When it comes to niche perfumes, the world is teeming with brands that promise individuality, artistry, and the power to spark conversation. But few manage to capture the imagination quite like Imaginary Authors. Known for their playful concept of treating each fragrance like a “novel” with an invented backstory and fictional author, the Portland-based perfume house has become a cult favorite among fragrance lovers craving something outside the mainstream.
But since the prices are rather niche in the luxury segment, the question naturally arises: Are the fragrances from Imaginary Authors really worth the money – or is it just clever marketing in a pretty bottle?
Let’s delve deeper into the brand, explore their most popular scents, weigh the pros and cons, and see if they deserve a place in your fragrance wardrobe.
Imaginary Authors was founded by perfumer Josh Meyer to bridge the gap between perfume and storytelling. Each fragrance is accompanied by a fictional author and narrative, allowing the wearer to “read” a fragrance as if it were a literary work.
This concept isn’t just branding—it truly sets them apart. Their bottles feature eye-catching, book-inspired labels, and the entire experience feels like immersing yourself in a fictional world where scent drives the narrative.
Let’s take a closer look at the fragrances that continue to cause a stir in the perfume community.
Imaginary Authors positions itself in the niche fragrance market, and its pricing reflects this balance between artistry and accessibility. Most large bottles (50 ml) retail for between $105 and $120, placing them below the prices of luxury perfume houses like Creed or Roja, but significantly above those of mainstream designers like Dior or Gucci. For fragrance lovers looking to discover a unique, heritage-inspired scent without spending over $300, Imaginary Authors offers the perfect solution.
One of the most appealing aspects of their offering is their sample program. You can order a 6-piece sample set for around $42, allowing you to test out different scents before committing to a full bottle. Given personal fragrance preferences, this is a clever and cost-effective way to find out which scents really resonate.
Imaginary Authors offers a hassle-free return policy:
This return structure is quite common in the world of niche perfumes, as testing is very personal and hygiene considerations prevent the resale of used items.
When it comes to real customer feedback, Imaginary Authors‘ fragrances spark passionate conversations. Here’s a breakdown of what customers have to say:
Three review boxes side by side with hover effects, responsive on all devices.
“Memoirs of a Trespasser is like a warm, boozy vanilla campfire.”
— Verified buyer“The Soft Lawn feels playful and green, but not for every day.”
— Community review“Some bottles feel more like art for the shelf.”
— Fragrance fanOverall: Very positive, especially among buyers who appreciate niche perfumery and want scents that stand apart.
If you’re someone who only wears light, popular fragrances, Imaginary Authors might not be for you. Their fragrances are designed to challenge, surprise, and spark conversation.
But if you value creativity, niche art, and the idea of wearing a story on your skin, then yes—Imaginary Authors is worth every penny. Their perfumes don’t just smell good; they feel like experiences.
The best way to get started? Get the Discovery Kit. It’s an inexpensive way to explore the entire library before committing to a whole bottle of your favorite novel.
Memoirs of a Trespasser warm • timeless comfort • Every Storm a Serenade fresh • adventurous • Slow Explosions bold • unforgettable