Move over diamonds, because when it comes to a girl’s ultimate companion, it’s all about oud perfumes.
What is Oud?
Oud, or agarwood, is a fragrant resinous wood originating from the heartwood of specific Aquilaria tree species, notably Aquilaria malaccensis, Aquilaria agallocha, and Aquilaria crassna.
Its distinctive and prized fragrance develops as the wood becomes saturated with a dark, aromatic resin in response to fungal infection or injury.
For centuries, oud has been valued across Asia and the Middle East for its rich, complex, and woody fragrance, often described with sweet, balsamic, earthy, smoky, and leathery nuances. This prized scent has been integral to perfumes, incense, and traditional medicines in these cultures.
In perfumery, oud is a highly valued and luxurious ingredient, and the scarcity of natural agarwood combined with the complex and lengthy extraction process contributes to the often high price of quality oud fragrances.
Best Oud Perfumes
Tom Ford Oud Wood Eau de Parfum
Key Notes: Rare Oud Wood, Sandalwood, Chinese Pepper.
With a blend of rare oud, smoky woods, sandalwood, rosewood, oriental spices, and alluring amber, Tom Ford’s Oud Wood presents the captivating potency of oud in an exotic and enticing way.
Shop online at Sephora
Louis Vuitton Pur Oud
A sophisticated and luxurious creation featuring the finest Oud Assam essence and musks, this fragrance may represent a significant investment, but it assures an extraordinary and immersive olfactory experience.
When your finances permit, why resist such an irresistible indulgence?
Shop online at Louis Vuitton
Byredo Accord Oud Eau de Parfum
Key Notes: Blackberry, Rum, Saffron.
Offering a unique olfactory journey, Byredo’s Accord Oud Eau de Parfum masterfully combines the richness of woody notes with aromatic elements, exuding a sense of sophistication and mystery that ensures a lasting impression.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Mood Eau de Parfum
Key Notes: Violet accord, Damascena rose essence from Bulgaria, Damascena rose absolute from Turkey, natural oud from Laos, Benzoin from Siam, amber and vanilla accord.
This eau de parfum embodies the awakening of the vibrant East, inviting you to embrace the present moment. Its composition includes a violet accord, Bulgarian damascena rose essence, Turkish rose absolute, natural oud from Laos, Siamese benzoin, amber, and a harmonious vanilla accord.
Shop at
Creed Royal Oud Fragrance
Key Notes: Lemon, Pinkberries, Bergamot, Cedar, Sandalwood, Oud, Tonkin Musk.
Evoking the design of a Persian palace, Creed Royal Oud Fragrance presents a captivating blend of woody and aromatic notes. The use of precious and sweet oud, carefully extracted from agarwood trees – a protected and geographically limited resource in India – contributes to the fragrance’s price.
This rarity of oud contributes to the elevated value of the fragrance’s treasured ingredients, making it highly esteemed by both men and women who choose to wear it.
Armani Oud Royal Eau de Parfum
Key Notes: Saffron, Oud Rose, Amber Myrrh, Sandalwood, Frankincense.
Celebrating the multifaceted nature of oud, this eau de parfum showcases its various aspects within its scent profile. Amber harmony enhances its depth, spices add a fiery intensity, and myrrh and incense contribute a smoky earthiness.
Jo Malone London Oud & Bergamot Cologne Intense
Key Notes: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Oud.
This inviting and spicy cologne features intriguing hints of bergamot, cedarwood, and precious oud. A treasured and enigmatic wood with deep ties to Middle Eastern fragrance traditions, oud undergoes a captivating transformation, its mystical and smoky essence harmonizing beautifully with the bright clarity of bergamot and orange to create a mesmerizing and irresistible scent.
The Jo Malone Studio curates a realm of customized luxury, seamlessly blending contemporary British culture, and fostering partnerships between globally renowned master perfumers and London’s foremost creative visionaries.
Diptyque Oud Palao Eau de Parfum
Diptyque’s Oud Palao Eau de Parfum is a fragrance that marries the rich and enchanting notes of oud with a captivating blend of aromatic elements.
For those who desire a scent that embodies sophistication and mystery, this fragrance provides both depth and complexity, ensuring a lasting impression.
Shop online at Neiman Marcus
Dior Oud Ispahan
Key Notes: Labdanum, Rose, Patchouli, Saffron, Agarwood (Oud), Sandalwood, Cedar.
Oud Ispahan elegantly presents a welcoming character, like the fragrant essence of a cozy palace where vibrant colors and captivating scents harmoniously intertwine. Its robust nature is shaped by a sophisticated charm and a spirit of wanderlust.
This fragrance is resolute and unapologetic, emphasizing its robust woody essence alongside the spicy and resolute presence of Damascus Rose.
Shop online at Dior
Why are oud fragrances so expensive?
Several elements contribute to the expense of oud fragrances, including the rarity of natural agarwood, the labor-intensive extraction methods, the necessary aging and maturation period, the skill of the perfumers, and their image as luxurious and sophisticated scents.
Adding to the cost, sustainable sourcing methods and conservation efforts have increased production expenses. These elements, along with high global demand, result in the premium price of oud fragrances, making them emblems of luxury and exclusivity.
To whom should you gift an oud perfume?
Consider gifting oud perfumes to individuals who appreciate opulence and uniqueness in fragrances, such as perfume enthusiasts, those with a sophisticated taste, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. Oud perfumes are especially fitting for those who cherish cultural connections, enjoy long-lasting scents, or seek luxurious and indulgent gifts.
Whether it’s a close friend, a family member, or someone with an adventurous spirit, an oud perfume can be a thoughtful and memorable gift that suits a variety of personalities and preferences.
What should you be looking for when shopping for an oud scent online?
When shopping for an oud scent online, it’s essential to consider factors such as the fragrance’s notes, the concentration (eau de parfum, eau de toilette, etc.), the brand’s reputation for quality, and customer reviews.
Pay attention to the fragrance’s description to ensure it aligns with your preferences, whether you prefer woody, smoky, or sweet oud scents. Check for information on the sourcing and authenticity of the oud used in the perfume.