8 Retro ‘Grandma Perfumes’ That Break All the Rules

In the modern history of perfumes, no category has gotten as rough of a reputation as “grandma perfumes.” (Sorry, patchouli, you’re still a close second.) Somehow, those notes of powder, rich roses, fine florals and retro violets earned a “dated” spot in the scent chart. On the contrary, they’re oftentimes rich, warm and comforting. Offering an element of nostalgia and precious familiarity, these modern-day “grandma perfumes” deliver fragrance with a unique flair.

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Modern Vanilla Jane Parfum Oil ($88)

This retro-inspired elixir was created by Erika Kuhn’s muse, her grandma Jane. “She’s the biggest flirt I know,” Kuhn says of the grassy-floral blend. “And she is still breaking hearts at 89 years old.” In an ode to past love, Kuhn wove in notes like tobacco and cedarwood that “remind her of an ex-boyfriend.”

• BUY NOW – $88

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Boadicea the Victorious Defender Eau de Parfum ($595)

Embodying the legendary warrior queen’s strength and resilience, perfumer Kamila Lelakova—the first female nose for the brand—skillfully blends zesty ginger, grapefruit and dark licorice with a red berry compote and kirsch in the fragrance’s opening. The heart boasts provocative jasmine, supported by myrrh and hay absolute that reveals a deeper, earthy dimension.

• BUY NOW – $595

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BDK Parfums Bouquet de Hongrie ($230)

With a floral bouquet that evokes elegance, this fine fragrance perfectly balances strength and romance—a “tribute to a woman who effortlessly blended business acumen with timeless femininity.” Set against a precious woody base, musk, amber and cedar mix in a graceful homage to Madame Benedek’s enduring legacy.

• BUY ON NEIMAN MARCUS – $230
• BUY ON BLUEMERCURY – $230

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Bvlgari Le Gemme Sahare ($460)

Bvlgari’s latest rose fragrance, this vibrant addition to the Le Gemme Collection, pays homage to the desert rose. Showcasing its star accord of Rose Damascena, the rich essence merges with upcycled rose absolute, giving it a leathery quality enhanced by high-quality petal and spicy facets.

• BUY ON SAKS FIFTH AVENUE – $460
• BUY ON NORDSTROM – $460

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Skylar Sunkissed Dahlia ($90)

Blending nostalgic elements with modern twists, Sunkissed Dahlia delivers warmth. With gourmand touches and vintage florals, the youthful, contemporary finish is dewy and fresh—all at the same time.

• BUY ON SEPHORA – $90
• BUY ON AMAZON – $90

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BuMama Malibu “Golden Hour” Eau de Parfum ($239)

Created by French-trained perfumer Molly Ray and BuMama founder Lisa Kyser, this soft fragrance captures the beauty of a Malibu sunset. Opening with fresh California lemon and delicate neroli, followed by a warm, spicy heart of exotic saffron, the scent settles into a rich, sensual base of teakwood, amber, musk and vanilla.

• BUY NOW – $239

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INITIO Parfums Privés Atomic Rose ($380)

From the fantasy-fueled Carnal Blends collection comes Atomic Rose, a powerfully elusive unisex scent. Employing several different rose notes, the oriental-floral features sprinkles of sparkling pink pepper and a vanilla-amber dry down.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $380
• BUY ON SAKS FIFTH AVENUE – $380

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Abel Pink Iris ($180)

Specifically concocted to create a contemporary twist to the “old grandma floral scent,” this genderless floral was inspired by the timeless appeal of the trench coat. Sichuan pepper, raspberry leaf, grapefruit and basil come together in a fruity—yet fresh—opening. The fragrance then unfolds to a floral heart with orris root, rose and jasmine. Grown and harvested in France, the rare “iris butter” used in the fragrance is dried over a five-year period. The resulting oil is as labor-intensive as earthy, grounded and powdery, making for a unique combo.

• BUY ON BLUEMERCURY – $180
• BUY ON REVOLVE – $180