Best Oud Perfumes For Her

Best Oud Perfumes For Her

We review products independently and our recommendations are genuine. If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

While Oud is naturally extracted from the molding process of Agarwood, only 2% of Agarwood trees produce the fungi needed to extract the ingredient. Therefore, it is difficult for manufacturers to find quality Oud, as it is such a rare and precious wood resin, and when they do, it’s very labor-intensive. 

Oud, also known as liquid gold, has captivated fragrance connoisseurs for centuries with its distinct, aromatic profile.

With the oldest Agarwood trees being the most valuable, quality Oud is usually extracted from a 10 to 50 years old infected tree bark. 

In this guide, we’ve tested lots of fragrances to be able to present to you the ultimate list of the best Oud perfumes for women.

What are the Best Oud Perfumes?

Image Recommended ProductsProduct Features Price
Dior Oud Ispahan EDP
  • Balanced wood, rose, and smokiness.
  • Addictive Vanilla notes in a woody fragrance
  • A perfect cold season go-to
Oud Essentiel by Guerlain
  • Perfectly potent and bol
  • Spicy take on rosey wood
  • Uniquely formulated oud wood
Arabian Oud Kalemat Spray
  • Balance of bitter and sweet
  • Sweetly addictive notes
  • Luxurious Arabian heritage
Oud Touch by Frank Oliver
  • Affordable price tag
  • Sweet long-lasting notes
  • Perfect for winter and fall seasons
Oud Palao by Diptyque
  • Bold and bitter
  • Easy to wear Oud fragrance
  • Spicy and Sensual
CARTIER OUD & MUSC
  • Bold and spicy notes
  • Soft and calming essences
Versace Oud Oriental
  • The perfect luxurious blend
  • Hints of Eastern incense
  • Sensual and vibrant
Le Labo Oud 27
  • The pure natural essences
  • Its unique complexion of ingredients
  • Vibrant and attention-demanding
DOLCE & GABBANA Velvet Wood Eau de Parfum
  • Perfection in its softness
  • Long-lasting and potent
  • Balanced with nutty essences

Back To Contents

How I Tested and Selected The Best Oud Perfumes

Finding the perfect Oud perfume can be quite a challenge, especially when it comes to identifying a scent that resonates well with women.

Personally, I’ve delved into the world of fragrances, recognizing that many Oud options tend to lean towards being too bitter, smoky, or woody for the feminine palette.

Taking into account various factors like weather, complementary ingredients, and overall potency, I’ve observed that the intense woody notes of Oud can be off-putting for some. It’s clear that not everyone appreciates the dark, woody, or spicy richness that characterizes many Oud fragrances.

For those who share my preference for fragrances on the lighter side, this list might not be your go-to. I’d recommend exploring other curated lists focusing on feminine scents, such as “The 8 Best Gardenia Perfumes” or the “9 Best Burberry Perfumes for Women.” These alternatives may offer a more suitable olfactory experience that aligns with your personal taste.

Back To Contents

Oud Perfume Reviews

Oud Ispahan by Dior

Bold rosey Arabian excellence
The perfect balance of sweet and smokey essences in a modern sensual manner, Oud Ispahan is the ultimate Oud perfume for her.
Scent
5
Projection
4
Longevity
5
Versatility
3
Value
3

Oud Ispahan by Dior Review

In this fragrance, Oud Ispahan combines the smoky aroma of firewood with a sweet, floral essence to create a velvety woody fragrance.

This unisex perfume reminds me somewhat of Frank Oliver Oud Touch a fragrance reviewed later on in this blog post. Except Oud Ispahan enjoys a higher concentration of florals and not as intense of an Oud oil potency.  

I must emphasize that a little goes a long way with this fragrance. One or two sprays are more than enough, as it lingers on clothes and skin for an extended period.

The scent is complex, a mix of smokiness and freshness, making it perfect for special occasions or date nights. However, it might be a bit overwhelming for everyday wear. The only drawback, in my opinion, is its persistence – it takes some effort to wash off completely.

Top Notes: Labdanum, Leather

Middle Notes: Rose, Patchouli, Saffron

Base Notes: Agarwood (Oud), Sandalwood, Cedar

What we liked

  • Balanced wood, rose, and smokiness.
  • Addictive Vanilla notes in a woody fragrance
  • A perfect cold season go-to

Back To Contents

Oud Essentiel by Guerlain

Majestic floral bitterness
A royal blend of eastern woody essences and light western notes of leather, Bulgarian rose come together in a masterpiece of classic concentrated Oud.
Scent
4.2
Projection
4
Longevity
3.9
Versatility
4
Value
3.8

Oud Essentiel by Guerlain Review

The opening of Oud Essential is surprisingly not dominated by oud. Instead, saffron, rose, and leather take center stage.

