The note of iris in perfumery has the potential to be powdery, soft, earthy, or even buttery. It can be sweet and feminine, evoking makeup on a vintage vanity, or rooty and green, like soil fresh after the rain. Depending on the perfumer and accompanying notes, it can be quite a chameleon. Here are five favorite iris fragrances.
Fragrance: Amber Iris
House: Experimental Perfume Club
Notes: Vanilla, Iris Absolute, Myrrh
The vibe: This is an addictive scent that seems to glow skin. Darkly sweet, it blends an amber accord with aromatic resins. Save this one for fall and winter; wear it during the day for maximum coziness, or at night for a seductive December date. It’s so versatile – spray once or twice for a whisper of warmth, or apply generously (or layer it!) to pack a punch.
Fragrance: Infusion d’Iris
House: Prada
Notes: Italian Mandarin, Orris, Neroli
The vibe: Meet the ultimate clean girl scent. Launched in 2007, this citrus-floral went “viral” before we used such a term, and has remained popular ever since. It’s one of those fragrances that simply smells like you’ve just taken a long, relaxing shower using all of your high-end products, wrapped yourself in a white cotton robe, and completed your 10-step skincare routine.
Fragrance: Gris Charnel
House: BDK Parfums
Notes: Fig, Black Tea, Iris Absolute
The vibe: Every fragrance lover needs to smell Gris Charnel at some point in their scented career. It’s a niche icon, a scent that men and women alike have dubbed a masterpiece. To me, it’s a smooth blend of creamy sandalwood, smoked spices, and gentle petals. This makes me think of a misty, grey fall day – when you’re better off staying inside wrapped in a blanket.
Fragrance: Athalia
House: Parfums de Marly
Notes: Incense, Iris, Orange Blossom
The vibe: This is an underrated gem from a house we all know and love. If Athalia were a person, she would dress in black lace, and likely hail from the gothic era. This fragrance is a cool dusting of flowers, powder, and a hint of vanilla. The bottle reflects the scent profile perfectly, with its ornate opulence.
Fragrance: Iris Malikhân
House: Maison Crivelli
Notes: Orris Butter, Vanilla, Leather
The vibe: This one is a powerhouse with a shockingly non-linear sillage, meaning its scent changes as it wears on skin. The opening is green and grounded, but as it settles, the vanilla bears its head, shyly peeking out from behind the foliage. The drydown is magical – dusty, dry vanilla, so complex it’s almost impossible to describe. One note of advice: don’t judge this on first sniff.
