30 long-lasting perfumes for women that'll smell gorgeous all day long

Our beauty team select their favourite long-lasting perfumes at every budget

three of the best long-lasting perfumes as tested by woman&home from YSL, Chanel and Issey Miyake
(Image credit: John Lewis)

A great long-lasting perfume needs to pass several tests – the most important being how well it sticks throughout the day. However, you'll also want to consider how it works with your unique body chemistry, as well as how it changes as it dries down, to find the perfect scent for you. 

The best perfume for women can be one of the priciest purchases on your makeup table, so you want to ensure you're investing in a product that will cling to you all day long. Even the most alluring of perfumes can more or less vanish after a couple of hours, so it pays to know which fragrances can be trusted to stand the test of time. However, testing a perfume for a full day before purchasing it is not always feasible, especially when shopping online. To try and scout out a long-lasting scent, there are a few things to look out for. 

Think of perfume as a pyramid, consisting of top, heart, and base notes. The top notes are the first impression and disperse quickly, giving way to others. “Typically, middle notes last longer than top notes, however, it’s the base notes that form the foundation of the fragrance,” explains Karen Harris, Head of Marketing at The Perfume Shop. “They come into force around 30 minutes after integrating with the middle notes, and typically last six hours.” Our beauty team have rounded up their tried and tested favourite long-lasting perfumes that you can count on. Whether you prefer summery perfume with jasmine or something more comforting, like the best vanilla perfume, there is a long-lasting scent for you.

30 long lasting-perfumes for women, chosen by our beauty team

Why you can trust Woman & Home At woman&home we test hundreds of products and would never recommend something that we wouldn't personally buy, use or give as a gift to a loved one. Find out more about how we research and test products.

A small selection of the perfumes we tried for this guide

A small selection of the perfumes we tried for this guide

(Image credit: Fiona McKim)

Best fresh long-lasting perfume

Issey Miyake L'Eau D'Issey Magnolia EDT Intense

(Image credit: Issey Miyake)

1. Issey Miyake L'Eau D'Issey Magnolia EDT Intense

Best aquatic and fresh long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £70 / $89 for 50ml
Top notes: Bergamot
Middle notes: Magnolia
Base notes: Sandalwood

Reasons to buy

+
Bright and breezy 
+
Perfect for daytime 
+
Longer lasting than most EDT

Reasons to avoid

-
Won't make a huge statement

Issey Miyake is our forever go-to brand for fresh, crisp and modern fragrances. The kind you can spray on for any occasion as liberally as you like, without making too much of an impression on your morning commute. This is splashy, fresh and floral with citrussy bergamot, pretty magnolia and a subtle woody base. It's the fragrance equivalent of a light, neutral-toned cashmere scarf – chuck it on whatever the weather and you'll give off an impression of quiet luxury. 

While this brand has plenty of scents to choose from, the great thing about this particular one is its unique eau de toilette intense strength. This makes it both fresh on the nose but long-lasting on the skin, with a lower concentration of perfume oils than pure parfum, but a cocktail of notes that are known to last very well. Truly, it's the best of both worlds.

Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Forte Nerolia Vetiver EDP

(Image credit: Guerlain)

2. Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Forte Nerolia Vetiver EDP

Best fresh and citrussy long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £102 / $110.50 for 75ml EDP
Top notes: Neroli
Middle notes: Fig accord
Base notes: Vetiver, tonka bean

Reasons to buy

+
Smells like a Mediterranean garden 
+
Crisp yet lush
+
Warm dry-down
+
Beautiful bottle

Reasons to avoid

-
None, we adore this!

Guerlain has created so many beautiful fragrances, but this has to be one of our favourites. It perfectly blends a tangy, citrussy top note of neroli with a warm and mouthwatering fig middle for an effect not unlike walking through an Italian garden in full bloom. 

Don't be fooled into thinking the citrus-focused initial scent means this won't go the distance. This perfume has an amazing dry down on the skin, which shapeshifted into fruity, sticky fig and sweet, nutty tonka bean as we wore it throughout the day. As well as smelling gorgeous, this bottle also looks beautiful with its honeycomb top. Plus it's refillable, recyclable and made with partially recycled materials, in line with Guerlain's commendable sustainable ethos. Top marks!

dior joy perfume intense for her

(Image credit: The Perfume Shop)

3. Dior Joy Eau de Parfum Intense

Best fresh and floral long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £99 / $118 for 50ml
Top notes: Citrus, Neroli
Middle notes: Centifolia Rose, Jasmine Grandiflorum
Base notes: Vanilla, Sandalwood, Patchouli

The best thing about this perfume is that it features notes from all the key fragrance families: floral, fresh, fruity, and spicy. Though Dior classifies it as a mainly floral perfume, we think it fits best under fresh due to the range of ingredients it offers, and the light, clean scent it leaves on the skin. 

When we tested Joy, we immediately found it to be a mature scent - perfect for those who want a perfume that is light yet sophisticated. The smell is certainly noticeable and lingers all day, so be prepared for a flurry of compliments. However, it doesn't boast that typical powdery rose perfume scent, which is part of why we love it so much. It is intense without being overwhelming, as all the best long-lasting fragrances should be. The floral middle and base notes make up the bulk of the fragrance, whilst the citrus top notes cut through to give a sparkling finish. 

