Vanilla gets a bad rap. We use it to describe things or versions of things that are boring, as if it were synonymous with bland. But is it really? Vanilla can be wholly sensual and overwhelming. The scent of a real vanilla bean pod cracked open is exquisite, warm, and powerful. The flavor is the opposite of bland. It’s sexy. It mixes beautifully with coconut, butter, and lavender. Just a touch of vanilla added to your cooking can take a dish from good to sumptuous. I’m not even going to start on what the scent can add to your beauty routine. I think you get my point.

So in defense of vanilla, here’s a few of my favorite things in vanilla flavor.

From left, clockwise: GUD Vanilla Flame Bath & Body (available at Target), Profumi Di Firenze Vaniglia, Vanilla Cupcake from Georgetown Cupcakes, Nielsen Massey Vanilla, Illume Boulangerie Vanilla & Fig, Lavanila Deodorant, Laduree vanilla macaron