Saffron is one of the world’s most precious spices, steeped in history and culture. Known for its deep golden hue and subtly spicy aroma, saffron has been cherished for centuries. It originated in Central Asia, but its use quickly spread worldwide. Long before it found its way into modern fragrance bottles, saffron was used to scent bathhouses, enrich incense, and even perfume royal garments.
In perfumes, saffron adds an earthy, leathery, slightly sweet scent, making it a versatile ingredient that is rich enough to add depth yet smooth enough to blend with florals, woods, and even gourmand notes. This perfect balance is why saffron is primarily found in unisex fragrances.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best unisex saffron fragrances and what makes them so.
1. Holy Oud Expression EDP
| Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Holy Oud |
| Best for | Unisex |
| Fragrance Family | Amber Woody |
| Notes | Top: Black Currant and Saffron Middle: Rose Base: Amber and Patchouli |
| Release year | 2025 |
| Longevity | Over 8 hours |
| Projection | Moderate |
| Perfumer | Holy Oud |
Holy Oud Expression is a fragrance that lives up to its name. It is bold, emotive, and full of character. This amber woody opens with a bright note of saffron to create a unisex masterpiece.
The soul of the Emirates comes to life with Expression. This versatile fragrance is not just made for everyone, but for every season and occasion as well. The saffron is one of the first things you smell when you wear this perfume, so I would advise reapplying it after a couple of hours to revive that saffron note.
2. Byredo Black Saffron EDP
| Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Byredo |
| Best for | Unisex |
| Fragrance Family | Amber Spicy |
| Notes | Top: Saffron, Juniper Berries, and Chinese Grapefruit Middle: Leather and Black Violet Base: Raspberry, Cashmeran, and Vetiver |
| Release year | 2012 |
| Longevity | Over 8 hours |
| Projection | Moderate |
| Perfumer | Byredo |
Black Saffron by Byredo is a mood elevator! From the first sniff, I was hooked on its addictive blend of spice and leather, with a delicate floral note that tantalizes you.
It’s bolder than most Byredo scents, with impressive lasting power. When I wear it, people consistently tell me I “always smell good.” I tried this twice and decided I needed a bottle in my collection. Wear this on a first date or for an intimate occasion and thank me later.
3. Mancera Instant Crush EDP
| Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Mancera |
| Best for | Unisex |
| Fragrance Family | Amber Floral |
| Notes | Top: Saffron, Ginger, Sicilian Mandarin, and Sicilian Bergamot Middle: Amberwood, Moroccan Rose, Egyptian Jasmine, and Indonesian Patchouli Leaf Base: Madagascar Vanilla, White Musk, Sandalwood, and Oakmoss |
| Release year | 2019 |
| Longevity | Over 8 hours |
| Projection | Moderate |
| Perfumer | Pierre Montale |
Mancera’s Instant Crush is an addictive blend of vanilla and toasted marshmallow, complemented by subtle spice notes. It’s a scent that immediately grabs your attention and stays on for ages.
As Instant Crush settles, it softens into a muskier version of its initial boldness. The sandalwood note balances the spiciness of saffron and ginger with the sweet vanilla note. This fragrance is versatile enough for everyday wear, date nights, or special outings. While it may feel heavy during the peak of summer, Instant Crush is perfect for the colder seasons.
4. Mark Des Vince Sweet Dust EDP
| Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Mark Des Vince |
| Best for | Unisex |
| Fragrance Family | Gourmand |
| Notes | Top notes: Bitter Almonds and Saffron Middle notes: Egyptian Jasmine and Cedar Base notes: Ambergris, Woody Notes, and Musk |
| Release year | 2006 |
| Longevity | Over 8 hours |
| Projection | Moderate |
| Perfumer | Mark Des Vince |
Mark Des Vince Sweet Dust is a gourmand fragrance designed for both men and women. The notes in this fragrance contrast yet beautifully complement each other.
The opening has the slightly bitter edge of almond balanced by the luxuriousness of saffron. Sweet dust is a unique scent and reminds me of Baccarat Rouge to a certain extent. It is a staple in my personal collection, but I prefer it for the winter season.
5. The Merchant Of Venice Byzantium Saffron EDP
| Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | The Merchant of Venice |
| Best for | Unisex |
| Fragrance Family | Amber |
| Notes | Top notes: Saffron, Black Pepper, Thyme, and Lemon Middle notes: White Suede, Cedar, White Lily, Lilac, and Rhubarb Base notes: Indonesian Patchouli Leaf, and Crystal Amber |
| Release year | 2013 |
| Longevity | Over 8 hours |
| Projection | Moderate |
| Perfumer | The Merchant of Venice |
Byzantium Saffron by The Merchant of Venice is a story steeped in Greek mythology. Inspired by the legend of Crocus and Smilax, this amber scent captures passionate love with its classic amber notes.
Byzantium Saffron is a stunning blend of saffron, Indonesian patchouli leaf, crystal amber, and white suede. But it carries more nuances. The delicate floral notes, like lilac and lily, add a soft depth. It is a softer, more wearable version of Suede et Saffron by Nishane.
6. Montale Aoud Safran EDP
| Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Montale |
| Best for | Unisex |
| Fragrance Family | Woody Spicy |
| Key Accords | Oud Rose Warm spicy Metallic Leather Tobacco Floral Fresh spicy |
| Release year | 2009 |
| Longevity | Over 8 hours |
| Projection | Moderate |
| Perfumer | Pierre Montale |
Montale Aoud Safran is an underrated gem that deserves more recognition. This surprisingly dignified fragrance is a beautifully balanced and wearable Rose Oud, providing a solid base for layering.
A steal for its price, Aoud Safran is an excellent all-rounder suitable for both warm and cold weather. While leaning slightly masculine, it’s a pleasing and versatile rose oud that works in any setting.
You can find all the saffron fragrances and more at your fragrance destination, V Perfumes, at the best prices in the UAE and the Gulf region. So what are you waiting for?
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