Inspired by the shape of a jewel, the premium glass-cut bottle will look beautiful on display in your collection. Though one of the pricier long-lasting perfumes we have tested, it is certainly a worthwhile investment for a timeless fragrance that works just as well as a scent for summer as it does for frosty evenings.

Escentric Molecule Molecule 01

(Image credit: Escentric Molecule)

4. Escentric Molecules Molecule 01

Most unique fresh long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £95 / $150 for 100ml
Top/middle/base note: Iso E Super molecule

Reasons to buy

+
Smells different on everyone
+
Lingers on the skin
+
Will get compliments from others
+
Cool, cult brand 

Reasons to avoid

-
You may not know exactly how it smells on you

Something a bit different. This cult perfume contains a special molecule called Iso E Super that binds to and reacts with your personal body chemistry to create a unique, lasting fragrance. All perfumes do this to some degree, but this one does it like no other. Mist it on and you may not get much back at first, but believe us, others will be asking what you are wearing all day long. 

For this reason, it's tricky to describe exactly how Molecule 01 smells. It certainly isn't overly fruity or floral, many users experience musky animalic notes, or you might find it lightly woody. But then again others say it doesn't register much with their noses at all, or comes and goes throughout the day. The one thing guaranteed is that if you wear this, other people will smell it and compliment you. Even better, you can tell them exactly what it is without worrying about giving away your 'secret', because it won't smell the same on them anyway. 

Glossier You Eau de Parfum

(Image credit: Glossier)

5. Glossier You Eau de Parfum

Best suble and fresh long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £57 / $68 for 50ml
Top notes: Iris root, pink pepper
Middle notes: None
Base notes: Ambrette, ambrox, musk

Reasons to buy

+
Refreshing and light
+
Totally unique to everyone
+
Unfussy and cool

Reasons to avoid

-
Might not be punchy enough for some

Trust Glossier's first foray into fragrance to be super modern and effortlessly cool. Simple bottle, simple name, simple composition. The fragrance actually contains very few notes - a carefully crafted blend of iris root and pink pepper top notes and smooth, salty, skin-like base notes. It's this dry-down that matters. The fragrance prioritises the base notes, hence why it manages simultaneously to be both clean and fresh, as well as impressively long-lasting. It also means that the fragrance stays fairly faithful to its first impression, and doesn't change much as it dries down. 

The website calls this more of a "skin-smell enhancer", designed to enhance your own skin's scent and also comes in a refillable waxy compact as one of the best solid perfumes we've seen. The fragrance changes on everyone, and it is one of the scent we get the most compliments on. It's a little bit like an olfactory mood ring - it smells a little different depending on the day, where you spray it, and who is wearing it. On us, the overall effect is clean, fresh, and addictive. 

Best floral long-lasting perfume

gucci bloom perfume for her

(Image credit: The Perfume Shop)

6. Gucci Bloom Eau de Parfum

Best fresh-floral long-lasting fragrance

Specifications

RRP: £91 / $91 for 50ml
Top notes: Rangoon creeper
Middle notes: Jasmine bud
Base notes: Natural tuberose

Reasons to buy

+
Very fresh scent
+
Premium packaging
+
Works for any age or occasion

Reasons to avoid

-
May be too light for those who like an intense fragrance

The clue is in the name with this fragrance. Expect to smell like a fresh-cut bunch of bright and beautiful blooms, all day long. But despite the vivid floral smell, this perfume is for those who like a subtle, lingering scent that doesn't overwhelm you. We were slightly torn as to whether this perfume would fall under the 'floral' or 'fresh' category, as it is a perfectly harmonious balance of the two. 

We would best describe it as fresh with a hint of floral sweetness, making it a very adaptable smell for all ages and occasions. This is the type of fragrance that you will almost forget you are wearing after a few hours until you get a sudden waft of the vivid jasmine notes that hang around all day. When we tested Bloom, we were struck by how quickly it settled into the skin, offering a natural yet noticeable clean scent. We also love the sleek, luxe pink packaging that will stand out amongst your other perfume bottles and gives a sophisticated look to your collection. Long-lasting credentials aside, it's easily one of the best floral perfumes.

ysl libre perfume

(Image credit: The Perfume Shop)

7. YSL Libre Eau de Parfum

Best floral long-lasting perfume for evening

Specifications

RRP: £92 / $130 for 50ml
Top notes: Tangerine, Neroli & Lavender
Middle notes: Jasmine Sambac & Orange Blossom
Base notes: White Musks & Vanilla Extract

Reasons to buy

+
Powerful scent
+
Little goes a long way
+
Beautiful packaging
+
Warm and sophisticated

Reasons to avoid

-
More of an evening scent than everyday

Libre has been a firm favourite of ours for a while, and that is because it is such a distinct fragrance. Warm and sophisticated, it is the perfect finishing touch to any day. To us, Libre is a distinctly winter and evening scent. That fresh mossiness that's typical of the best lavender perfumes combines with musky vanilla base notes to add evening-ready depth, but that's not to say it can't make a beautiful statement during the day.

Despite being a floral fragrance, the hearty base notes are what really make this perfume what it is. The floral notes add a light touch of sparkle, so Libre is an ideal option if you like your florals with a bit of edge. For a perfume that smells mature, slightly sweet, but overarchingly grand and timeless, Libre is it. When we tested this perfume, we were immediately sold. Like many of the other long-lasting perfumes in this guide, a little bit of Libre goes a long way. A couple of sprays will last you all day, if not into the next, and it clings to our clothes like no other perfume we've tested. It has been on the radar of fragrance lovers for a few years now and shows no signs of losing popularity, so it is a great investment that you can be sure you won't lose the taste for. 

