Okay, so there isn’t really a debate, but after years of vanilla fragrances getting the spotlight, coconut is having a moment. When shopping for a new fragrance, you probably start with recommendations from others and then move on to selecting the base notes in the formula. If you’ve landed on vanilla as the base note, you’re most likely looking for a fragrance that’s sweet, likable and great for everyday wear. But there is a case for coconut – this note offers the same features, but with a twist. So if you can only pick one, which do you choose? I tried two viral fragrances at affordable price points to compare – Phlur Vanilla Skin and MIX:BAR Coconut Palm.
Phlur Vanilla Skin went viral in 2024 for its sweet smell and video creators on TikTok claiming it was a perpetual compliment-getter. Created by perfumer Clement Gavarry, Vanilla Skin includes base notes of vanilla and sandalwood with top notes of pink pepper, pink apple and sugar crystals. The pink pepper gives the fragrance a spicy boost, setting it apart from other vanilla perfumes and sprays. I spritzed the the hair and body spray on my pulse points around 7 a.m. and the scent grew faint around 2 p.m. While it lasted on the skin for several hours, the scent lingers on clothes even longer. If that’s not impressive enough, the company also offers Vanilla Skin in an eau de parfum for even longer wear.
But even popular fragrances have their detractors. Some YouTubers were quick to make perfume recommendation videos for the anti-vanilla girl. If vanilla has you feeling a bit basic or you just don’t enjoy the fragrance profile, you could try a coconut scent.
MIX:BAR Coconut Palm also received hype in 2024, mainly through YouTube beauty review channels, with video creators saying the fragrance reminded them of summertime and a light gourmand alternative. Created by perfumer Patricia Choux, Coconut Palm includes base notes of sandalwood cream and amber with top notes of coconut wood and artemisia. This fruity fragrance is tropical in the best way – light, yet impactful. I sprayed the perfume on around 7 a.m. and that’s when the fragrance was most potent. The scent lightly warmed on the skin but almost disappeared around 2 p.m. as well.
In conclusion, there’s a lot to like about both perfume sprays. Both are priced affordably, made with clean ingredients and offer a sweet fragrance profile. While Vanilla Skin is a fresh take on vanilla, there’s something unforgettable about Coconut Palm, especially to those unfamiliar with the scent profile. So whether you’re team vanilla or team coconut, these options will have you smelling divine this summer.
Where to buy:
The Emerald Glam 