PHARRELL WILLIAMS 2020 INTERVIEW: EXPLORES THE BEAUTY BUSINESS
Recently, Pharrell Williams found himself needing to dispel rumors in an interview with CNN, reassuring viewers that he is not, in fact, a vampire. This claim had nothing to do with his extraordinary creative talents in songwriting, performing, or fashion design. Instead, it was about his youthful appearance at 47, as he approaches his sixth decade. His striking angular cheekbones are inherited from his grandmother, and his almond-shaped eyes come from his father. While his musical prowess garners admiration, there has always been an equal fascination with his looks and skincare regimen. Williams’s thoughtful, philosophical approach extends to all his endeavors. “Sometimes you need to cleanse your spirit,” he reflects. “Sometimes you need to cleanse your mind. Sometimes you’ve just got to get rid of some dead skin.”
He’s here to discuss his latest venture: a skincare line developed in collaboration with his longtime dermatologist, Elena Jones. “Are you seeing this?” he asks proudly, showing off a squat bottle colored like freshly mown grass. The name “Humanrace” stands out boldly on the packaging.
Humanrace Skincare debuts with a rice powder cleanser, an enzyme exfoliant, and a “humidifying” moisturizer. “I grew up in humidity,” he notes, recalling his Virginia Beach roots, just a mile from the ocean. “The way I think about things… I’m an Aries, but I’m also a Cancer rising. Water makes me feel free. Water is very inspiring to me.” Indeed, water has been a lifelong theme for him. “I’ve always been obsessed with the idea that water falls [from] the sky as evaporation,” he explains.
Williams’s knack for promoting even the simplest products is evident here. He holds up a loden-green sandal to the webcam, which looks like a shower slide with a puffy tube top. “I told everybody, ‘Listen, wearing these are like [wearing] socks,’” he says. I research them: Adidas x Pharrell Williams Boost slides, $100 a pair. “And they sell out, because people want comfort.”
If you were to invent a title for him, Pharrell Williams would be the Chief Sensations Officer at Humanrace. He characterizes his skincare expertise as the ability to “describe sensations,” which are then reverse-engineered by his team to create previously non-existent experiences. Whether it’s the feeling of shoes that gently embrace your feet or the sensation of humidity on your face captured in a cream that also highlights your cheekbones, Williams translates these sensations into tangible products.
“You put on that humidifying cream,” he says with a grin that flattens his little black mustache, “You’re like, ‘Oh man, my skin is popping.’”
Under the relentless Miami sun, where the air is so humid it could be sold as a moisturizer, Williams goes for bike rides a few times a week. He began biking around Miami 15 years ago as both a physical and spiritual practice. The cardio from riding up to a hundred miles a week helps keep his physique lean. “I like to be slim,” he explains. “I don’t want to be bulky. I don’t want to have big muscles and shit. Like, I’m not looking to be some Greek statue.”
“Sometimes you need to cleanse your spirit. Sometimes you need to cleanse your mind. Sometimes you’ve just got to get rid of some dead skin.”
At the start of each ride, he curses the wind, but soon he feels it as a divine force propelling him forward. “You realize that there is something much more than just you, your bike, and your attention to where you’re headed. There’s this force that comes from nature that you just… If you’re down to be in tune, it speaks to you. It speaks to me.” He spent much of his youth biking in Virginia Beach, likely looking much like he does now—slim and youthful—riding south and north.
In his mid-20s, Williams began a serious focus on skin health. During the early stages of his career, he would often engage in impromptu grooming discussions with women he dated, befriended, or met professionally. “They’d talk to me about their skin and the things that they’d do,” he recalls. “It varied between the different girls and campaigns that they had done and what they felt was integral to their process.” He fondly remembers skin-care advice from Naomi Campbell: “‘As soon as you’re done washing your face, you wash it with cold water.’ She would always talk to me about never washing my face with the downward strokes of whatever cloth I was using, to always go upward, to go against the gravity.”
(Williams married Helen Lasichanh in 2013; the couple had a son in 2008 and triplets in 2017. He is no longer engaging in these skin-care discussions with women.)