Creed Wind Flowers

(Image credit: Creed)

8. Creed Wind Flowers

Best ultra-luxe floral long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £260 for 75ml (UK only)
Top notes: Jasmin, orange blossom, peach
Middle notes: Jasmine sambac, tuberose absolute, rose centifolia
Base notes: Iris, orange blossom, musk, sandalwood, praline

Reasons to buy

+
A masterpiece of perfumery
+
Gorgeous bottle
+
Unlike anything else

Reasons to avoid

-
It is pricey

This amazing fragrance was five years in the making, which is a testament to how complex it is and how much mastery and craftsmanship has gone into every detail of its creation. The bottle has been made from hand-blown glass and, as with all Creed fragrances, the brand’s heritage Fleur de Lis is engraved into the bottle. 

The juice is a phenomenal mix of a little bit floral, a little bit of amber, and a little bit fresh and fruity. That combination makes this the sort of scent that, at any given moment, there’s something for everybody to love. It’s not too much of one thing but a lot of so many others. The reason it lasts so long? Well, that’s all down to the musky, woody base notes. And the smallest of spritzes will ensure that they keep wafting over you all day long. 

marc jacobs dot perfume

(Image credit: The Perfume Shop)

9. Marc Jacobs Dot

Best fruity-floral long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £70 / $93 for 50ml
Top notes: Red Berries, Dragonfruit, Honeysuckle
Middle notes: Jasmine, Coconut Water, Orange Blossom
Base notes: Vanilla, Driftwood, Musk

Reasons to buy

+
Fresh and light
+
Timeless
+
Fun packaging

Reasons to avoid

-
May smell too youthful for some tastes

Dot is everything we love about fruity-floral perfume. Light, yet punchy and sweet, it is the perfect smell for who those want everyone to ask what scent they are wearing. Daisy (Marc Jacobs' signature scent) is extremely well known and loved by fragrance fanatics and novices alike, but Dot is a welcome alternative that has slightly more edge and interest. Similar to Gucci bloom, it settles beautifully on the skin to give a crisp finish. However, we think Dot is slightly more youthful and summer-inspired.

When we tested Dot, we were struck by how much it sticks to hair and clothes. This is something we look for in long-lasting perfumes, as this ensures that the smell follows you around - even into the next day. The fruity top notes definitely stick out, however, they are mellowed out by the mid-floral notes plus musky driftwood, and vanilla base notes. This combination ensures that it's never too sickly or overwhelming, which is what makes this such an adaptable and timeless perfume. If you are on the hunt for a reliable yet unique scent that will stand out amongst the crowd, you can't go wrong with Dot. 

Liz Earle Botanical Essence EDP No.15

(Image credit: Liz Earle)

10. Liz Earle Botanical Essence EDP No.15

Best natural floral long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £59 for 50ml (UK only)
Top notes: Cedar, bergamot, patchouli, Guaiac wood, sandalwood
Middle notes: Tonka bean, damask rose, benzoin, Elemi resin, Cypriol oil
Base notes: Pink pepper, bourbon vanilla, clove, vetiver, cinnamon leaf

Reasons to buy

+
Surprising scent
+
Not a brand you'd think of looking at
+
Easy to travel bottle

Reasons to avoid

-
Opacity of bottle means you won't know when you're running low

Trust us when we say, this fragrance is a game-changer. This is predominantly down to the amazing combination of over 90% naturally derived ingredients, but also because so many of the top notes included in this are traditionally used as base notes. What this means is it not only has amazing staying power, but it falls into the woody perfume category – a heavier type of scent – yet there still manages to be a freshness to it that prevents it from being too heavy and over-powering. 

Its warm and spicy personality won’t feel out of place on a warm day because the floral notes of rose and patchouli lift it up and add extra lightness. And because Liz Earle is not a brand you would naturally associate with high-end perfume, the biggest problem you’ll have when you’re wearing it is the volume of people stopping you that want to know what scent it is. The secret is out we're afraid.

Chanel Chance Eau de Parfum

(Image credit: Chanel)

11. Chanel Chance Eau de Parfum

Best classic floral long-lasting floral perfume

Specifications

RRP: £99 / $122 for 50ml
Top notes: Pink pepper
Middle notes: Jasmine, iris
Base notes: Patchouli, musk, vanilla

Reasons to buy

+
Great projection
+
Works day to night
+
Glamorous and very giftable

Reasons to avoid

-
Very popular, so you won't smell unique

There's a reason Chanel Chance is one of the all-time classic beauty gift ideas and one of the best Chanel perfumes of all time - it's hard to imagine anyone smelling this and not loving it. The pink pepper is immediately discernible, with an uplifting and enlivening effect on the senses. This spicy note does hang around for an impressive amount of time before the floral heart accords take hold - the perfect balance of sweet and powdery. 

But it's the patchouli, and later the creamy musk, that really come to the fore in this chypre floral and give the perfume its warm, enduring depth. It's this combination you will smell on your skin hours later, traceable even after a shower.  

