14 Once-Popular Perfumes That Disappeared
This list looks back at 14 perfumes that were once loved by many but are no longer available today.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
These perfumes were once bestsellers and personal favorites for countless people. Some were discontinued because of changing trends, new regulations, or brand updates. Others simply faded away without much notice. Each one still holds a special place in the memories of those who wore them.
1. Guerlain – Sous le Vent
shakko on Wikimedia Commons
Released in 1933, Sous le Vent was a rich green chypre designed for the legendary Josephine Baker. It had a vibrant, earthy character that stood out in a time when perfumery was embracing bold, natural accords. Although it disappeared in 1972, collectors still treasure the few remaining bottles for their history and artistry.
2. Guerlain – Vol de Nuit
shakko on Wikimedia Commons
Vol de Nuit was created in 1933 as a tribute to early aviation and the adventurous spirit of night flights. Its green, semi-oriental composition was mysterious yet elegant, making it a unique presence in the fragrance world. While it is no longer widely sold, its name and scent remain iconic among Guerlain admirers.
3. Guerlain – Véga
shakko on Wikimedia Commons
Inspired by the bright star Vega, this perfume first appeared in 1936. It combined floral aldehydic notes that gave it a luminous and sophisticated feel. Though discontinued in the 1960s, its celestial inspiration keeps it remembered among vintage perfume lovers.
4. Miss Dior Chérie (Dior)
Natasha d.H on Wikimedia Commons
Launched in 2005, Miss Dior Chérie blended unexpected notes like strawberry and popcorn with a youthful charm. It quickly became a favorite for those who wanted a playful yet refined scent. After its reformulation and renaming in 2011, fans continued to search for the original version.
5. Lauren (Ralph Lauren)
Ralph Lauren Corporation on Wikimedia Commons
Ralph Lauren’s first women’s fragrance debuted in 1978 as a lush green floral. It captured the brand’s classic and refined style, appealing to women who wanted something fresh yet elegant. Today, vintage bottles are prized finds for perfume collectors.
6. Gap – Dream for Women
Mr.ちゅらさん on Wikimedia Commons
Dream for Women was introduced in 1995 and became a signature scent for many during the 1990s. Its soft floral blend made it perfect for everyday wear and casual moments. Since its discontinuation, fans have turned to online marketplaces in search of a bottle.
7. Victoria’s Secret – Very Sexy for Him
Valenzuela400 (talk | contribs) on Wikimedia Commons
Very Sexy for Him became a staple in the early 2000s with its spicy and fresh combination. It was marketed as bold and confident, appealing to men who wanted to stand out. Even after its removal from shelves, it remains a sought-after fragrance in secondhand markets.
8. Calvin Klein – Dark Obsession
Bruce The Deus on Wikimedia Commons
Dark Obsession launched in 2013 and offered a deep, warm scent with notes of spices and woods. It appealed to those who preferred an intense and mysterious fragrance. Although it was only around for a short time, it left a strong impression on its fans.
9. Davidoff – Cool Water (vintage form)
Bruce The Deus on Wikimedia Commons
The original Cool Water from 1988 became a global hit for its crisp and aquatic character. Over the years, reformulations changed its profile, making the vintage version harder to find. Collectors now search for early bottles to recapture its original freshness.
10. Dior – Eau Sauvage (2012 version)
Olinone on Wikimedia Commons
The 2012 release of Eau Sauvage refreshed the classic citrus fragrance with a modern twist. It had a bright yet smooth aroma that quickly developed a loyal following. When it was replaced by a new formulation, many continued seeking the earlier edition.
11. Chloé – Narcisse (1992)
Fab5669 on Wikimedia Commons
Chloé Narcisse came out in 1992 with a mix of fruity and floral notes like apricot, marigold, and violet. It was bold yet feminine, making it a memorable perfume for many women in the 1990s. Although no longer in production, its distinctive scent is still remembered fondly.
12. YSL – Rive Gauche pour Homme
Yves Saint Laurent on Wikimedia Commons
Rive Gauche pour Homme was a refined and masculine scent with a crisp barbershop-style aroma. It became a favorite among those who appreciated clean, classic fragrances. Since it was discontinued, it has been celebrated as one of YSL’s most missed creations.
13. Abercrombie – Abercrombie 8 (original)
Unknown author on Wikimedia Commons
Abercrombie 8 was first released in the early 2000s and captured the brand’s youthful energy. It had a fresh and slightly sweet character that appealed to a wide audience. After it was discontinued, original bottles became valuable finds for loyal fans.
14. Jovan Woman (1976)
Jovan Vasiljević on Wikimedia Commons
Jovan Woman debuted in 1976 as a warm and inviting fragrance with a touch of spice. It was affordable yet distinctive, making it a popular choice for everyday wear. In recent years, vintage bottles have become prized collectibles among perfume enthusiasts.