By Gotlhokwang Angoma-Mzini; photograph by James Garaghty
We’ve got the perfect scent for every woman in your life…
Last-minute shopping and clueless about which beauty buy or perfume to get for that special someone? You’re going to need more than a recommendation or scent strip to get it right. You’re going to need our primer.
1. Salvatore Ferragamo Emozione EDP (R1 760)
A sophisticated summery daily-wear perfume – chypre-floral with woody undertones – it opens with citrus notes of bergamot, softened by powdery notes of iris. At the heart you’ll find gentle, feminine peony combined with Bulgarian rose and heliotrope, with patchouli and white musk at the base. It’s clear who this one’s for: mom. Available at Foschini.
2. Cartier Baiser Fou EDP (R2 281)
Baiser fou means “crazy kiss” – and this is a fruity, floral scent that’s playful while still being grown up. With raspberry as the top note, orchid in the middle and white chocolate and vanilla at the base, it’s perfect for that aunt who insists on kissing everybody hello. Available at Fragrance Fanatic.
3. Elizabeth Taylor Love & White Diamonds EDT (R695)
This fresh grapefruit floral fragrance contains top notes of white floral neroli tunisia and mandarin oil. The jasmine absolute sambac, Turkish rose, tuberose and gardenia bring out the soft flowery hit, while the base notes of sheer musk, cedarwood and sandalwood prevent this fragrance from becoming overly sweet. It’s captivating and will bring on those admirers – perfect for your older sister. Available at Edgars.
4. La Mia Perla EDP (R950)
The bottle alone makes this scent perfect for your BFF! A sexy blend of mandarin, white pepper, jasmine, peony, orris, suede, ambroxan, musk and sandalwood, La Mia Perla abandons the classic fragrance pyramid structure in favour of a circular, pearl-shaped composition, infinite and unchanging – just like your friendship. Available at Edgars.
5. Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy Glacé EDP (R1 195)
A frilly, girly fragrance for those who prefer something lighter. It opens with a sparkling freshness, bursting with frozen mandarin and pear sorbet. Perfect for your younger sister. Available at Foschini.
READ MORE: 10 Lash-Lengthening Mascaras That’ll Persuade You To Ditch The Falsies
6. Optiphi Adiagos EDT (R737)
A subtle, fresh fragrance that’s not too strong, with hints of bergamot, patchouli, sandalwood, rose and lily of the valley, you can wear this one all day. A lovely pick for your office pal. Available at Skinmiles.
7. Body Shop White Musk L’eau EDT (R350)
A fresh floral bouquet of rose and jasmine with crisp notes of pear, this scent won’t last all day (re-spritzing is needed) – so it’s perfect for that cool cousin who isn’t really big on perfume. Available at The Body Shop.
8. Elizabeth Arden 5th Avenue Royale EDP (R795)
Last, but very, very important… This oriental perfume is perfect for that spirited woman in your life. This fragrance doesn’t hold back, beginning with notes of raspberry liqueur, followed by patchouli and base royal suede accord at the heart. It’s intense but elegant. Perfect for the in-law. Available at Foschini.
Want more? These 12 new perfumes will leave you smelling heavenly all day long. Plus: These 7 night-time products do astounding things while you sleep.