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum

(Image credit: John Lewis)

12. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum

Best amber-floral long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £235 / $325 for 70ml
Top notes: Jasmine, saffron
Middle notes: Amberwood
Base notes: Fir resin, cedar

Reasons to buy

+
Sweet and warming 
+
Distinctive scent 
+
Gets better over time 

Reasons to avoid

-
Others may be wearing it

Taking the fragrance world by storm, Baccarat Rouge has become a cult classic that is loved the world over. Instantly recognisable, the long-lasting fragrance boasts a unique blend of breezy jasmine, spicy saffron, warm amber and freshly cut cedar. And while this combination may not sound sweet, the overriding scent reminds us of sugary candy floss (in the best way possible). Once the sweetness subsides slightly, expect to be hit with a warming, amber base that really sticks to the skin. 

After spritzing this on mid-morning, we were shocked to find that the scent still lingered the following day. It’s staying power is truly unrivalled. The downside, however, is that you can guarantee several other people will be wearing this fragrance, too. Our top tip? Buy a sample bottle and save it for special occasions like weddings or holidays.   

Best fruity long-lasting perfume

Gucci Guilty Intense Pour Femme

(Image credit: Gucci)

13. Gucci Guilty Intense Pour Femme Eau de Parfum

Best Eastern-inspired fruity long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £130 / $155 for 90ml
Top notes: Mandora, violet and lychee
Middle notes: Plum, ylang-ylang and tuberose
Base notes: Vanilla, patchouli and vetiver

Reasons to buy

+
Elegant scent
+
Good projection
+
Perfect for evening 

Reasons to avoid

-
Bottle looks a little less luxurious

If you like intense, woody scents, you’ll love this rich ambery fragrance, bursting with bold florals like ylang-ylang and tuberose and a long-lasting perfume of patchouli with a vanilla undercurrent. It’s dark, creamy, and extremely enduring. 

There's something reminiscent of Tom Ford Black Orchid here - ylang-ylang and patchouli are present in both scents. Think of Gucci Guilty Intense as its slightly less intense, more upbeat cousin. But less intense does not mean that this perfume's staying power is any less impressive. One spritz will see you through the day and beyond. 

armani si intense eau de parfum

(Image credit: The Perfume Shop)

14. Armani Si Intense Eau de Parfum

Best intense fruity long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £97 / $104 for 50ml
Top notes: Blackcurrant nectar
Middle notes: Isparta rose, Davana
Base notes: Benzoin, Patchouli

Reasons to buy

+
Extremely long-lasting
+
Scent doesn't fade as it dries down
+
Not sickly sweet
+
Unique scent

Reasons to avoid

-
May be too fragrant for some

For the ultimate long-lasting fragrance, look no further. This beautifully feminine perfume is not just one of our favourites in terms of smell, but also how long it lingers. Out of all the long-lasting perfumes we tested for this guide, Si was by far one of the standouts for incredibly impressive lasting power. For a true indication of how good this perfume is, we could still smell it on our wrists after showering. If that doesn't sell it, we don't know what will. 

The blackcurrant top notes initially made us think it would be an overly-sweet scent that perhaps only a select few would enjoy, however it is actually a surprisingly mature smell that will suit a wide range of tastes. The more muted base notes balance out the sweet berry tops, making for a delightfully fruity yet warm perfume. Imagine your typical blackcurrant smell, but adult-ified. One of the main things we noticed, and loved, when testing this perfume is that the smell hardly alters as it dries down. Where most perfumes mellow out, Si keeps its vivid scent for day-long wear. If you only invest in one long-lasting scent, make it this one.

Chloé Nomade EDP Naturelle

(Image credit: Chloé)

15. Chloé Nomade EDP Naturelle

Best sophisticated fruity long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £88 / $97 for 50ml
Top notes: Mirabelle, Bergamot, Lemon and Orange
Middle notes: Freesia, Peach, Jasmine and Rose
Base notes: Oakmoss, Amberwood, Patchouli, White Musk and Sandalwood

Reasons to buy

+
Chic and understated
+
Vegan 
+
Lower impact packaging 

Reasons to avoid

-
May be too sweet for some

This is everything that you want a long-lasting perfume to be: slightly light and fruity on the first spray then drying down to be sexy, woody, and lingering. It is a classic Chloé scent, in that it's understated but also the sort of scent that will have everyone asking what you’re wearing. The perfume also comes with a side of eco-credentials that are worth knowing about. 

Firstly, the main ingredient, which is jasmine, has been harvested in Egypt specifically with farmers that have a commitment to environmental management. They have also been chosen because they have implemented various initiatives to improve the living conditions of local communities such as actively supporting girls’ education and female employment. Then there is the packaging. The bottle (which has been inspired by the design of Chloé's best-selling handbag) has been made with 15% recycled materials, whilst the box contains 40% recycled materials. One could argue there is still a way to go, which there is, but these small steps can make huge differences. 

Michael Kors Super Gorgeous!

(Image credit: Michael Kors)

16. Michael Kors Super Gorgeous!

Best affordable fruity long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £59 / $74 for 30ml
Top notes: Myrrh, Mandarin orange, bergamot
Middle notes: Ylang-Ylang, jasmine sambac, orange blossom, orris
Base notes: Amber, tobacco, Atlas cedar, tonka bean, olibanum, sandalwood

Reasons to buy

+
Sophisticated
+
Set to become a classic
+
Works for everyone

Reasons to avoid

-
You'll soon smell it everywhere

Proving that not all long-lasting perfume has to cost upwards of a tonne, this lovely, crowd-pleasing blend is one of the best cheap perfumes we've found for staying power in ages.  If you think about what the overall Michael Kors aesthetic is about - polished but comfortable with a hint of Californian sunshine thrown in - that is exactly what this perfume is all about too. It starts with quite a fruity hit thanks to the notes of orange and bergamot but quickly dries down to become more sultry, but not overpowering, rich, and comforting.

