 Virtues Candied Lychee (Barb Stegemann & Julie Pluchet): The name couldn’t be more fitting for this latest launch, a fragrance that embodies sustainability, clean ingredients, and a commitment to giving back. With the bold slogan “Make Perfume, Not War” stamped on every bottle, this brand radiates positivity and purpose. Candied Lychee is an effervescent burst of sweetness, blending the fizzy sparkle of lychee and watermelon candies with soft peonies and dewy green roses. At its heart, a playful jelly bean accord adds a whimsical twist, while the dry-down wraps you in the cozy embrace of sweet, airy vanilla. Optimistic, fun, and undeniably flirtatious, this fragrance is as addictive as it is cheerful. I found myself reaching for it constantly, so much so that half the bottle disappeared over a single summer—proof of its irresistible charm. @cpl_aromas @the7virtues @barbstegemann
Initio Parfums Prive Narcotic Delights: Launched as part of the Carnal Blends collection, this fragrance is one intoxicating blend of sensuality and sex, built around the luminous allure of Hedione. It opens with a delectable cocktail of pink pepper, cognac, and cherries, layered over a warm base of vanilla and tobacco. Rich, deep, and indulgent, it evokes the refined elegance of a fine cigar dipped in aged cognac, each note unfolding with the complexity of a well-matured wine. The cherries take center stage—ripe, jammy, and full-bodied—while the tobacco and vanilla create a smooth, enveloping warmth. For some, it might bring to mind the sweet, smoky richness of hookah, with its layered intensity and comforting depth. This release quickly became one of my favorites from the house, perfect for evenings and special occasions—much like a cherished bottle of cognac, brought out to celebrate unforgettable moments. @initioparfumsprives
Andrea Maack Jest (Julien Rasquinet): Deep, boozy plum meets crisp, juicy apple, swirled with a cocoa powder musk that feels both indulgent and airy. Jest captures the playful spirit of early fall, blending rum-soaked baking spices, syrupy vanilla, and the soft, creamy allure of heliotrope. This is no ordinary vanilla —it’s truly one of a kind. The fruits are rich and macerated in liquor, the chocolate dances between dark and milky, and the apple delivers a perfect balance of fresh sweetness and crunch. At the heart of it all is a warm, enveloping vanilla that feels like a cozy embrace. If you have a weakness for sweet scents with an unexpected twist, this one’s worth every sniff. Playful yet sophisticated, it’s a treat that’s anything but ordinary.@andreamaack @julienrasquinet @cpl_aromas and cpl_aromas_visionary
Guerlain Patchouli Paris (Delphine Jelk): One of my top ten perfumes of 2024, this fragrance might just send a shiver down your spine—it’s a rich, lustful take on patchouli, inspired by the dazzling spirit of Parisian nights. Delphine Jelk captures the essence of a Paris evening, weaving together the fresh vibrancy of the Seine with the sultry warmth of patchouli, evoking the electric energy of Montmartre, Pigalle, and beyond. Sparkling aldehydes and airy musks dance alongside earthy, damp patchouli, which takes center stage, blazing against powdery, woody iris—a nod to the red glow of Paris’ artistic and passionate spirit. The scent trail feels like walking home at dawn after a night of love, leaving behind a rich, amber-toned sillage of vanilla, ambergris, and musk. Patchouli Paris radiates the vibrancy, freedom, and magnetic charm of the city that never sleeps.@guerlain @delphinejelk
Parfums de Marly Palatine(Hamid Merati-Kashani & Julien Sprecher): The latest feminine-forward fragrance from the brand takes one of the most classic notes in women’s perfumery—violet—and completely modernizes it. The result is an ultra-feminine yet lively, with lush and delicious layers of juicy mandarins, ripe pears, candied violets, and warm vanilla, rounded out with a touch of soft, soapy musks in the base. It’s contemporary, super easy to wear, and perfectly fits that flirtatious yet demure vibe—modern but with a cozy touch of warm nostalgia. @parfumsdemarly @hamidmeratikikashani
Dusita Pelagos Extrait (Pissara Umavijani): Pelagos, meaning “sea” in Greek, is inspired by Pissara’s deeply cherished memories of the Aegean Sea islands. The first time I wore this fragrance was during the height of summer at a secluded beach lagoon on Long Island. It was the perfect moment to drench my skin in this half-salty, half-savory scent, which eventually settled into the most stunning traces of a fougère. This is one of the most unique fragrances I’ve encountered, shifting and evolving with every hour. Its journey is almost impossible to fully capture because I believe it will feel entirely unique to each wearer. And finally, I loved the subtle touch of masculinity it left behind after a few hours and a couple of dips in the ocean—a scent that lingers like a memory of the sea. Pelagos was also Ida’s, Nicoleta’s and Danu’s top ten perfumes of 2024@parfumsdusita @ploiuma @parfumsdusitaparis
