The 17 Sexiest Fragrances of All Time

Consider Thé Vanille from Nette the fragrance equivalent of chillin' with no makeup on in the best way. Sometimes the sexiest scent a person can wear is next to nothing, which is exactly what this gourmand perfume evokes. Notes of cardamom, magnolia flower, and vanilla combine to create a warm blend that smells like your skin, but better, once it dries down.

"Le Labo Santal 33’s woody earthiness demands to be noticed, yet manages not to be cloying. It’s also the only fragrance I’ve ever worn that my husband routinely compliments—and even requests I wear. I think its appeal lies in the fact that the scent is sensual and warm, but understated, with a vibe that’s more crackling fire and cashmere PJs than high heels and red lipstick." —Genevieve Monsma, contributing beauty director

Valentino's Donna Born In Roma Intense eau de parfum is so popular, it's almost completely sold out at Sephora—but that's only one reason why it tops our list of sexiest perfumes. Its floral-amber scent reveals a darker side to traditional floral fragrances, featuring notes of jasmine and vanilla.

"This woody fragrance smells true to its name in that it has the warm hazy scents of mezcal cocktails and smoking cigars. I originally bought it for my boyfriend, who loves jazz clubs so much I thought he might like to smell like one too. I recently started to wear it as well because it feels a little bit more unexpected on a girl, which in my opinion makes it even more sultry.

There's something so sexy about a scent that smells like a place. It makes me feel like maybe I could be the woman who stays out at a jazz performance in a New York basement somewhere until 3am and then rolled out of bed miraculously on time to make it work the next morning—with perfectly tousled hair and an air of spicy mystery." —Tara Gonzalez, senior fashion editor

Parfum de Marly's tonka bean- and cinammon-scented Herod fragrance provides a more mysterious take on vanilla perfumes. Its blend of heart notes, like tobacco leaf and incense, add depth and a slight spiciness to its warm, musky finish.

"Have you ever wondered what a sultry night out smells like? Diptyque bottled a smoky, late-night jazz club with its Orphéon fragrance, which was inspired by the lively night life of Paris' Saint Germain quarter in the '60s (where the brand's boutique was at the time). It's woody from the cedar and patchouli, yet warm from the tonka bean, and ends with a subtle jasmine note that will make you feel sexy and alive." —Katie Intner, associate beauty editor

"Creed Aventus is oh so smooth with its base note of oakmoss, musk, vanilla and added hints of jasmine, apple and bergamot. This complex scent is spicy yet not abrupt with its hint of fruit, strong but inviting, almost masculine and then hits you with a fresh softness that cannot be replicated. This fragrance is addicting, you will want to keep smelling this on whomever is wearing it or wear it yourself." —AW

"I don't know what scientifically makes a scent sexy, but this musky-yet-citrusy fragrance from Ormaie is it for me. I'll dab it on my wrists and neck when I have a special date or simply want to feel a little more confident." —Halie LeSavage, contributing fashion commerce editor

"In the mid-nineties, I worked evenings at a Parisian department store, and the cosmetics floor was perpetually doused in Dolce & Gabbana Pour Homme, which had just launched. It smelled expensive, sexy (in a clean, classic way) and grownup. It also smelled nothing like the Phish-loving fraternity boys I’d just gone to college with, which was a good thing. And though it’s been more than two decades, I still think this crisp blend of citrus, bergamot and lavender spiked with sandalwood is an under-the-radar sensual star." —GM

"This fragrance is like a viral TikTok song you can't get out of your head—in a good way. Its woody and floral notes of ambrette, magnolia, cedar wood, and violet are deeply intoxicating, and it's perfect to wear year-round." —Tiffany Dodson, associate beauty commerce editor

"Another extremely sexy scent is Armani Beauty’s My Way. It also includes vanilla and bergamot, but its bright sweetness from the orange blossom gives it a sweet juiciness. It's airy, petal soft, and not overpowering, but distinct. I personally feel pretty, confident, and sexy whenever I wear it." —AW

"Rihanna's Fenty Eau de Parfum is equal parts spicy and sweet. You only need the most subtle spritz of the musky amber fragrance to leave a lasting impact that allows the scent to memorably linger. (And who doesn't want to feel—and smell—like Rihanna at all times?) I love it for date night." —Bianca Betancourt, culture editor

"J'Adore is my go-to for fashion parties and evenings when I want to just feel really great in my skin." —Rosa Sanchez, senior news editor

"I fell in love with the intoxicating scent of Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille because one of my chicest, sexiest friends drenches herself in it—and it’s magic on her. I’m not sure I carry it with the same aplomb, but I do adore the fragrance’s spicy, warmth—especially during the winter months—and it’s also terrific in candle form." —GM

"This fragrance is one of the first scents I created while launching Kilian Paris 15 years ago, and today is still one of my absolute top sellers. There’s a reason Love, Don’t Be Shy is completely irresistible: it’s a tasty gourmand dream. Marshmallow, vanilla, and orange blossom combine to create a scent reminiscent of a heavenly dessert. I really wanted the perfume to make the wearer smell like something you just wanted to take a bite out of. " —KH

"Coco Mademoiselle is my daily casual-sexy scent. Even if I'm just in jeans and a T-shirt, I always put it on before leaving the house, and it makes me feel elevated and ready for the day." —RS

"My sexy fragrance pick is Aerin Amber Musk. It smells like when my husband wears a cashmere sweater, and I pick it up three days later and it still has that lingering cologne smell. It's cozy, simple, lightweight, and not overpowering. It smells like a snuggle on a cold day with someone you love." —Jenna Rosenstein, beauty director