10 Best Vintage Perfumes For Women – Must-Try In 2024
Grab these classic, vintage fragrances that deserve a spot in everyone's perfume collection!
Leroy Musonye, better known by his moniker "Mr Put Together" on social media platforms, is a fashion stylist with six years of experience. His affinity for fashion is deep-rooted, and he has a keen sense for fragrances. He is originally from Nairobi, Kenya, but grew up in the Norristown and Philadelphia, PA, areas.
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Experience: 5 yearsSakshi Bahal is a commerce writer with a master's degree in English Literature from Calcutta University. She was a part of the editorial team of her school magazine. Her love for writing inspired her to take up literature and follow that up with creative writing after completing her education.
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Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
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Experience: 2.5 yearsShatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has worked with various organizations and websites operating in different industries, ranging from education to lifestyle, showing her adaptability and drive to learn.
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Suppose you are an avid collector of fragrances who loves trying out something new without hesitation. In that case, you must check out some of these best vintage perfumes that can definitely make it to your fragrance collection. Let us clarify that there is nothing outdated about these old-world scents from vintage perfume archives but just a classic and nostalgic feel to them. It takes a lot for a particular scent to gain the status of that signature perfume that you own. But this vintage collection of dreamy, nostalgic perfumes is guaranteed to make you take on a personality you feel for that particular day. Pick out your favorites and add them to your stash asap!
In This Article
Top 10 Vintage Perfumes For Women
1. Best Classic Fragrance:Shalimar By Guerlain Eau De Parfum
Shalimar By Guerlain Eau De Parfum (1925) is an ode by Jacques Guerlain to the legendary romance between Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is named after the gardens of Shalimar that Shah Jahan built for his wife.
The top notes of this perfume are a fresh blend of natural ingredients like bergamot, mandarin, lemon, cedar, orange, and citrus notes. The heart notes feature a delicate blend of iris, jasmine, rose, patchouli, and vetiver with a hint of sweetness. The base notes of this classic fragrance are a spicy symphony of vanilla, tonka bean, sandalwood, musk, civet, and incense. Click this video to learn more about the product.
Pros
- High-quality vintage perfume ingredients
- Exquisite packaging
- Alluring fragrance
Cons
- Overpoweringly sweet
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 1,237 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
2. Best Sophisticated:Anais Anais L’original By Cacharel Eau De Toilette
Anais Anais L’original By Cacharel Eau De Toilette is a feminine scent that was first released in 1978. The floral fragrance is named after Anaitis, the Persian goddess of love. Much like Anaitis herself, this perfume is a celebration of the sophisticated modern woman – one who is unafraid to show her feminine side. This adorable scent is a masterpiece with a blend of balance and innovation that makes you stand out from the crowd.
Hyacinth, galbanum, and orange blossom highlight the top notes of this fragrance. The floral profusion in the heart notes that follow includes jasmine, rose, and lily-of-the-valley. Sandalwood, cedarwood, incense, and amber at the base linger for hours and envelop you in a heady daze and continue turning heads around you. The heavy sillage and longevity also add volumes to the popularity of this iconic perfume.
Pros
- Delicious fruity fragrance
- Long-lasting
- Mild smell
Cons
- None
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
With 1,275 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
3. Best For Date Night:Opium By Yves Saint Laurent Eau De Toilette
Opium By Yves Saint Laurent Eau De Toilette is a fascinating, bewitching, and mysterious fragrance inspired by the Orient. Opium was introduced in 1977 and represents Yves Saint Laurent’s obsession with the Orient. Rich spices, lush florals, and deep wood notes abound in this fragrance that exudes magic and exoticism.
Tart bergamot and sweet mandarin orange as the top notes capture your attention instantly with the first whiff. As the scent deepens, the heart notes of myrrh, carnation, and jasmine come into focus. The famous perfume entrances as it lingers with the alluring base notes of cedarwood, sandalwood, vetiver, and amber. Opium is perfect for spicing up a long-awaited date night. Learn more about the product in this video.
Pros
- Pleasing fragrance
- Premium formula
- Not overpowering
- Ideal for evening wear
Cons
- Expensive
Pro TipShalimar By Guerlain Eau De Parfum Best Classic Fragrance | Anais Anais L'original By Cacharel Eau De Toilette Best Sophisticated | Opium By Yves Saint Laurent Eau De Toilette Best For Date Night | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4 x 5 x 6 inches | 5 x 4 x 6 inches | 1.5 x 5 x 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 0.01 Ounces | 3.53 Ounces | 1.1 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,237 | 1,275 | 592 |
| Price | $115.18 | $34 | $96.4 |
4. Best Sensual:L’air du Temps By Nina Ricci Eau De Toilette
L’air du Temps By Nina Ricci Eau De Toilette was released in 1948 just after the Second World War. In tune with the times, the beautiful bottle comes with a cap in the shape of a dove, a symbol of peace in celebration of the end of the war. Its design is right up there with some of the best vintage perfume bottle designs.