It’s due to the decadent amber, woody and tobacco notes that this perfume will linger on your skin and your clothes all day long. But we’re betting you’ll love it so much that you won’t be able to resist a top-up if you have nighttime plans, and the people you’re spending your evening with will thank you for it. 

BOSS The Scent Le Parfum

(Image credit: Hugo Boss)

17. Hugo Boss BOSS The Scent Le Parfum For Her

The best crowd-pleasing fruity long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £93 / $99 for 50ml
Top notes: Peach, freesia
Middle notes: Osmanthus
Base notes: Cacao

Reasons to buy

+
Works for every occasion
+
Suits all ages
+
Good value for money

Reasons to avoid

-
Others might be wearing it

We know you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, or in this case a perfume by its bottle, but it’s hard not to when it looks this good. Thankfully what’s inside doesn’t disappoint either. And that is probably what Hugo Boss fragrances are known for. They are exceptionally reliable, making them the perfect go-to brand for gifting whether you’re looking for something your grandmother, mother, or daughter would love. This works and suits all. 

Some may see that as a negative, but when there is so much confusion and loud noise on the perfume stands, some straightforwardness is a much-needed relief. This is a powerful perfume but thanks to the gentle notes of peach and the delicious dry down of the cacao, it becomes a scent that works for everyone in every situation, and for that, we are truly thankful. 

long-lasting perfume from Frederic Malle

(Image credit: Frederic Malle)

18. Frédéric Malle Portrait of a Lady Eau de Parfum

Best ultra-luxe fruity long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £190 / $250 for 50ml
Top notes: Raspberry, blackcurrant, rose
Middle notes: Sandalwood, incense, patchouli
Base notes: Musk, amber, benzoin

Reasons to buy

+
Distinctive
+
Impressive longevity 
+
Elegant and classy

Reasons to avoid

-
Others may be wearing it

If you’re familiar with Frédéric Malle, then it’s likely you’ve heard of Portrait of a Lady. The brand’s most iconic fragrance, this perfume is described as “elegance, personified”. A totally unique scent, we found it exceptionally hard to put this perfume into words. It’s opulent, lavish, and decadent. One sniff and you can imagine the type of woman who may wear this - confident and sophisticated. In fact, it’s the type of fragrance that you would love to be associated with which is why we’ve labelled it ‘the best long-lasting signature scent’. 

Our advice? If your friends are not yet familiar with this scent, we recommend purchasing it pronto and making it your new signature. The beautiful blend features rose essence and patchouli laced with fresh ripe berries. As it dries down, cinnamon and sandalwood steal the show - adding warmth and spice to this addictive concoction. 

Best gourmand long-lasting perfume

Zara Red Temptation Eau de Parfum

(Image credit: Zara)

19. Zara Red Temptation Eau de Parfum

Best budget gourmand long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £22.99 / $29.90 for 80ml
Top notes: Saffron, coriander, bitter orange
Middle notes: Praline, jasmine
Base notes: Amber, moss, musk

Reasons to buy

+
Affordable 
+
Sweet and addictive 
+
Works for every occasion

Reasons to avoid

-
Moderate longevity

If you adore Baccarat Rouge but can’t justify spending hundreds on a perfume, give this fragrance from Zara a whirl. A fraction of the price point, this warm and sweet scent reminds us of both Baccarat Rouge and Ariana Grande Cloud.  It has the same jammy sweetness and warming amber base. And as you can see from the notes, they have several in common—saffron, jasmine and amber. The difference being that Red Temptation is lighter and brighter.

We found that this fragrance lingered for around five hours before mellowing, which considering the price point isn’t too bad. At first, you’ll notice the fresh jasmine before praline and amber make an appearance. Once it warms on the skin, you’re left with a salted caramel aroma. To boost the staying power, we recommend layering this perfume with a scented body cream or another floral fragrance. 

YSL Black Opium

(Image credit: YSL)

20. YSL Black Opium Eau de Parfum

Best unique gourmand long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £65 / $95 for 30ml
Top notes: Pear, pink pepper, orange blossom
Middle notes: Coffee, jasmine, bitter almond, licorice
Base notes: Vanilla, patchouli, cedar, cashmere wood

Reasons to buy

+
Beautiful bottle
+
Good projection
+
Top notes less defined

Reasons to avoid

-
You might smell a lot of other people wearing it

Black Opium is a modern classic that has amassed a sizeable fragrance fan base. This floral gourmand perfume is sensual, dark, and mysterious with an ingredients list that sounds a lot like a Starbucks order, with black coffee, almond, and vanilla. 

The traditional top, heart then base note composition isn't as markedly defined or staggered in this fragrance. We got the creaminess of vanilla and almond coming through almost immediately and didn't experience much in the way of the sparkling pink pepper and fruity opening notes. However, this all points towards the sensuality and depth this perfume possesses, and it's this cozy, earthy dry down that ensures you will still be smelling it for hours into the day. 

