Time for a fragrance update? The best luxury perfumes of 2024

The sensory cells in our noses enable us to identify more than a trillion odours. They can sniff out what is good for us and what is bad. For this reason, we are attracted to jasmine and freshly cut grass and are repelled by rotting food. With that in mind, here are some of our favourite fragrances this year.

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If you are fond of woody scents, then go not further than Matiere Premiere “Parisian Musc” EDP ($279 for 50ml) with its notes of resin, moss and grassy undertones.

For a citrusy take, try Victoria Beckham “Portofino ’97” EDP ($330 for 50ml) with enticing elements of bergamot, black pepper and incense. Beckham reveals her inspiration for the fragrance: “When David and I first met, we kept our relationship under wraps. We decided to take a trip to Portofino. I remember the light, I remember how the hotel smelled and how exciting that time was. I remember it all like it was yesterday.”

If you are mad for something with an edge, try Vilhelm Parfumerie “125th Bloom” EDP ($314 for 50ml) with notes of leather, rose and violet.

If gourmand is your jam, try Byredo “Eyes Closed” EDP ($266 for 50ml) with its hints of carrot cake, cardamom and patchouli. Wear it at the base of your neck.

Our pick for best cult floral has to be Frederic Malle “Carnal Flower” EDP ($385 for 50ml), with lush tuberose mixed with eucalyptus and white musk. This is definitely one for sharing with your mate. Just yum.

Musk lovers can’t go past Diptyque “L’Eau Papier” EDT ($168 for 50ml) with delightful delicate notes of musk, mimosa and steamed rice. Douse it everywhere.

When travelling, solids are the go and our absolute favourite is Jo Malone’s “English Pear & Freesia” ($35 for a refill).

For hair scents we love Maison Francis Kurkdjian “Baccarat Rouge 540” Hair Mist ($129 for 70ml). This is light-as-air fragrance won’t weigh your hair down and comes with notes of jasmine, saffron, ambergris and cedar that will last the distance. Boom!

Last but by no means least, indulge in a fragrance-driven laundry immersion to keep your clothes spotless. We love Milk Dedtergent “DedCool” ($59) which is made for clothes, sheets and lingerie and can be used for hand-washing or in a machine. It smells great, too, with its mix of bergamot, white musk and amber. Bring it.

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