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The Ultimate Mother’s Day Fragrance Gift Guide

The best gift is one that reflects your relationship.

Written by Deanna Pai
Offset by Shutterstock

While the mom in your life might be thrilled with any gift at all, it’s worth going above and beyond when you’re shopping for Mother’s Day. After all, parenting is hard work. But figuring out the best Mother’s Day gift can be tricky at best, since it’s something we usually do year after year — and flowers only go so far.

Instead, what can help is using your unique relationship and their individual qualities to point you in the right direction. These can translate to gifts that feel truly tailored to them, like a brand-new signature scent that they can’t get enough of. Fragrance is especially thoughtful; since it’s so closely tied to emotions and memories, it can make for a gift that stays with them for years to come. With that in mind, we’ve teamed up with Sephora to bring you truly thoughtful Mother’s Day fragrances based on the mom you know and love. Scroll ahead for these no-fail picks.

For The Sweet Mom

For the mom in your life whose oven is constantly on preheat or who always volunteers to bring dessert, consider gifts that speak to their sweet side and nourish the soul — such as these gourmand-inspired fragrances.

Valentino Donna Born In Roma Intense
Sephora
While less is usually more, that's not the case with vanilla, which has that familiar warm, lightly sweet scent that research shows can be legitimately calming. In this bold fragrance, it's paired with jasmine and benzoin (which lends body and warmth) for a moodier feel.
$156

For The Classic Mom

The mom who loves a classic, whether that’s a crisp, white button-up shirt or a spring garden full of tulips, is bound to love similarly floral-inspired gifts. After all, what’s more classic than florals for Mother’s Day?

For The Mom Who Could Use A Vacation

Whether they’re a new mom, a parent to teens, or an empty nester, all moms deserve a little R&R. If a week at the beach isn’t in the cards, bring the beach to them with a fresh solar scent — a.k.a. those inspired by the warmth and brightness of sunlight — or not-so-poolside cocktail.

For The Mom Who’s Your BFF

The mom in your life can be a built-in buddy, always up for a phone call or down for an annual life chat. Nothing warms the heart quite like it, which is why a similarly comforting and familiar gift, like a cozy scent or scarf, can do the trick.

For The Bold, Confident Mom

While motherhood can come with worry and self-doubt, the combo of time, practice, and a solid sense of self can anchor the mom who’s confident in who they are — both as a mother and a person. Treat them to a signature scent that’s as fearless and unapologetic as they are.

Fenty Eau de Parfum
Sephora
A new mom herself (with another on the way), Rihanna’s Fenty Eau de Parfum celebrates floral notes with a warm, velvety blend of magnolia, Bulgarian rose, and geranium. It's anchored by musk and patchouli for a sensual and bold vibe.
$140

For The Mom Who Is Impossible To Shop For

Maybe they have everything — or maybe you’re not exactly sure what they’d love more. Either way, gifts that leave the choice up to them, like a set of bestselling fragrances, are your best bet for a guaranteed win this Mother’s Day.