At the end of each year those of us who work here choose to recap what has really captivated us in the calendar year. Our approach isn’t quite the same as your typical “wrapped” as it’s really not about what we’ve worn the most, but what has occupied our thoughts or most deeply resonated with us more than anything else. Please enjoy our recap of our most beloved fragrances of 2025!
Tracy’s Picks
Ponte Etereo • Fumerie Parfumerie
What a dream come true to wear a creation that embodies so much of what I adore about the artistry and emotional impact of fragrance. I will forever hold fondly the experience of working directly with Meo in envisioning and bringing to life Ponte Etereo. Immersing myself in this scent brings me immense joy.
Borneo 1834 • Serge Lutens
Earlier this year I made my first trip to Paris to attend Paris Perfume Week. My primary excursion upon arriving was a pilgrimage to the flagship boutique of Serge Lutens. Visiting this shop has been on my bucket list for many years and I was trembling with anticipation upon entering the threshold. I was not disappointed. I made my way directly towards the iconic bell jars and proceeded to purchase a few bottles on the spot. One of these was my all-time favorite fragrance “Bornéo 1834.” I have acquired a few iterations of this fragrance over the years and I’m deeply grateful to have this in my collection.
L'Homme aux Gants • MDCI
Among the stunning fragrances of MDCI, this fragrance is a stand out for me. Perfumer Natalie Feisthauer, has imagined oud in a refined, elegant manner that conveys nuance and subtlety. The patchouli and tonka bean only add to the overall warmth and sumptuousness. L’Homme aux Gants is truly a feel-good fragrance for me that I’m always delighted to wear.
Anubis • Papillon
Upon my first experience sniffing my way through the inspired fragrances of Papillon Artisan Perfumes, I was profoundly drawn to perfumer Liz Moore’s first creation, Anubis. It is sultry, mysterious and a bit otherworldly. The soft incense combined with the velvety, sweet suede, makes this the ultimate comfort scent.
Sanctuaria • La Boticá
This is vanilla reimagined. Unlike many of its counterparts, this is not cotton candy inspired nor a baking vanilla extract. It is woven with incense, and a slight smokiness that is oh, so satisfying. It brings to mind the warmth of an outdoor smoldering fire and a deep contentment of a day well-spent. With the remnants of smoke on hair and clothing to cement the serenity and comfort of the moment.
Michael’s Picks
Ponte Etereo • Fumerie Parfumerie
I know this seems biased, but as the resident white floral obsessive, I just have to say that this is the standout release of the year, even though it is nowhere close to what my favorite fragrances generally are. In fact, my entire favorites list is a departure from what I normally end up obsessed with. I already have two bottles of Ponte Etereo. I will need a small stockpile because I refuse to run out. The themes mean a lot to me, the folks who made it mean a lot to me, but none of this is reason enough for me to love a perfume (and especially not to put it at the top of my year-end favorites list). It comes down to the content of the fragrance and whether it speaks for itself. This does.
Madagascar Le Baume Vanille • Parfum d'Empire
Ugggghhhhh this is SO GOOD- I am upset! Words fail me. Parfum d’Empire continues to be one of the best brands out there, full stop. Even last year’s Un Bel Amour D’ete almost made my list again, but I just cannot believe how amazing this is. Boozy. Spicy. Deep. Inventive. Perfect.
Philtre • Hiram Green
This is what makes sense to be on my list! A deliciously spiced carnation with vintage flare! 2025 was a great year for deep, boozy, mysterious, pseudo-gourmands but I’m glad at least one of the amazing white florals in my rotation made the cut for my top five. Honestly, if you like any one Hiram Green white floral you should try all of them. He is amazing in this category.
Deixis • FZOTIC
You can call it a gourmand all you want everyone! This is a celebration of labdanum of the highest order, and an absolutely incredible fragrance. I am so glad this is going to be available for me to procure more than one bottle (I was certainly among the first 100 to get a bottle at the first drop). Bruno’s vulnerable journey with this fragrance is praiseworthy outside of the accomplishment that the fragrance is in itself as well.
Sanctuaria • La Boticá
The most genius use of elemi in a fragrance that I have experienced to this point. Also, one of the greatest smoky vanillas I have ever encountered. This is the truest gourmand on my list, and honestly any gourmand making my list is a huge deal for me. This fragrance is shockingly accessible, undeniably delicious, and absolutely ingenious.
