When we think about the best perfumes on the market, our minds often wander to those luxury fragrances from the likes of Chanel, Dior and Jo Malone London. Don’t get me wrong, I have been lucky enough to try lots of scents from these brands and can confirm that they are totally worth the hype. However, I truly believe that you don’t need to spend a fortune in order to smell expensive.
In fact, I’ve spent most of my career searching for the best affordable perfumes, and I’ve found some hidden gems along the way. High street stores are especially good for expensive-smelling scents on a budget, and I am always raving about M&S perfumes and & Other Stories fragrances to friends and family. That being said, there is one store in particular that has created an incredible range of luxurious scents, and most of them are under £30. Yep, I’m talking about Zara perfumes.
If you’ve read our roundup of the best Zara perfumes then you’ll know that there are so many chic fragrances on offer, but if you want to smell like your rich alter-ego, then you need to try Ebony Wood. Created with Jo Malone CBE, this is easily the most expensive smelling Zara perfume of all time, and whenever I wear it people always compliment me on my fragrance. Intrigued to know more? Keep on scrolling for my full review…
Zara Ebony Wood, Reviewed by an Editor
What Does Zara Ebony Wood Smell Like?
First things first, you probably want to know what this perfume smells like. It first caught my attention as I hadn’t smelt anything like it before, and this uniqueness definitely adds to its appeal. It opens with notes of tangy grapefruit and spicy pink pepper, before drying down to a base of rich coffee and earthy vetiver.
It has a warm, sophisticated, woody aroma that lingers all day long. To me, it smells like an elegant woman in Paris, wandering down the Champs-Élysées with a Birkin bag casually thrown over her arm.
As mentioned above, it’s part of Zara’s range of fragrances that have been created with Jo Malone CBE, founder of Jo Loves. All of these scents feel so premium, but this is definitely the stand-out perfume in the collection.
Is Zara Ebony Wood Long-Lasting?
One thing that really impressed me about this perfume is just how long-lasting it is. I first spritzed it on my outfit in the morning before work, and I could still smell it on my jumper the next day (yes, really). Thanks to the rich, heady notes, this fragrance has a powerful scent projection and lingers beautifully on the skin.
The Verdict
All in all, since trying this scent out, I have recommended it to everyone I know. If you were to blindfold me and ask me to guess where this fragrance is from, I would definitely think it’s designer. For just £30, you really can’t go wrong. It smells luxurious, it lasts all day, and a little goes a long way. Zara, you’ve outdone yourself.
Shop Zara Ebony Wood
Zara
Ebony Wood Eau de Parfum
Key notes: Grapefruit, cypress, pink pepper, coffee, patchouli and vetiver.
Shop Zara x Jo Malone CBE Perfumes
Zara
Energetically New York Eau de Parfum
Key notes: Cardamom, jasmine and sandalwood.
If woody fragrances are your thing, you might want to try Energetically New York. This fresh, spicy, vibrant perfume perfectly captures the energy of the city that never sleeps.
Zara
Amalfi Sunray Eau de Parfum
Key notes: Bergamot, mandarin, orange blossom and musk.
Dreaming of summer? Let this zesty, uplifting fragrance transport you to warmer days.
Zara
Olfactive/ N 04 Fashionably London Eau de Parfum
Key notes: Bergamot, rose and musk.
Floral, musky, fresh and elegant all at the same time, this fragrance is beautifully complex and utterly captivating.
Zara
Waterlily Tea Dress Eau De Parfum
Key notes: Bergamot, neroli, sage, mint, basil and musk.
If fresh, herbaceous fragrances are your thing, you need to know about Zara’s Waterlily Tea Dress.
Zara
Captivatingly Paris Eau de Parfum
Key notes: Pear, rose and musk.
Inspired by the city of love, this romantic perfume blends sweet pear with powdery rose and warm musk.
Zara
Fleur D’oranger Eau de Parfum
Key notes: Bergamot, orange blossom, neroli and ylang-ylang.
As the name suggests, this citrus fragrance opens with fresh bergamot and orange blossom, while a heart of neroli adds a crisp, clean touch.
Zara
Gracefully Madrid Eau de Parfum
Key notes: Bitter orange, bergamot, lemon, basil and mint.
Another fresh, herbaceous option which perfectly embodies the lively energy of Madrid.