Best Lancôme perfumes

Start with La Vie Est Belle — Lancôme's signature gourmand-iris, the one most people mean when they say "a Lancôme perfume." It's the safest blind buy and the most complimented of the line.

• La Vie Est Belle Rose Extraordinaire — same DNA with a rosier, softer heart; pick it if the original feels too sweet.
• Idole (full size or the travel spray) — clean rose-and-musk, the lightest and most modern; the travel size is the low-risk way to try it.
• Poème — a classic yellow-floral for someone who likes rich, old-school elegance.
• Trésor Midnight Rose — fruity-rose for evening wear.
• Idole Peach 'N Roses — juicy peach and berries; the fun, summery pick.
• L'Elixir Very Cherry — dark cherry and woods, for anyone who wants a statement scent.

Skip Trésor La Nuit L'Eau for now — it's out of stock.