Tag: cosy

Fragrant Winter Tales: Snuggle Up with Perfume Stories

As the winter chill sets in, there’s a delightful European tradition we can all embrace: gifting loved ones books to read on Christmas Eve, paired with cosy new pyjamas and hot chocolate or other delicious treats. This custom of literary indulgence is one we can wholeheartedly get behind, especially as we’re thrilled to see an increasing number of scent-themed books hitting the shelves.

 

 

 

 

From novels to history books and academic texts, we’ve got loads of other scented reading suggestions – for last-minute gifts, or to fill your own bookshelves, here. But this surge in fragrant literature reflects a growing cultural interest in our sense of smell – a truly exciting development for perfume enthusiasts.To celebrate this trend and help you create your own aromatic reading nook this winter, we’ve curated a list of cosy fragrance-themed books perfect for snuggling up with. So grab your favourite hot beverage, wrap yourself in a soft blanket, and let’s dive into these captivating reads…

 

 

The Perfume Collector by Kathleen Tessaro transports us to the 1950s, where newly-married socialite Grace Munroe’s life is upended by a mysterious inheritance. As Grace unravels the secret history of her benefactor, Eva D’Orsay, we’re whisked through the decadent worlds of 1920s Paris, New York, Monte Carlo, and London. This richly evocative novel explores the intertwining of scent, memory, and desire, as Grace discovers Eva’s role as a fragrant muse who inspired groundbreaking perfumes. It’s a journey of self-discovery that will resonate with anyone who believes in the transformative power of perfume.

From £5.49 on Kindle amazon.co.uk

 

 

For those who experience the world through smell, The Scent of You by Maggie Alderson is a must-read. Inspired by the author’s time in The Perfume Society office, this novel follows Polly, a perfume blogger who loses herself in the world of fragrance as her personal life crumbles. With a cast of vibrant characters, including the enigmatic perfumer Guy, this gripping story perfectly captures the solace and passion found in the world of scent. Alderson’s keen observations and immersive writing style make this an ideal cosy read for fellow olfactory enthusiasts.

From £4.99 on Kindle amazon.co.uk

 

 

 

Cristina Caboni’s The Secret Ways of Perfume is a beautiful exploration of scent’s power to evoke memories. Elena Rossini, blessed with an extraordinary sense of smell, embarks on a journey to Paris to escape painful memories and uncover a secret family perfume recipe. This novel beautifully intertwines the art of perfumery with themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, making it a perfect choice for a winter evening’s read.

From £3.57 paperback amazon.co.uk

 

 

 

For those seeking a non-fiction option, A Natural History of the Senses by Diane Ackerman offers an exquisite exploration of our sensory experiences. The chapter on smell delves into fascinating topics like the connection between scent and memory, the complexities of roses, and how our diet affects body odour. Ackerman’s lyrical prose will transform how you perceive not just smell, but all your senses.

From £10.69 hardcover amazon.co.uk

 

 

Kate Lord Brown’s The Perfume Garden weaves together two captivating narratives set in modern-day Valencia and during the Spanish Civil War. Following perfumer Emma Temple as she uncovers family secrets, this novel’s vivid sensory descriptions transport readers to sun-soaked Spain. While not exclusively focused on perfumery, it beautifully illustrates scent’s power to evoke memories and emotions.

From £3.57 paperback amazon.co.uk

 

 

Lastly, for the adventurous reader, The Scent Trail: A Journey of the Senses by Celia Lyttelton offers a fascinating travelogue tracing the origins of perfume ingredients. Join the author as she explores exotic locales and ancient harvesting techniques in search of components for her bespoke fragrance. This book is a treasure trove of fragrant history and cultural insights that will inspire wanderlust in perfume lovers.

From £15.03 paperback amazon.co.uk

As the pages of these books unfold, let the power of scent transport you to new worlds this winter. Whether you’re curled up by the fire or lounging in bed, these fragrant tales are sure to enchant and delight, proving that the world of perfume is as rich in stories as it is in scents.

