Choosing a first signature fragrance is a memorable coming-of-age moment, and beauty columnist Sali Hughes has curated a list of bright, fresh, and mostly affordable options ideal for teenagers. Inspired by the French tradition where a girl selects her scent at the Guerlain boutique on her 16th birthday, Hughes recommends introducing young people to fragrance through accessible yet quality brands.
For a special experience, Hughes suggests booking a free appointment at a Jo Malone counter, where teens can sample scents like Wood Sage & Sea Salt, Blackberry & Bay, Peony Blush Suede, or English Pear & Freesia. While the fragrances are not cheap, they are described as delightful and never obnoxious, making them suitable for school wear without overwhelming the household.
More affordable options include Caudalie's Thé des Vignes (£31), a musky skin scent with citrus and ginger, which has gained popularity among young people. DedCool offers gender-neutral colognes starting from £24, with Madonna Lily featuring warm woods and cardamom. For a high-end gift, Chanel's Chance Eau Fraîche or Chance Eau Tendre (from £88) are recommended for special occasions.
Budget-friendly picks from Zara include Applejuice (£12.99), a fleeting homage to Chanel, and a new collection of musks at £19.99 each. Hughes highlights Linen Musk as the best, describing it as a clean, summery scent reminiscent of warm, beachy arms. These fragrances, powdery and fresh, reflect current teen trends while offering value.