Q’s Picks
Deixis • FZOTIC
Hitting me straight in the gut like the way my chicory dandelion root tea warms my esophagus on the way down, a rich sweetness that comes not from sugar but from the complexity of the whole.
Ambre Loup • Rania J
My fingers sticky with poplar bud resin, I am stooped over collecting them carefully, knowing that after a few more cold snaps, soon comes relief and spring.
Sanctuaria • La Boticá
This stone hallway is warmed by sunlight. I have nowhere to be but here, my chest full with the feeling of being in love for a long time.
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre • Xyrena
My car may or may not break down here in the middle of the desert, I feel both exhilarated and emboldened by the smell of my own fear.
Ponte Etereo • Fumerie Parfumerie
I am safe here in my new home.
Lele’s Picks
Osmanthus Interdite • Parfum d'Empire
I find myself easily dissatisfied with light, citrus-forward scents, often wanting something more edgy and grounded than they typically provide. As if saying “get over yourself”, in the kindest way possible, this scent quietly became my obsession over the summer and only deepened my existing love for Parfum d’Empire. It’s smooth, inviting, and self-assured in its subtlety, without compromising complexity in the slightest. This scent serves as a personal reminder that not every experience has to be loud and challenging to generate profound feelings. It’s just so nice!
Cardamom Moss • Experimental Perfume Club
Mmmmm yes is the first thought that comes to mind. To me, this perfectly captures the experience of body heat rising under a wool blanket, as you sip on a warm cup of cardamom tea. A cozy, intriguing, and grounding presence throughout my day.
Sanctuaria • La Boticá
My first memorable experience wearing this fragrance was walking down the street and stopping to look back, thinking, “I have to ask what this person is wearing!” until I realized I did a double-take for myself. This is a hall of fame vanilla for me. I find this to be the perfect blend of sweet and smoky, with a rich complexity that unfolds, rather than offering itself all at once.
Sadonaso • Nasomatto
A hug from a loved one, nestled in their armpit after a long day that began with a shower and ended with the inescapable scent of sweat. The suggestion of funk. The faint echo of soap or baby powder. It’s intimate and slightly sour. Simultaneously nostalgic and provocative. Some scents are so distinctly human.
Varanasi • Meo Fusciuni
First impressions are deceiving! I wasn’t ready for this one when I initially tried it. My relationship to it could best be described as repulsion-attraction until it transformed into a deep and enduring love affair. It’s safe to say most scents change once they’re on skin, but this is especially true of Varanasi. On paper, it’s pungent and slightly concerning. After some time on skin, it’s like a beautiful and intimidating cat that has finally warmed up to you, the danger is gone, and you’re embarrassed you were scared to begin with. Spicy, earthy, powdery, and extremely layered. I’ve never smelled anything quite like it in my life, and I shudder to think of a world without it!
Erin’s Picks
Sadonaso • Nasomatto
Chosen to wear on the dance floor on Halloween, dressed as the bride of Frankenstein. Worn bandages, obsession, sweet desire, hedonism, with a little bit of dirtiness that comes from being a creature of the night.
Peau• Arquiste
I smell like a newborn baby, a little sour even. This resonates so beautifully and lasts forever with me. I catch drifts of it throughout my day and immediately feel held and cherished.
1# Nota di Viaggio (rites de passage) • Meo Fusciuni (new version)
The new Meo formulation took me by surprise, and it is much more my speed in terms of sharpness. Although there is a bit of grime layered underneath. Smoky, deep green, dry, like sitting in an ancient hollow tree sheltered from the rain in a forest. This scent makes me feel safe, one to wear in winter, reading on my couch, a spectacular incense I could never get sick of.
Útilykt • Fischersund
Unreal, the go-to for feeling like I’m made of cold wet moss. I want to go to Iceland. This is so magical and photorealistic; nature and all of its mystical elements bottled right up!
Osmanthus Interdite • Parfum d'Empire
I just keep coming back. it is so delicate and paper thin, the feeling of pearls, the freshness of opening the windows in spring and splashing your face with cold water upon waking up.