Splurge vs steal: Springtime scents

Just as the spring air makes us excited and happy for the warmer months to come, so too does the prospect of new fragrances to buy. So whether you’re on a budget or have a few extra dollars to spend, you’re sure to find a scent to love this spring.

Splurge: Carven Le Parfum, 100mL, $129
This truly feminine fragrance is full to the brim with mandarin blossom, white hyacinth and notes of sweet pea, jasmine and ylang ylang.

Save: Chi Chi Peony Eau De Parfum, $19.95
Since they’ve just come into bloom, it’s only fitting to envelop yourself in peony rose. This fragrance blends the notes of the peony with jasmine, mandarin, lime and berry - and the result is divine.

Splurge: Estée Lauder Pleasures, 100mL, $145
Like the smell of a garden after a spring rain shower, this sheer, shimmering blend of lilies, white peonies and jasmine tingle with exotic baie rose.

Save: Elizabeth Arden Sunflowers Eau de Toilette, 50mL, $19
The warmth and brightness of the sunflower is captured in this uplifting, euphoric scent. The fresh and fruity fragrance includes notes of melon, peach and bergamot, as well as jasmine and cool tea rose.

Splurge: Lancôme Balafre, 75mL, $220
The notes of lemon, sweet lime and mandarin blend to create a zesty, fruity scent that’s perfect for warm, sunny days.

Save: Clarins Sunshine Fragrance, 100mL, $55
This fragrance smells like summer in a bottle, with a combination of mandarin, grapefruit, ylang ylang and patchouli, as well as watermelon to hydrate skin and chamomile to soothe. Sunshine has a non-photosensitising formula, meaning it is safe to wear in the sun, all summer long.

Splurge: Jo Malone London Mimosa & Cardamom Cologne, 100mL, $185
This mesmerising new scent from Jo Malone is one for the bohemian heart. Mists of honeyed, golden mimosa float above the spiciness of freshly cut cardamom.

Save: The Body Shop Atlas Mountain Rose Eau de Toilette, 50mL, $36.95
This spicy, floral fragrance is inspired by the rose fields of the Moroccan Dades valley, and combines the aromas of freshly cut roses and cassis buds with warm spices.

Splurge: Essenze by Emernegildo Zegna Indonesian Oud, 125mL, $250
This fragrance is crafted around the rare oud wood, with hints of rose, amber, patchouli and Italian bergamot. It’s sexy, and perfect for spring.

Save: So…? Kiss Me, 30mL, $14.95
Woody, oriental and fresh, So…? Kiss Me has notes of blackcurrant and pineapple, which break down to reveal layers of sweet vanilla and a strong floral heart. Base notes of musk and wood round off the fragrance.

Are you a big spender when it comes to perfume? What fragrance are you loving at the moment?