The celebrity network offers a mixed bag of skin-care advice. On one hand, celebrities often have a strong grasp of skin care, akin to how an American soldier might master Tagalog while stationed in the Philippines. However, many are contracted by beauty companies, which can limit their expertise to promoting specific brands or products, making them unreliable narrators at times.
Williams’s description of his skin-care line reflects his unique approach: “Humanrace is a full-on brand,” he says. “We just want to make things better. We want to democratize the experience of achieving wellness. And I’m not trying to be like any other wellness brand out there. That’s what they do. That’s what they give. Ours is all based on results and solutions and sensations. We wanted to look at sensations. I mean, we live in a world that needs it.”
While Williams has previously been cautious about identifying himself as an activist, his perspective has evolved, particularly influenced by the Movement for Black Lives this past summer. He has been inspired by thinkers like Michael Harriot and Henry Louis Gates Jr., who have demonstrated that impactful change can take many forms. “Gates said, there are many different ways to protest, to be on the front lines,” Williams notes, referring to the widespread protests in the United States since May. “Some people are great orators. Some people are great strategists. Some people can stand and hold a placard, protest sign, for way longer than other people. There are people making sandwiches and bringing nourishment to people who are out there. My activism has [taken a lot of shapes]. Because my culture, our lives matter.”
This summer, Williams and Jay-Z released “Entrepreneur,” a track highlighting the systemic ways capital is withheld from Black men. The phrase “Black Man” even illuminated Times Square from a New York Police Department outpost, promoting the single.
When asked if the song draws any inspiration from his own business success, Williams is reserved. “I mean, Jay and I just did that song as a PSA,” he says. “Only. It’s just that.”
Williams explains that the song aims to inspire aspiring Black business owners to act on their ambitions despite the obstacles. “When you hear the whispers of your ambitions, act on them. You’ve generationally been told how tough it’s going to be for you. It’s like you’re on the baseball team, with one arm behind your back. You might be able to catch the ball. How far are you going to be able to hit it? They need you to be able to make it all the way home.”
Williams has certainly made it home. He’s written, produced, or performed at least one of your favorite songs, making you leap from the bathroom to the dance floor back in the days when that was a thing. He’s been behind tracks that made you hold on tight through the opening notes of hits like “I’m a Slave 4 U” and “Hot in Herre.” In his early days, while working with Chad Hugo, their contributions were often overshadowed by the star power of artists like Britney, Justin, and Nelly. But when it became known that two men from Virginia Beach were responsible for a significant chunk of pop radio hits, the music world took notice.
How does Pharrell Williams create music? “It’s like a house,” he explains. “There’s more than one way inside the house. It’s not just the front door. The side doors, windows, patios. There [are] so many ways, so I don’t know that we have the time to —”
We don’t. We’re at minute 50 of a tightly scheduled second interview, which has to be conducted during Williams’s workout. The first interview took place while he was working on Rosalía’s third studio album, during which he had to briefly step away to bid her farewell.
“— really unpack that. I will say that no matter the scenario, when it comes to music for me, there’s always a trigger. It’s just a word in the conversation or a notion, or seeing a situation, or watching a movie. It all depends. And once you find that trigger, it becomes a rabbit hole and then you just kind of go down that. The rest of it is figuring out what the groove is going to be.”
Currently, he and Hugo are working on crafting the groove for Rihanna’s highly anticipated ninth album. “Rih is in a different place right now. Like, wow. She’s from a different world.” Williams humorously suggests that this world might be Venus, backing it up with a recent theory that there could be life on our neighboring planet. “I‘m willing to bet, because Venus is gaseous, that if they had a telescope that could zoom through all that shit, you’d see Rih laying there naked.”
“I’m an Aries, but I’m also a Cancer rising. Water makes me feel free. Water is very inspiring to me.”
Williams possesses the remarkable ability to create music that is both exceptional and widely popular. Over the past decade, he has achieved two Billboard Hot 100 hits that dominated the charts for over ten weeks: “Blurred Lines” and “Happy.” The former, a funky track, was controversial, with some critics interpreting it as condoning sexual assault—an interpretation that Williams has since come to understand. “Happy,” on the other hand, became a staple at baby showers and beyond.
