One of the many perks of being a beauty writer is the opportunity to test countless perfumes, building a collection of favourites over the years. However, there is one fragrance that I repeatedly return to, especially during spring and summer: Kayali's Vanilla Candy Rock Sugar 42 Eau de Parfum.
Why Vanilla Candy Rock Sugar 42 Stands Out
Vanilla-based perfumes are among my all-time favourites, and Kayali's offering strikes the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and grounded notes, making it ideal for warmer weather. Yet it performs equally well in autumn and winter. The last time I wore it to a party, every person I spoke to asked what I was wearing, describing the scent as 'unbelievable'.
Current Deal at Boots
Since it is one of my favourite scents, I seize any opportunity to stock up. The current offer at Boots is too good to miss: the 50ml bottle, usually priced at £80, is now on sale for just £53.33. That means I can get another bottle for almost £30 less, ready for when mine inevitably runs out.
Longevity and Scent Profile
The scent trail and longevity of Vanilla Candy Rock Sugar 42 are seriously impressive. A couple of sprays before leaving the house are more than enough to last all day. I was still receiving compliments six or seven hours after the last spray, so a single bottle should last a long time, making it a worthwhile investment.
This fragrance is a lighter take on the brand's cult-favourite Vanilla 28 perfume. It features top notes of candied pear, violet leaves, rum, ylang-ylang, marshmallow, and vanilla cream. The middle notes include hints of jasmine, labdanum, white caramel, bubblegum, and jellybean, while the dry down reveals tonka, vetiver, sandalwood, cashmere woods, patchouli, rock sugar, and Kayali's signature accord. Despite the many different scents, they blend perfectly to create something sweet, spicy, and sugary, yet light, fresh, and not overly sickly.
Alternatives and Final Thoughts
If you prefer a more pared-back vanilla scent, consider Ellis Brooklyn's Vanilla Salt (£126 for 50ml), with notes of whipped cream, jasmine, musk, and Madagascan vanilla. I also enjoy Ariana Grande's LOVENOTES Vanilla Suede (£60 for 125ml, was £75), which has a deeper, warmer scent of rice milk, vanilla bean, and musk.
However, for me, the Vanilla Candy Rock Sugar 42 from Kayali is a tried-and-tested favourite. The patchouli and sandalwood give it a slightly earthier undertone, which may not suit everyone. But if you love sweet, vanilla-based fragrances, this one is for you.
