The Best Perfumes at Nordstrom: Luxe Fragrances Worth Your Splurge

Explore the top fragrances at Nordstrom, from timeless classics to niche luxury scents, with expert picks and in-depth reviews.

By Medha deb
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The Best Nordstrom Perfumes in 2025: Fragrance Expert Picks & Sale Standouts

Nordstrom is a treasure trove for perfume lovers, stocking everything from cult favorites and designer staples to rare niche launches. Whether you’re searching for a daily signature scent, a memorable gift, or a splurge-worthy addition to your fragrance wardrobe, Nordstrom’s beauty counters have you covered. With their impressive annual Anniversary Sale, now is the perfect moment to explore the best picks—both classic and new. This guide breaks down the top perfumes at Nordstrom right now, along with expert advice on choosing, shopping, and layering fragrance.

Table of Contents

Why Nordstrom Has the Best Perfume Selection

Nordstrom’s beauty department is renowned for its meticulously curated fragrance assortment. Here’s what sets their selection apart:

  • Range of Brands: From well-known names like Le Labo, Yves Saint Laurent, Replica, and Gucci to coveted niche labels such as Xerjoff, Initio Parfums, and Mancera.
  • Accessible Luxury: While some scents command a splurge, Nordstrom’s range includes affordable options and amazing value sets, especially during the Anniversary Sale.
  • Expert Service: Their in-store beauty specialists offer personalized recommendations and sampling, making the discovery process as luxurious as the perfumes themselves.

The Anniversary Sale: Why It’s the Best Time to Buy Perfume

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is a highlight for fragrance lovers each summer, with special sets, exclusives, and discounts even on high-end and new releases. Running through early August, the sale is a rare chance to:

  • Score luxury fragrances at significant savings (up to $115 off on select sets)
  • Restock on beloved scents or try a new signature at a lower risk
  • Find limited-edition gift sets and larger sizes
  • Discover new launches brought in just for the sale


Shopping early is essential—top picks often sell out before the end of the event.

Best Perfume Picks at Nordstrom in 2025

Our beauty editor put in countless hours to sniff, spray, and vet this year’s top perfumes at Nordstrom. The selection represents the best across luxury, designer, and niche categories. Here are the outstanding standouts:

  • Le Labo Santal 33 Eau de Parfum – A woody cult-classic cherished for its unisex, creamy sandalwood base and smoky, spicy undertones.
  • Yves Saint Laurent Libre Eau de Parfum – Modern, floral, and empowering, blending lavender essence with juicy orange blossom and warm vanilla.
  • MFK Baccarat Rouge 540 – Iconic for its complex blend of saffron, ambergris, and cedar; a boundary-pushing luxury staple.
  • Initio Parfums Oud for Greatness – Deep, sensual oud fragrance revered in niche circles for its mysterious and addictive aura.
  • Byredo Gypsy Water – A sparkling, bohemian fragrance, conjuring fresh air, pine, vanilla, and sandalwood.
  • Parfums de Marly Delina – The ultimate feminine fragrance with tart rhubarb, lush rose, and creamy vanilla notes.
  • Maison Margiela Replica ‘Lazy Sunday Morning’ – Soft musks and florals evoke the feeling of fresh, crisp sheets.
  • Xerjoff Erba Pura – A sensory explosion of juicy citrus, fruits, and sweet amber that wears like a modern luxe classic.
  • Dior J’adore Parfum d’Eau – A luminous, water-based version of the beloved white-floral bouquet, emphasizing fresh jasmine and neroli.

These perfumes not only deliver excellent sillage (scent trail) and longevity but also offer versatility across seasons and occasions.

Top Designer Fragrances at Nordstrom

  • Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum: Impossibly chic with notes of orange, rose, and patchouli—a modern classic beloved by all ages.
  • Gucci Bloom Eau de Parfum: Dreamy white floral bouquet combining jasmine and tuberose for a lush, feminine effect.
  • Versace Dylan Blue Pour Femme: A bold, fruity floral with black currant, apple, and patchouli, radiating confidence.
  • Tom Ford Black Orchid: Unapologetically sensual blend of black truffle, ylang-ylang, and vanilla, giving off dark, glamorous vibes.
  • YSL Mon Paris: Sweet strawberry and tangy raspberry meet peony and patchouli in this romantic, youthful scent.