The creation of “Happy” marked a shift in Williams’s musical approach. The song was less a personal creative pursuit and more a deliverable for Universal Pictures for the film Despicable Me 2. Originally, CeeLo Green was slated to provide vocals, but his team declined the opportunity. In an alternate reality, our CVS pharmacies might be stocked with CeeLo Green’s distinctive voice proclaiming joy and urging us to join in.
But that’s not the world we live in. Williams ended up recording “Happy,” his smooth voice adding a golden touch to the track. The song’s infectious catchiness, along with its themes of happiness, gratitude, and dancing, helped Williams win over children and older adults alike, likely enhancing his fame. Though it was initially a commission for another artist, Williams transformed it into a defining moment of his career, acing a work assignment that, for better or worse, became a significant part of his legacy.
25 BEST-SELLING WOMEN’S PERFUMES WITH SCENTS THAT MAKE YOU MORE ATTRACTIVE
Attractability is a complex mix of factors, and while a captivating scent can definitely play a role, it’s important to remember that confidence is the most attractive quality you can possess. That being said, finding a signature perfume that complements your personality and makes you feel incredible can absolutely give you an extra boost.
Popular perfumes aren’t popular for no reason – they tend to be well-crafted fragrances that smell amazing on a variety of people. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one? This list will explore some of the best-selling women’s perfumes and the olfactory magic they wield.
OUR TOP PICKS
YVES SAINT LAURENT LIBRE EAU DE PARFUM
Yves Saint Laurent Libre Eau de Parfum embodies the essence of a modern, empowered woman. This fragrance is a captivating blend of masculine and feminine notes. It opens with a burst of sparkling mandarin orange, tart black currant, and fresh lavender, creating an invigorating and independent first impression. The heart simmers with the intoxicating mix of jasmine, Moroccan orange blossom, and the ever-so-slightly herbal lavender, adding a touch of intrigue and depth. As the scent dries down, the warm embrace of vanilla and musky ambrette combine with the strength of cedarwood, leaving a lasting impression of confidence and sensuality. Libre is a perfect choice for the woman who defies expectations and carves her own path.
LE MONDE GOURMAND PISTACHIO BRÛLÉE EAU DE PARFUM
Le Monde Gourmand’s Pistachio Brûlée Eau de Parfum offers a delightful and unique fragrance experience for anyone drawn to gourmand scents. If you crave the sweet, nutty aroma of a perfectly caramelized pistachio dessert, this perfume is for you. The fragrance features delectable notes of milky mousse, resembling the creamy custard base of the brûlée. Hints of pistachio crumbs add a touch of textural intrigue, while a playful “not-so-vanilla” bean adds a surprising twist that keeps the scent from being overly sugary. Overall, Pistachio Brûlée creates a playful and irresistible aura, perfect for daytime wear or when you want a scent that’s a little out of the ordinary.
GUCCI BLOOM EAU DE PARFUM FOR HER
Gucci Bloom Eau de Parfum for Her captures the essence of a flourishing floral garden. This delightful fragrance opens with a burst of natural-smelling tuberose and jasmine, intertwined with the sweet and refreshing notes of Rangoon creeper. The heart of the perfume reveals a powdery iris and the ever-so-slightly medicinal, yet intriguing, scent of rose. As the fragrance dries down, the warm base of woody Orris and the musky depth of benzoin create a long-lasting and sophisticated aura. Gucci Bloom is a perfect choice for the woman who desires a timeless and feminine scent.
MAISON MARGIELA REPLICA JAZZ CLUB
Maison Margiela Replica Jazz Club takes you on an olfactory journey to a smoky, sophisticated jazz bar. This unisex fragrance perfectly encapsulates the mood of an evening filled with music and intrigue. The opening combines the zesty vibrancy of pink peppercorn and the delicate sweetness of neroli with a hint of citrus from lemon. This gives way to a heart of boozy rum, earthy vetiver, and herbal clary sage, creating a warm and slightly boozy atmosphere. As the scent dries down, the smooth comfort of vanilla mingles with the lingering smokiness of tobacco and a touch of balsamic resin, leaving a lasting impression of mystery and allure. Replica Jazz Club is ideal for those who want a fragrance that’s both intriguing and unforgettable.
