I Test Fragrances for a Living—These Are the Best Affordable Perfumes

It seems that every time I stumble upon a TikTok perfume recommendation, it’s well over $300. I don’t have that kind of money to drop on a signature scent—and I’m sure a lot of people can relate. So where are the best affordable perfumes? Do they even exist? “There are plenty of key notes found in designer perfumes for women that can also be found in inexpensive options,” says Nicole Mancini, principal perfumer at DSM-Firmenich. With Mancini’s wisdom in my back pocket, I set out to discover the most long-lasting, affordable perfumes that rival the likes of Tom Ford, Versace, and Dior—and I struck gold. I spritzed and sniffed dozens of fragrances priced under $100 and narrowed it down to a dozen mesmerizing picks. So whether you’re drawn to floral fragrances, gourmands, or fresh and woody scents, your new favorite perfume just might be on this list.The best affordable perfumes, at a glanceBest Overall: By Rosie Jane Dulce Eau de Parfum, $80Best Vanilla Perfume: Lavanila Pure Vanilla Eau...