In recent years, the fragrance industry has seen a surge in edible scents, merging the worlds of cuisine and beauty through enticing gourmand fragrances. As reported by American trend observers, interest in these delectable scents continues to rise, with a significant 58.3% annual increase in searches for gourmand perfumes. This distinctive category features a range of notes that replicate the smell of edible treats, including sweet offerings like vanilla, caramel, coffee, chocolate, and an assortment of fruits.
What Makes Gourmand Fragrances So Appealing?
The term “Gourmand” comes from French, meaning “fond of eating.” Such fragrances not only please the nose but also stir other senses, evoking emotions and memories. This emotional resonance is what captivates many fragrance aficionados. Studies in neuroscience reveal a strong connection between scent and memory recall. Consequently, many perfume houses use evocative and poetic names to position their products as experiences rather than mere scents. With olfactory senses intricately linked to memory, gourmand notes that convey sweetness and comfort can evoke cherished, positive memories, driving their increasing popularity.
A Brief History of Gourmand Scents
Gourmand fragrances have roots dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. One of the earliest notable scents was “Jicky” by Jacques Guerlain in 1889, which pioneered vanilla notes during a time dominated by floral fragrances that relied on natural ingredients. However, it was the release of Mugler’s “Angel” in 1992 that truly marked a turning point for the gourmand category, breaking away from the conventional “clean” fragrances. Since then, numerous brands have embraced innovation in synthetic scent notes, resulting in a plethora of creative gourmand options that replicate the nuanced experience of food-related aromas. To celebrate this trend, LUXUO has compiled a selection of newly released gourmand fragrances for 2024.
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1. Tom Ford “Vanille Fatale”
Tom Ford’s 2024 fragrance, “Vanilla Fatale,” is an updated version of a previous release from 2017, featuring refreshed packaging and scent. This unisex perfume is described as “a quest for vanilla without hesitation,” highlighting the more alluring aspects of the classic vanilla aroma. Enhanced by rich, bitter notes of suede, tobacco, and coffee, the fragrance maintains balance with lighter accents of coriander and saffron for brightness. “Vanille Fatale” is designed to evoke an enchanting and deep presence, reminiscent of cinematic moments, ultimately delivering a gourmand scent that is indulgent yet not excessively sweet.
2. Killian Paris “Born to be Unforgettable”
Killian Paris is renowned for its distinctive and surprising fragrances, and its 2024 release, “Born to be Unforgettable,” is no exception. As suggested by its name, this fragrance creates a memorable introduction, simulating the initial sip of sparkling cola. The scent opens with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, complemented by a refreshing burst of lime. A foundation of cedar wood and vanilla enhances the fragrance’s sophistication and longevity.
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3. Maison Margiela Replica “Afternoon Delight”
Maison Margiela Replica’s latest scent, “Afternoon Delight,” aims to encapsulate the experience of self-indulgence, reminiscent of a Parisian café filled with the fragrant aroma of warm madeleines. It conjures feelings of comfort and warmth, boasting delectable top notes of Madagascan vanilla, cookies, bitter almond, and whipped cream, perfectly mimicking the scent of traditional French pastries. This version also features Madagascan vanilla at its base, mingled with sandalwood and musk, perfect for capturing the sophistication of a Parisian environment.
4. Phlur “Vanilla Skin”
Phlur has gained immense popularity among Gen Z and Millennial consumers, thanks to its engaging narratives aimed at this demographic. The brand first made waves with its 2022 scent, “Missing Person,” designed to evoke the essence of someone who’s no longer around. This emotional storytelling quickly resonated with a younger audience. Following that, “Vanilla Skin” carries on the theme of nostalgia, presenting a creamy and comforting scent reminiscent of childhood body sprays. Characterized by sweet vanilla, sugar, and apple notes, it contrasts with pink pepper and sandalwood, resulting in a sophisticated aroma.
5. Amouage “Love Delight”
Amouage’s newly launched “Love Delight” offers an olfactory experience filled with sweet and floral notes, adding a delicate feminine touch. Billed as an “invitation to savor every moment of indulgence,” this fragrance features warm spicy top notes of ginger and cinnamon, along with base notes of vanilla and cocoa. The sweetness is complemented by mandarin orange at the top and a middle blend of jasmine and rose, creating a harmonious aroma of feminine sweetness.
6. BORNTOSTANDOUT “Drunk Maple”
The fragrance “Drunk Maple” by the popular Korean brand BORNTOSTANDOUT encapsulates the essence of an “unforgettable night,” aiming to evoke feelings of joy and warmth with a “treat yourself” attitude. The night theme is conveyed through top notes of rum, davana, and pink pepper, designed to replicate “flickering candlelight and velvet drapes,” as described by the brand. Sweetness is introduced through syrup, maple, suede, coffee, and vanilla notes, embracing the notion of indulgence.
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7. D.S & Durga “Pistachio”
New York-based fragrance house D.S & Durga has taken a straightforward approach with their scent, designed to embody the “fun of a pistachio.” While many recent fragrances lean towards intricate narratives, this 2022 launch has enjoyed remarkable success, leading to its relaunch in 2024 as part of the brand’s permanent collection. This undeniably gourmand fragrance highlights pistachio in its top, middle, and base notes, complemented by other edible scents like cardamom and almond. The sweetness is artfully balanced by a base note of patchouli, enhancing the overall aroma.
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