The leather is more on the suede side, not too smoky or rugged. The rose is soft and pillowy, with saffron providing a spicy kick. As it dries down, cedar wood and a westernized oud start peeking through, adding complexity to the scent.

In terms of seasons, I’d say it’s ideal for fall, possibly winter and spring nights. It leans more towards nighttime wear, and while it has good performance with longevity around 7-9 hours and heavy projection, it might not outshine some stronger contenders in this genre.

Top Notes: Olibanum, Saffron

Middle Notes: Rose, Pink Pepper, Leather

Base Notes: Agarwood (Oud), Cedar

What we liked

  • Perfectly potent and bol
  • Spicy take on rosey wood
  • Uniquely formulated oud wood

Back To Contents

Arabian Oud Kalemat Spray

Finest feminine Arabian Oud
A lovely sweet juice with gourmand-like quality to it. The fragrance appears sophisticated, rich and highly refined just like woven cashmere-silk.
Scent
4.5
Projection
3.5
Longevity
4
Versatility
3
Value
4

Arabian Oud Kalemat Spray Review

Kalemat by Arabian Oud is an oriental fragrance for women and men under the niche category.

With top notes of blackberry pear and grapefruit, the middle notes are rosemary, cashmere wood, and floral notes are supported by the base of musk, amber and honey.

The box itself is gorgeous, and when you open it up, there’s another box inside, and within that is the actual bottle. The bottle is an orange ombre style, giving off some serious luxury vibes. The top has a nice weight to it, not plastic, and the overall feel is just high-end.

I pick up particularly on honey, amber, musk, rose, and oud. It’s like a symphony of these rich, exotic notes that create a scent that’s not only intoxicating but also sophisticated.

This unisex fragrance is designed for the prestigious and elegant, it’s almost disrespectful to wear this perfume regularly.

Top Notes: Blackberry, Pear, Grapefruit

Middle Notes: Wisteria, Litchi, Jasmine

Base Notes: Musk, Coconut, White Wood

What we liked

  • Balance of bitter and sweet
  • Sweetly addictive notes
  • Luxurious Arabian heritage

Back To Contents

Oud Touch by Frank Oliver

Top Value Unisex scent
A genderless vanilla oud wood Eau de Parfum complexion that is a long-lasting winter scent that is extremely affordable compared to many other oud fragrances.
Scent
4
Projection
5
Longevity
5
Versatility
3
Value
5

Oud Touch by Frank Oliver Review

This smokey woody scent is one of my favorite unisex Oud fragrances, as it is an extremely affordable top-quality intoxicating Oud wood scent. 

Oud Touch is essentially a blend of oud and rose. The opening is a bit harsh, with a powdery rose that transitions into a woody, synthetic oud note.

There are similarities to Dior Ispahan, but Oud Touch is more synthetic. The boldness of this fragrance makes it decisive – if someone appreciates it, they’ll really appreciate it, but it might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Being so bold, it’s a statement fragrance, and considering its budget-friendly price, it could even be a signature scent. It’s quite unique, so people will recognize it as your signature fragrance. I’ve gotten mixed reactions, but it’s all about personal taste.

Personally, I think it’s worth the risk. It’s not a fragrance I reach for every day, but it has a place in my collection for those times when I want to make a statement.

Top Notes: Raspberry, Carmel, Orange blossoms

Middle Notes: Rose, Olibanum, Patchouli, Violet, Jasmine

Base Notes: Amber, Vanilla, Musk

What we liked

  • Affordable price tag
  • Sweet long-lasting notes
  • Perfect for winter and fall seasons

Back To Contents

Oud Palao by Diptyque

A fresh breezy Oud
Oud Palao is a light and breezy summer Eau de Parfum Oud fragrance that does not feature the choking bitterness that usually dominates all Oud scents.
Scent
4
Projection
3.5
Longevity
4
Versatility
3
Value
3

Oud Palao by Diptyque Review

With its lighthearted characteristics, I’d assume that instead of using pure agarwood oil Diptyque used chunks of lightly infected bark to infuse the mix. 

The scent has a bold dark opening influencing a synthetic Oud scent that aligns with a solid smokey base working together to form an incense-like experience. 

Oud, being a challenging raw material, benefits from the softening effect of vanilla and the lift from rose. The combination is popular because it just works.

The floral notes are amazing in this fragrance, making it a great casual fragrance. If you’re not an Oud fanatic or are looking for an introductory fragrance to the world of Oud Palao by Diptyque might be the one for you.

Top Notes: Tobacco, Light Pink Pepper, Rum

Middle Notes: Camphor, Bulgarian Rose

Base Notes: Sandalwood, Patchouli

What we liked

  • Bold and bitter
  • Easy to wear Oud fragrance
  • Spicy and Sensual

Back To Contents

Cartier Oud & Musc

A luxurious musky Eau de Parfum special
A delicate soft take on oud is a rich Oriental fragrance with a modern spicy Cartier touch and light highly feminine aromas.
Scent
3.8
Projection
3.5
Longevity
4
Versatility
3.5
Value
3

Cartier Oud & Musc Review

From a collection of three Oud-inspired eau de Parfum scents, this fragrance is the single best fragrance from Cartier’s Arabian-inspired fragrances. 

