Faithful readers know I can literally rattle off hundreds of BIPOC-owned haircare, skincare, and cosmetic companies. And that I frequently do right here in this column. But there’s one beauty-related question that continues to trip me up: “What are the best Black-owned perfume brands?”
It’s not that these don’t exist—they do and they’re dope…just look down below for a few—but it’s a very short list. It seems like the fragrance business never got the DEI memo the rest of the beauty industry has doubled down on.
I had to know why, and my investigation unearthed some interesting truths. After 10 hours on the phone with the founders and perfumers behind Black-owned fragrance brands, I came to understand that this field revolves around Grasse, France (aka the perfume capital of the world) and a handful of major scent-producing companies like Givaudan, DSM-Firmenich, Symrise, and IFF. So...the scene is super European and super white—and super tough to infiltrate if you don’t check either of those boxes.
Do we need our perfumes to be specifically created by and for people of color? Technically, no. Ethnicity, skin tone, and hair texture aren’t differentiating factors when it comes to formulating fragrances. But should it matter if some of the perfumes you’re vibing with are also created by people of color? I think so.
Our sense of smell is considered our strongest link to memory, and memories are all about the stories that shape our lives. So there’s real potential for compelling narratives here, and if the points of view we’re all spritzing on are coming from only one community, that’s pretty damn wack. It’s also an opportunity for the industry: Just think of all the stories that still haven’t been told, bottled, and sold. Me and my nose will be waiting.
Your Next Scent Obsession Awaits!
Ourside Dusk Eau de Parfum
This brand, founded by Keta Burke-Williams, is disrupting the fine fragrance space in the dopest way. The unisex formulations are crafted with natural ingredients and inspired by the idea of creating narratives—through scent—outside the box. I feel the energy every time I spritz Dusk, a perfume that has many of my favorite notes: patchouli, bergamot, vetiver, and musk.
Harlem Perfume Co. Speakeasy Eau de Parfum
Any gourmand girlies out there? If yes, this sophisticated fragrance is for you. Vanilla and chocolate play beautifully in this spicy and sexy scent. Teri Johnson, the founder of this Harlem-inspired brand, transports wearers to a world of glamour and rich culture via each of her scents.
Moodeaux PunkStar Eau de Parfum
Leave it to founder Brianna Arps to create a perfume that makes me feel like I’m fearless, feisty, and fabulous—all at the same damn time. The vanilla, apple, blackcurrant, tonka bean, and leather notes are powerful yet not overwhelming. A perfectly balanced scent to add to your arsenal.
World of Chris Collins Vide Cor Meum Eau de Parfum
I instantly fell in love with this intense bergamot incense, rose, vanilla, and amber concoction. It makes perfect sense that the name “Vide cor Meum” translates to “see my heart.” Founder Chris Collins’ perfumes are renowned for their bold and thoughtful formulations that stand up to the most luxurious fragrances in the world. You can’t go wrong with any of them.
Brown Girl Jane CAROUSEL Eau de Parfum
The name says it all! You’ll definitely be transported to the magic of a night at the fair and all its delicious scents—caramel, cotton candy, and juicy berries, all anchored by a creamy sandalwood. Cofounder Malaika Jones says the brand’s collection of scents are meant to uplift your mood and tap into personal delight.
Relevant 13 Stems Eau de Parfum
This is an earthy floral that is utterly chic and an instant classic from the folks behind our favorite indie beauty stop Thirteen Lune. Freesia and green peppercorn make up the fresh top notes, as crisp amber and White Leather anchor this addictive scent. Can’t wait to see what this brand dreams up next.
This is an island getaway in bottle. Juicy pineapple and delicate white florals are paired with Mediterranean fig, sandalwood, and coconut. Founder and perfumer Maya Njie takes great care in creating complex perfumes. You’ll want to collect every single one.
Savoir Faire Soul Cafe Eau de Parfum
Founder Chris Classic describes this scent as “intensely personal and intimate.” And that’s exactly the feelings it evokes anytime I reach for this luxe perfume. There’s tobacco, patchouli, blood orange, coffee, lavender, and oud. It’s the kind of combo that has to be masterfully and beautifully blended. Mission accomplished.
Anything Jackie Aina touches turns to gold and her foray into fragrance has been no different. The influencer turned entrepreneur created four signature scents—from warm and spicy to clean and fresh. Personally, I’m loving “I Am Her,” which is a rich gourmand that layers notes of red velvet, raspberry, and pear. So yummy!
Julee Wilson is Beauty Editor at Large at Cosmopolitan. Previously, Julee was Beauty Director at Cosmo and Global Beauty Director at Essence and has held various editorial positions at Huffington Post and Real Simple. She counts herself lucky AF that she gets to play with beauty products for a living and tell dope stories. And if you’re as obsessed with beauty as she is, make sure to follow her on Instagram for plenty of product recs, natural hair inspo, skincare testing, and Black girl magic shenanigans.
