Market data from the NPD group for luxury fragrances in 2007 showed that they failed to match the success of their counterparts in the luxury skin care and make-up categories, with overall sales slipping 1 percent to $2.5bn

However, sales of fragrances that have been on the market since 2006 or before grew by two percent suggesting that consumers are returning to well-known and trusted products.

"It may be that consumers are finding comfort in familiar brands because of the crowded marketplace," said NPD analyst Karen Grant.

— From Stars launch new fragrances in time for Christmas at Cosmetics Design.