Fragrance lovers around the globe were stunned when Sol de Janeiro unexpectedly discontinued one of their most adored scents — Cheirosa ’39. Known for its sweet and creamy tropical profile, this fragrance was a fan favorite in the brand’s Brazilian Crush collection. Whether spritzed solo or layered with body creams, Cheirosa ’39 became a signature scent for many, embodying Sol de Janeiro’s sunny, beach-inspired identity.
So why did Sol de Janeiro discontinue Cheirosa ’39? In this in-depth blog post, we unpack the multiple factors behind this decision — from industry trends to official statements — and explore the legacy of this beloved fragrance.
What Was Cheirosa ’39 and Why Was It So Popular?
Before we dive into the discontinuation, it’s important to understand what made Cheirosa ’39 so iconic:
- Scent Profile: A warm and creamy blend of coconut cream, toasted marshmallow, vanilla orchid, praline, and sandalwood, Cheirosa ’39 exuded an irresistible dessert-like gourmand aura.
- Multi-Product Integration: The scent appeared in body mists, hand creams, and limited-edition sets.
- Viral Sensation: TikTok and YouTube influencers praised the fragrance for its irresistible sweetness and skin-loving appeal.
- Brand Identity Match: The scent perfectly aligned with Sol de Janeiro’s branding — fun, sexy, tropical, and carefree.
The fragrance earned high ratings on platforms like Fragrantica and Sephora, where many users compared it favorably to high-end gourmand scents.
Official Brand Statement and Communication Transparency
Sol de Janeiro has not released a comprehensive press release explaining the discontinuation, but verified responses via email and social media provide some insight:
“We’re sorry to confirm that Cheirosa ’39 has been discontinued. We rotate scents occasionally to make room for new innovations and seasonal offerings.”
This explanation aligns with common practices in the beauty industry, where rotating products helps brands remain innovative and responsive to market demands. The lack of a full statement has nonetheless fueled fan frustration and speculation.
Why Do Brands Discontinue Fan-Favorite Products
Let’s break down the common reasons behind such decisions, all of which could apply to Cheirosa ’39:
a. Market Performance and Sales Data
Despite its cult following online, a fragrance may underperform in broader markets. Retail analytics firms like Circana (formerly NPD Group) and Nielsen IQ have shown that online virality doesn’t always translate to retail success. Factors brands evaluate include:
- Sales turnover rates
- Seasonal performance trends
- Geographic demand variations
A product like Cheirosa ’39 might have been regionally successful but globally inconsistent in performance.
b. Sourcing Challenges and Ingredient Regulation
Fragrance formulations rely on a consistent and affordable supply of key raw materials. Some plausible challenges include:
- Supply Chain Disruption: Key ingredients like coconut cream notes or natural vanillin could face shortages.
- IFRA Regulations: The International Fragrance Association occasionally restricts or modifies usage guidelines for certain aroma compounds.
- Cost Inflation: If production becomes too expensive, brands may cut underperforming products first.
These concerns might have made Cheirosa ’39 less viable to continue producing.
c. Portfolio Refresh and Seasonal Innovation
Beauty and fragrance brands often optimize their product lines by rotating out older products. Sol de Janeiro regularly launches new scents to reflect seasons or limited-edition campaigns. Brands like Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works also follow this model.
By retiring Cheirosa ’39, Sol de Janeiro may have been paving the way for a fresh scent that matches evolving trends or new formulations.
d. Brand Simplification and Consumer Confusion
Sol de Janeiro’s numeric fragrance naming system — ’62, ’68, ’40, ’87, and so on — has been criticized for being non-intuitive. There’s a possibility that the brand wanted to simplify its lineup to reduce shopper confusion, focusing on more identifiable and best-selling SKUs.
Fan Reaction: The Emotional and Cultural Response
The discontinuation struck a nerve with fragrance lovers:
- TikTok & Instagram: Influencers shared grief-filled reactions, scent layering tips, and dupe recommendations.
- Reddit: Threads on r/fragrance and r/beautyguruchatter discussed the discontinuation, speculation, and replacement ideas.
