Vetiver is an incredibly versatile fragrance note, with a deep earthy aroma that has been used in perfumes for centuries. In this article, I’ll be taking a look at the top 10 vetiver fragrances currently available on the market. From classic fragrances to modern interpretations, these fragrances all make use of vetiver to create truly unique and unforgettable scents. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the world of vetiver fragrances!
What Is Vetiver?
Vetiver is a type of grass grown mainly in India, Sri Lanka, and Haiti. It has a unique, earthy scent that is both warm and sweet, with a hint of spice. It has a deep-rooted system, which makes Vetiver a popular choice for erosion control, soil stabilization, and water conservation. The oil derived from Vetiver grass is used mainly in male fragrances as well as in aromatherapy, antiseptics, massage oils and natural cosmetics. Vetiver is also known as “the oil of tranquility” due to its calming and grounding effects.
Table of Contents
- What Is Vetiver?
- Guerlain Vetiver
- Creed Original Vetiver
- Le Labo Vetiver 46
- La Collection Privée Christian Dior Vetiver
- Frederic Malle Vetiver Extraordinaire
- Diptyque Vetyverio
- Miller Harris Vetiver Insolence
- Comme des Garçons Amazing Green
- Jo Malone London Vetiver & Golden Vanilla
- Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Nerolia Vetiver
Guerlain Vetiver
Guerlain Vetiver Eau de Toilette is a classic vetiver scent has been around since the 1950s (though the bottle design has been changed a few times). It is a woody, spicy scent that is initially fresh but dried down to reveal a hint of tobacco and amber which add depth to the vetiver main note. Guerlain Vetiver is a timeless classic that is perfect for everyday wear, at any time of year.
Creed Original Vetiver
Creed Original Vetiver is a unisex fragrance created by the renowned French perfume house, Creed. It is a classic scent that has been around since the early 19th century and is known for its elegant, woody aroma which I find to have excellent lasting power which justified its price. It features top notes of lemon, orange, pepper, and bergamot, middle notes of vetiver, juniper, and sandalwood, and base notes of tonka bean, musk, and ambergris. The overall scent is warm, earthy, and slightly sweet.
Le Labo Vetiver 46
Le Labo Vetiver 46 is a unisex fragrance that was launched in 2006. It was created by perfumer Daphne Bugey and is a combination of vetiver, cedarwood, bergamot, and musk. The scent is woody and earthy, with the vetiver providing a smoky and almost smoldering quality. It is a strong scent that is ideal for evenings and nighttime occasions. Le Labo Vetiver 46 is long-lasting and the overall effect is confident and leans towards a more masculine feeling; making it a great scent for men, but also an intriguing and attractive scent for women.
La Collection Privée Christian Dior Vetiver
Dior’s Vetiver is an aromatic woody fragrance that was released in 2018 as part of the exclusive La Collection Privée Christian Dior range. It is a unisex scent that is perfect for any season. It opens with a bright citrusy note of bergamot and a touch of pepper. This is followed by a heart note of smoky vetiver, which is complemented by spicy notes of nutmeg and cardamom. The base of the fragrance is a warm blend of cedarwood and patchouli, which adds a touch of creamy sweetness. La Collection Privée Christian Dior Vetiver is a sophisticated and masculine scent that is sure to make a lasting impression.
Frederic Malle Vetiver Extraordinaire
Frederic Malle Vetiver Extraordinaire is a classic, yet modern, niche scent that is perfect for the modern man. It is a unique blend of traditional vetiver and a variety of other earthy notes, such as sandalwood, cedar, and patchouli. The fragrance is incredibly complex, with layers of different notes and subtle hints of tobacco and pepper. It is a sophisticated, masculine scent that is sure to make a lasting impression.
Diptyque Vetyverio
Diptyque Vetyverio is a unisex fragrance created by the iconic French fragrance house, Diptyque. This scent combines the subtlety of fresh vetiver with the warmth of spices and aromatic woods. It starts with top notes of bergamot, pink pepper, and cardamom, followed by heart notes of vetiver, amber, and patchouli. These notes are rounded out by base notes of cedarwood, sandalwood, and tonka bean. It is a warm and inviting scent, which in my view leans towards a more autumnal and wintery feel.
Miller Harris Vetiver Insolence
Miller Harris Vetiver Insolence is a classic and sophisticated fragrance that is perfect for both men and women. It has a strong, masculine base of smoky vetiver and leather, with top notes of bergamot, cardamom, and black pepper. Warmth is added by a mix of spicy and sweet notes, such as rose, jasmine, and cinnamon.
The Miller Harris fragrances are vegan and cruelty free, check out my article on their range here.
Comme des Garçons Amazing Green
Comme des Garçons Amazing Green is a unisex fragrance that was launched in 2004, its my personal favourite vetiver scent.
It features a blend of fresh top notes; aquatic lime, bergamot, and cucumber. These notes are blended with a heart of lily, jasmine, and green geranium. The base of the fragrance is a warm combination of vetiver and cedarwood. The overall effect is a refreshing and invigorating scent that is perfect for everyday wear and feels very clean. The Comme des Garçons fragrances come in unique perfume bottles which remind me of a pebble; emphasising the natural feel of their scents.
Amazing Green can be found in the US at the Liberty US site, Nordstrom and in the UK on Cult Beauty.
Jo Malone London Vetiver & Golden Vanilla
Jo Malone London Vetiver & Golden Vanilla features a combination of earthy vetiver, creamy vanilla and a hint of golden amber. It is a unique and inviting scent that is sure to draw attention. The top notes of this fragrance are lemon, bergamot and cardamom, but these quickly fade to reveal vetiver, golden vanilla, amber and sandalwood. This fragrance is ideal for those who enjoy a sweet and earthy scent. It is long-lasting and has moderate sillage, which leaves the wearing feeling warm and cosy.
Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Nerolia Vetiver
Guerlain’s Aqua Allegoria Nerolia Vetiver Forte is a luxurious and sophisticated scent that combines the classic citrus scent of neroli with the earthy, woody notes of vetiver and a unique fig note. The fresh, bright, opening is balanced by a slightly herbal heart of neroli, combined with green and fruity fig and jasmine. The base notes of vetiver, musk, and cedarwood provide a warm, sensual finish that lingers on the skin. I recommend this Forte edition over the original Eau de Toilette as its a stronger Eau de Parfum and has more body to it.