BYREDO MOJAVE GHOST EAU DE PARFUM
Byredo Mojave Ghost Eau de Parfum is a captivating fragrance that transcends the typical desert stereotype. Instead of scorching heat, it evokes the Mojave’s surprising and alluring beauty. The scent opens with a unique: sweet Jamaican nesberry, reminiscent of pineapple and guava, mingles with the musky intrigue of ambrette. This creates a fresh and inviting first impression. The heart unfolds with a touch of floral elegance from violet and the creamy richness of sandalwood, balanced by the woody warmth of cedar. As the fragrance dries down, earthy vetiver and deep, resinous incense mingle with the musky sensuality of ambrette, leaving a trail of intrigue and subtle sweetness. Mojave Ghost is a perfect choice
for those seeking a fragrance that’s both captivating and unexpected, one that lingers on the skin like the desert’s enduring spirit.
HERETIC DIRTY VANILLA EAU DE PARFUM
Heretic Dirty Vanilla Eau de Parfum offers a unique twist on the classic vanilla scent. This 100% natural fragrance breaks away from sugary sweetness, instead offering a complex and alluring aroma. The opening combines fresh, earthy notes of cedarwood and coriander with the spicy warmth of Ho Wood oil, creating an intriguing and unexpected first impression. At the heart lies the star of the show – vanilla. Heretic uses a natural, vine-grown vanilla extract that shimmers with warmth, but avoids overwhelming sweetness. The base grounds the fragrance with rich amber musk, earthy vetiver, and a touch of smoky patchouli, adding depth and sensuality. Heretic Dirty Vanilla is perfect for those who want a vanilla fragrance that’s sophisticated, intriguing, and unlike anything they’ve smelled before.
BOND NO. 9 NEW YORK TRIBECA
Bond No. 9 Tribeca captures the essence of downtown New York’s trendy Tribeca neighborhood in a bottle. This chic, unisex fragrance is a captivating blend of sophistication and youthful energy, mirroring the district’s artistic vibe. The scent opens with a unique combination of green hazelnut and rich cacao absolute, creating an intriguing and gourmand-like first impression. Jasmine sambac, a luxurious and intoxicating floral note, takes center stage in the heart, balanced by the earthy depth of cedarwood. As the fragrance dries down, a touch of ambroxan adds a modern and musky allure, while moss and caramel create a textural contrast that lingers on the skin. Bond No. 9 Tribeca is the perfect scent for those who want a fragrance that’s both bold and inviting, a unique expression that reflects the downtown spirit.
VERSACE BRIGHT CRYSTAL EAU DE TOILETTE SPRAY
Versace Bright Crystal Eau de Toilette Spray is a luminous and refreshing fragrance that embodies youthful optimism. This crowd-pleasing scent opens with a vibrant burst of juicy yuzu and tart pomegranate, creating an energetic and invigorating first impression. The heart unfolds with a delicate bouquet of magnolia, peony, and lotus flower, adding a touch of classic femininity. As the fragrance dries down, the warm base of musk and acajou wood provides a touch of sophistication and ensures the scent lingers on the skin. Versace Bright Crystal is a perfect choice for daytime wear, especially for spring and summer. It’s a versatile fragrance that’s both charming and effervescent, perfect for the woman who radiates positive energy.
LOEWE 001 WOMAN PERFUME
Loewe 001 Woman Eau de Parfum is a study in contrasts, offering a fragrance that’s both fresh and warm, modern and timeless. Described as capturing the essence of a new beginning, the scent opens with a breath of fresh air thanks to notes of crisp linen and airy jasmine. This is counterbalanced by the warmth of pink peony, adding a touch of romantic femininity. As the fragrance dries down, the base of musks and sensual amber creates a lingering trail of sophistication and intrigue. Loewe 001 Woman is a versatile choice, perfect for both daytime wear and evening outings. It’s a captivating scent for the woman who embraces her own duality.
