Princess Diana would have adored vintage-style fragrances, and as we all know, we always agree with her and her style choices.
As we’ve explained in our article dedicated to the Old Money hair trend, this style, which literally translates to “old money,” embraces the sophisticated opulence of the ’80s and ’90s.
What Is The “Old Money” Trend?
The trend, needless to say, originated on TikTok and Instagram, becoming a global phenomenon of classic refinement. The reference icons? The aforementioned Lady Diana, the supermodels of the ’90s, and nostalgic advertising campaigns by Ralph Lauren.
This aesthetic typically showcases elegant yet “relaxed” looks, ranging from effortlessly chic styles to meticulously crafted ensembles.
Soft sweaters – preferably worn over the shoulders – oversized gold jewelry, tweed jackets, neutral colors, and voluminous hairstyles are part of this aesthetic, along with polo matches, drives in convertibles, and long days at the country club.
Additionally, old money style perfumes are essential. Timeless retro fragrances with a refined taste.
‘Old Money’ Perfumes You Need To Try
The most representative notes of vintage fragrances in “old money” style are undoubtedly aldehydic, accompanied by floral notes of lily and carnation and spicy notes of cinnamon.
Also highly representative in this context is the peach note, an undisputed must in fragrances from the ’90s.
We have selected for you the fragrances that best embody this “luxury” trend: old-fashioned perfumes, revisited classics, and unmissable contemporary scents, all characterised by an irresistible posh feeling.
Continue reading this article and find the right one for you.
Note: This is a list and not a ranking.
Amouage Dia 40 Extrait
With a concentration of 40%, this fragrance celebrates the first 40 years of success of the Omani brand. Decidedly precious, Dia 40 Extrait is an aldehydic and floral perfume, with ylang-ylang, orange blossoms, carnation, and woody notes. The effect on the skin? Clean and extra luxurious.
Chanel No. 5 EDP
“Mythical and timeless,” Chanel No. 5 needs no introduction. Born in 1921, it was created by Gabrielle Chanel with the intention of offering the world “a perfume for women that smells like a woman.” Revamped in the ’70s, it still maintains its sophisticated allure, perfect for highlighting the spirit of beauty and luxury lovers. Definitely feminine, it can enchant – given its strong character – even on male skin.
Dior Dolce Vita
Created to “evoke the feeling of carefree driving in a convertible along the Italian Riviera,” Dolce Vita is a legendary fragrance. Fruity and floral, it features notes of peach and apricot combined with lilies, magnolia, cinnamon, and cedarwood, in a perfect incarnation of the Dior spirit. Timeless.
Ralph Lauren Polo Green EDT
Green, aromatic, and deeply masculine, this fragrance is a milestone in perfumery. Born in its first variation in 1978, it boasts a plethora of “old-fashioned” notes such as carnation, geranium, pine needles, juniper berries, artemisia, leather, black pepper, oakmoss, and vetiver. To be strictly paired with a soft sweater from the American brand.
Officina delle Essenze Caldo Fruttato
A modern proposal, warm and fruity – just as its name suggests – which expresses all the refined opulence of old money style inspired by the ’90s. Its key notes? Blackcurrant, strawberry, jasmine, cinnamon, vanilla, and ylang-ylang.
Lancôme Trésor
Born in 1990, this perfume is one of the symbols of the era. Romantic but not faint-hearted, it is proposed by the Maison as “an expression of pure femininity.” Its olfactory pyramid best expresses the style of iconic fragrances of the ’90s, with rose petals, apricot flowers, and peach blossoms in the opening, followed in the heart by lily of the valley, vanilla, heliotrope, and iris. To complete the composition, we find sandalwood and musk at the base.
‘Old Money’ Perfume: Gleam London
Kensington Tea at five in an exclusive room in the famous London district. Dark wood, velvet, and cups of steaming black tea. A moment full of promises, the prelude to a gala evening. This perfume is intense and eclectic, characterized by notes of tea, naturally, combined with oud, ginger, and patchouli. The novelty perfume that interprets this trend best.
Santa Maria Novella Melograno Eau de Cologne
A soft and refined creation, a must in Italian perfumery. Among its notes, we find spices, citrus fruits, pomegranate, and flowers placed on a substantial base of labdanum, patchouli, and musk. A perfectly balanced proposal suitable for all lovers of old money style.
Vilhelm Room Service
Greta Garbo enveloped in silk in her lavish room at the Carlyle Hotel in New York. A fragrance “that smells like luxury” with fruity hints of mandarin nectar and blackberry in the opening followed in the heart by orchid, violet, and bamboo and by sandalwood, musk, and black amber in the base. The extra detail: as explained in our article dedicated to celebrity-favorite perfumes, it’s one of Victoria Beckham’s favorite fragrances, dubbed “posh spice.”
Acqua di Parma Colonia
A timeless classic born in 1916, a symbol of Italian elegance and luxury. A fresh and citrusy eau de cologne with masculine vibrations, perfect for interpreting the “old money” trend.
Guerlain Mitsouko
Presented as a “delicately androgynous chypre yet extremely feminine,” Mitsouko is a masterpiece of classic fragrance. A refined perfume that has made history, characterized by an olfactory pyramid composed of peach, jasmine, and rose combined with spicy notes and vetiver.
This article first appeared on GRAZIA USA.
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