Small pieces of glass architecture. That’s what Marc Rosen, iconic perfume bottle designer, calls them in his book, Glamour Icons: Perfume Bottle Design. Indeed, some fragrances are in bottles so striking that what they smell like becomes almost irrelevant. Cases in point: these eight fragrances cloaked in containers that alone are worth the price. After the perfume is gone, what’s left is a gorgeous accent for a dresser or shelf. It’s like giving two gifts in one, either to a friend or yourself.
Tiffany & Co. Eau de Parfum: Bottle Design by Tiffany & Co. in collaboration with Coty
Iris flower is the hero ingredient in this sparkling musk. The glass flacon is inspired by the 128.54-carat Tiffany yellow diamond. Hey, a girl can dream. Find it at Bloomingdales and Tiffany & Co.
Marc Jacobs Decadence Eau So Decadent: Bottle Design by Marc Jacobs in collaboration with Coty
A youthful combination of magnolia and pink lily of the valley + a fun, flirty miniature purse = a fabulous find for the teen on your list. It’s available at Sephora.
PARFUMS de MARLY Meliora: Bottle Design by Julien Sprecher
The design of this bottle is intended to invoke the grandeur of Versailles. Before you dismiss that as hyperbole, take a look…it kind of does, doesn’t it? The fragrance that stunning bottle contains is equally regal, with top notes of black currant and ylang ylang and a strong base of wood, musk, and vanilla. It can be purchased at The Marly Boutique in NY’s Meat Packing District and at Pmarly.com.
Oribe Côte d’Azur: Bottle Design by Buero New York
Yes, Oribe is best known for hair care, but its foray into fragrance doesn’t disappoint. The line’s signature scent was crafted by Robertet, one of the oldest French fragrance houses. With heady notes of Calabrian bergamot, the fragrance—and its heavy glass, ombre, art deco-esque bottle—channels its glamorous namesake locale. It’s sold at Bloomingdales.com.
Katy Perry Killer Queen: Bottle Design by Lutz Herrmann Design
Here’s a warm, spicy, head-turner of a fragrance that lingers, so you’ll still be fetching compliments at the end of the day. And the unique, edgy decanter evokes the spirit of its creator for sure. Buy it at Fragrance.com.
Diptyque Paris Kimonanthe: Bottle Design by Jean Marc Gady
If you like to carry an air of mystery, look to this complex osmanthus blossom and Japanese incense, clove, and leather-infused option. The bottle is equally exotic, what with the crackled, golden-tone glass. It’s the latest addition to the brand’s 34 Eau de Parfum collection. Every order comes with a sample, so you can try it before you open the box. (If you’re not sure you love it, just return it.) You can find it at DiptyqueParis.com.
Marc Jacobs Daisy 10th Anniversary Limited Edition: Bottle Design by Marc Jacobs in collaboration with Coty
Can you believe it’s been a decade since we first laid eyes on the iconic Daisy bottle? To commemorate the milestone, Marc Jacobs has issued this handcrafted stunner with pave crystal accents.. And just in case you’re unfamiliar with the eau de toilette itself, it’s uber feminine, laced with berries and violets, drying down to a romantic sandalwood finish. Look for it at Macys.com.
Phlur Claremont Candle: Design by Agency L.O.V.E
This fragrant candle’s clean, utterly understated functionality earns it a spot on our list.
After the candle is gone (which will be a while…50 hours), the ceramic vessel can be reused as an atrium, paperclip holder, desk accent, ring receptacle, you name it. It comes with a sample of Phlur’s Olmsted & Vaux perfume, designed to pair perfectly with the crisp, fresh scent of the vegetable-based, hand-poured candle. Perk: A part of the proceeds go to the Central Park Conservancy. It’s found at Phlur.com.
No matter what type of fragrance you (or the folks on your holiday gift list) favor, you can find one with the bonus of a beautiful keepsake amongst our double-duty discoveries.
