In some ways, I’ve been searching for the best Tom Ford fragrances for most of my adult life. One of my first jobs was manning the Tom Ford counter at my local department store. While most sane teens look at Saturday shifts as something to dread, back then, I could think of nothing better than spending the weekend surrounded by iconic Tom Ford scents. I clocked in with joy and spent hours spritzing blotters, sniffing coffee beans and gift-wrapping the most popular bottles (Oud Wood and Neroli Portofino at the time, in case you’re curious.) When payday rolled around, a good portion of my cheque went right back to the sender – I couldn’t help but give in to the irresistible draw of Tom Ford perfumes.
The best Tom Ford perfumes at a glance:
So began my love affair with the brand – an expensive one, but one I don’t regret. Tom Ford perfumes sit at the pinnacle of sophisticated perfumery, with a distinct strain of unisex, sexy, power-dressing scents blended from some of the most precious ingredients in the world. There are 133 in total, many of which have made it into my personal collection. And if you’ve landed here, chances are you’re wondering which bottle to add to yours. Ahead, the best-smelling Tom Ford perfumes that I have tried to help you choose.
My top pick: Tom Ford Electric Cherry
- Key notes: Morello cherry, ginger, pink peppercorn, ambrettolide
- Why I recommend it: Whenever I wear Tom Ford’s Electric Cherry, the compliments follow like clockwork. It is the single most complimented perfume in my stash, with a sillage that induces questions from everyone in my orbit – even when it has been several hours since my last spritz. Cherry can be divisive in fragrance, but here it is a total crowd pleaser thanks to a balanced of sweet and tart notes that keep the composition moreish and fresh. It’s one you can reach for for everyday wear, but it has an alluring, almost flirtatious aroma that makes it an excellent date night scent.
Best for winter: Tom Ford Noir Extreme
- Key notes: Mandarin, Orange flower, amber, sandalwood, Indian Kulfi, vanilla
- Why I recommend it: There are some scents that seem made for cosying up with in the bitter winter cold, and this is one of them. It reminds me of a lightly spiced mulled wine, steeped in rich and warming notes that project powerfully for an opulent, full bodied aroma. It’s strong, so use it sparingly – I’ve sprayed it on my winter coats and found that its flavours infuse even the heaviest fabrics, still lingering by spring. One to reach for for your most glamorous winter fetes, it bears an elegant woody drydown that leaves a lasting impression.
The sunshine scent: Tom Ford Soleil Blanc
courtesy of Tracy Achonwa
- Key notes: bergamot, ylang-ylang, tonka bean and coconut
- Why I recommend it:
This is a scent that sun-chasers will love, with marine facets in a creamy Coco de Mer accord that transports you to a tropical paradise. It’s light enough for daytime wear but lasts for hours on the skin, effusing all the best holiday smells (think: luxe sun lotions, beach club cocktails and salty sea breeze.) When I worked the Tom Ford counter, the shimmering body oil version drew customers in in droves, no doubt because it’s more affordable and excellent at anchoring the scent on bare skin.
