Holiday Gift Guide: The Best Fragrances to Gift this Christmas

With Halloween out of the way, it’s time to immerse yourself into the festive spirit whether you want to or not. The grocery aisles are stocked with selection boxes. The local butcher is taking turkey orders. Sparkling vines of holly line the shop windows. That’s right, we may be just a few days into November, but the countdown to Christmas has begun. Before you know it, you’ll be forced to shuffle amongst the swarms of fellow last-minute shoppers, all sharing the stuffy wave of regret for your previous procrastinations. Sound familiar? Well, we’re here to prevent that from happening this year. Keep reading for YCB’s Holiday Gift Guide- the fragrance edition.

Every year, there’s an abundance of options to choose from when Christmas shopping and the selection is growing by the second. From age-reversing skincare to life-enhancing devices, choosing the right present is a daunting task. Will it be another gizmo destined for dust once the hype has subsided? If this is a concern, try opting for a more classic option. The gift of fragrance, for example, has stood the test of time. In fact, it is said that even the Ancient Egyptians knew the power of perfume as a gift. This comes as no surprise- the delight of smelling wonderful is a luxury that everyone relishes. 

However, the gift of fragrance is unique in that while a perfume can be universally enjoyed, it can still make a personal gesture. For example, certain notes can appeal to certain personalities, or trigger cherished memories. Think of it as an opportunity to select a truly thoughtful gift. Without further ado, let’s take a look at three perfumes we’ve hand-selected at YCB to make a special gift for a very lucky recipient. 

Carine Roitfeld Herrera- Vladimir

At just one glance it’s apparent that this fragrance is a special one. Part of Carine Roitfeld’s 7 Lovers collection, this unisex perfume is an exclusive limited edition. It’s housed in an elegant, hand-decorated gold bottle, one that would sit proudly on a vanity table. The woody, smokey notes of incense and amber combine to make the perfect gift for someone who loves a sophisticated scent. Meanwhile, hints of leather and vanilla merge into a luxurious aroma that exudes passion. Just one spritz will transport the lucky wearer to a cosy, intimate setting with a crackling fire and red wine. A spicy yet warming scent that fails to fade, this is a sensational winter fragrance. 

Goldfield & Banks Australia- Silky Woods

The golden case of Silky Woods could be one of the most aesthetically pleasing bottles we have ever seen. However, as the debut of Goldfield & Banks new luxury collection, The Botanical Series, we expected nothing less. The fragrance inside perfectly matches the opulent bottle. With notes of exotic vanilla and tobacco smoke, expect an addictive, sensual scent with musky, spicy hints. Gift it to someone with a bold, confident energy- this fragrance will turn heads for all the right reasons. 

Elie Saab- Elixir

Fetching, feminine, and floral- just three words that jump to mind upon a single spray of Elie Saab’s magnetic Elixir. With sparkling top notes of neroli and mandarin and base notes of amber and myrrh, this perfume envelopes its wearer in an enchanting cloud of fragrance, instantly captivating whoever’s path they cross. Just like how you wouldn’t leave the house without your favourite piece of jewellery, this scent is the finishing piece to an outfit. The elegant, sphere-shaped bottle with a golden cap is the perfect casing for the endearing elixir inside. Exuding a bold femininity, this is the perfect option for someone who loves to leave a trail of desire behind them.

This Christmas, free yourself from the hectic hassle of last-minute shopping. While each of these perfumes exudes luxury and opulence, they are also specially crafted to suit different personalities. Go beyond trends and instead, follow in the footsteps of the Ancient Egyptians. This year, give a special, timeless gift of a new signature scent. Going the extra mile has never been so simple.

Josie Wilkins

Josie is a Journalism graduate from Galway, Ireland. In her free time, she writes for her blog, Naturally Fuelled (@josiewilkins on instagram). When she isn't writing, she enjoys playing the one song she knows on the piano, 'I Giorni', saving the postman from her aggressive Shorkie, and defending brussels sprouts as an all-year-round snack!