Lancome Oui La Vie est Belle Eau de Parfum

(Image credit: Lancome)

21. Lancome Oui La Vie est Belle Eau de Parfum

Best floral-gourmand long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £125 / $102 for 50ml
Top notes: Bergamot, Pink Pepper
Middle notes: Rose, Ylang Ylang
Base notes: Patchouli, Iris

Reasons to buy

+
Juicy, delicious and sparkling
+
Lasting base notes
+
High concentration of perfume oils 
+
Gorgeous bottle 

Reasons to avoid

-
Not spicy or smoky, if that's your thing

Should you update an iconic scent? If you are Lancome and said scent is probably the world's best-loved gourmand (as in, delicious) perfume, La Vie Est Belle, the answer is oui! So we get this joyful, sparkly, slightly richer version, which mixes the original's famous vanilla and praline accord with tart fruit top notes, a powdery iris base and a hit of patchouli funk. 

It's still definitely sweet, and definitely floral, so on the first sniff you'll get a joyful, mouthwatering effect to match that bon-bon-hued juice and firework-adorned bottle. But, this being eau de parfum concentration, the base notes are what linger, and those are a bit more complex. After an hour or so of wear, we could detect a musky, elegant earthiness that kept on trailing out for hours. If you prefer your perfume ultra smoky or as crisp as a freshly-pressed shirt then this won't be for you, otherwise, it's a perfect long-lasting, smile-inducing summer scent.

long-lasting perfume from Kayali

(Image credit: Kayali)

22. Huda Beauty Kayali Vanilla 28 Eau de Parfum

Best vanilla gourmand long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £98 / $118 for 100ml
Top notes: Vanilla orchid, jasmine
Middle notes: Brown sugar, tonka bean
Base notes: Amber, musk, patchouli

Reasons to buy

+
Good projection
+
Sweet and seductive
+
Great for evening

Reasons to avoid

-
Might be too sweet for some

If you like vanilla perfumes, you’ll love Huda Beauty’s Kayali Vanilla | 28 Eau de Parfum. A far cry from those sickly-sweet vanilla scents that conjure up the smell of freshly baked cookies—this gourmand perfume is far more ‘grown-up’ in its nuances. Alongside Madagascan vanilla, you’ll find breezy jasmine, sweet Brazilian tonka, warming amber, and fresh patchouli. 

We’ll admit that on first impressions, it does smell sweet. But once you let it linger on the skin, it calms to a warming, caramelized vanilla scent that will keep you coming back for more. If, however, vanilla isn’t your thing, we’d recommend steering clear. But for anyone with a sweet tooth, give this fragrance a spritz. You’ll be hooked! 

Thierry Mugler Angel Eau de Parfum

(Image credit: Thierry Mugler)

23. Thierry Mugler Angel Eau de Parfum

Most iconic gourmand long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £92 / $150 for 50ml
Top notes: Cotton candy, coconut, cassis, melon, pineapple
Middle notes: Honey, red berries, blackberry, plum, rose, lily-of-the-valley
Base notes: Patchouli, chocolate, caramel, vanilla, amber, musk, sandalwood

Reasons to buy

+
Great projection
+
Complex sweetness
+
Unique statement scent

Reasons to avoid

-
Some may find it too sweet

Angel is one of the best-selling scents around the world, and yet it remains a disruptive and divisive perfume with some fragrance aficionados lauding its honey-sweetness and others labeling it far too saccharine. There's no denying Angel is sweet but it is also layered, complex, and sexy. 

This fragrance has really got some kick to it and projects really well so go easy on the spritzing. The chocolate and patchouli notes stand out for me, and the longevity is next level. Even after a shower and eight hours of sleep, we could still smell this the next morning.  Even better, there are often great perfume deals to be found on this iconic fragrance. 

Best spicy long-lasting perfume

Zadig & Voltaire this is us unisex fragrance

(Image credit: The Perfume Shop)

24. Zadig & Voltaire This is Us!

Best unisex long-lasting spicy perfume

Specifications

RRP : £66 / $88 for 50ml
Top notes: Vanilla
Middle notes: Cashmeran
Base notes: Sandalwood

Reasons to buy

+
Unisex, universal appeal
+
Trendy 
+
Unique smell
+
Affordable designer fragrance

Reasons to avoid

-
None, we love this

This fragrance starts off light and powdery, but quickly becomes woody and richer as it dries on the skin. When we tested it, we found it to be a clean smell that becomes more complex the longer you wear it. The sandalwood base notes slowly creep out throughout the day, balancing with the vanilla for the ideal adaptable scent. We also found that the first spritz of This Is Us! is fairly subtle, but after a few minutes, you will notice the strength of the fragrance increase to become distinguishable and long-lasting.

Unisex fragrances usually tend to lean more towards typically masculine scents, but we find This Is Us! to be the perfect balance of both masculine and feminine ingredients. If the majority of perfumes are too fragrant for you, or you are looking for an everyday scent that is subtle but still long-lasting, this could be the one. For something similar, but slightly more fragrant, the brand also offers a This Is Her! perfume, with floral and pear notes.

