In this video I’m doing a very real, no-stress roundup of the 2025 releases that actually mattered to me — and I’m keeping it in no particular order because I’m not here to argue which one is “better.” I was also feeling pretty ill when I filmed (brain fog and all), so I just wanted something cosy and honest: ten scents that stood out because they’re either genuinely beautiful, genuinely unique, or they did something different in a year where prices have been hiking like mad. I start warm with Dries Van Noten Havana Gold — a myrrh-resin, buttery, huggy winter scent — then jump into a super classy, masculine-leaning green aromatic with Ormonde Jayne Vetiveria (think a warmer, richer take on Zizan). Nishane Meant To Be Seen surprised me in the best way: airy, feminine iris with a musky sweetness that doesn’t get cloying. I also included Memo Paris Portobello Road because it’s ultra unusual (aldehydes, rain, even an asphalt edge) and you either love it or hate it. For easy compliments, Grenado Citrus Brasilis is the smooth, mojito-ish citrus I can’t wait to wear on holiday. Guerlain Shalimar L’Essence delivered a deeper vanilla take that feels less daunting than the original. Tom Ford Figue Erotique made the list because I’m a fig addict (but I’m waiting for a discount), and I finish with two richer picks: Jusbox London Hall for old-school chypre lovers, Ormonde Jayne Sybarite for nutty-vanilla depth, and J’elle Bulan Parfums Confidante for a tropical mango-oud, going-out kind of scent.