I’ll be honest: I’ve had a tab on my phone open to the new-season Ganni boots for the better part of a month, but I’ve also accepted that they’re probably never making it to checkout stage. Truth be told, they’re a little out of my disposable income price range and I can’t in good conscience actually prioritise retail over rent, desire be damned. But despite trying to stay financially sound, when I’m lusting after something luxe I still find myself edging toward embracing the ‘treat yourself’ mentality. So, on the days I’m dying to purchase a piece that my bank account definitely won’t thank me for, I steer myself straight to the scent shelves instead (stealing a longing glance at the shoe section on the way). Yep, if you’re looking to add some lush labels into your life without completely breaking your budget, a perfume is a purchase that’s gentler on the purse strings but also counts as a decadent designer buy. They’re definitely still within splurge territory, but they don’t come close to the price tags you’d find on their clothing or accessory counterparts. Here are the drops we suggest splashing your cash on if you’re looking to up your collections’ brand name quota.
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Chanel
Chanel Gabrielle EDP ($254, davidjones.com.au)
If a ‘CC’ monogrammed quilted bag isn’t within your budget (a pretty universal notion), this elegant fragrance is your best bet for getting some Chanel on your shelf. With a super sophisticated bouquet of white florals and a pop of pear, it’s a perfume you simply won’t be able to put down.
Valentino
Valentino Donna EDP ($149, myer.com.au)
Lusting after a pair of Valentino’s studded stilettos? Us too. Luckily, this divine decanter also gives a taste of the brand’s signature spikes. The real kicker? In fragrance form they come with a side of saffron-patchouli scented goodness instead of arch pain.
Givenchy
Givenchy Live Irresistible Rosy Crush EDP ($183, myer.com.au)
Givenchy’s latest crop of tan leather totes may continue to haunt your dreams, but this spritely splash will bring joy to your actual life. A blend bursting with rose and pink pepper, it somehow smells fuchsia, and we’re 110% here for it.
YSL
Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium
If YSL’s latest metallic dress drop is a treat for the eyes, this saucy splash is one for the nose. With a creamy coffee and vanilla concoction that develops into a musky floral in the dry down, get ready to reach for it on the daily.
Vera Wang
Whilst we wait (semi-patiently) for a time that will allow us to add a Vera Wang wedding gown to cart (the plan is to go full Kate Hudson in Bride Wars), this romantic perfume has us satisfyingly smitten for now. Lotus, lily and bergamot make for a mix that’s as stunning as the frock itself.
Jimmy Choo
Jimmy Choo Floral ($129, myer.com.au)
Whilst a pair of Jimmy Choo Galaxy flats would be ideal, this dreamy drop is still damn delightful. A fresh take on florals with notes of nectarine and a tangerine-scented twist, we’re calling it as the official fragrance of any garden party ever.
Michael Kors
Michael Kors’ wrist watches may be glittering with actual gold, yes, but this 24k inspired scent is also great for adding gilded goodness to your life. With a multifaceted mix of mandarin orange and heady woods, it’s a fab fragrance for those who enjoy the finer things.
Gucci
Gucci Bloom Acqua Di Fiori EDT ($185, myer.com.au)
A Gucci tracksuit? Perhaps not. Gucci Bloom? Absolutely. An intensely energetic green eau packed with bonuses of bergamot, lemon and honeysuckle, it’s basically a good mood in a bottle. Wallflowers, beware though: anything boasting a Gucci label was designed to be noticed.
Oooo yes please, I absolutely adore fragrances. Wear perfume daily.
Chanel, yes please.
I think both the bottle and the scent need to be extra special to spend a lot of money on a scent. My all time favourite though is Armani Code for Women. Beautiful wonderful scent, and the bottle is sleek and stylish.
Atm fave designer one is TF Lost Cherry. Love Alien and Aura. Like Black Opium Intense. Want to get: several…haha
I do find most perfumes over powering so limit my use but was gifted Chanel No 5 a couple of years ago and then I better understood how people can fall in love with a perfume. Reading this article I think I would like the Jimmy Choo Floral.
These certainly sound and look luxe!
This makes me wish I would be able to go on a date.
I love the colour of the Jimmy Choo bottle – so pretty!
I love Si and would love to find an imitation brand similar to it .Does anyone know of an imitation perfume similar to Si it would be mighty appreciated. Thank you.
I’ll take the Chanel and YSL ones please.
I like the sound of the Vera Wang
My fragrance at the moment is D&G Only The One.