There are some fragrances that, once you've taken part in their unique olfactory experiences, leave you wishing you'd discovered them earlier. For me, the first fragrance that comes to mind when I think back is Parfums de Marly's beloved Delina Eau de Parfum. If you know me and my love for all things light, floral, and feminine, this shouldn't come as much of a surprise to you. As my career is largely based on trying and reviewing hundreds of new products that come to market each year, it takes a lot for a fragrance to hold a spot deep within my memory when I'm constantly experiencing so many.
Here's the thing—no two floral eau de parfums are the same, but there's certainly no harm in seeking out those that may be in the same ball park. As of now, Delina retails between $190 and $355 a bottle (pricey, yes, but completely worth it). Delina, which launched in 2017, is by far one of Parfums de Marly's most well-known fragrances, with the nose behind it belonging to none other than veteran perfumer Quentin Bisch. Described by the brand as "a highly nuanced fragrance, which is both sweet and sensual," the eau de parfum is, in its essence, the ideal modern floral bouquet.
The perfume opens with powdery-fresh and vibrant florals dominated by Turkish rose, lily of the valley, and peony blended with the unexpected tanginess of lychee, rhubarb, and more. These notes are underscored by a sensual and smooth base composition featuring white musk and Cashmeran before unfolding into the warmth of cedarwood and vetiver. Delina also possesses a strong and lasting sillage and wear time.
So, is it possible to find another fragrance that compares? In my opinion, Delina is the one and only Turkish rose and peony perfume that checks all my boxes, but there are definitely some fragrances that have won me over. If you're curious to see which ones are sneaky dupes for this best seller, you'll want to keep scrolling.
Key notes: Damscena rose, pink pepper, ambrette seed, davana, vanilla, sandalwood. If it's a powdery, fresh rose you want, it's a powdery, fresh rose you'll get with this perfume by Bon Parfumeur. The addition of pink pepper adds a touch of freshness that keeps the fragrance feeling modern and chic. Customer review: "This one is musky while being a tad sweet. To me the notes I smell first is musk, vanilla, then rose. Very pleasant!"
Key notes: lush peony, green apple, wild bamboo leaf. I'm all about affordable options with high-quality results, and Fine'ry's Flower Bed Eau de Parfum definitely fits the bill. It's an elevated take on the classic Damascena rose and peony combination underscored by lush greens and juicy green apple. Customer review: "I have had so many compliments whenever I wore this perfume. It's not harsh and very fresh, clean, and lightweight. It has floral scents with a hint of fruit. It feels more youthful than mature for sure."
Key notes: dewy Turkish rose, black plumb, blonde woods, saffron. If your perfume never seems to last long enough, it may be time to invest in a perfume oil. This one, by Nest New York, smells similar to Parfum de Marly's Delina using Turkish rose extract blended with baobab oil that melts into the skin for a fragrance that lasts all day. Customer review: "Totally in love with this oil! A must have if you love rose scents. It is just just Perfect! Very pure and just as I expected. I'm so glad I bought it."
Key notes: datura flower, red berries, musk. This is a classic, floral perfume softened by datura flower and balanced by woodsy white musk and patchouli. However, the stars of YSL's Mon Paris are the notes of sweet and tangy red berries. If the scent wasn't amazing enough already, the bottle looks absolutely gorgeous on my vanity. Customer review: "I have had and worn so many different perfumes and I have never gotten as many compliments as I do when I wear this one. It’s fresh, floral, and not too sweet, it’s just right. I love it!!
Key notes: bergamot, musk, tuberose, vanilla, suede leather, patchouli. Narciso Rodriguez's Musc Noir Rose for Her leans more on the sensual and sweet side than Parfum de Marly's Delina but smells just as charming. It also layers well with other floral scents so you can shift any fragrance from day to night with a single spritz. Customer review: "I purchased this back in January and fell in love with it! I am halfway through my first bottle, and recently restocked for backups. It did go off the market for awhile which I don’t want to risk happening again haha. Hands down a beautiful, everyday, signature scent! In my top 10!"
Key notes: raspberry, lychee, Damascena rose, akigalawood, benzoin. If you're a big fan of lychee, you'll want to give Mugler's Angel Nova a try. It's a bit fruitier than Delina, with rose taking the back seat and allowing the lychee note to take center stage. It also pairs incredibly well with other floral scents. Customer review: "This scent is so sweet and warm yet grown and sexy. I pair it with the Turkish Rose oil by Nest and it’s a winner every single time. I’ve been told quite often that I 'smell so good' when I’m out and about! I absolutely recommend this one."
Key notes: pomegranate, rose petal extract, jasmine absolute, musk, sandalwood, white incense
Key notes: rose, jasmine, ambergris, musk
Key notes: cardamom, freesia, red berries, rose Damascena, musks, patchouli, labdanum
Key notes: rose Damascena essence, oud, amber, white musk
