I Own Over 50 Perfumes, and These Are By Far the Most Uplifting

It might seem a bit silly, but while I have spent the last few months makeup-less, with my greasy hair thrown up in a bun, scoffing snacks in my pyjamas as I work from the sofa, I have also been spritzing my most luxurious perfumes. You see, while some people require a blow-dry or a swipe of red lipstick to feel pulled-together and ready to take on the day, all I need is a spritz of perfume.

Luckily, I am very well experienced when it comes to finding the most uplifting perfumes around. In fact, since discovering the power that perfume has over my mood, I’ve made it my beauty mission to collect the happiest scents around. As a result of said search, I am now the not-so-proud owner of an obscene amount of perfumes. Well over 50, if I had to put a number on it.

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(Image credit: @ROSIEHW)

Despite the fact that the size of my perfume collection is without a doubt unnecessary and extravagant, it turns out that my theory about perfume lifting my spirits actually does make sense. Aromatherapy Associates Master Blender Luke Taylor says, "In more recent times, numerous studies have revealed that various psychological effects can be attributed to fragrance inhalation. Increased brain activity, changes in bloody pressure, heart rate and pupil dilation are all immediate effects of olfactory stimulation.” 

But what exactly makes a great uplifting perfume? The truth is, what’s uplifting for one, might not necessarily be for another. "Any scent you enjoy will evoke happiness, either from the pure joy of experiencing it or reminiscing on past enjoyable events,” says Taylor. Although tastes do vary from person to person, I think I have whittled down just about the perfect edit of universally uplifting perfumes. After all, certain notes just can’t be overlooked for their happiness-inducing qualities. "Floral notes are often associated with happiness, with rose, jasmine and neroli being popular choices,” Taylor adds.

So if you’re looking to inject some mood-boosting pizzazz to an otherwise drab day, keep scrolling for the most uplifting perfumes for every single taste.

Crisp and Clean

Warm and Creamy

Fresh and Floral

Tropical and Zesty

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Freelance Beauty Editor

Shannon Lawlor is a renowned beauty journalist and has contributed to Who What Wear’s beauty content since 2020. As a leading beauty editor, expert and brand consultant, she has over eight years of experience working for some of the industry’s most esteemed titles, including Who What Wear (of course), Glamour UK, Stylist, Refinery29 and Fabulous.

Having also worked behind the scenes with some of the industry’s biggest brands and retailers, Shannon has a unique insight into what people really want from their beauty routines. Understanding that beauty lovers seek honest, open and responsible advice, she has it made her mission to demystify the intimidating world of beauty, taking a no-frills approach to the most relatable topics.

While Shannon is the first to admit she doesn’t hold the answer to every beauty question out there, she is dedicated to sharing her expert insights in a bid to help. As a self-proclaimed lazy girl, Shannon has an affinity for easy-to-use, foolproof beauty products and has made it her mission to scope out the best of the best.

When she’s not working, Shannon is likely soaking in the bath or giving no-holds-barred beauty reviews on Instagram from her bathroom floor.