I was won over by the smooth and sensual notes of Oud & Musc during a sample test. Despite my fatigue with the oud and rose combination, I found this one to be a standout.

The packaging is top-notch, and the bottle, though a bit tall for its base, exudes luxury. The scent itself is a masterpiece – smoky, resinous oud with a hint of patchouli for added depth.

Although this scent made my list of the best Oud perfumes, I’d still recommend something purer. The notes in Cartier are obviously synthetic and overpolished, leaving users in a stage between spicy green notes and Agarwood.

Top Notes: Blackberry, Pear, Grapefruit

Middle Notes:

Base Notes: Musk, , Coconut, White Wood

What we liked

  • Bold and spicy notes
  • Soft and calming essences

Back To Contents

Versace Oud Oriental

A spicy, vibrant and lustful scent
A sensual heady aroma that's almost erotic, Versace Oud Oriental eau de Parfum is a fresh scent with dark woody notes.
Scent
4.2
Projection
4
Longevity
3.9
Versatility
4
Value
3.8

Versace Oud Oriental Review

Oud gives life to Versace Oud Oriental Eau de Parfum with warm spices and fruity notes to create a distinctive scent with moderate sillage.

Upon the first spray, I was impressed by its smoky, sweet, and intriguing aroma. The saffron might be the game-changer, giving it a unique twist.

A luxurious floral mix of rose and freesia aromas, the fragrance slowly unravels deeper notes of patchouli and intriguing heliotrope. 

Overall the spicy complexion of Middle Eastern essences is perfectly balanced in this lovely oriental rich fragrance by the house of Versace. 

 

Top Notes: Blackberry, Pear, Grapefruit

Middle Notes: Wisteria, Litchi, Jasmine

Base Notes: Musk , Coconut, White Wood

What we liked

  • The perfect luxurious blend
  • Hints of Eastern incense
  • Sensual and vibrant

Back To Contents

Le Labo Oud 27

The boldest Le Labo creation
Potent, vibrant, and Oud dominated is the safest way to describe this classy fragrance from Le Labo and its intoxicating aroma.
Scent
4
Projection
4
Longevity
4
Versatility
3
Value
5

Le Labo Oud 27 Review

Oud 27 Eau de parfum is an amber fragrance in the purest form, overwhelming and disturbing in its signature and power.

The unusual combination initially struck me as unpleasant, but as time passed, the scent evolved. The animalic oud, which can be off-putting, seemed to be masking the synthetic nature of the fragrance.

Eventually, the oud became more balanced, accompanied by cedar, sweetness, and smokiness. The bitterness and medicinal aspects faded, and rose notes began to emerge, contributing a delicate touch to the composition.

The fragrance transitions into a softer, smokier, and woodier scent in the dry down. While the projection remains somewhat soft, the longevity exceeds 10 hours.

Top Notes: Civet, Natural Oud, Mandarin Orange

Middle Notes: Ambergris, Virginia Cedar, Oudy Musk

Base Notes: Amber, Leather, Vetiver, Patchouli

What we liked

  • The pure natural essences
  • Its unique complexion of ingredients
  • Vibrant and attention-demanding

Back To Contents

Dolce & Gabanna Velvet Tender Oud Eau De Parfum

A creamy take on Velvet Oud
Velvet Tender Oud slowly unfurls in a voluptuous effusion of velvety, soft sweetness, revealing its long-lasting velvet rose smoky scent.
Scent
4.2
Projection
4
Longevity
3.9
Versatility
4
Value
3.8

Dolce & Gabanna Velvet Tender Oud Eau De Parfum Review

I wrap up my list of best Oud colognes for her with a soft white floral-infused Eau de Parfum fragrance from the Italian luxury brand D&G.

The rose takes the spotlight right from the opening and continues to be the main player throughout the fragrance’s lifespan. I appreciate the quality of the rose used here – it’s jammy, slightly sweet, and has a dewy rose petal feel.

The almond note, mentioned in the breakdown, is subtle and doesn’t contribute significantly to the overall scent. Instead, it adds a faint layer to the composition.

The longevity of five to seven hours is decent, but I would have preferred a longer duration for a fragrance in this price range.

In terms of versatility, Velvet Tender Oud is more suitable for individuals aged 25 and above. It’s ideal for fall and spring, with a slightly more mature vibe.

Top Notes: Amond, Tonka Bean

Middle Notes: Rose oil, Oud

Base Notes: Musk, Coconut, Cedarwood

What we liked

  • Perfection in its softness
  • Long-lasting and potent
  • Balanced with nutty essences

Back To Contents

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top