Peach, neroli, and carnation blend together in the sweet floral top notes, followed by spicy heart notes of clove and rosemary. The base notes of cedarwood, amber, and sandalwood add a lingering trail of sensual charm and refinement.
Pros
- Can be worn both during the day and night
- Not overpowering
- Luxe packaging
- Fresh fragrance
- Value for money
Cons
- Might irritate the sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 983 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
5. Best Everlasting: Youth Dew By Estee Lauder Eau De Parfum
Youth Dew By Estee Lauder Eau De Parfum is a spicy oriental fragrance released in 1953. Designed by Josephine Catapano, this classic perfume is entirely captivating and has long been revered as one of the sexiest fragrances ever created by vintage perfume aficionados. More than 50 years later, this scent continues to enthrall with its everlasting sensuality. It is one of the most famous creations of Josephine Catapano since its launch. It is a great choice for women looking for strong, feminine florals, and warm woody scents.
Rich spices, opulent flowers, and precious woods blend in this fragrance, which opens with top notes of bergamot, spices, peach, narcissus, and lavender. The heart notes that follow are exotic premium ingredients like rose, ylang-ylang, lily-of-the-valley, and spicy elements like cinnamon, and orchid. Amber, musk, vanilla, vetiver, oakmoss, and patchouli create the lingering base notes of this lovely perfume.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Beautiful packaging
- Mild fragrance
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 1,093 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
6. Best Alluring:Tabu By Dana Eau De Cologne
Tabu By Dana Eau De Cologne is a legendary oriental fragrance created by Jean Carles in 1932. Romance is the essence of this fragrance that is highlighted by luxurious flowers, fresh citrus, and sensual woods. This attractive perfume oozes elegance and femininity, making it perfect for romantic wear.
Italian bergamot and lemon oil lure you in with the first whiff of this fragrance. The heart notes that follow are rich with Bulgarian rose, jasmine, and ylang-ylang. Patchouli, benzoin, musk, amber, and oakmoss create the perfect seductive base to an already alluring perfume.
Pros
- Mild fragrance
- Tantalizing smell
- Spillage-proof
Cons
- Not long-wearing
7. Best Iconic:Emeraude By Coty Eau De Cologne
Emeraude By Coty Eau De Cologne is the creation of Francois Coty and was first launched in 1921. It is one of the iconic Coty vintage perfumes of that era and has an exceptional quality that makes it a favorite among the chic, feminine women even today, nearly a century later.
The top notes of this oriental perfume consist of bergamot, lemon, and orange. At the heart lie Brazilian rosewood, ylang-ylang, rose, and jasmine. Vanilla, amber, benzoin, sandalwood, patchouli, and opoponax make up the aromatic base notes. Reach out for Emeraude when you want to jazz up your outfit for special occasions with a dose of elegance.
Pros
- Suitable for daily wear
- Ideal for formal occasions
- Long-lasting
- Value for money
- Not overpowering
Cons
- Might feel overpowering to some
8. Best Floral-Fruity Fragrance:Dior Addict Eau de Parfum
The Dior Addict Eau de Parfum is an amber floral scent for those who want to make an elegant statement. With a seductive yet subtle olfactory tale, this scent has captured the correct combination of richness and charm without being too prominent since it 2002. It reflects boldness and freshness. This classic scent commences with top notes of lively and engaging mandarin leaf and Tunisian orange flower, which give this subtle floral fragrance a more fruity feel. The delicate Jasmine Sambac heart notes add sensuality and femininity. Finally, the rich and warm Bourbon Vanilla base note creates a pleasantly spicy and delicate aroma. This unique mix comes together to provide a sensual lingering trail, like a rainy afternoon in the spring.
Pros
- Fresh floral smell
- Long-lasting
- Not overpowering
Cons
- Expensive
9. Best Mysterious:L’heure Bleue By Guerlain Eau De Parfum
L’heure Bleue By Guerlain Eau De Parfum is the creation of Jacques Guerlain that was launched in 1912. L’heure Bleue or “the bluish hour” is elegant, mysterious and timeless. Its fragrance is a celebration of dusk – a time before the first stars make their appearance in the sky.
This scent opens with stirring top notes of fresh bergamot and spicy-sweet aniseed that evolve into heart notes of floral splendor filled with carnation, rose, neroli, tuberose, and violet. Vanilla, iris, benzoin, and tonka bean make an arresting base for this floriental perfume with powdery undertones. Overall, this expensive perfume exudes casual sophistication that is best suited for evening wear.
