Spicy fragrances are in vogue right now—here are the ones I've been wearing nonstop.

      As winter approaches, fragrance brands are busy launching new products in anticipation of the festive season, and my inbox is filled with press releases. This provides a great opportunity to identify key trends for the upcoming season, and I’ve noticed that spicy fragrances are on the rise. Not the overpowering, traditional kinds that remind you of your spice cabinet, but a modern twist—think pepper, cardamom, saffron, and incense used in ways that feel warm, contemporary, and slightly surprising. They offer a sophisticated take on winter scents.

      As a beauty editor, I've observed a broader transition in fragrances. Many individuals are tired of smelling like everyone else. The usual favorites—sweet vanillas, fresh florals, and clean musks—aren't satisfying anymore. Instead, there’s a growing taste for the unusual: fragrance combinations that provoke a moment of thought. Sweet and spicy. Floral and spicy. Familiar yet distinct.

      I've always appreciated fragrances that embrace contrast. One of my all-time favorites is Diptyque’s Eau Duelle (£160)—it's both peppery and vanilla-scented, a combination that seems odd but is wonderful on the skin (it’s one of my most complimented fragrances). Whenever I describe it, people seem puzzled, but once they try it, they understand. That’s the essence of spicy perfumes—they rarely stand alone. They aren’t just spicy; some are fresh with a bit of zest and sparkle, while others are warm and comforting, akin to being wrapped in a cashmere scarf. Some even smell sweet and edible, reminiscent of a chai latte in fragrance form.

      What I adore about this new wave of spicy scents is their wearability. They’re intriguing without being daunting, and they give you a unique aroma. Below, I've curated a list of my favorite spicy perfumes—each captures the perfect mix of heat, sweetness, and complexity. Whether you prefer something clean and crisp or dark and smoky, there’s a spicy fragrance on this list you’re sure to enjoy.

      **Best Spicy Perfumes**

      **Best Fresh Spicy Perfume:** Les Soeurs de Noe Call Me Iris Eau de Parfum (£170)

      **Best Sweet Spicy Perfume:** Diptyque Eau Duelle Eau de Toilette (£160)

      **Best Soft Spicy Perfume:** Phlur Somebody Wood Eau de Parfum (£99)

      **Best Dry Spicy Perfume:** Aesop Eidesis Eau de Parfum (£145)

      **Best Woody Spicy Perfume:** Byredo Black Saffron Eau de Parfum (£150)

      1. **Les Soeurs de Noe Call Me Iris Eau De Parfum**

       - **Fragrance family:** Fresh spicy

       - **Key notes:** Lemon, bergamot, pink pepper, orris (iris root), olibanum (incense), fir balsam, vanilla

       - This is my current favorite, which I wear almost daily. The floral iris note beautifully balances lighter, fresher top notes with deeper, spicier base notes. It’s a versatile scent suitable for any occasion, and if you’re new to spicy fragrances, this one is approachable without being overwhelming.

      2. **Diptyque Eau Duelle Eau De Toilette**

       - **Fragrance family:** Sweet spicy

       - **Key notes:** Bourbon vanilla, cardamom, pink pepper, juniper berry, saffron, black tea, amber, olibanum, calamus

       - I first encountered this Diptyque fragrance on a friend over a decade ago and immediately inquired about it, then ordered a bottle for myself. It has become a staple in my collection because it works perfectly on days when I’m undecided about my scent. It’s warm, sweet, and subtly spicy, evoking a familiar and cozy feeling, even for first-time wearers.

      3. **Phlur Somebody Wood Eau De Parfum**

       - **Fragrance family:** Soft spicy

       - **Key notes:** Bergamot, lemon, saffron, cyclamen, jasmine, sandalwood, amber, cedar, vanilla, musk

       - This is my favorite Phlur fragrance and one that consistently garners compliments. The spicy elements (saffron, amber, and musk) are harmoniously balanced with delicate notes of bergamot, lemon, and jasmine.

      4. **Aesop Eidesis Eau De Parfum**

       - **Fragrance family:** Dry spicy

       - **Key notes:** Petitgrain, black pepper, frankincense, cumin, cedar, sandalwood, vetiver

       - Although the spicy notes are prominent in this fragrance, they don’t feel overpowering when worn. For me, this is the ideal winter fragrance, bringing to mind the woody and smoky aromas of a forest stroll.

      5. **Byredo Black Saffron Eau De Parfum**

       - **Fragrance family