Woody

Woody perfumes are built around dry, warm materials such as cedar, sandalwood, vetiver and patchouli. They feel grounded and polished, and they rarely smell loud or sugary.

The notes we see most in woody perfumes are amber, vanilla, cedarwood, jasmine and lavender. Open a perfume page for the full opening, heart and base.

They suit every season, but they really come alive in autumn and winter or on a cool evening. Lighter woods such as cedar and vetiver also work well at the office.

If woody scents are new to you, start with one that opens with citrus or spice, then move toward the deeper sandalwood and oud styles once your nose adjusts.

Based on our longevity scores, the longest lasting are Initio Parfums Privés Initio Oud for Greatness Eau de Parfum (9.3/10), Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Mood Eau de Parfum (9/10) and Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille Eau de Parfum (9/10). Longevity also depends on skin type, weather and how you apply, so use these as a guide.

It depends on the perfume, but on average woody perfumes score 6.5 out of 10 for longevity in hot and humid conditions. Check the hot and humid score on each page, and use a lighter hand with sweet or heavy styles.

The houses with the most woody perfumes here are Elizabeth and James, Genie, Smart Collection and Tom Ford. Browse each one to compare styles and prices.

Prices for woody perfumes on our list run from $20 to $1,200. The final price depends on bottle size, concentration and the retailer, so compare the sellers listed on each perfume page.

Going by our overall ratings, the top woody perfumes are Initio Parfums Privés Initio Oud for Greatness Eau de Parfum (9/10), Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Mood Eau de Parfum (9/10) and Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille Eau de Parfum (8.8/10). Ratings come from hands on wear tests, so they reflect real performance and not just marketing.

Narrow the list by notes you already like, then compare longevity, projection and price. Use the filters on this page, try samples where you can, and wear a shortlisted perfume for a whole day before buying a full bottle.

Our compliments score points to Lattafa Pride Vintage Radio (58/10), Zara Red Temptation Perfume (9/10) and Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Mood Eau de Parfum (8.8/10). Compliments depend on setting and company, but these are the ones people notice most often.

Start with an unscented lotion, then spray the inside of your elbows, the base of your throat and a little on your clothes. Fabric holds scent longer than skin, and rubbing your wrists only breaks the top notes down faster.