13 Awful-Smelling Fragrances

From Lancome to Avon, these women's perfumes left Total Beauty readers itching, gagging and more

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Ever heard of the saying: "Your nose knows?" Whoever invented that phrase hit the nail right on the head. Especially when it comes to perfumes. Many women have found a perfume they absolutely adore -- it can be found both on their dresser and in their purse in a travel size. Likewise, many people have a perfume (and likely more than one) they look at with definite distaste. They flat out refuse to buy it, look at it, or even be around people who wear it.

With that being said, everyone's nose is different. While one woman's nose is sensitive to most scents, another woman's nose knows no bounds. (Try saying that 10 times fast!) So though these fragrances may be the worst-rated according to our readers' opinions, don't let that stop you from trying one of them out. Who knows -- it might turn out to be a match made in nose heaven!

And if your perfume made this list, don't be offended. If you love it, who cares what other people think? We're all for sticking with your faves. But if you're having second thoughts about it, take this perfume personality quiz to find the perfect fragrance for your style. After all, every one should have a signature fragrance -- preferably one that doesn't bother anyone's nose!

See Next Page: No. 13: Clinique Aromatics Elixir, $42.50

By Jane Chung

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I completely agree with White Diamonds being on here, but I definitely think that Chanel No. 5 should've been on this list too. I don't understand how people can rave about it when it smells so old lady-ish too.

by LMarie27 Monday, February 6, 2012 at 02:29PM Report as inappropriate

I'm pleased to see that none of my favorites are on this list! And some that I've tested but hated are listed...

by tallredamanda Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at 06:49AM Report as inappropriate

Good to know which ones to stay away from!

by sportimonki13 Wednesday, January 4, 2012 at 05:41PM Report as inappropriate

The "old lady" critique seems ageist and sexist. "Heavy" would be a better general descriptor, and citing the top and base notes responsible would actually be helpful. Tossing off "old lady" is both unhelpful and offensive.

by krycekov Thursday, December 29, 2011 at 04:09PM Report as inappropriate

thanks for the heads up

by Benahir Tuesday, December 20, 2011 at 03:21PM Report as inappropriate

Thanks for the heads up

by andie Tuesday, December 6, 2011 at 09:56PM Report as inappropriate

'Well some of these are too pricey to begin with.

by grass Wednesday, November 30, 2011 at 11:34PM Report as inappropriate

Good to know

by kmb1129 Saturday, November 12, 2011 at 07:19PM Report as inappropriate

I know what not to get.

by andyv1217 Wednesday, November 2, 2011 at 09:48PM Report as inappropriate

Hmmm, I like the Kenzo flower scent. It is very heavy, I'll admit but that should just be an indicator that you don't need that much of it.

by msbrown822 Friday, October 28, 2011 at 08:19AM Report as inappropriate

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