Youth Dew by Estee Lauder

Do NOT let this name fool you—this is no pubescent juice. Originally a bath oil that went on to become Estee Lauder’s first fragrance—Youth Dew was a smash hit that blew White Shoulder wearers socks off in the 1950s. It is a balsamic witches brew where cloves are the main item on the menu. In fact, I would caution if you’re not into the idea of a spicy aromatic you should back away very slowly once this is unboxed. This was a perfume that made all of our grandmothers feel glamorous and one that is as iconic as the Opiums, Angels, Shalimar, and Coco. You may have already guessed that this is a total monster of sillage but dries down into a grand and sensual amber. You thought this was for Christina in Mommie Dearest, but it’s for the main bitch Joan Crawford. If you’re a fan of vintages I actually feel like this can be remarkably modern if you just limit the dosage—one spritz misted into the air and tentatively walked through.

Top notes include spices, aldehydes, narcissus, lavender, orange, peach and bergamot; middle notes are cloves, cinnamon, rose, ylang-ylang, jasmine, lily-of-the-valley, cassia and orchid; base notes are incense, tolu balsam, patchouli, peru balsam, oakmoss, amber, vetiver, vanilla and musk. In real life you will smell grotesquely feminine in the best way. Do the Dew if you dare.