25 Gender-Neutral Fragrances That Will Get You Tons Of Compliments

Gender-neutral fragrances have come a long way since the uber-cool, androgynous CK One became all the rage back in the 1990s. With the world evolving toward a more fluid perspective regarding gender roles, and there being an increased focus on individuality rather than societal norms and standards, the fragrance industry is changing also. "We are going beyond gender and instead we are discussing the scents that fit each individual," Jan Vilhelm, perfumer and founder of Vilhelm Parfumerie, told Elle. "We're going back to the origins of the perfume – initially perfume was gender-free."

The modern trend of labeling fragrances as masculine or feminine doesn't even align with history. According to The Face, ancient Greeks and Romans considered the scent of roses and lilies to be the best fit for alpha males, and earthy-smelling myrrh to be a lady's oil of choice.

If you are looking for a fragrance that walks the line between feminine and masculine, we compiled a list of perfumes that smell great on everyone, regardless of gender.

Aiming to gather a variety of gender-neutral fragrances in distinct categories to please different tastes, we based our selection on a mix of press, buyer's reviews, published opinions from experts in the field, social media trends, and general popularity.  If you buy any products through our links, we will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Our choices are independent and impartial, with the sole purpose of recommending the best options to our readers.

One reason this beloved British label is so popular is that all its fragrances are unisex and formulated to mix and match. Jo Malone's Wood Sage & Sea Salt cologne is one such fragrance and one of the brand's best-selling formulas. It is a fresh and sophisticated scent, with notes that remind you of an ocean breeze and freshly pressed linens. Buyers describe the cologne as "exquisite" and "intricate, but definitely elegant." One reviewer said, "It seems like the perfect scent to wear for a classy event or even when going out during the rain."

The Jo Malone Wood Sage and Sea Salt Cologne is available on JoMalone.co.uk for approximately $123.

Penhaligon's Halfeti debuted in 2015 and is named after a small Turkish village where fragrant black roses grow by the Euphrates river. Its unisex scent is inspired by precious materials traded in that region, such as flowers, spices, and leather (via Fragrantica). Described by loyal users as "rich, indulgent, warm, spicy and downright sexy," this intoxicating opulent scent from the old-school British perfumers also features notes of grapefruit, artemisia, nutmeg, and rose.

Purchase Halfeti at penhaligons.com for approximately $212.

Even if you haven't tried this luxurious fragrance yet, you might have seen it popping in your feeds: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris Baccarat Rouge 540 – a favorite of A-listers such as Rihanna — is, simply put, a global phenomenon and rumored to be one of the best-selling fragrances ever created. This sultry, expensive-smelling floral and woody fragrance features top notes of saffron, jasmine, and cedar. 

Die-hard fans can't live without it, swearing it smells of wealth, sex, and romance. One reviewer raved, "Prepare to be regularly stopped and asked what perfume you're wearing, or just by random people telling you that you smell lovely."

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris Baccarat Rouge 540 can be purchased at franciskurkdjian.com for $325.

A younger, more spirited take on the unforgettable CK One with the same gender norm-defiant character, the CK All Unisex Eau de Toilette by Calvin Klein is a light and breezy unisex scent with refreshing notes of vetiver, green tea, mandarin, and bergamot. Buyers love it for being an "adaptable, fresh scent" with "pineapple and orange undertones that last all day." One reviewer said, "I feel like I just got out of the shower whenever I smell this scent."  

CK All Unisex Eau de Toilette can be purchased at Amazon.com for $63.

Part of Louis Vuitton's unisex scents collection, Sun Song is inspired by the bustling spirits of Los Angeles and is described as "sun in a bottle" and "made of light." A fresh, cologne-like breezy mix of orange blossom, neroli, bergamot, musk, jasmine, and citron, Sun Song was created to capture the joy of summer and the sensation of sun-kissed skin. Fans of the fragrance love its "bright, sunny, fresh, light, summery, creamy orange blossom" scent that smells "insanely clean."

Louis Vuitton's Sun Song can be purchased directly in-store or at us.louisvuitton.com for $280.

Taking inspiration from Greek mythology, Fleur de Peau pays homage to the love story of Eros and Psyche and to their daughter Volupia. The unique, unisex floral aldehyde fragrance is crafted to smell differently according to each wearer's natural scent. Buyers praise its long-lasting second-skin, baby powder-ish, carnal scent that sports notes of musk, angelica, bergamot, pink pepper, Turkish rose, amber, and leather. One reviewer said, "This perfume is wonderful. It is subtle yet noticeable — you have a scent surrounding you but it is not overpowering."

Fleur de Peau can be purchased at Diptyqueparis.com for approximately $146.

