How To Smell Like Vanilla: Fragrance Path

Vanilla is a universally loved fragrance that never goes out of style thanks to its sweet and alluring scent. Plus, vanilla is like that one friend who knows everyone — it pairs well with almost any other fragrance. 

Discover the secret to smelling like this oh-so-delicious scent every day. We're exploring the world of vanilla fragrances and talking about why people (us included) are so drawn to this scent. 

Why Do We Love Vanilla Scents?

Vanilla has been a fan favorite for centuries, and even ancient civilizations used fragrant vanilla beans in drinks and food. Fast forward to the 20th century when it began to be included in iconic fragrances like Chanel No. 5, GUERLAIN SHALIMAR, and Calvin Klein Obsession, and vanilla has become one of the most popular scents on the market. 

Aromatherapy Benefits

Vanilla essential oils are a go-to in aromatherapy, and many studies suggest inhaling the vanilla extract aroma can help reduce stress. 

One study gave participants either a vanilla-like scent or humidified air with no scent. The group exposed to the vanilla fragrance experienced 63% less anxiety. Vanilla could be a great way to calm your nerves, soothe your senses, and enhance your wind-down routine.

Nostalgia

Your sense of smell is closely associated with your memories, and this connection explains why certain scents can take you back to a specific moment or time in your life. If you have positive memories of baking with vanilla or wearing a vanilla scent in adolescence, you might experience nostalgia when you smell it now. From cupcakes on birthdays to your family’s warm vanilla sugar hand soap, vanilla is a far-reaching scent that most people have positive associations with. 

Versatile Appeal

Vanilla is a genderless scent. At Snif, we believe anyone can wear any scent — but vanilla specifically is commonly used in fragrances across the board, for any gender. It's the perfect addition to a wide range of scents, and it adds a dash of sweetness or warmth that can be layered with other smells for a more complex experience. 

Are There Different Types of Vanilla Scents? 

Vanilla fragrances can take on a number of different personalities, from complementing a scent that’s warm and musky to sweet and fruity. There’s an entire spectrum of vanilla scents in perfumery, and the different options can cater to your mood or preference for each fragrance. 

Sweet and Light

The sweet, dessert-like vanilla fragrance may be what you think of first when you think about vanilla. These vanilla perfumes come off as more youthful and are often considered to be a “gourmand” scent. Picture those warm vanilla sugar scents that came in body sprays, body mists, body lotions, and body washes you loved in middle school. Just one spritz and all of a sudden, you were a walking cupcake. 

If done correctly, sweet vanilla scents can still be light without being overpowering. They leave a trail of warmth that fills you with those comforting, gourmand vibes. 

Deep and Rich

Vanilla can also transform into a deep and rich scent — this version of the scent features a more sultry and mysterious side to vanilla. It lingers without being too obvious, and the other ingredients included in the scent can bring out a new depth. 

Subtle

Sometimes, you're craving just a hint of vanilla. A subtle amount of this scent can add a touch of sweetness and warmth to any fragrance. It's more of a whisper than a scent you would immediately recognize as vanilla, and the subtle allure makes it ideal for everyday wear.

What Are Some of the Best Scents With Vanilla?

If you ask us, the best vanilla perfumes strike a delicate balance between sweetness and subtleness, and the right vanilla fragrance can be the secret to turning heads. If you're looking for your new favorite scent, we have a few suggestions.

Vanilla Vice

When you want that classic sweet, vanilla-forward scent with a bit of twist, Vanilla Vice could be your perfect fit. It's not just a one-note scent — it combines Madagascar vanilla, sparkling sugar, and jasmine with the complexities of amber wood, musk, and orcanox. It's the furthest thing from a boring, basic vanilla scent, and it will leave you addicted after just one spritz. 

Sweet Ash

If you're craving something more earthy than sugary, opt for Sweet Ash. This subtle fragrance was voted the "Best Woody Fragrance" by New York Magazine, but it has a light hint of sweetness that balances everything out. This fragrance is made with juniper, bergamot, fir balsam, tonka, vanilla bean, white moss, and patchouli for a warm and inviting scent that you won’t want to quit. 

Crumb Couture

Crumb Couture is ideal for those in love with gourmand scents. This buttery croissant fragrance has all of those edible qualities you can't get enough of. It features croissant accord, wild berry jam, blackcurrant, toasted vanilla, tonka bean, and sandalwood, making you feel like you're strolling into a French bakery. 

The toasted vanilla scent in this fragrance is subtle, but gives the scent a rich smokiness under the bright berry aroma. This fragrance isn't too heavy, and it has a warm, comforting energy.

House of 8

Chocolate is another one of those nostalgic fragrances we can’t get enough of, and the creamy sweetness is versatile and combines well with other notes. Vanilla and chocolate is a combo that goes together like your favorite pair of jeans and a classic white tee. 

If you have a soft spot for fragrances with edible notes, you’ll love House of 8. This chocolate-inspired scent features an irresistible combination of chocolate, vanilla, and sandalwood. It's not an overpoweringly sweet scent, thanks to sage and iris, and the smell is luxurious and mysterious.

Tart Deco

If you’re looking for something on the brighter side with juicy sophistication, Tart Deco will remind you of simpler times with its playful vibes. This elevated cherry fragrance combines cherry, rose, and mimosa with a blend of birchwood, vetiver, and vanilla. It's a lavish, indulgent scent with a youthful twist. 

Whether you're in the mood for a sweet treat or want to take a more subtle vanilla path, there's an option waiting to become your new signature scent at Snif.

Something Sweet 

The smell of vanilla is a timeless fragrance that has earned its spot as a fan favorite. If you're looking for a more grown-up version of your favorite vanilla scent, be sure to check out the Snif collection. Our fragrances add depth and interest with the addition of earthy, fruity, woody ingredients, drawing you in and making you smell (and feel) amazing all day.

Sources:

The History of Vanilla | National Geographic 

Aromatherapy: Do Essential Oils Really Work? | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Fragrance administration to reduce anxiety during MR imaging | PMC

Here's Why Smells Trigger Such Vivid Memories | Latest Science News and Articles | Discovery