DIPTYQUE PHILOSYKOS EAU DE TOILETTE
Diptyque Philosykos Eau de Toilette captures the essence of a sun-drenched fig tree in all its glory. This fragrance is a love letter to the entire fig tree, weaving together its various notes into a cohesive and refreshing scent. The opening offers a burst of green fig leaf, sparkling with freshness, joined by the milky sweetness of ripe figs. A hint of coconut adds a touch of creaminess and evokes a sense of warmth, reminiscent of a secluded beach. As the fragrance dries down, the woody base of fig tree bark emerges, grounding the scent and providing a sense of longevity. Diptyque Philosykos is the perfect fragrance for those seeking a light and airy summer scent that evokes feelings of relaxation and carefree bliss.
BURBERRY GODDESS EAU DE PARFUM
Burberry Goddess Eau de Parfum, launched in 2023, is a unique and captivating fragrance designed for the modern woman. It embodies a confident and empowered spirit, blending femininity with strength. The scent opens with a surprising yet harmonious combination of luminous lavender and a trio of vanillas. The lavender offers a touch of classic elegance, while the vanillas create a warm and inviting base. As the fragrance evolves, hints of bright mandarin and rich almond emerge, adding a touch of playfulness and depth. The base simmers with a touch of white musk and creamy woods, leaving a lasting impression of sophistication and allure. Burberry Goddess is a perfect choice for the woman who wants a fragrance that’s both memorable and effortlessly beautiful.
DIOR MISS DIOR EAU DE PARFUM
Dior Miss Dior Eau de Parfum is a celebration of femininity and youthful joy. This warm floral fragrance, launched in 2021, is designed to be a modern interpretation of the classic Miss Dior. The scent opens with a dazzling bouquet of fresh lily-of-the-valley, spicy peony, and powdery iris, awakening the senses with its vibrancy. At the heart lies Centifolia rose, a type of rose known for its honeyed and peppery notes, which reigns supreme, creating a delectable and creamy feel. Hints of apricot and peach add a touch of juicy sweetness, while the base of vanilla, musk, and sandalwood provides warmth and sophistication. Miss Dior Eau de Parfum is a versatile fragrance, perfect for daytime wear or evening events. It’s a captivating scent for the woman who embraces her inner radiance and celebrates life with a touch of whimsy.
CHLOÉ EAU DE PARFUM
Chloé Eau de Parfum, the signature scent from the fashion house, is a timeless and romantic fragrance designed for the modern woman. It embodies the effortless elegance and Parisian chic that Chloe is known for. The scent opens with a fresh and inviting blend of peony, litchi, and freesia. The peony offers a touch of classic femininity, while the litchi adds a burst of unexpected sweetness and the freesia brings a delicate airiness. The heart of the fragrance unfolds with a luxurious bouquet of rose, lily-of-the-valley, and magnolia. The rose takes center stage, exuding a timeless romanticism, while the lily-of-the-valley adds a touch of sweetness and the magnolia provides a hint of depth. As the fragrance dries down, the base of Virginia cedar and amber grounds the scent with a touch of warmth and sensuality, creating a lasting impression that lingers on the skin. Chloé Eau de Parfum is a versatile choice, perfect for both daytime wear and evening outings. It’s a captivating scent for the woman who is both confident and graceful, leaving a trail of elegance wherever she goes.
LOVESHACKFANCY FOREVER IN LOVE EAU DE PARFUM
Loveshackfancy’s Forever In Love Eau de Parfum captures the essence of a blossoming romance with a swoon-worthy blend of fruity and floral notes. Imagine that first exhilarating feeling of new love – the heart fluttering with excitement and a newfound sense of possibility. This fragrance aims to bottle that feeling. The scent opens with a vibrant burst of green pear, sparkling with freshness and innocence. This is immediately joined by the heady sweetness of gardenia, a classic symbol of purity and devotion. As the fragrance dries down, a hint of cedarwood emerges, adding a touch of earthy depth and grounding the sweetness of the floral notes. Forever In Love is a charming and romantic fragrance, perfect for daytime wear or a special date night. It leaves a lingering impression of youthful joy and innocent sensuality.
