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The 1980s, often hailed as a decade of excess and extravagance, left an indelible mark on pop culture, fashion, and, of course, fragrance. It was a time when shoulder pads were power, neon was the new black, and perfumes weren’t just scents; they were olfactory statements. In this aromatic voyage, we invite you to join us as we turn back the scented pages of history and explore the 80s through its iconic fragrances Prepare to be transported to a time when big hair, bold fashion, and even bolder fragrances ruled the world. From powerhouse scents that commanded attention to sweet and innocent florals that defined romance, the 80s perfume scene was a thrilling playground of innovation and nostalgia. So, fasten your seatbelts, as we take a fragrant trip down memory lane to revisit the unforgettable scents that defined an era, reminding us that perfume is not just a fragrance; it’s a time capsule of memories, emotions, and a whole lot of nostalgia.

PerfumesReleaseFragrance Notes
Chanel Coco Eau De Parfum1984Rose, Cloves, Peach, Musk
Calvin Klein Eternity 1988Green Notes, Freesia, Musk, Carnation, Lily
Poison Dior1985Plum, Wild Berries, Amber, Anise
Estee Lauder Beautiful1985Galbanum, Rose, Lily, Sandalwood, Amber
Giorgio Beverly Hills1981Apricot, Peach, Bergamot, Tuberose
YSL Paris1983Rose, Mimosa, Violet, Lily, Iris, Musk
Calvin Klein Obsession1985Vanilla, Bergamot, Spices, Cedar, Incense
Cacheral Lou Lou1987Plum, Iris, Cinnamon, Incense, Ylang-Ylang
Body Shop White Musk1981Musk, Lily, Ylang-Ylang, Jasmine, Rose

Table of Contents

Chanel Coco Eau De Parfum


Chanel Coco Eau de Parfum was released in 1985; it’s an intense and oriental clove perfume. It carries some of the theme from the 70s but its slightly more modern with warm notes of rose, amber, musk, incense & tonka bean. The base notes of rich vanilla and patchouli give it a beautiful dry down and also longevity. What sets Coco apart is its balance – it’s neither overly sweet nor too heavy. Instead, it strikes a perfect balance between. The scent is versatile, suitable for both daytime and evening wear, though for me it is a night time perfume. It is sultry, sophisticated perfume that has been sold and loved for years!

Calvin Klein Eternity


Calvin Klein Eternity for women is a fresh green perfume that opens with notes of mandarin and sage, creating a clean and inviting introduction. The heart of this scent is a bouquet of classic florals, primarily lily-of-the-valley, making it very heard to dislike. The base notes of patchouli and sandalwood give it a warm and comforting finish, making it ideal for everyday wear. Eternity’s simplicity and timelessness made it a go-to fragrance for people in the 80s. It’s versatility makes it a beloved classic in the perfume world.

Dior Poison


Dior’s Poison released in 1985, comes in a very cool poison apple shaped bottle. This iconic scent opens with a burst of spicy, fruity notes that immediately captivate the senses. As it settles, a rich and intoxicating blend of tuberose and jasmine emerges, evoking a sense of sensuality and mystery. The base notes of amber and honey add depth and warmth. It is a very intense perfume, its not a fruity perfume rather a deep incensy perfume that stays for hours. Its tremendously good for lasting.

Estee Lauder Beautiful


Estée Lauder’s Beautiful is a timeless and romantic fragrance that lives up to its name. Opening with a bouquet of fresh, dew-kissed florals, including rose, lily, and marigold, it immediately transports you to a blooming garden. The heart notes of orange flower and bright jasmine add a touch of elegance and femininity. Beautiful’s dry-down is a warm embrace of vetiver and sandalwood, creating a harmonious balance. It’s a fragrance that embodies grace and sophistication, making it perfect for special occasions and everyday wear alike. With its enduring appeal, Beautiful continues to be a symbol of classic beauty and charm

Giorgio Beverly Hills


Giorgio Beverly Hills came out in 1981 was another floral perfume loved by many. I actually wore this perfume all through my teenage years solely because it was so affordable but incredibly good for lasting. This is a peachy, apricot-y tuberose, it is quite a heavy perfume but there is a lightness & fruitiness to it making it great for projection. This fragrance is a symbol of 1980s extravagance and has maintained its popularity, making it a classic choice for those who appreciate a touch of elegance in their scent.

YSL Paris


Yves Saint Laurent’s original Paris Eau de Parfum was an iconic floral perfume with notes of violet and bergamot, heart notes of delicate rose and iris impart a sense. The base had notes of sandalwood and vetiver. The formulation is slightly dated for me and I have switched to Mon Paris by YSL but it still remains one of the statement perfumes worn in that era.

Calvin Klein Obsession


Calvin Klein Obsession was released in 1985. It begins with a fiery blend of mandarin and bergamot, creating a captivating first impression. The heart of this scent features exotic spices and a rich, sultry floral mix, primarily jasmine and orange blossom, which evoke passion and desire. Its base notes of warm amber and vanilla add depth and sensuality, leaving a lingering feeling. Obsession is very similar to Coco Eau de parfum and can also be considered a more affordable version of the same.

Cacheral Lou Lou


Another classic from the 80s Cacharel Loulou is a unique you can smell this from a mile away signature scent kind of fragrance. It has plum, tuberose but it is quite sweet and vanilla-ry, probably the sweetest on the list. It again has those incensy, cinnamon notes. It all mixes up to become a sweet cinnamon type of smell, soft feminine but quite hard hitting for the 80s.

Body Shop White Musk


The Body Shop’s White Musk is a classic and cruelty-free fragrance loved for its clean and fresh smell. It opens with a subtle blend of fresh and zesty notes, followed by a soft and floral heart dominated by jasmine and rose. The real charm of White Musk lies in its base notes of velvety musk, warm vanilla, and cedarwood, creating a comforting and long-lasting embrace on the skin. This fragrance is not overpowering but rather a gentle, skin-like scent, making it perfect for daily wear or layering with other fragrances. Get 20% off at The Body Shop with code AFFSOKI.

Soki London

Sophie is the perfume enthusiast behind Soki London. She reviews the latest perfumes and entire perfume ranges on her YouTube channel and website.