The Best New Fragrances of 2021 (So Far)

August 31, 2022
Posted by Mengotti Couture

Deciding on a new fragrance has always been a deeply personal choice. There are, of course, several elements that come into play when selecting a scent you love. The nostalgia component when choosing certain notes factors in greatly—and we’ve all learned that fragrance usually needs an hour or two to settle onto your skin to properly smell the way it’s intended to, based on your personal body chemistry. If you’re thinking of changing up your scent in 2021, there’s never been a better time—perfume houses are coming out with fresh offerings at a rapid clip. Below, we’ve put together a handful of some of the chicest, newest fragrances to launch—from sultry and musky to fresh and floral—from some of the most renowned fashion and beauty brands.

1.Tom Ford Ombré Leather Parfum

A distinct floral leather merges notes of black leather, violet leaf absolute, orpur, and cedarwood in this enticing fall fragrance that lands well on skin. Capturing the sensuality of the American West, the scent is unmistakably its own, mixing even, fruity undertones of honeysuckle with luxurious jasmine sambac absolute.

2.Aqua Viridi

This is an ideal scent for those who prefer deeper, herbal notes that are not on the sweet side. Drawing inspiration from the marine colognes of the 1990s, Aqua Viridi’s multi-layered fragrance utilizes plant and flower extracts to give intriguing woody, herb-infused notes. Self-taught perfumer Patrick Kelly created the aroma using rosemary, lavender, Tonka beans, and hay absolute.

3.Cultus ALBA

For those who love a great citrus scent that’s on the gentle side and is still fall-appropriate, there’s Cultus Artem’s Alba. High notes of geranium, magnolia blossom, red mandarin, and Italian lemon are rounded out with beeswax, hay, and Jonquil flowers to give a fragile, but still enchanting presence. Like Cultus Artem’s other scents, Alba is free of parabens, organosulfates, phthalates, color additives, and synthetic dyes.

4.VANILLA DIORAMA

This is a beguiling, sweet scent that still encapsulates all the fall feels. The scent’s namesake is from the Diorama Gourmand dessert, an original, bespoke delicacy created by the legendary restaurant Maxim’s of Paris especially for Dior. Vanilla Diorama has an opulent array of Madagascar vanilla, rum, and patchouli to give it some edge and round out the fragrance—perfect for anyone who desires sweetness with a grown-up, enticing musk to it.

5.Louis Vuitton Spell on You

Spell on You uses an alluring combination of notes to create a sexy mood. Created by Louis Vuitton’s Master Perfumer Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, this scent draws its inspiration from the intoxicating tension and game-playing between lovers. The heart of the bouquet is an unmistakable rose and Sambac jasmine combination.

6.Diptyque Venise

This should be on the list of every fragrance collector in love with clean, green scents. Not heavy in the least bit, Venise is fresh, light, and undeniably intoxicating. The French candlemaker drew its inspiration from the city of Venice and the lush vegetation of the Serenissima Lagoon. The high notes are vetiver, basil, an unlikely green pepper, and tomato. Here’s a pro tip: Allow at least a minute for the fragrance to properly settle on the skin

Dolce & Gabbana Velvet Black Patchouli

This sexy gender-fluid scent is perfect for fall evenings out or a special occasion. High notes of the fragrance contain blood orange and Davana, with middle notes resting on patchouli (of course,) and finally settling with bottom notes of vanilla and caramel.

Armani My Way Intense

Recently launched last month, My Way Intense is an excellent choice for those who love florals. This scent captures a more vibrant take on the original Armani floral—with celebratory fragrance notes contain tuberose, orange blossom, cedar, and vanilla.

9.Aesop Miraceti

A spicier, woody fragrance to consider if you’re into the muskier fall scents. This subtle fragrance goes on strong at first, then dissipates into softer notes using tones of ambrette, styrax, and seaweed—all of which give the welcoming aroma of a cozy cabin getaway. Aesop’s newest cruelty-free, vegan scent is gender-fluid and health conscious with a Leaping Bunny certified stamp of approval.

10.

Salvatore Ferragamo Giungle di Seta

Fresh and exotic, this is a cultivated scent for floral lovers to consider if they want something soft and wispy. It’s delicately welcoming and not overwhelming when you walk into a room. The fragrance includes high notes of fresh green pea and peony, and a final hint of musk. Giungle di Seta is one of a four-part fragrance collection, Store de Seta, which launched earlier this year.