Almost every brand has gone into fragrances. Scents are big business, after all. Some brands, however, do a lot less marketing to retain exclusivity. Here, we've put together a list of the little-known best fragrances from the biggest brands. (We've also included boutique exclusives.) From Chanel to Thom Browne, here are the best under-the-radar designer brand fragrances.
1| Thom Browne
09.27.65.04
thombrowne.com
$195.00
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Thom Browne just launched his vetiver-themed fragrance line, 09.27.65.04. Whisky is mixed with its base note, while rum, wormwood, oak, cinnamon, and davana add more smokiness to balance it all out.
2| Celine
Black Tie
celine.com
$220.00
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Another brand that's just launched its fragrance line is Celine. It really doesn't get as French as its Haute Parfumerie collection. Don't be fooled by Black Tie's name as it really isn't as formal as it sounds. The musky scent acts like a dinner jacket, dressing up any look with cedar, tree moss, and vanilla.
3| Loewe
001 Man
loewe.com
Price upon request
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Top notes of Calabria bergamot, mandarin, and cardamom mix with a musky base of violet and patchouli in Loewe's men's fragrance. It all settles to an aromatic blend of woody and tart to make an unconventional scent.
4| Maison Martin Margiela
Whispers in the Library
maisonmargiela-fragrances.eu
Price upon request
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One of the most popular fragrances from Margiela's replica line is By The Fireplace, but the brand's new release, Whispers in the Library, is a worthy rival. With notes of pepper, vanilla, and cedar, it's a more delicate version that can be worn all year round.
5| Christian Dior
Bois d'Argent
dior.com
$220.00
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For days when Dior's Sauvage just doesn't cut it, you should opt for something from the brand's Privée line. Our pick is Bois d'Argent, a woody aromatic scent with top notes of cypress, iris, and juniper berries.
6| Chanel
Boy Chanel Les Exclusifs de Chanel
chanel.com
$350.00
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Save Boy for when you're feeling adventurous and playful with scents since it's a pretty complicated mix of herbs, fruits, and florals that pushes the boundaries. The unique composition starts cheerful with citrus, then settles to lavender and the other florals. What stays after is vanilla, moss, and white musk.
7| Louis Vuitton
Afternoon Swim
louisvuitton.com
Price upon request
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The cologne-like Afternoon Swim best works for the summertime. Filled with orange, bergamot, and mandarin, the scent just freshens everything up.
