Everything’s coming up roses
There’s nothing more fresh, romantic, and feminine than a rose perfume. Rose scents are also said to be relaxing and restorative because, like lavender, they encourage us to take deep, slow, controlled breaths. The best rose-scented perfumes are transporting, but they’re far from equal. In fact, while some varieties go heavy on the floral notes, others are balanced with fruity accents or even spicy or musky undertones.
Another great feature of rose perfumes is their versatility. Even though they tend to be associated with light and airy, spring or summer feelings, they actually work wonderfully year-round. (Hello, Valentine’s Day!) With that in mind, we’ve rounded up sophisticated, perfectly-balanced rose perfumes you’ll love, no matter your personality or the occasion you’re shopping for.
Here’s a look at the 10 best rose fragrances for 2021.
1. Valentino Rock’n Rose Perfume
Rock’n Rose couldn’t be a more fitting name for this warm rose and vanilla perfume, or a more perfect reflection of the Valentino brand. Most women closely associate Valentino with the color red and an overall romantic aesthetic. But the retailer is also known for studded shoes, bags, and other glam accessories. That rock-n-roll edge and feminine allure come together in this flirty selection. It’s the perfect fit for any woman who relishes two opposing sides to her personality. In keeping with the outré style, notes include bergamot, blackcurrant, red rose, gardenia, vanilla, and sandalwood — a potpourri of harmoniously opposing chords.
Recommended related fragrances: Flora by Gucci, Paloma Picasso By Paloma Picasso, Bright Crystal Absolu By Versace
2. Yardley London English Rose
Prim and proper with a twist is the fun vibe from this scent by Yardley London. Floral and green notes like geranium and rose balance its woody accords and spices (including musk). So while this is an undeniably feminine fragrance perfect for a romantic evening out, its dimension and complexity will shower you with compliments.
Recommended related fragrances: Lily Of The Valley Yardley By Yardley London, English Bluebell By Yardley London , Lacoste Pour Femme By Lacoste
3. Paris Hilton Rose Rush
For an affordable rose scent that smells expensive, look no further than this popular option from Paris Hilton. One of the most successful celebrities to enter the perfume space, Hilton knows her fragrances. That abiding wisdom comes through loud and clear with Rose Rush. In keeping with the sensuous bottle, this is a frilly but sexy scent, ideal for a night out with the girls. You’ll find notes like rose petals, neroli, peony, white musk, amber, and cedar here, to make you feel like a damask rose in bloom.
Recommended related fragrances: Versace Versense, Happy Heart By Clinique, Calandre By Paco Rabanne
4. Guerlain Mon Guerlain Bloom of Rose
Fancy yourself an Angelina Jolie type? That is to say: feminine yet adventurous, with an undeniably thorny edge. Well, you’re in luck, because Mon Guerlain Bloom of Rose is just the scent for you. Modeled by the Academy Award-winning actress, this rose scented perfume delivers energetic notes of lavender and vanilla. It’s edgy while still alluringly approachable.
Recommended related fragrances: Esprit D’oscar By Oscar De La Renta, Kelly Caleche By Hermes, Escada Island Kiss
5. Jo Malone Red Roses
If you’re seeking a light pick-me-up after a long, soul-sapping day, Red Roses from Jo Malone is an invigorating option. It’s an airy scent with notes of lemon, mint, and violet in addition to Bulgarian rose. Use it when you’re ready to slip the bonds of daytime you and rejuvenate your heart.
Recommended related fragrances: Mon Jasmin Noir L’eau Exquise By Bvlgar, Eau Des Merveilles By Hermes, Gucci Ii By Gucci
6. Nina Ricci Rose Extase
Nina Ricci is known for their timeless feminine frocks. This exquisite scent is in keeping with that time-honored tradition. Rose Extase is a praiseworthy choice for a special occasion like an anniversary, birthday, or wedding. It’s a sweet, floral rose perfume, but with vanilla, musk, and sandalwood notes that add mystery and depth. It’s also worth noting that storied perfumer Francis Kurkdjian had a hand in creating this memorable scent.
Recommended related fragrances: Very Irresistible Sensual By Givenchy, Vetiver Ambrato By Bois 1920, Kelly Caleche By Hermes
7. Tom Ford Rose Prick
A rose is not a rose in the hands of Tom Ford and his endlessly-unique scents. If you’re looking for a fragrance that is sure to start a conversation, reach for Ford’s Rose Prick. This is a pricey option, but as with most of Tom Ford’s offerings, a little goes a long way here. You won’t need more than two or three spritzes to last from morning through the evening. Among the unique notes you’ll uncover here are sichuan pepper, turmeric, and patchouli. Those hints of spice offset this perfume’s various rose iterations (think May rose, Turkish rose, and Bulgarian rose).
Recommended related fragrances: Cabochard By Parfums Gres, Roma By Laura Biagiotti, Rive Gauche By Yves Saint Laurent
8. Acqua Di Parma Rosa Nobile
For a timeless rose scent you’ll wear year after year, look no further than Acqua Di Parma Rosa Nobile. This fragrant delight works to highlight all the many mysteries of the rose. It’s an elegant choice, best for special occasions after dark. The classic bottle is in keeping with the timeless soul of the perfume. Lily-of-the-valley, peony, and violet form an elegant setting for this perfect, fragrant rose elixir.
Recommended related fragrances: Vera Wang Look By Vera Wang, Prada Infusion D’iris By Prada, My Insolence By Guerlain
9. Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fresh
Are you sweet, playful, and feminine, or just wanting to feel that way? Then checkout Daisy Eau So Fresh from Marc Jacobs. Top notes of raspberry and grapefruit elevate the wild rose and jasmine in the middle, finishing with musk, warm plum, and cedarwood. This intriguing rose musk perfume fits in perfectly at a garden party or an evening of Shakespeare in the park. A beautifully-crafted bottle perfectly reflects the scent’s vivacious personality.
Recommended related fragrances: Byblos By Byblos, Laura Ashley No. 1 By Laura Ashley, Intuition by Estee Lauder
10. Hermes Rouge
Rouge isn’t as well known as many of Hermes’ other offerings, but it’s no less dazzling. The floral, woody scent offers top notes of rose, ylang-ylang, and iris, complementing middle notes of sandalwood, vanilla, and cedar. Heady spice and myrtle form the base. While you might expect this rose water perfume to be rose-forward given the classic nature of the Hermes brand, it surprises with its unexpected spice and sex appeal. This is a great option for a fun night out on the town.
Recommended related fragrances: Calandre By Paco Rabanne, In Love Again By Yves Saint Laurent, Laila By Geir Ness