Pros
- Intense fragrance
- Not overpowering
- Nostalgic smell
- Luxe packaging
Cons
- Smells powdery
10. Best Famous: Heaven Sent by Dana
Make a great first impression by wearing this Heaven Sent by Dana. This product is designed to be with you throughout the day and ensures that you remain fresh and confident. It was founded in 2001 by Loc Dong. This signature scent is an enticing combination of dew-kissed flowers, delicate woods, and gentle powdery overtones, making it a wonderful everyday perfume. The perfume’s top notes are a delightful blend of bergamot, apple blossom, and mandarin orange. Roses, jasmine, and lilies of the valleys combine delicately in the middle notes. The seductive base notes of spicy oak, musk, amber, and patchouli make it ideal for romantic nights.
Pros
- Suitable for daily wear
- Ideal for formal occasions
- Long-lasting
- Value for money
Cons
- None
No matter how many fragrance trends come and go by, vintage perfumes stick around through the years. But here are some factors you must consider while buying the best vintage perfumes for women.
How To Select The Best Vintage Perfumes For Women
- History
When shopping for cool vintage perfumes, always get a deeper knowledge about it. Check for the provided information about the brands, the perfume notes, and sometimes maybe the famous personalities that have tried and vouch for the scent!
- Originality
When buying vintage perfumes, making sure if they are original pieces, is a key factor. Remember to check if the glass bottles have any scratches or lines that have even the slightest possibility of wrecking them. Check if the perfume bottle lid fits the bottle perfectly. In case it doesn’t, then there is a possibility that it must be a duplicate one. Moreover, a vintage perfume that is packaged in an original premium quality box is more valuable and trustable than one in a normal box.
- Storage
If stored properly, a fragrance can last for decades. Before buying a vintage bottle, it’s good to contact the seller and talk about the storing conditions the bottle went through. If you need to purchase it online, make sure to find a seller who offers a good return policy and warranty.
- Proper Label
Most of the vintage perfume bottles have their original labels intact. These are usually made of thick glossy paper of gilded letterings. It is common to see that the paper labels get damaged very soon however, gilded labels have more withstanding power. Commonly you notice them made of silver or golden hue which adds to the premium look of the bottle and increases its worth. While buying vintage perfumes, check if the bottle has an intact label that displays the brand name, its certification, or other key essentials. Trustable manufacturers of perfume bottles will always have a premium label in their bottles.
Infographic: Vintage Perfumes: Interesting Facts & Top Selling Vintage Perfumes
If you love collecting perfumes or simply want to try out different scents, do not miss out on vintage perfumes that are still going strong! Some of these indulgent perfumes have dominant floral notes, while others are a blend of floral, fruity, and spicy notes. Take a look at the infographic below to read through some interesting facts about vintage perfumes with iconic fragrance notes and know more about the top-selling vintage perfumes and retro perfumery brands. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
These are the best vintage perfumes out there for women of all ages. Give them a try, and you are sure to be pleasantly surprised. These iconic and timeless scents may come from a different era, but they make heads turn and please the senses even today. If you are looking for a luxurious, rich oriental fragrance, the Shalimar By Guerlain Eau De Parfum is the ideal pick. You can also try the Anais Anais L’original By Cacharel Eau De Toilette if you prefer romantic and floral scent, or the Opium By Yves Saint Laurent Eau De Toilette for a captivating and sensual fragrance to wear on a date night. Pick your favorite fragrance from the curated list by experts after going through the customer reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered vintage perfume?
The perfumes popular in the olden years and getting their formulations modified and enhanced over the years are known as vintage perfumes.
Are vintage perfumes worth buying?
Yes, vintage perfumes are trendy not just for their rich and iconic scents but also for their bottling, which is considered an exotic collectible.
Are vintage perfumes still good?
Yes, vintage perfumes are still in trend as they surround you with classic and royal fragrances and are also popular as antique collectibles.
What perfumes do older ladies wear?
The Shalimar By Guerlain Eau De Parfum is a popular choice among older ladies as it complements their age and gives a delightful yet classic fragrance.
How long will vintage perfumes last?
Vintage perfume lasts anywhere from 1 year to 3 years, and its scent lasts for 24 hours.
How can I restore my vintage perfume?
You can empty the tube and store the perfume bottle in a cold place, giving it 2 weeks to settle. This process might bring back that classic and elegant aroma.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Sakshi Bahal, the author of this article, has a deep interest in reviewing different makeup products. She understands the importance of perfume and how it boosts your self-confidence and style. She has conducted an in-depth investigation and shortlisted the top vintage perfumes for women. These perfumes have a wide range of vintage-inspired fragrances that can take you down the memory lane and make a perfect addition to your perfume collection. She considered user feedback, longevity, and fragrance notes before picking the products for the list.
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