Here’s Exactly What Reese Witherspoon Smells Like

Is it giving ‘Big Little Lies’ or ‘Sweet Home Alabama’?

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Reese Witherspoon is a whiz at book recommendations and giving the best advice, but does she have the same authority when it comes to fragrances? I’ve been on a mission to try out every celebrity’s favorite perfume (see my discovery of Rihanna, Taylor Swift *and* Beyoncé for proof), so it’s only right that I check out our favorite Legally Blonde star’s preferred scent.

After some deep internet research (and per a  2016 interview with Harper’s BazaarI learned she loves Aerin Amber Musk, saying, "I don't go anywhere without a spritz.” Nine years later, though, I had to wonder if it still holds up and what, exactly, it's like to smell like Ms. Witherspoon anyway. Here's my honest review of her go-to fragrance.

What Is Aerin Amber Musk?

The fragrance is in the warm and spicy family, featuring notes of rose centofolia, amber and musk. The brand describes it as the “feeling of being wrapped in a soft and cozy cashmere blanket.” It launched in 2013 and was inspired by founder Aerin Lauder’s own travels and memories, specifically during the wintertime.

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My Aerin Amber Musk Eau De Parfum Review

What We Like

  • pleasant warm fragrance,
  • perfect for fall
  • great for sensitive noses

What We Don't Like

  • not long-lasting

Aerin

The brand’s description is really on the (ahem) nose as the scent is very cozy. It’s not too strong and it’s subtle enough to be great for daily wear. The rose is the first note to peek through before settling into amber and, later, the musky finish. Devotees call it a great fall fragrance and I can see why; it reminds me of hot cider, comfy sweaters and maybe even Tracy Flick’s back-to-school vibe. It’s warm, wearable and totally Witherspoon-coded. One spritz probably isn’t enough to have people turning heads, but it’ll certainly give you compliments after receiving a nice hug from a friend. 

On the longevity front, it lasts for a while, but I’d suggest pairing it with a lotion, oil or Vaseline to extend the wear. Scent aside, the bottle is also unique for its gemstone amber-colored top and minimalistic clear glass—which pairs well with The Morning Show star’s fashion style

The Bottom Line: The Daily Perfume You’ve Been Searching For

This cozy fragrance has me excited for fall. It exudes warmth and spiciness without being overpowering. Although I prefer a stronger fragrance, I believe this one will do well as a layering scent or in combination with a lotion or body oil with similar notes. 

It comes in three sizes (0.27, 1.7 and 3.4 oz) but it’s slim enough to slip into my bag for a midday spray. The price also isn’t too bad for a celeb-approved perfume, coming in at $150 for the 1.7 oz and $210 for the 3.4 oz. 

I can’t really see Elle Woods or Madeline Martha rocking this scent—but definitely Melanie Smoother after she returns home. 

Fast Facts

  • Key Notes: rose, amber, musk
  • Fragrance Family: warm, spicy
  • Sizes: 0.27 to 3.4 oz

about face matte fluid eye paint review chelsea candelario

Beauty and Cultures Editor

  • Writes trend stories, product reviews and how-tos across beauty, cultures, fashion and entertainment
  • Over 5 years of experience as a Beauty Editor
  • Studied journalism with a minor in creative writing at SUNY New Paltz

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