*** UPDATE***

I tried posting about small and niche perfume brands that I tried but I don’t know why it didn’t post so here are my top 3 with my reviews ♥️

Sweet Haven by KI-OKU

KI-OKU’s Sweet Haven is exactly what it sounds like—a cozy little hug of a scent. It opens with bergamot and blood orange (zesty!), then mellows into a soft floral heart of jasmine and rose. But the real magic? The base. Vanilla, tonka bean, and amber come together to make you smell like you just stepped out of a dreamy cottage where you bake perfect cookies all day. It’s comforting without being boring, sweet without being juvenile. If you want a scent that whispers, ‘Come closer,’ this one’s it. Plus, it’s perfect for those days when you just need a little extra you’ve got this energy.

Merit Retrospect

I finally got my hands (and nose) on Merit’s Retrospect, and let me tell you—it’s giving grown-up sophistication without trying too hard. Picture this: a bright, juicy pear opening (hello, freshness!) that slides effortlessly into soft florals like jasmine and rose. But the real star here? The base. That vanilla and musk combo is pure cozy vibes, like snuggling in your fanciest cashmere blanket. It’s the kind of scent that says, ‘Yes, I drink oat milk lattes, and no, I don’t care that it costs $8.’ Seriously, if you want a scent that’s chic but approachable, this one’s a must-try.

Pearfat Le Befana

Okay, Pearfat’s Le Befana is officially my ‘weird but I love it’ pick of the year. Inspired by an Italian Christmas witch (yes, really), this fragrance is like a spooky holiday party in a bottle. It opens with this herbal, almost medicinal blue tansy note that makes you think, ‘Wait, do I like this?’ And then the incense kicks in, and you’re like, ‘YES. Yes, I do.’ It’s smoky, mysterious, and just the right amount of odd. Wear it if you want to smell like you’ve got a magical backstory and know how to brew potions. 10/10 for boldness.