Written by Suzy Nightingale

The Art of Cosy: Transform Your Space with Festive Fragrances

As the festive season approaches and we prepare to welcome in the new year, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a cosy, fragrant home to lift our spirits and create a welcoming atmosphere for family and friends.

The power of scent to evoke memories, comfort, and joy is particularly potent during this time of year, and many of us turn to fragrant candles and diffusers to infuse our living spaces with delightful aromas. But which are best, where should you place them, and how can you make them last longer? Read on for a fuss-free fragrant guide…

 

 

Candles vs Diffusers:

Scented candles have long been a favourite for creating a cosy ambiance, especially for those of us who don’t have the luxury of a real log fire. The soft, flickering light combined with a carefully chosen fragrance can transform any room into a snug haven. There’s something inherently comforting about the warm glow of candlelight, and when paired with seasonal scents like woods, cinnamon, forest-y notes like pine, or warming, creamy ingredients like vanilla, it can instantly transport us to a world of festive cheer.

While candles remain a popular choice, scented diffusers have been gaining significant traction in recent years. Their appeal lies in their convenience and longevity. Many modern diffusers are refillable, making them a more sustainable option for the environmentally conscious. The beauty of diffusers is that you can simply place them in your desired location and let them work their magic, continuously releasing fragrance without the need for constant attention or the worry of an open flame.

 

 

Perfect Placement:

To get the most out of your home fragrancing, consider strategic placement of your candles and diffusers: For maximum impact, place them in areas with good air circulation – near doorways or in the centre of a room often works well. However, avoid placing them directly in the path of air conditioning or heating vents, as this can disperse the scent too quickly or unevenly.

In the living room, consider placing a candle or diffuser on a coffee table or mantelpiece, where it can become a focal point and spread its aroma throughout the space. For a subtle yet effective approach in the bedroom, a diffuser on a bedside table can create a relaxing atmosphere conducive to sleep.

The kitchen is another excellent location for home fragrancing, especially during the festive season. A well-placed candle or diffuser can help neutralise cooking odours and infuse the space with inviting scents that complement your culinary creations.

 

 

 

Make Them Last Longer:

To get the best from your candles, always trim the wick to about 6mm before lighting. This ensures a clean, even burn and helps prevent smoking. Allow the wax to melt all the way to the edges of the container on the first burn to prevent tunnelling and ensure you get the most out of your candle.

For reed diffusers, flip the reeds every few days to refresh the scent. If you find the fragrance too strong, simply remove a few reeds to reduce its intensity. Conversely, add more reeds if you want a stronger scent throw.

 

 

Layering Home Scents:

Don’t be afraid to layer scents throughout your home. You might choose a fresh, crisp fragrance for the entrance hall, a warm, spicy scent for the living areas, and a soothing lavender or vanilla for the bedroom. This creates a journey of scents as you move through your home, each one evoking a different mood or memory.

Remember, the goal is to create an inviting atmosphere that reflects your personal style and enhances your home’s comfort. Whether you prefer the traditional charm of candles or the modern convenience of diffusers, the right fragrance can transform your living space into a cosy retreat perfect for enjoying the festive season and welcoming the new year.

We’ve so many home scents we love to use at this time of year, but here’s our fragrant festive selection for a cosy home right now…

 

 

La Montaña Three Kings Candle £39 for 220g

‘Everyone in the village looks forward to the Three Kings holiday and its unique fragrances – a highlight of the winter months. We love to walk down into the village, through the woods, with their gorgeous fragrance of trampled pine needles (which smell to us like a field full of fresh Christmas trees). Then, we get to the heart of the village, where the church doors are wide open and the air is suffused with incense, as well as the warm scent of traditional, homemade turrón (almond nougat) being sold from stalls. It’s usually cold (even in Spain), so there’s much milling about with the promise of a brightening tot of brandy. What a winter treat!’

 

Cochine Juniper & Ginger Diffuser £60 for 150ml

‘This luxurious diffuser combines the crisp scent of juniper with the sweet spiciness of ginger. Reminiscent of lush, green woods and exotic, evergreen mountains this uplifting scent has hints of clove, bergamot and patchouli blended with the freshness of eucalyptus. Containing the finest essential oils, Cochine reed diffusers will visually and aromatically give your room a unique and subtle elegance.’

