I've tried out hundreds of perfumes, but these 9 receive more compliments than all the rest.

      (Image credit: Mica Ricketts)

      As a beauty editor who has experienced countless top perfumes over the years and owns an embarrassingly extensive collection of signature scents, I have a good understanding of what constitutes an exceptional fragrance. There's no doubt that perfume is a personal choice—while my fondness for musks and powdery violet scents may not resonate with those who prefer bold amber or woody aromas—having tested and worn a variety, I can identify when a perfume is bound to be popular.

      Certain brands receive frequent praise from beauty editors for their intricate scent combinations and lasting sillage—Byredo, Jo Malone London, and Le Labo are a few examples. However, there’s one brand that remains relatively unnoticed in the UK, even though I consistently receive compliments when I wear their scents: Ellis Brooklyn.

      (Image credit: Mica Ricketts)

      Founded by New York Times beauty columnist Bee Shapiro in 2015, Ellis Brooklyn often elicits puzzled looks when I mention it as my chosen fragrance. I can't quite comprehend why. In my view, Ellis Brooklyn set the stage for brands like Phlur (another personal favorite) to flourish. The colorful and playful bottles are instantly recognizable, but it’s the fragrance itself that truly stands out. Created in small batches with sustainably sourced ingredients, each Ellis Brooklyn perfume possesses a unique ability to evoke emotions, transport you to different environments, or spark joy. Every scent is fresh, bright, and genuinely wearable—whether you lean towards sweet gourmands, fruity florals, or deeper aromas.

      I've sampled most of the collection and compiled my favorites among the nine best Ellis Brooklyn perfumes to explore.

      1. Ellis Brooklyn Miami Nectar

      **Best Summer Scent**

      **Key notes:** Pink pineapple, palm leaves, coconut water, wild jasmine, plumeria, lily of the valley, tree moss, salted woods, sweet amber woods, vanilla

      This fragrance perfectly embodies summer and has garnered attention on social media for its appealing blend of sweet, juicy notes with tropical undertones. While I typically enjoy fruity perfumes, I was initially skeptical because the enthusiastic online reviews seemed to come from a younger demographic. Nevertheless, I challenge anyone not to fall for this whimsical scent. Though sweet and tropical, the addition of vanilla and amber adds warmth, while salted woods introduce a breezy sensation that elevates it beyond a typical beach scent.

      2. Ellis Brooklyn Super Amber

      **Best Warming Perfume**

      **Notes:** Amber, vanilla orchid, Virginia cedarwood, musk

      There's no photo of this in my collection because I happily finished an entire bottle last year without pausing for a picture—a clear indication of its addictive nature. While I usually adore amber scents, those who shy away from the note's intensity can trust that this offers a distinct interpretation of the aroma. With a focus on mid-notes, it highlights amber's skin-like characteristics (a sweet yet spicy blend) combined with powdery musk, rich vanilla, and warm cedarwood, resulting in the coziest and most comforting scent. It’s akin to an amplified skin scent—warm and inviting. I must quickly restock.

      3. Ellis Brooklyn Florist

      **Best Floral Option**

      **Notes:** Italian bergamot, lemon sfuma, lily of the valley, pear, tuberose petals, golden gardenia, jasmine sambac, honeysuckle, upcycled cedarwood Virginia, sandalwood spicatum, ambrox

      The list of key notes for this fragrance reads like an invoice from a flower shop, making it truly reminiscent of a florist. However, it’s not just any florist; it’s a luxurious one you might find tucked away in a sun-drenched Italian courtyard surrounded by orange trees. Upon entering the cool shop, the fruity freshness from outside lingers before a symphony of exquisite roses, jasmine, and honeysuckle envelops you. It celebrates blossoms in a modern, delightful way—bright, sparkling, and fresh without being overwhelming, evoking the sensation of petals floating on a breeze.

      4. Ellis Brooklyn Salt

      **Best Fresh Scent**

      **Notes:** Ylang ylang, violet leaves absolute, Tahitian tiare, magnolia dianica, musk, vegan ambergris, sandalwood

      Despite its name, this best-selling Ellis Brooklyn scent has no trace of salt; yet, to me, it evokes the warmth of sun-kissed skin. Although it’s an excellent summer fragrance, thanks to tropical blooms and warm sandalwood, I think it caters to those desiring the essence of a vacation scent without overly sweet notes like coconut or vanilla. Instead, it presents itself as a musky skin scent with a refreshing touch. I absolutely love it.

      5. Ellis Brooklyn Marshmallows

      **Best Affordable Fragrance**

      **Notes:** Marshmallow, lemon, peach skin, caramel accord, benzoin, vanilla orchid, milky musks, amber woods, patchouli