CHANEL CHANCE EAU DE PARFUM
Chanel Chance Eau de Parfum is a playful and sophisticated fragrance that embodies the spirit of a lucky encounter. This Chypre Floral scent is a captivating blend of floral and spicy notes, designed to be both whimsical and alluring. The scent opens with a burst of pink pepper, adding a touch of unexpected intrigue, followed by the fresh and floral femininity of jasmine. As the fragrance unfolds, the heart reveals a touch of powdery iris, adding a touch of elegance. The base of patchouli, musk, and vanilla provides warmth and depth, ensuring the scent lingers on the skin. Chance Eau de Parfum is a versatile fragrance, perfect for both daytime and evening wear. It’s a captivating scent for the woman who embraces life’s spontaneity and leaves a trail of unforgettable charm.
DIOR J’ADORE EAU DE PARFUM
Dior J’Adore Eau de Parfum is a celebration of femininity and joy. Launched in 1999, it has become a modern classic. This floral-fruity fragrance is designed to be a luminous and optimistic scent. The scent opens with a sparkling blend of mandarin orange, pear, and magnolia, creating a juicy and inviting first impression. The heart unfolds with a luxurious bouquet of rose, jasmine, and lily-of-the-valley, adding a touch of classic elegance. Here, the jasmine takes center stage, exuding a warm and intoxicating aroma. As the fragrance dries down, the base of sandalwood and musk provides warmth and depth, ensuring the scent lingers on the skin. J’Adore is a versatile fragrance, perfect for both daytime wear and evening events. It’s a captivating scent for the woman who radiates joy and embraces life with a touch of sophistication.
MAISON FRANCIS KURKDJIAN BACCARAT ROUGE 540 EAU DE PARFUM
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum is an olfactory masterpiece that evokes luxurious opulence. This amber floral fragrance is a captivating blend of airy and warm notes, designed to be both sophisticated and alluring. The scent opens with a surprising juxtaposition: the airy sweetness of jasmine and saffron mingles with the earthy depth of sun-drenched amber. This creates a unique and intriguing first impression. As the fragrance unfolds, the heart reveals hints of creamy woods and a touch of smoky incense, adding further complexity. The base simmers with warm amber and balsamic notes, leaving a long-lasting and unforgettable trail. Baccarat Rouge 540 is a statement fragrance, perfect for those who want a scent that exudes confidence and leaves a lasting impression.
YSL BEAUTY BLACK OPIUM EAU DE PARFUM
Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Eau de Parfum is an alluring and audacious fragrance designed for the woman who embraces her inner rockstar. This gourmand coffee scent is a captivating blend of sweet and dark notes, perfect for those who crave something unexpected. The scent opens with a powerful punch of coffee bean, invigorating the senses with its bold energy. This is softened by the sweet and delicate notes of pear and white florals, creating a unique and enticing contrast. As the fragrance dries down, the warm base of vanilla, patchouli, and white musk emerges, adding depth and sensuality. Black Opium leaves a lingering trail of confidence and intrigue, perfect for evening wear or whenever you want to make a bold statement.
CHANEL COCO MADEMOISELLE EAU DE PARFUM
Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum embodies the duality of a modern woman. It’s a captivating fragrance that’s both fresh and sophisticated, playful and alluring. The scent opens with a sparkling burst of citrus, dominated by bright orange and mandarin notes, that instantly awakens the senses. This citrusy vibrancy soon mingles with the soft, floral heart of the perfume. Here, Turkish rose and delicate jasmine take center stage, exuding a luxurious and feminine feel. As the fragrance dries down, the warm base of patchouli and vetiver emerges, grounding the scent with a touch of earthy depth. Coco Mademoiselle leaves a long-lasting impression of confidence and intrigue, perfect for the woman who defies expectations and embraces her own unique style.