Niche and Luxury House Perfumes to Try

For fragrance lovers who crave something less conventional, Nordstrom’s edit of niche and luxury houses is a must-browse. These scents stand out for their artistry, ingredient quality, and often, their exclusivity.

  • Xerjoff Erba Pura: An addictive fruit-amber blend that manages to be both playful and sophisticated.
  • Initio Parfums Oud For Greatness: Masterfully layered with spicy saffron, nutmeg, and natural oud, perfect for nights out or signature wearers.
  • Mancera Cedrat Boise: Unisex and fresh, with bright citrus and sandalwood anchored by leather and woody musks.
  • Byredo Bal d’Afrique: Solar, warm, and distinctive with vetiver, marigold, and African marigold—ideal for someone who wants their scent to stand out in a crowd.
  • Parfums de Marly Delina: Lush and multi-faceted, often cited as the ultimate modern romantic floral.

What Makes a Perfume “Worth It” at Nordstrom?

  • Sillage: The visible scent trail (how much others can smell it as you walk by).
  • Longevity: How long the fragrance lasts on skin or clothing.
  • Versatility: Suits multiple seasons, occasions, and moods.
  • Packaging: Many Nordstrom exclusives come in limited, collectible bottles or gift sets.

Tips for Shopping Perfume at Nordstrom

  1. Sample in Store: Spray on skin, not blotters, and give it 30 minutes to evolve.
  2. Ask for Personalized Recommendations: Nordstrom’s experts can help you discover scents that complement your style and body chemistry.
  3. Take Advantage of Gift Sets and Travel Sizes: Perfect for trying new options and gifting.
  4. Watch for Limited Editions in the Anniversary Sale: Exclusive sets and larger sizes are often released just for the sale.
  5. Layer with Care: Try complementary body lotions or oils to boost perfume longevity and sillage.

Perfume Comparison Table

PerfumeKey NotesSillageLongevityCategory
Le Labo Santal 33Sandalwood, cedarwood, cardamom, violetStrong8+ hrsNiche
YSL LibreLavender, orange blossom, vanillaModerate6–8 hrsDesigner
Parfums de Marly DelinaRhubarb, Turkish rose, vanillaIntense8+ hrsLuxury
Byredo Gypsy WaterPine needle, sandalwood, lemonLight5–6 hrsNiche
Dior J’adore Parfum d’EauNeroli, jasmine, magnoliaLight4–6 hrsDesigner

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which are the longest-lasting perfumes at Nordstrom?

Scents heavy on woods, oud, and musks tend to last longest. Notably, Santal 33, Initio Parfums Oud for Greatness, and Parfums de Marly Delina all have strong longevity and projection.

Are there any affordable luxury fragrances during the Anniversary Sale?

Yes, many luxury brands release special sets, travel-size duos, or even full-sized exclusives at significant savings during this event, making it a perfect time to try luxury scents without full price commitment.

What perfume gift sets are recommended?

  • Maison Margiela Replica Trio Set: Features three bestsellers—ideal for variety and gifting.
  • Tom Ford Discovery Set: A way to try cult fragrances without the investment in full bottles.
  • YSL Mon Paris Set: Beautifully presented and always a crowd-pleaser.

Can I return or exchange perfume at Nordstrom?

Nordstrom has a famously flexible return policy, so you can shop fragrances with confidence. If a scent isn’t right for you, returns and exchanges are usually hassle-free.

How should I store my perfume to make it last?

Keep fragrance bottles in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and humidity. This preserves the integrity of the scent and bottle.

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Signature Scent at Nordstrom

Whether you seek a timeless designer perfume, an exclusive niche artistry, or want to try the newest trending launches, Nordstrom is unmatched for variety and value—especially during their Anniversary Sale. Take time to test, sample, and consult with beauty advisors to truly find a perfume that not only receives compliments but also feels like an extension of yourself. Try travel sizes or sets if you’re undecided, and remember: The right scent is a personal investment you’ll savor daily.

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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