Perfume isn’t just a scent—it’s a time machine. One whiff can transport you back to a first date, a glamorous party, or even a simple everyday moment that’s etched in memory. And if there’s one era that truly defined fragrance with boldness and character, it’s the 1980s.
The 80s weren’t subtle. From big hair and shoulder pads to power suits and neon everything, fashion and beauty trends screamed confidence. Perfumes followed suit—loud, sensual, daring, and unforgettable. Sadly, many of those iconic perfumes from the 80s have been discontinued, leaving fragrance lovers longing for their favorite olfactory memories.
So, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most legendary 80s perfumes that are no longer with us.
The Perfume Culture of the 1980s
Big Scents for a Bold Era
The 80s were all about excess. If you wore perfume, people across the room knew it. Subtlety wasn’t the goal—power and presence were.
Perfume as a Statement
Perfume wasn’t just about smelling good; it was about identity. Each fragrance told the world who you were—seductive, powerful, mysterious, or carefree.
Why Were So Many 80s Perfumes Discontinued?
Changing Tastes
As trends shifted in the 90s and 2000s, people began craving lighter, fresher scents over heavy, musky power perfumes.
Ingredient Restrictions
Some iconic ingredients like oakmoss and certain musks faced restrictions due to allergy concerns, forcing reformulations—or complete discontinuation.
Business Decisions
Perfume houses often discontinue scents with declining sales, even if they were once wildly popular.
Iconic 80s Perfumes That Have Been Discontinued
1. Dior – Poison (Original Formula)
Launched in 1985, Poison by Dior was the ultimate statement perfume—dark, intoxicating, and unforgettable. Women who wore Poison didn’t just walk into a room, they owned it.
While Poison still exists today, the original formula—with its rich, spicy, and woody depth—has been reformulated, making it impossible to find in its true 80s glory.
2. Estée Lauder – Cinnabar (Original)
A spicy oriental launched in 1978 but beloved throughout the 80s, Cinnabar blended cinnamon, clove, and patchouli in a way that screamed sophistication. Sadly, it was later reformulated and lacks the fiery punch it once had.
3. Revlon – Charlie Gold and Charlie Red (80s Editions)
The Charlie line was massive in the 70s and 80s. Charlie Gold and Charlie Red, with their sweet, fruity florals and musky undertones, became favorites. Unfortunately, the original 80s formulas are gone, with reformulated versions that feel watered down.
4. Yves Saint Laurent – Paris (Vintage Version)
Launched in 1983, Paris was a tribute to roses in full bloom. It was bold, ultra-feminine, and glamorous. While YSL Paris still exists, the vintage 80s version had a lush richness that modern versions lack.
5. Lancôme – Magie Noire (Original)
Dark, mysterious, and a little dangerous—Magie Noire from 1978 became an 80s cult favorite. Its chypre composition was unforgettable, but sadly, the original has been discontinued or reformulated beyond recognition.
6. Cacharel – LouLou
Introduced in 1987, LouLou was exotic, sensual, and a bit mischievous. Its floral-oriental mix with tuberose, vanilla, and incense made it perfect for the confident 80s woman. Discontinued in many markets, it remains a hard-to-find gem.
7. Guy Laroche – Fidji (Vintage Formula)
Though first launched in the 60s, Fidji was huge in the 80s. Its tropical floral notes gave it an adventurous spirit. Sadly, the vintage 80s version is gone, replaced with lighter formulas.
8. Karl Lagerfeld – Sun, Moon, Stars
This dreamy perfume hit the market in 1989 and captured the romantic, mystical vibe of the late 80s. With fruity top notes and a warm vanilla base, it became a signature scent for many. Sadly discontinued, it’s now a collector’s item.
9. Givenchy – Ysatis (Original)
Launched in 1984, Ysatis was a complex floral-chypre with layers of richness. Strong, elegant, and unapologetically bold, it fit right into the 80s. Sadly, the original formula is gone, leaving fans chasing vintage bottles.
10. Revlon – Moon Drops Perfume
Known for its warm, sultry, amber scent, Moon Drops became a cult favorite during the 80s. Unfortunately, it was discontinued and remains a fragrance treasure hunt for collectors.
11. Gloria Vanderbilt – Vanderbilt
A powdery floral perfume with notes of carnation, jasmine, and vanilla, Vanderbilt launched in 1982 and quickly became a department store classic. Though still sold in some places, the original formula is gone.
12. Avon Classics (Sweet Honesty, Odyssey, etc.)
In the 80s, Avon perfumes were everywhere. Scents like Sweet Honesty and Odyssey were teen favorites. While Avon still makes perfumes, many vintage 80s versions are discontinued.
13. Nina Ricci – L’Air du Temps (Vintage)
Originally from the 40s, but extremely popular in the 80s, L’Air du Temps had a romantic, powdery floral profile. Modern versions exist, but the rich 80s version has vanished.
14. Dana – Tabu (Original)
Marketed as “the forbidden fragrance,” Tabu was known for its bold oriental profile. Though originally from the 30s, it made a comeback in the 80s as women embraced daring scents. Sadly, the original is gone.
15. Revlon – Enjoli
Remember the famous “I can bring home the bacon” jingle? Enjoli was marketed as the ultimate perfume for the modern, multitasking woman of the 80s. Sadly, it was discontinued and is now a nostalgic memory.
The Nostalgia Factor: Why We Miss Them
Why do we miss these perfumes so much? It’s not just about the scent—it’s about the memories attached. Perfume connects to emotions, making discontinued scents feel like lost time capsules.
Can You Still Find Them Today?
- Vintage Bottles on eBay – Prices can be high, but collectors often sell original versions.
- Fragrance Collectors Groups – Online communities sometimes trade or sell rare finds.
- Niche Reproductions – Some smaller perfumers create scents inspired by discontinued 80s classics.
DIY Dupes: Can You Recreate Them?
While no DIY recipe can perfectly capture an iconic 80s scent, some perfumers create inspired blends using vintage notes like oakmoss, tuberose, and amber to recreate the magic.
Conclusion
The 1980s perfume scene was unapologetically bold, rich, and unforgettable. While many of these iconic fragrances have been discontinued or reformulated, they live on in memory, vintage bottles, and the fragrance lovers who refuse to forget them.
Perfume is more than just a product—it’s a story, a personality, and a piece of history. And the 80s? That was an era where perfume truly made a statement.
FAQs
1. Why were so many 80s perfumes discontinued?
Because of ingredient restrictions, changing consumer preferences, and low sales in modern markets.
2. Can I still buy vintage 80s perfumes?
Yes, but usually only through resale platforms like eBay, collector groups, or estate sales.
3. What was the most popular 80s perfume?
Dior Poison, Yves Saint Laurent Paris, and Lancôme Magie Noire were among the biggest hits.
4. Are modern reformulations the same as vintage 80s versions?
Not exactly—due to ingredient restrictions, most reformulations smell lighter and less intense.
5. Will any discontinued 80s perfumes ever come back?
It’s possible—some brands occasionally re-release vintage favorites due to consumer demand.