MCM EAU DE PARFUM
MCM Eau de Parfum offers a fresh and sophisticated fragrance for the modern woman on the go. This unique scent blends playful and energetic notes with a touch of timeless elegance. The scent opens with a burst of sparkling mandarin and bright green notes, creating an invigorating and optimistic first impression. This citrusy vibrancy is balanced by the delicate sweetness of jasmine and a touch of powdery iris at the heart, adding a touch of femininity. As the fragrance dries down, the base of creamy sandalwood and earthy vetiver provides warmth and depth, ensuring the scent lingers on the skin. MCM Eau de Parfum is a versatile choice, perfect for both daytime wear and evening events. It’s a captivating scent for the woman who embraces life’s adventures with both confidence and a touch of playfulness.
LE LABO SANTAL 33 EAU DE PARFUM
Le Labo’s Santal 33 Eau de Parfum is a captivating fragrance that transcends the typical expectations of a sandalwood scent. Instead of offering a single, straightforward note, Santal 33 creates a complex and intriguing olfactory experience. The scent opens with a smoky whisper of Australian sandalwood, mingling with fresh, ever-so-slightly floral notes of violet and iris. This unexpected combination creates a unique and inviting first impression. The heart of the fragrance reveals a touch of spice with cardamom, adding a touch of warmth and intrigue. As the fragrance dries down, the earthy depth of cedarwood comes to the forefront, balanced by the subtle sweetness of ambrette seed and the leathery richness of musk. Santal 33 leaves a long-lasting trail of warmth and sophistication, perfect for those who crave a fragrance that’s both unique and unforgettable.
LANCÔME LA VIE EST BELLE
Lancôme La Vie Est Belle Eau de Parfum is a celebration of joy and happiness, encapsulated in a bottle. This gourmand iris fragrance is a captivating blend of sweet and powdery notes, designed to inspire a sense of optimism and confidence. The scent opens with a sparkling burst of juicy black currant and refreshing pear, creating an inviting and cheerful first impression. The heart unfolds with a luxurious and powdery iris note, the signature element of La Vie Est Belle, which is balanced by the delicate sweetness of jasmine and orange blossom. As the fragrance dries down, the warm base of gourmand notes like vanilla and tonka bean emerges, leaving a long-lasting and comforting trail. La Vie Est Belle is a versatile fragrance, perfect for both daytime and evening wear. It’s a captivating scent for the woman who radiates positivity and embraces life’s beauty with a smile.
ELLIS BROOKLYN SALT EAU DE PARFUM
Ellis Brooklyn’s Salt Eau de Parfum captures the essence of a carefree summer day by the ocean. This fresh and invigorating fragrance goes beyond the typical aquatic scent. Sure, there’s a wave of salty air thanks to vegan ambergris, but it mingles with the intoxicating sweetness of Tiare flower, a fragrant bloom found in Polynesian cultures. A touch of violet leaf adds a green, earthy hint at the outset, while the creamy warmth of sandalwood and musk grounds the scent as it dries down. Salt is a complex and alluring fragrance, perfect for those who crave a scent that’s both refreshing and unforgettable. It leaves a lingering impression of sun-kissed skin and sandy toes, a reminder of the ocean’s beauty and carefree summer days.
CHANEL N°5 EAU DE PARFUM
Chanel No. 5 Eau de Parfum is an iconic perfume that transcends all trends, proud to be one of the 10 best selling perfumes in the world. Created in 1921, it remains a bestseller thanks to its timeless ingredients and seductive appeal. This aldehyde floral scent is a complex blend of more than 80 notes, intertwined to create a delicate and unforgettable fragrance. The opening offers a burst of aldehydes, a unique and somewhat powdery flavor that immediately defines the fragrance of the perfume. Delicate flowers such as ylang ylang and roses will soon appear, adding a touch of femininity and romance. The heart notes simmer with a hint of jasmine and iris, adding depth and appeal. As the fragrance dries down, warm base notes of sandalwood, vetiver and vanilla emerge, framing the scent and ensuring it lingers on the skin. Chanel No. 5 is an outstanding perfume, perfect for women who exude confidence and leave a lasting impression. It is a seductive fragrance that whispers of a rich history and timeless elegance.