Atelier Des Ors Kawa Karda Extrait (Marie Salamagne): Part of the newest Abstraction Collection, this release invites you to push boundaries, spark your imagination, and explore a world where the familiar meets the abstract. Kawa Karda is a must-sniff for coffee enthusiasts, with an aroma that’s as intricate as it is captivating. The coffee accord alone is a sensory masterpiece, blending notes of roasted hazelnuts, smoky cacao, caramelized sugar, and a touch of dark molasses. Its natural bitterness is beautifully rounded out by deep, earthy undertones, while the steam carries a heady, invigorating aroma that feels almost alive. Add cardamom to the mix, and the experience transforms. The tiny green pods introduce a sweet, citrusy spice with hints of pine and soft floral nuances, elevating the warmth of the coffee to something exotic and profoundly comforting. Together, they craft a fragrance that is bold, complex, and perfectly balanced—an olfactory journey that is as grounded as it is otherworldly. @atelierdesors @marie_salamagne
Commodity Juice (Nathalie Benareau): Commodity’s latest release, three years in the making, is a mouthwatering summer cocktail that lands just in time for the season. Originally founded in 2013, the brand has been completely reinvented under Vicken Arslanian, founder of Europerfumes and owner of Twisted Lily, elevating Commodity into a DTC powerhouse and a staple at Sephora worldwide. This scent opens with juicy strawberries and sweet raspberry pulp, setting the stage for a lush heart of Bulgarian rose. Tangy rhubarb adds a green twist, while cyclamen gives it a sharp, piquant edge. The fizzy, effervescent vibe feels like a sparkling summer mocktail—think sugar-rimmed glass, fizzy water, and a garnish of fresh raspberries and strawberries. Its structure dances between fruity and floral, with a dry down of modern, airy amberwood that lingers softly on the skin. Refreshing, addictive, and effortlessly chic—this one’s a summer essential. @commodity @nathaliebenareauperfumer
Top Ten Perfumes of 2024 Best Limited Edition
Micallef Il Était Une Nuit This fragrance is a doorway to childhood nostalgia and the wonder of grown-up daydreams. It evokes the joy of diving into soft, freshly fallen snow, creating angels with the carefree innocence of youth. This reimagined version of their 2002 fragrance Watch is richer, denser, and wrapped in a nostalgic warmth that evokes snow-covered villages, twinkling stars, and cozy gatherings. Candied peaches and plums soaked in brandy, with a bold tuberose in the heart and warm sensual vanilla. @parfumsmicallef
Plus two more
Chanel Comete (Olivier Polge):Gabrielle Chanel’s fascination with the stars didn’t stop at inspiration—it reshaped the world of high jewelry in 1932 with her groundbreaking Bijoux de Diamants collection. At its core, the Comète necklace captured the magic of a shooting star, embodying the personal connection between wearer, jewelry, and scent. Comète Eau de Parfum, crafted by In-House Perfumer Olivier Polge. This luminous and sensual fragrance sparkles like stardust, blending fresh cherry blossom, powdery iris, and soft heliotrope. Minimal yet transformative, it feels like a second skin with a touch of beautiful vintage sophistication.@chanel. beauty
Infiniment Coty Encore un Fois (Fabrice Pellegrin) – this new collection of 14 fragrances, envisioned by CEO Sue Y. Nabi and Nicolas Vu—founders of Orveda skincare—brings cutting-edge innovation to perfumery with its Molecular Aura technology, designed to capture and release notes over time. Encore un Fois is an unapologetic elixir of carnal indulgence—a heady, balmy blend of Vanilla Bourbon, Orchid Vanilla, and the dark amber depth of Peru Balsam. The result is a rich, intoxicating vanilla concoction that’s as addictive as it is sultry. I can’t seem to put my bottle down these days—voluptuousness bottled, a sensory loop of eternal beginnings.@infinimentcoty @fabnose
Olya Bar, Editor
2024 has been an exceptional year for fragrance lovers, with many incredible releases that have captivated our senses. From designer fragrances to some of the most high-end niche perfumes, there is something for everyone to discover. From bold, innovative blends to refined classics reimagined, this year has seen an array of scents that cater to all tastes and preferences. However, out of the numerous perfumes that have debuted, the ones I am about to list stand out as my personal top 10 favorites, each offering something truly unique and remarkable. While some are flankers, others are original releases that have truly piqued my olfactory interest. Here are my top ten perfumes of 2024 –Steven Gavrielatos, Video Contributor.
