When reminiscing about the 1980s, images of big hair, oversized shoulder pads, and an unapologetic embrace of excess likely come to mind. This maximalist spirit extended to the realm of fragrances as well. While the 1970s favored musky, earthy, and spicy scents, and the 1990s embraced sleek minimalism, the 1980s were all about the mantra “more is more.” Let’s take a fragrant journey back to this extravagant era and explore some of its most iconic scents.
1. Poison by Christian Dior (1985)
As the name suggests, Poison is anything but subtle. Launched in 1985, it is a voluptuous, captivating fragrance that boasts rich and syrupy plum and berry notes, underpinned by a sweet blend of jasmine and honey incense. Poison is a bold and enduring scent that leaves a trail of allure, perfectly suited for the opulent heroines of “Dynasty.”
Key Scent Notes: Plum, jasmine, honey incense
2. Obsession by Calvin Klein (1985)
Warm, spicy, and tinged with an air of danger, Obsession was Calvin Klein’s fragrance sensation of the ’80s. Citrusy top notes draw you in, while animalic civet and musk in the base add a velvety sensuality to this irresistibly alluring and glamorous scent.
Key Scent Notes: Vanilla, amber, civet, musk
3. Beautiful by Estée Lauder (1985)
The year 1985 witnessed the release of Beautiful by Estée Lauder, a symphony of floral fragrances. This timeless masterpiece presents a classic bouquet of roses, jasmine, amber, and sandalwood. Beautiful, true to its name, is a versatile scent suitable for any occasion.
Key Scent Notes: Rose, lily, jasmine
4. Polo by Ralph Lauren
The signature scent for the preppy crowd, Polo is a fresh and spicy cologne with an earthy, grassy opening followed by peppery herbal notes and a woody, classically masculine base. It’s the perfect olfactory companion for your polo shirt and Top-Siders.
Key Scent Notes: Juniper, carnation, woods
5. Drakkar Noir by Guy Laroche (1982)
Drakkar Noir, released in 1982, is a fragrance that left an indelible mark on the ’80s and continues to influence fragrances today (even inspiring rapper Drake’s name). This aromatic fougère boasts a rich and lasting scent, epitomizing the enduring spirit of the ’80s.
Key Scent Notes: Bergamot, cinnamon, woods, leather
6. Ysatis by Givenchy
Ysatis embodies the romantic heroines depicted on the covers of ’80s romance novels. This lush white floral fragrance features captivating top notes of white flowers, coconut, and aldehydes. A rich heart of jasmine, rose, and carnation beckons, while an intoxicating base of oakmoss, vanilla, and musk sets the stage for a night of seduction. Ysatis, created by the legendary Dominique Ropion, redefined the white floral fragrance.
Key Scent Notes: Aldehydes, jasmine, rose, oakmoss
7. Cool Water by Davidoff (1988)
Debuting in 1988, Cool Water is an instantly recognizable cologne with its iconic blue bottle. Fresh and crisp aquatics and herbaceous top notes give way to a base of cedarwood, musk, amber, and tobacco, ensuring that this fragrance is far from fleeting. Cool Water has remained popular for decades and is a scent you’ve likely encountered numerous times.
Key Scent Notes: Seawater, mint, geranium, cedarwood
8. Designer Imposters Primo!
While Giorgio Beverly Hills was undeniably popular in the ’80s, no discussion of ’80s fragrances is complete without mentioning the ubiquitous Designer Imposters line of “inspired by” scents. Primo!, inspired by the bold white floral Giorgio, endures to this day. It encapsulates the essence of ’80s fragrances in a single bottle, offering a nostalgic olfactory journey.
Key Scent Notes: Peach, white florals, vanilla, patchouli
The 1980s were a time of unapologetic excess and extravagant self-expression, and these iconic fragrances are a testament to that era’s olfactory boldness. Whether you’ve experienced them before or are eager to explore the scents of this bombastic decade for the first time, these fragrances encapsulate the spirit of the ’80s in all its glory. So, grab your Aqua Net, don
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