Every year I test a smaller percentage of new releases — and every year, I mind a little less. So, as always, add “of what I managed to smell” to all of my picks. Still, 2013 was a good year for perfume, and I had no trouble at all coming up with favorites in our usual categories. (And I’m including a few older releases that I didn’t manage to smell until this year.)
My choices for the year are just below. Scroll down to see what Angela, Erin, Jessica and Kevin thought was noteworthy in 2013, or click over to Bois de Jasmin, Grain de Musc, Perfume Posse or The Non-Blonde for more opinions. And of course, do add your own thoughts in the comments.
My favorite niche fragrances of 2013: Dries Van Noten par Frédéric Malle, Le Labo Lys 41, Aedes Iris Nazarena, Aftelier Cuir de Gardenia, with a nod to Comme des Garçons + Monocle Scent Three: Sugi.
The best mainstream fragrances: Marni, Carven Le Parfum…
