From oud to sandalwood, Arab perfumes and ingredients are the only way to unlock new bounds of “smelling expensive”.
If you aren’t chronically online, like we are, “smelling expensive” is a TikTok term for smelling interesting and captivating. Long gone are the days when everyone wants generic sweet scents that last a few hours and then dissipate throughout the day. Now fragrance is an act of personal style, it’s a mark of who you are and what you want to tell the world.
Arab perfumes have long held the reigns in the fragrance world thanks to their complex ingredients and unique, powerful blends. Here, GRAZIA rounds up some of our favourites from long-lasting musks to captivating sweet scents and – of course – the ultimate ouds.
Kayali – Oudgasm Vanilla Oud
From the “people-first” CEOs who have been doing the rounds in the beauty world and beyond, this Arab perfume has reached international stardom. By Mona and Huda Kattan, the Kayali brand is synonymous with its sweet vanilla flavours, and this oud-based perfume is no different. Warm and spicy, the woody scent is brimming with vanilla sugar, praline and oud. With an entire collection dedicated to the iconic Arab ingredient, this oud perfume is an act of self-love in a bottle.
Creed – Royal Princess Oud
While Oud has a reputation for being a powerful and distinct scent, Creed’s Royal Princess flips that on its head. Light, sweet and captivating, it’s a best-seller for a reason. With a touch of rose, sweet violet and Sicilian bergamot, it envelops you in a warm vanilla scent with each spray.
Lattafa – Yara
A staple in every Arab woman’s perfume collection, this olfactory creation from Lattafa has all the TikTok girls raving. With a vanilla, sandalwood and musk base, this Arab perfume is known for its all-day-long-lasting powers. So, if you want to smell expensive (think a woody sweetness), Yara is the way to go.
Ard Al Zaafaran – Shafaq
If you want a trail of floral fruity goodness following you everywhere you go, Shafaq by Ard Al Zaafaran is just the ticket. With notes of vanilla and citrus fruits, this Arab fragrance embodies sweetness with a feminine, fruity touch. With middle notes of coconut and orchid, it’s a uniquely powerful scent to add to your collection.
Swiss Arabian – Yulali Perfume Oil
Unlocking new realms of smelling expensive, Arab perfumes also come in the form of decadent oils. If you want to layer fragrances and create a new scent unique to you, perfume oils are a must. Specifically, Swiss Arabian’s Yulali perfume oil, which has been racking in glowing reviews for years. Citrussy, fruity and floral, this Arab scent will add some bite to your sweet feminine perfumes.
