Why Vanilla Fragrances will be big again for 2023

Fragrance in Focus – Why Vanilla Fragrances will be big again for 2023

Firstly, Vanilla is nothing new and has often suffered from the mantel of being perceived as boring. Often used to describe the mundane and average, Vanilla Perfumes have been getting a bad rap for a long time.

But, the future looks bright for Vanilla as experts claim Vanilla is going to be big again for 2023.

Back in the 90’s everything smelt of vanilla. From bath pearls and body sprays, to the majority of Body Shop products, the lingering smell of vanilla was never far away. Perhaps it’s unsurprising, given the fashion revival of all things ‘90s, that vanilla is experiencing a resurgence too.

But in order for Vanilla Perfumes to be welcomed back into the fashion-conscious world of perfumery with open arms, it has been told it needs to grow up, lose its sugary-sweet girlish charm and undergo a sophisticated modern transformation.

Why do people love Vanilla Fragrances?

So whilst the majority of us are loving Vanilla’s sophisticated new makeover, we won’t lie, not everyone here at Carvansons HQ is a fan. For some, it still has lasting memories and a sickly sweet scent that overpowers. Especially for those who prefer fresher and brighter scents.

But, sweet vanilla is also known as an aphrodisiac; so who are we to argue with science?

Additionally to this syrupy scent getting us hot under the collar, it also has a calming effect. In a study on the Effects of Fragrance on Emotions: Moods and Physiology, an investigation into aromatherapy was done. And as it turns out, smelling vanilla bean ranked remarkably high in its stress-relieving capabilities. On top of relieving our stress, another study concluded that the aroma of vanilla can act as an antidepressant and make us feel happier. Vanilla also takes up back to our youth. As mentioned above, some of the most recognisable scents are heavy with Vanilla. Mugler’s Angel, J’adore and Le Male from Jean Paul Gaultier are just a few of those Vanilla-laden scents that bring back those 90’s memories.

Why are Vanilla Fragrances popular again?

Whether it be a shot of vanilla in your coffee, to the benefits of it as an antioxidant, there are many reasons why people are loving the scent of vanilla right now.

Vanilla can be sexy, rather than sugary; sophisticated, rather than sickly all dependent upon the composition. Previous incarnations of Vanilla have often been closer to the sweet and sickly scents and that is probably why it hasn’t been at the forefront of perfumery for a while. However, the ingredient has still been included in countless popular fragrances in the interim.

But now Vanilla is back taking centre-stage with a whole host of perfume houses and Gen Z celebs leading the charge to re-instate Vanilla as a leader in the world of perfumery – everyone from Ellis Brooklyn Vanilla Milk, Yves Saint Laurent Libre to Eilish by Billie Eilish, which give Vanilla a modern, sensual update.

What does Vanilla smell like?

Vanilla has a warming sensual scent and works well with base notes of crushed nuts, warm woods and soft, velvety musks.  One of our favourites in Carvansons HQ is a rich Madagascan vanilla pod scent whipped with a hint of nutmeg. Vanilla also has an addictive and intoxicating quality, perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.