Key notes: aldehyde, rose, peony, violet, musk, sandalwood | Available sizes: 50 mL, 100 mL
For the Byredo Newbies: Gypsy Water Eau de Parfum
Why it’s worth it: Of all the Byredo scents, Gypsy Water is probably the safest pick for those who don’t usually dip into niche fragrance territory. That’s not a dig at the perfume—I genuinely love the fruity blend, which just happens to be easy on the olfactory palette. This fragrance’s citrusy top notes of bergamot, juniper, and lemon are given a spicy heat via pepper, incense, and orris. Once it dries down, a combination of amber, sandalwood, and vanilla takes over. Like most of Byredo’s perfumes, it smells almost entirely different from first spray to midday, but you’ll love every moment of all it has to offer. If this is your first foray into the brand, this is the fragrance that’s most likely to get you hooked on Byredo’s lineup.
Key notes: bergamot, juniper, lemon, pepper, incense, orris, amber, sandalwood, vanilla | Available sizes: 50 mL, 100 mL
My Date Night Scent: Animalique Eau de Parfum
Why it’s worth it: I’ll start by saying Animalique is a bold choice for a first date, but I’m a bold girl—and I feel like its scent reflects the flirty side of my personality. Animalique sits on the warmer side of Byredo’s scent spectrum, thanks to its hazy combination of suede, amber, sandalwood, and tobacco leaves. Touches of bergamot and lemon are added to the mix to brighten its smoky, woody composition. Its vibe is dark and moody, but still playful—less Blue Banisters, more Honeymoon (my fellow Lana Del Rey fans will get it).
Key notes: bergamot, lemon, suede, violet, mimosa, amber, sandalwood, tobacco leaves | Available sizes: 50 mL, 100 mL
For the Brats: Bibliothèque Eau de Parfum
Why it’s worth it: Yes, I was influenced by Charli XCX to try Bibliothèque (she’s a fan of the brand, and I’m a fan of her), and yes, it’s just as iconic as I thought it would be. While some would expect Mother Brat to wear a fragrance that smells a little more grungy, Bibliothèque actually has an energy akin to a calm night reading by a fireplace—quite the opposite of brat, which is what makes it brat…get it? Well, even if you don’t, you don’t have to be a fan of Charli (gasp!) to enjoy this blend of cinnamon, leather, and birchwood.