Steven’s top ten perfumes of 2024
Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Over Red (Honorine Blanc, Marie Salamagne, Nathalie Lorson, Olivier Cresp): his perfume captures the allure and sensuality of the original while also adding a mild cherry aroma in the opening. It unfolds beautifully while also staying true to the DNA of the original, which so many people have grown to love and appreciate! @yslbeauty @oliviercresp @nathalielorson_masterperfumeur @marie_salamagne
Amouage Guidance 46 (Quentin Bisch): 46 is such an exceptional new version. This fragrance opens with the sweet, juicy freshness of pear, complemented by the creamy warmth of almond and hazelnut. A delicate rose heart adds floral elegance, while rich incense grounds the composition, creating a captivating blend of sweetness and depth. A luxurious, inviting scent that lingers beautifully. @amouageofficial @qunetinbischperfumeur
Lattafa Eclaire is a gourmand to the max with caramel and a lactonic accord. This perfume is as delicious as it is addictive. For the colder months of the year, it will establish a cozy sensation that you won’t want to shake. If you are a fan of some of the sweeter olfactive offerings on the market, this is one you won’t want to miss. @lattafa_perfumes
Creed Delphinus (Mathieu Nardin): This is one of the two fragrances recently introduced into the Amber Universe collection by Creed (the other being Centaurus), and this fragrance exudes a warm, velvety richness, where the smooth, nutty almond blends harmoniously with the powdery elegance of orris. Deep, smoky incense adds mystery, while bourbon vanilla wraps the composition in a sweet, comforting embrace. The result is a sophisticated, sensual scent with a lasting, indulgent allure.@creedfragrance @mat_nd
Versace Eros Energy (Jordi Fernandez): Versace Eros Energy is one of the two Eros flankers released in 2024 (the other being Eros Najim [an exclusive to Dubai]). This is the brightest one of the bunch as it bursts with the zesty freshness of lemon, blood orange, and grapefruit, creating an energizing citrus symphony. The sharp, spicy pink pepper adds a lively kick, while earthy oakmoss grounds the composition, lending a sense of depth. A refreshing, bold scent with a perfect balance of brightness and warmth. @versace @jordi_perfumer
Initio Parfums Prives Narcotic Delight is the latest introduction to the Carnal Blends collection from the brand. It features cherry, cognac, tobacco, and vanilla. It may not even be necessary to list the other notes as I believe that these four are enough to entice you! The syrupy sweetness of the cherry is compounded with the intoxicating qualities of the cognac. Absolutely superb.@initioparfumsprives
BDK Parfums Rouge Smoking Extrait (Margaux Le Paih Guerin, & Amelie Bourgeois):This intoxicating fragrance opens with the rich, boozy warmth of rum, balanced by the creamy softness of milk. Sweet, juicy cherry and nutty almond add an indulgent, comforting touch, while smoky oud anchors the composition with its deep, earthy complexity. A bold, luxurious scent that evokes warmth and allure. This is, of course, the richer version of the original Rouge Smoking. @bdkparfumsparis @ame_lie_bourgeois @margaux.lepaih.guerin
Sarah Baker Peach’s Revenge (Chris Maurice): Peach lovers rejoice! Peach’s Revenge is one of the most natural smelling peach perfumes on the market. Luckily, it never gets too saccharine, but the juicy elements of the fruit are perfectly preserved. Of course, the perfume also contains other fruits like guava and nectarine, but it’s anchored by sweet tones of vanilla, amaretto, and caramel. Touches of cinnamon spice also delight the senses in this beautiful olfactory expression and one of the top ten perfumes of 2024 for Michelyn, Nicoleta and Danu. @houseofsarahbaker @cdlaniche
Kajal Äican (Huseyin Erdogmus, Ozge Erdogmus Altinel and Gokhan Simsek EPS Fragrances): This vibrant fragrance opens with the tropical zest of passionfruit and pineapple, creating a juicy, exotic blend. Warm, spicy black pepper adds a daring kick, while sweet praline and smooth vanilla provide a rich, indulgent sweetness. Soft musk rounds out the composition, creating a balanced, sensual, and unforgettable scent and one of Michelyn’s and my top ten perfumes of 2024
Steven Gavrielatos, Video Contributor
Thanks to the generosity of Sarah Baker we have a 50 ml bottle of Peach’s Revenge for one registered reader in the US or UK. You must register or your entry will not count.
photo by Olya©
Thanks to the largesse of Nicolaï Parfumeur-Createur we have a 30 ml bottle Pavlova for one registered reader in the USA or EU. YOU MUST REGISTER.
ONLY THE ABOVE TWO ARE IN THE DRAW.
Let us know what you think of Olya’s and Steven’s Top 10 Perfumes of 2024. What sparked your interest? What do you want to try or have tried, where do you live and which you would like to win. Please leave a quality comment. Draw closes 1/3/2025
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Remember these draws are still open: Wearescentient’s and Danu Top 10 perfumes 2024 MATIERE PREMIERE Santal Austral, Meo Fusciuni BUOI, Marc-Antoine Barrois Tilia, Last day December 31here and Sandi and Hernando for Rosy & Earnest Vanilla Royal Rhu, For The Scent of it Dreaming in Santal, Voyages Imaginaires Comme Un Gant and Parfums Quartana Soleil Invisible last day is January 1, 20225 Rachel and Karl’s top ten perfumes of 2024 which include Astrophil & Stella In Extremis, Rogue Perfumery Absolue de Mousse and Darren Alan Perfumes Songes a Fleur here last day is January 1/2/25
Wrapping up 2024 will be Lauryn and Oli soon.
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