Part of Chanel's Exclusive Fragrance collection, Le Lion is inspired by Coco Chanel's star sign — and lucky emblem. Described by the brand as "warm, carnal, and refined" this ambery, warm, and spicy scent sports leathery notes of labdanum and patchouli and luminous hints of vanilla, bergamot, and lemon. Its scent is long-lasting, too. As one buyer said, "On fabric, it's indefinite. A powdery yet creamy, incense-laced vanilla. A few sprays on a shirt in my closet and a week later, it's still a confectionery paradise in there."

Le Lion de Chanel can be purchased at Chanel.com for approximately $180.

Whether you were around in the '90s to enjoy the CK One craze in all its glory or you are a Gen-Z dreamer caught up in the Y2K nostalgia trend, this blend of green tea undertones, mandarin, orange, bergamot, and lemon is as fascinating now as it was back in the good old days.

Life-long fans describe it as a discreet-smelling fragrance that gets compliments left and right. One said, "I have worn CK One for 20+ years, and I get compliments all the time that it smells so good! People always ask me what it is and once I tell them, they are surprised it's still even being made ... I will wear this forever. I hope they never stop making it."

CK One is available at Sephora.com for $68.

A breathy, aquatic, and earthy floral green fragrance that blends with your natural scent, Fresh Life Eau de Parfum by Fresh balances notes of citrus and oak moss with grass, orange, and cucumber. Crafted to feel like "a pause to breathe" and to evoke the purity of a fresh, dewy morning, buyers love it for its refreshing, discreet, and timeless nature-inspired scent. One reviewer said, "It smells like walking along a creek of my childhood with woodland flowers, sunshine, and the gentle smell of Earth."

Purchase Fresh Life Eau de Parfum at fresh.com for $95.

A clean, fresh, skin-like scent inspired by the beauty and nomadism of Romani culture, Byredo's Gypsy Water combines notes of pine needle, sandalwood, amber, and citrus, encapsulating the magic of colorful gypsy nights camping in the forest. Buyers love its "hippie incense" sweet scent, with one reviewer noting, "This sweet lolly-like fragrance had me hook, line, and sinker in store. I find this sweet, fresh, aquatic yet ever so slightly warm and comforting."

Gypsy Water is available at byredo.com for approximately $141. 

Described by delighted buyers as "really smelling of old books," Whispers in the Library is a whimsical, mysterious soft musk scent that is part of Maison Margiela's REPLICA collection. Combining pepper and woody notes warmed by cedar and vanilla, the fragrance evokes the time-slowing atmosphere of an ancestral library. The unexpected blend of green and sweet notes surprised satisfied buyers. One wrote, "One of the best smells I've ever come across ... Smells like when you open a book sitting under an oak in a green park with a vanilla background."

Replica Whispers in the Library is available at maisonmargiela-fragrances.eu.

Another of Jo Malone's best-selling scents, and also considered the brand's signature fragrance, Lime Basil & Mandarin cologne adds a sophisticated touch to the zestiness of citrus. The top notes of mandarin and heart of basil, combined with the amberwood base make it an unforgettable classic, and a perfect everyday perfume. Fans of the brand include those who never liked citrus scents before. One wrote: "I have always told myself that I disliked citrus fragrances until I met Jo Malone's LBM range. The cologne opens very brightly ... but softens and dries down in a complex and delightful way."

Jo Malone's Lime Basil & Mandarin cologne can be purchased at jomalone.eu for approximately $136.

Inspired by the "scent of the rose sacrificed to the beauty of wine," Liquides Imaginaires Dom Rosa is a passionate fragrance that revolves around smoky notes of champagne and roses, blending grapefruit, Damascena rose, clove, and incense. One reviewer noted its deep, fruity and floral notes, writing: "Walking away from the dinner party, you're left with a rose scent and some late and very refreshing grapefruit sprinkles ... I would give my two little toes to keep that top note longer on my skin ... what a dream!"

Dom Rosa can be purchased for approximately $127 from liquidesimaginaires.com.

A spicy, leathery floral with notes of vetiver, jasmine sambac, moss, and patchouli, Tom Ford's Ombre Leather evokes the heat and wild beauty of the American desert. The sensual touch of black leather is sure to envelop the wearer like a second skin, making this an ideal fragrance for a hot date. Buyers appreciate the originality of the scent, with its contrast between the rough touch of leather and the sweetness of jasmine and amber. One said, "The initial warmth and spice, the jasmine note, that earthy rugged desert vibe lurking underneath ... Ombre Leather is great. One of Tom Ford's best."

Ombre Leather is available at tomford.com for $150.

A delicious, boozy treat with opening notes of cognac oil and oak, Angel's Share by Kilian also features cinnamon essence and Tonka bean, and long-lasting notes of sandalwood, praline, and vanilla. Which, according to the brand is "a rare concoction only angels should experience." Addicted buyers describe it as "a beautiful piece of artwork." One wrote: "It is definitely unisex and you feel like perfume royalty wearing this. It's so unique I am yet to smell anything like it. The longevity is amazing, you will smell it on your skin the next day."