Goutal Paris FOLIE D’UN SOIR EDP

(Image credit: Goutal)

25. Goutal Paris FOLIE D’UN SOIR EDP

Best feminine spicy long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £117 / $135 for 50ml
Top notes: Pink Pepper, Turkish Roses
Middle notes: Myrrh, Incense
Base notes: Leather, Cocoa

Reasons to buy

+
Beautifully balanced
+
Spicy, yet pretty
+
Ultra-sophisticated brand
+
Show-it-off bottle

Reasons to avoid

-
None, we love this

Goutal Paris is a brand so beloved by those in the know (ourselves included) that some fans are keen to keep it to themselves, lest the whole world starts wearing it. Here at woman&home, though, we know sharing is caring. So we couldn't not tell you about this spicy and sexy yet also chic and long-lasting perfume. 

Aside from the brand's trademark pom-pom-adorned bottle, there is so much to love about this. It's perfectly balanced, with layers of soft and smoky spices mingling with fleshy Turkish rose and an unexpected sweet little kick of cocoa. This lasts beautifully on the skin, without disappearing off into the ether as fresher, zipper styles tend to do. What is most surprising of all is that, reading the list of notes, you would expect this to be a full-on spice bomb, but it isn't at all. There is prettiness here along with enduring sexy, smokiness. Truly, we can't really say anything bad about this scent, except that it might force you to tell a fib when a friend asks what it is. 

Cartier LES HEURES VOYAGEUSES OUD & SANTAL EDP

(Image credit: Cartier)

26. Cartier LES HEURES VOYAGEUSES OUD & SANTAL

Best ultra-luxe spicy long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £325 / $365 for 75ml
Top notes: Oud Wood
Middle notes: Confit plum
Base notes: Sandalwood

Reasons to buy

+
A true collector's item 
+
Ultra precious ingredients  
+
Unique, nobody will smell like you 
+
Suits men and women 

Reasons to avoid

-
Price will be prohibitive for many

There's no point in sugarcoating it: this is a fragrance for the few, not the many. But such is the case for many oud perfumes - and there was no chance we could have left it out of this guide because, a) it is a divine, supremely long-lasting collector's item if you can afford it. And b) even if you can't, you might be curious to read what a 300-buck fragrance is like anyway, no? 

You can probably get a sense of what makes this so special simply by looking at the bottle, which is limited-edition and intricately designed with a Moucharaby damask, inspired by the Cartier brothers' Eastern travels. What's inside is transportative too, a deliciously sexy, heady, sticky composition of precious oud, sandalwood, and confit plum. That this unfussy trio can create such a nuanced, distinctive fragrance is a testament to the quality of the ingredients, and a light morning misting will stick with you all day and then some. Because of this, the bottle will last you all year, and then even when it's finished, you'll probably end up keeping it on display all decade. A statement decoration and a signature scent in one. That's pure luxury. 

Tom Ford Black Orchid Eau de Parfum

(Image credit: Tom Ford)

27. Tom Ford Black Orchid Eau de Parfum

Best classic spicy long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £140 / $225 for 100ml
Top notes: Truffle, ylang-ylang, jasmine, bergamot
Middle notes: Orchid, spices, gardenia, lotus
Base notes: Mexican Chocolate, patchouli, incense, amber, sandalwood, white musk

Reasons to buy

+
Great projection
+
Rich and seductive
+
Unique fragrance

Reasons to avoid

-
Might be too strong for some

Winter, dusk, a little black dress—these are the things that come to mind whenever we smell Black Orchid. It is a bold, confident scent, with a touch of the gothic about it. This cult chypre has top notes of black truffle and jasmine with a hint of citrus.

When we fist smelt this we found the first impression super intense—this is no shy and retiring juice. As the perfume dries down into an amber, vanilla, and woodsy base it becomes sensual and cocooning. Basically, if you want to smell glamorous and opulent (and why wouldn't you?) this is the MVP of the EDPs. And as you would hope from a fragrance with such impressive projection, its performance as a long-lasting perfume is great too.

Byredo Mumbai Noise

(Image credit: Byredo)

28. Byredo Mumbai Noise Eau de Parfum

Best cult spicy long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £140 / $205 for 50ml
Top notes: Davana
Middle notes: Tonka beans, coffee
Base notes: Labdanum, agarwood, sandalwood

Reasons to buy

+
Strong projection
+
Rich and full-bodied
+
Unisex

Reasons to avoid

-
If you don't like oud you might not enjoy this

When composing Mumbai Noise, Byredo Founder Ben Gorham set out to create a scent that would convey the overwhelming and raucous effect the city of Mumbai has on the senses. Woody, spicy, and a little bit smokey, with potent oud and bitter coffee, this is certainly a powerful olfactory experience. 

With that being said, this is a fragrance that lives on the skin forever, and it has an earthy, woody, leathery aroma that will appeal to both men and women. If you're looking for a scent to make a statement, this is just the ticket.

Best long-lasting perfume from jo malone

(Image credit: Jo Malone)

29. Jo Malone Dark Amber & Ginger Lily Cologne Intense

Best warming spicy long-lasting perfume

Specifications

RRP: £102 / $145 for 50ml
Top notes: Ginger, black cardamom, pink pepper
Middle notes: Water lily, orchid, jasmine, rose
Base notes: Sandalwood, amber, incense, patchouli, leather

Reasons to buy

+
Warm and comforting 
+
Good sillage
+
Woody and spicy

Reasons to avoid

-
Heavy scent may not be for all

After launching back in 2008, Jo Malone Dark Amber & Ginger Lily quickly rose to stardom, becoming one of the brand’s best-sellers. On first sniff, you may be taken aback by the strong scent that conjures up spicy gingerbread with a hint of incense. But after a while, once the fragrance settles on skin, it truly transforms into a warm, woodsy scent that’s comforting and cocooning. 