JO MALONE LONDON NECTARINE BLOSSOM & HONEY COLOGNE
Jo Malone London’s Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne evokes the essence of a springtime stroll through a vibrant London market. Imagine the air buzzing with activity, overflowing with fresh, seasonal fruits and flowers. This fragrance captures that delightful experience in a bottle. The scent opens with a burst of juicy nectarine, peach, and cassis, a sweet and playful combination that instantly awakens the senses. Delicate spring florals soon mingle with the fruity medley, adding a touch of elegance and femininity. The star of the show, acacia honey, weaves its way throughout the fragrance, offering a luxurious and smooth sweetness that balances the bright fruit notes. As the cologne dries down, the honey takes center stage, leaving a lingering trail that’s both playful and sophisticated. Jo Malone London’s Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne is perfect for daytime wear, especially for those who crave a fresh and uplifting scent.
HOW TO PICK A PERFECT PERFUME
Choosing the perfect perfume can be a delightful experience. The first step is to understand your preferences. Think about the scents you enjoy in everyday life, such as flowers, fruits, spices, or even fresh laundry. These preferences can guide you towards certain fragrance families, like floral, fruity, spicy, or fresh scents.
Next, consider when and where you’ll be wearing the perfume. A light, fresh scent might be perfect for daytime and work, while a richer, more intense fragrance could be better suited for evenings or special occasions. It’s also a good idea to think about the season. Light, citrusy perfumes are great for summer, while warm, woody scents are comforting in winter.
When you’re ready to shop, take your time. Visit a store and test a few perfumes on your skin, not just on paper strips. Perfumes can smell different on your skin due to your unique body chemistry. Apply a small amount on your wrist, wait a few minutes, and see how the scent evolves over time. It’s important to give it some time to settle and blend with your skin.
Finally, trust your instincts. A perfect perfume should make you feel confident and happy. If you love the scent and it feels like ‘you,’ then you’ve likely found a great match. Remember, the best perfume is one that you enjoy wearing and that brings out your best self.
HOW TO APPLY PERFUME
Here’s a guide on how to apply perfume to maximize its longevity and impact:
Prep Your Skin: Like makeup, fragrance performs best on clean and moisturized skin. Lotions and creams help the perfume adhere better and prevent it from evaporating too quickly. Opt for unscented products or those that complement your chosen fragrance to avoid creating an unpleasant clash of scents.
Target the Pulse Points: Pulse points are areas where your blood vessels are close to the surface of the skin, generating more heat. This heat helps to diffuse the fragrance, making it more noticeable. Common pulse points include the wrists, inner elbows, behind the earlobes, at the base of the throat, and behind the knees.
Go for a Spritz, Not a Drench: A gentle spritz or two is all you need. Overapplying perfume can be overwhelming and cloying. If you’re using a spray bottle, hold it a few inches away from your target area and give it a quick press. For dab-on perfumes, a gentle touch is enough.
Don’t Rub: The friction created by rubbing your wrists together can break down the perfume molecules, altering the scent. Let the fragrance dry down naturally on your skin.
Layer Strategically: If you like a more complex scent, try layering your perfume with complementary products like body lotion or hair mist. This can create a more nuanced aroma and extend the longevity of your fragrance.
Target Your Hair (Lightly): Hair can be a great way to hold onto fragrance, but be mindful of overdoing it, as alcohol in perfume can dry out hair. A light spritz to the back of your brushed hair can add a subtle touch of scent.
Store it Right: Heat, light, and moisture can degrade perfume over time. Store your perfume bottles in a cool, dark place, ideally in their original packaging.
By following these tips, you can ensure your perfume applies beautifully and leaves a lasting impression.
CONCLUSION
While confidence is truly the most attractive quality you can possess, a captivating scent can definitely add to your overall magnetism. This list explored a wide range of best-selling women’s perfumes, offering something for every taste and personality. From fresh and floral to warm and gourmand, these fragrances all boast unique blends that are sure to turn heads. Remember, the most attractive scent is the one that makes you feel the most confident and beautiful. So, experiment, find what works for you, and let your signature fragrance enhance your own inner sparkle.