Angel's Share can be purchased at bykilian.com for $210.

L'Occitane Verbena Eau De Toilette is a luminous combination of orange and lemon, with a touch of vervain — an herb known for its aphrodisiac qualities and widely used in folk magic love spells. The formula promises to leave a delicious scent on your skin all day long. Buyers recommend it, saying, "If you want an everyday scent that is clean and not too heavy — you will love this. Good for summer outfits."

Verbena Eau de Toilette can be purchased for approximately $52 at pt.loccitane.com.

If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind, personalized fragrance, look no further: Escentric Molecules' Molecule 01 is made out of a single ingredient: a synthetic note called Iso E Super. This molecule, said to be a potent aphrodisiac, blends into the wearer's natural scent creating a mysterious, alluring aura and a velvety, second-skin fragrance. Buyers how elusive the fragrance is, with one writing: "It's a bit strange because you can't really smell it on yourself, but I get a lot of compliments when I'm wearing it."

Purchase Molecule 01 at escentric.com for approximately $88. 

A reliable, sophisticated scent inspired by the pure Italian spirit of the Amalfi coast, Colonia is one of Acqua Di Parma's best-selling fragrances. The notes of Sicilian citrus, sweet orange, damask rose, vetiver, lavender, sandalwood, and Calabrian bergamot make it an evergreen classic. Loyal buyers recommend it as an eternal reliable staple. One reviewer said, "Easy, simple, and timeless. I've used up multiple bottles of this because of how effortless it is to wear. You can never go wrong with it."

Acqua di Parma Colonia can be purchased at acquadiparma.com for approximately $153.

A strong-charactered, deep scent that blends the heartiest spices with the tanginess of rum, Spice Blend is an intoxicating Dior creation that alternates between sensations of freshness and warmth. The notes of black Madagascar pepper, cinnamon, ginger, and St. Thomas bay leaf give this fragrance a powerful intensity that sets senses on fire. Buyers describe it as "expensive, refined, luxurious and sexy as hell" that somehow is also "elegant, well-crafted, subtle, and classy."

Dior Spice Blend is available at dior.com for $310. 

A hypnotic, bold blend of effervescent citrus and acacia honey that evokes white flowers blooming in a Mediterranean garden, Fleur de Portofino by Tom Ford charms with its notes of mimosa, lilac, mandarine, Sicilian lemon, bergamot, and leaves of orange and violet. A splashy, crisp scent that makes a lush new take on classic colognes.

Purchase Fleur de Portofino at tomford.com for $285.

4711 Original Eau de Cologne, created in the late 18th century in the city of Cologne, no less, is a delightful citrus scent by Mäurer & Wirtz that remains a timeless, ever-relevant staple. The fresh blend of orange oil, lemon, peach, basil, and bergamot with notes of cyclamen, lily, jasmine, Bulgarian rose, and more makes it a tried-and-true, foolproof fragrance, perfect for the lovers of simple classics and 21st-century romantics. Life-long fans always keep it around as a go-to, with one writing: "To me, it's a genuine antidepressant, and I hope I get old enough to bathe in it."

Mäurer & Wirtz 4711 can be purchased at 4711online.com for approximately $22.

Snif's Ex on the Beach is an unusual formula that is both sweet and fresh, and fruity and floral, bringing together notes of orange blossom, jasmine, and cedarwood. The provocative fragrance is reminiscent of the bewildering, blushing sensation of running into an old flame at a glamorous beach party. Fans describe it as "juicy, citrusy, and yummy" and swear it smells both like "orange groves in Florida" and "a salty, sandy ocean breeze — fresh and filled with the promise of fun."

Purchase Ex on the Beach at snif.co for $65.

As the name suggests, the main ingredient for this Le Labo's Neroli 36, a sunny amber floral fragrance, is orange blossom. Notes of musk, rose, tonka bean, jasmine, vanilla, and mandarin orange complete this charming, captivating spiky formula. Describing it as a nostalgic, happy-smelling fragrance, one reviewer said, "[It] reminds me of the bubble bath soap that my mom used to add to my baths when I was a kid ... or like the hand soap in a hotel washroom."

Neroli 36 is available for $90 at lelabofragrances.com.

Inspired by Berlin's frantic artistic movements and by the late David Bowie's stay in that exhilarating city during the 1970s, Poets of Berlin is an intriguing scent from Vilhelm Parfumerie that mixes the sweetness of vanilla, blueberry, and sandalwood. Additional fresh notes of lemon, vetiver, and green wild orris make it a magnetic fragrance, sure to make it stand out from the crowd of present-day perfumes. One satisfied buyer said, "This is a unique scent. Wonderfully layered ... Definitely unisex. This is signature-worthy." 

Poets of Berlin is available at vilhelmparfumerie.com for $245.