We’d go so far to say that this is a cashmere blanket in fragrance form—soft, cosy and it smells expensive. As for the notes, it opens with ginger, cardamon and pink pepper before making way for delicate florals (think water lily, rose and jasmine). At the base is where you’ll find incense, amber and sandalwood—and it’s these warming, smoky notes, plus a touch of ginger, that linger on the skin long after spritzing. Our top tip? Save this one for the cool, winter months. 

long-lasting perfume from Penhaligon's

(Image credit: Penhaligon's)

30. Penhaligon’s The Bewitching Yasmine Eau De Parfum

Best long-lasting spicy oud perfume

Specifications

RRP: £220 / $295 for 75ml
Top notes: Coffee, cardamom
Middle notes: Jasmine
Base notes: Vanilla, oud

Reasons to buy

+
Impressive staying power
+
Unique scent 
+
Complex and evolves on skin

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive

British perfume house Penhaligon’s is renowned for its luxurious fragrances that combine authentic natural ingredients with the latest advancements in fragrance chemistry to deliver unique scents that each tell their own story. Inspired by places and people, these perfumes are complex, powerful and extremely long-lasting. Our favourite? The Bewitching Yasmine. 

“A celebration of all that is gloriously sensual”, Yasmine is seriously addictive, combining rich coffee and oud with light florals and a hint of sweet vanilla. Inspired by London, this fragrance demands to be noticed and will have several passers by asking, “what perfume are you wearing?” And while it may be too overpowering for some, know that it settles over time, leaving a trail of sweet vanilla and spicy cardamon in its wake. 


How we tested the best long-lasting perfumes

As we say in all of our fragrance guides, perfume is a very subjective thing – your beloved signature scent may cause someone else's nose to wrinkle in distaste – but luckily, one universal metric we can assess fragrance by is lasting power.

We tested dozens of perfumes for this guide, including many of our personal favourites that we have been wearing for years. In order to determine which perfume lasts longest, we gave each scent at least a full day's wear and tested many of them in different weather conditions and environments. As well as checking how long each perfume lasted, we also considered factors like price, packaging, composition, and potency in order to decide which long-lasting perfumes are truly worth the investment. 

How to pick a long-lasting perfume

Looking for a new fall fragrance and wondering how to choose a perfume so it lasts? It can be worth spending a little more so that you can enjoy the aroma for longer. These are the considerations you should make:  

  • Concentration: “The perfume concentrate is the blend of scented raw materials - namely oils, molecules, absolutes,” explains Harris. “The higher the percentage of concentrate, the more persistent the perfume.” An Eau de cologne will last around two to three hours, Eau de toilette between four and seven hours, while Eau de parfum can stick around eight hours.  
  • Notes: If you want your perfume to last, look for spicy, woodsy, and rich blends with enduring notes such as sandalwood, perfumes with patchouli, amber, vanilla, and cedarwood. The best oud perfumes, for example, are highly prized for their lasting power and typically linger on the skin longer than citrus, green, and fruity perfume notes. 
  • Try it on: The best way to be assured of a perfume’s staying power is to test it. If you’re heading to the high street to seek out the best Zara perfume, or the fragrance counter for designer brands, be sure to test the perfume on your skin, rather than a blotter, to check how well it plays with your body chemistry, then leave it for 24 hours to see how it dries down.

How to make your perfume last longer

  • Layer it: “Wherever I go, I am always asked ‘how do you make a fragrance last longer?’, says doyenne of scent, Jo Malone CBE of Jo Loves. “Fragrance layering by using a bath and shower gel, body lotion, and a fragrance in the same scent will help it last longer. Layering your products in this way will help lock in your scent making it last much longer on your skin.”
  • Apply to pulse points: If you want your perfume to last, where you spray it makes a huge impact. Apply perfume to your pulse points, like the inner wrist, the base of the throat, inner elbows, and behind the ears. The arteries pump closer to the surface of the skin here and this extra warmth helps the fragrance to develop faster.
  • Dab, don't rub: Don’t rub your wrists together after spraying. “Rubbing actually hampers the fragrance’s top notes from developing fully,” warns Karen Harris. The friction causes heat, which can affect the integrity of the fragrance. Simply spritz each spot then let it sink in.  
  • Store it correctly: Perfumes don’t like direct sunlight, heat, or steam. The best place to store your perfume, and protect the longevity of the fragrance, is in its original box at room temperature.
  • Don't forget to moisturise: “Apply your perfume to moisturized skin after showering,” suggests Harris. “The moisture locks the perfume in and gives it the base it needs to boost the fragrance and optimize its staying power.”
Stephanie Maylor

Stephanie Maylor is a Beauty Editor working across five national magazine titles, with almost 15 years' experience in the industry.  She has written for many brands, including woman&home, Grazia, Now, More!, Fabulous, NW, Woman, Woman's Own, Woman's Weekly, Essentials, Best, Chat, and OK! online. 


In 2010 she launched her own beauty blog, which was shortlisted for Best Beauty Blog in the 2011 and 2012 Johnson & Johnson Beauty Journalism Awards. She has interviewed many high profile industry experts and celebrities including Alesha Dixon, Twiggy and Christina Hendricks. 

With contributions from