November beauty: Showstopping new perfumes

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D

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Showstoppers
We tend to keep our noses to the grindstone, rarely distracted by the fireworks that beauty companies constantly set off in our midst to advertise their launches. (Moisturizer that turns back the clock! Shampoo made with mountain-spring water! Mood-altering body wash!) Sometimes, though, it's impossible not to glance up at the display. This fall, three new fragrances made us awfully glad we did (clockwise from left): Vera Wang Look ($45 for 1 ounce) is the one we've been spritzing with abandon—its soft layers of mandarin, lily, and jasmine are impossible to overdo. Lancôme Magnifique ($65 for 1.7 ounces) melds rich notes (such as sandalwood) and florals (like Bulgarian rose), while saffron lends a piquant edge. Ralph Lauren Notorious ($85 for 2.5 ounces) tops spicy peppercorn and currant with a musky vanilla-laced finish.