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Picking afragrancehas always been a personal decision for me.
Graphic by Cristina Cianci
Who wants to smell like everyone else?
I pride myself on having a scent that is unique.
Selecting a completely new fragrance always puzzles me.
There are so many choices.
SELF asked our trustySephora expertswhich fragrances they prefer (and why).
Each pick is backed up by favorable reviews on Sephora.
Take a look below to see which brands stand out as ultimate favorites.
Its invigorating oranges and woodsy tones create a blend I want to wear every day!
When I want to warm up my Orange Sanguine, I addVanille Insensee Cologne Absolue Pure Perfume."
Dina Nikocevic, New York City
What reviewers say: “This smells like actual oranges.
(Unless you don’t like citrus, that is).
It is a very lifelike citrus scent and I love it so much!”
With summer approaching I’m addicted to Dior Sauvage.
Its fresh, chic and woody.
For evenings and events, I useTom Ford Noir.
Its rich and stays on all night."
Hector Espinal, New York City
What reviewers say:“Great smell for a woman, too!
This smell has been my go-to for more than two years now.
I put a drop in the crease of my elbows and behind my ears.
It’s smells all day, but it’s not overwhelming.
I feel empowered and sexy whilst wearing it.”
These two fragrances layer really nicely together because they both contain one common notejasmine."
Eliza Davila, New York City
What reviewers say:“This is one of my favorite perfumes.
I don’t know how anyone can hate it.
It’s like walking in a garden after midnight with your lover holding your hand.
It is the definition of that heady feeling of being in love.
If you are on the fence, just buy it.
You won’t regret it.”
It’s beautiful and wears well on both men and women.
I have many that I love and consider my collection of fragrances to be a wardrobe of the senses.
For example, a classic favorite that I wore for my wedding is Prada Amber.
If you are a rich amber lover, this is for you.
I love a lingering scent.
and this is the very best Prada ever made!"
Then theresRose Anonymewhich smells like a bouquet of roses spiked with ginger notes as well.
These pretty much sum up my fragrance style and how different yet similar it can be."
But after two travel sizes, I finally committed to the full thing.
My boyfriend and I both love this cologne (he uses it sometimes, too).
It doesn’t need to be reapplied too many times and is appropriate for most occasions.
I never thought I would find a signature scent but this is it.
It’s perfect for the girl that wants something different and not overwhelming."
It is a great addition to my summer scent wardrobe!"
Shawn Lumaban, Jersey City
What reviewers say:“This is an amazing scent!
Really woodsy and almost leathery, maybe?
It’s definitely reminiscent of a library.
And I absolutely love it!
Would be great on a man or a woman at any time of day.
It’s definitely going to be taking a spot in my top five fragrances.
I love the fresh, clean scent that lingers throughout the day.
I initially thought it was for men and was ecstatic when I learned it was a scent for women.
This is a classic scent.
It’s not an ‘old lady’ scent, it’s for mature women.
I adore this fragrance.