- Petitions: Several Change.org petitions amassed hundreds of signatures calling for the scent’s return.
- Resale Prices: Listings for Cheirosa ’39 on resale sites like Mercari and eBay have skyrocketed, with some bottles selling for $80-$120.
The emotional reaction highlights how fragrances serve as memory anchors and expressions of personal identity — not just pleasant smells.
Fragrance Breakdown: What Made Cheirosa ’39 So Addictive?
Based on Sol de Janeiro’s promotional materials and user reviews, here’s a closer look at the scent profile:
- Top Notes: Toasted marshmallow, coconut cream
- Heart Notes: Vanilla orchid, warm amber
- Base Notes: Praline, sandalwood
This rich gourmand blend made Cheirosa ’39 reminiscent of edible sweetness without being overpowering. The toasted and creamy elements gave it a unique twist compared to other vanilla-based fragrances.
Best Dupes and Alternatives to Cheirosa ’39
If you’re mourning the loss, here are trusted alternatives that capture a similar mood:
a. Kayali Vanilla | 28
Warm vanilla, brown sugar, amber, and musk — a luxurious gourmand blend beloved by fans of Cheirosa ’39.
b. Ariana Grande Cloud
Sweet and creamy with coconut, lavender, and praline — often compared to Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s Baccarat Rouge 540.
c. Pacifica Island Vanilla
Tahitian vanilla and jasmine over a sandalwood base. Vegan and affordable.
d. Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa ’62
Though nuttier with pistachio and caramel, ’62 is a strong contender with comparable warmth.
e. EOS Vanilla Cashmere Lotion + Body Mist Layering
A layering technique combining rich vanilla body products with light gourmand mists offers an affordable replication route.
Can You Still Buy Cheirosa ’39 Anywhere?
While discontinued, there are still some potential ways to get your hands on it:
- Resale Market: Look on Mercari, eBay, or Poshmark. Beware of fakes — always verify seller history and product photos.
- Beauty Clearance Websites: Sometimes these sites have hidden backstock.
- Reddit or Facebook Swap Groups: Fragrance communities often host safe swaps or sales.
- Brand Restocks or Surprises: Sol de Janeiro occasionally surprises fans with limited re-releases.
How to Recreate Cheirosa ’39 at Home (Layering Method)
Want to evoke the same olfactory magic? Try this layering trick:
- Step 1: Use EOS Vanilla Cashmere body lotion.
- Step 2: Add a coconut mist like Hawaiian Tropic or Philosophy Coconut Frosting.
- Step 3: Top it with a spritz of Pink Sugar or Kayali Vanilla | 28 for warm praline and vanilla tones.
This DIY method may not replicate it 100%, but it evokes a very close vibe.
Will Sol de Janeiro Bring It Back?
There’s always a possibility. Brands frequently respond to consumer demand. Some hopeful indicators:
- Resale Popularity: High aftermarket value signals strong interest.
- Social Media Buzz: The volume of requests and tags online adds pressure.
- Precedents: Other brands have revived products due to public demand (e.g., MAC Lipsticks, BBW scents).
What you can do:
- Email Sol de Janeiro’s customer service
- Comment on their Instagram and TikTok posts
- Sign or share petitions
Lessons in Fragrance Marketing and Scarcity
Cheirosa ’39’s exit offers a masterclass in how brands build hype and emotional connection:
- Scarcity Fuels Obsession: Limited releases and discontinuations increase perceived value.
- Personal Connection: Fragrances become part of daily rituals and emotional memories.
- Community Preservation: Fans organize swaps, share dupes, and keep the scent alive through collective memory.
Conclusion: Cheirosa ’39’s Sweet Goodbye and Lasting Legacy
While Cheirosa ’39 may no longer grace store shelves, its memory continues to linger — not just in resale markets, but in the hearts of fragrance lovers who adored its creamy, tropical sweetness. Whether the discontinuation was due to sales, ingredient issues, or strategic rebranding, the love for ’39 has proven undeniable.
And in a world where trends come full circle, who knows? Cheirosa ’39 may yet return for an encore.
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