October 17, 2021 at 06:00AM
I used to be the kind of person who could get ready at the speed of light, but soon discovered the joys of picking out your makeup with an outfit to match and a scent to take you through the day.
I’ve recently found that the actual purchase of the perfume is the hard part. I have 30+ different scents to choose from and while yes it is a bit excessive, the perfumes I own belong to me for a reason, so I know whatever I pick from my ever-growing stash will always be a perfect choice! The same can’t always be said when it comes to purchasing in-store or online, but having a price point and notes in mind definitely makes the process easier.
My personal go-to is something affordable, long-lasting and that smells expensive while actually being much cheaper than other higher-priced perfumes.
So If you’re currently on the market for something that isn’t too expensive, a variety of notes from florals to musk, then keep scrolling for my pick of 12 perfumes under £50 that everyone is guaranteed to love.
Ariana Grande has released a number of perfumes over the past few years but this hands down is my favourite of the bunch. The scent is really refreshing and it’s not hard to spot its top notes of ambrette and juicy pear. It’s not overbearing in the slightest and has the perfect combination of luxurious and natural ingredients.
This light floral scent is a newbie in my collection. It remixes classic perfumery with novel blending technology to bring scents of vibrant raspberry and woody notes to life. The scent alone was enough to catch my attention but the unique backpack shaped bottle was just the cherry on top! It’ll remain in my collection long beyond its time because packaging as pretty as this is a keepsake.
While I’d love to go to LA someday, OUAI has me covered on what I’d smell hopping off the plane at LAX as they’ve encapsulated the smell of Melrose Place in this perfume. This is another fresh and floral scent with hints of bergamot and white musk. Something that OUAI always get right is just how long-lasting their scents are, no matter whether it’s their fragrances or hair products. This will easily take you from day to night, so no having to worry about topping up throughout the day.
I’m currently blitzing through two of my favourite products from & Other Stories the Sicilian Sunrise Body Wash and Fleur de Mimosa Body Wash which are both elegantly scented so I knew I’d feel exactly the same towards this perfume. It’s lightly scented with a mix of dark amber, wild vanilla and hints of bloom. I’ve never layered up perfumes before but I could definitely see myself layering it up with another scent from & Other Stories for a super luxurious and one of a kind smell.
Small but mighty this bottle is bursting with floral and cruelty-free musk notes. The Body Shop have a whole range dedicated to the white musk scent and even recommended giving layering a try.
I can always count on Jimmy Choo when it comes to creating a unique floral scent. Bursting with citrus top notes from mandarin juice and classic base notes of vanilla, you’re sure to love this powerful blend. I can never get enough of this scent and reach for it on a weekly basis.
This ultra-creamy and warm scent continue to be a favourite of mine. Glossier has managed to bring bright, sparkling and wood notes to this bottle that brings me so much joy. Whenever I wear this scent, I’m guaranteed to get at least one person asking me what I have on, which always assures me that this is the scent for me. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s worth the hype, I can say that it is hands down a purchase you won’t regret.
With bergamot and jasmine, this fragrance adapts to your skin to release a scent that’s exclusive to you. Inspired by a Mediterranean melody, this is a really great choice for anyone looking for something that is beautifully unique and that won’t break the bank.
Inspired by memories of summer holidays, this citrus-infused scent features notes of grapefruit, pomelo zest and patchouli. It’s a scent you won’t be able to get enough of. What’s even better is that the fragrance paintbrushes are easy to carry around for top-ups when you desire.
I picked up this light florally scent last year on my first ever trip to Paris, so it feels super nostalgic to me. The fruity and musk notes remind me of the crisp and fresh morning walks I took, surrounded by the delicious smell of fresh bread and blooming flowers.
Up next, our guide to the best new perfumes.
Author Vanese Maddix | Whowhatwear
Selected by CWC