 

La Montaña Winter Oranges (3 wick) Candle £100 for 650g

‘A warm, spicy, zesty blend of Valencia orange, cinnamon, red apple, and clove. This is our interpretation of the fragrance of the Valencian orange harvest that takes place throughout winter, with added hints of nostalgia from the English Christmases of our childhoods. This is one to come home to after a crisp, crunchy, winter walk – cheering, cosy and comforting. A perennial winter favourite.’

 

 

Cochine Tuberose Absolute & Sandalwood Diffuser £60 for 150ml

For those seeking an alternative to traditional winter scents, this is still cosy but stunningly opulent, too! ‘Exclusively created with master perfumer, Maurice Roucel, this is the scent of exotic and unforgettable nights. Feminine, alluring and intriguing tuberose notes combine with rich leather and sandalwood in this intoxicating, utterly addictive fragrance.’

 

La Montaña Mistela Candle £39 for 220g

‘Mistela is a Valencian dessert wine usually served at family celebrations, or when lingering after a good meal; it’s a festive blend of raisins and exotic spices often served with a curl of orange peel, or even a coffee bean… The fragrance is distinctive and original yet at the same time warm and familiar. And utterly more-ish.’

Cochine Vanille & Tabac Noir Candle £45 for 230g

‘This rich, sultry candle balances notes of vanilla bean and warm hints of patchouli with soft, sensual tones of tobacco flower. Extracts of cardamom, nutmeg and basil lend a delicate spiciness.’

Written by Suzy Nightingale

The Scented Sweater – fragrances we love to spray & snuggle in

There’s nothing quite like the soft, enveloping snuggle of cashmere – more than simply a wool to keep you warm, it’s become synonymous with supreme luxury, and fragrances that borrow the fluffy feeling of this material are the perfect comfort scent.

What does ‘cashmere’ mean in fragrant form, though? Perfumers aren’t extracting the wool itself into a scent; instead, they may use Cashmeran™, a trademarked synthetic material sometimes also called Cashmir (or Kashmir) Wood.

There’s no ‘cashmeran’ bush, or tree, or root, though:  this is a synthetic ‘fantasy ingredient, also sometimes referred to as ‘blonde woods’ on perfume note ‘pyramids’. (Cashmeran™ is a trademarked ingredient from the perfumer supplier International Flavours and Fragrances, or IFF.) It’s a-little-bit-musky, a-little-bit-spicy, a-little-bit-powdery qualities become even more versatile in the hands of perfumers: they know how Cashmeran™ almost ‘melts’ into many types of ingredients to add an extra, almost tactile sensuality to perfumes within a wide range of fragrance families.

 

 

 

 

Cashmeran™ also works to ‘expand’ and diffuse floral ingredients. (Lots of perfume notes work ‘synergistically’ in this way, which is why perfumery is such a complex art.) You may also be familiar with it from body products and even fabric conditioners: Cashmeran™ ‘clings’, and doesn’t rinse out well, leaving traces of its sensuality on the skin after showering, or your bedlinen after laundry day.

So now, do you need something to spritz as an extra ‘layer’ of protection (but that’s not too overwhelming), to conjure that feeling of hitting ‘snooze’ and staying in bed awhile longer; or perhaps a perfume for those occasions you could really do with a hug in a bottle? Read on, wrap up, and let’s get cosy in cashmere…

 

 

Electimuss Mercurial Cashmere

A fragrance to ride with us amidst changeable moods, maybe? ‘The most popular of the gods, Mercury was adored for his irresistible charm and wit and the inspiration for this sensuous and seductive scent.’ With an alluring character, the cloud of cardamom-flecked iris swirls to the buttered warmth of tonka and amber touched by cashmere’s creamy caress. Especially good at granting you backbone and strength, we say: wear this fluffy, irresistiable scent and feel better for every possible perfumed mood-swing!

£235 for 100ml pure parfum jovoyparis.uk

 

 

 

 

 

Guerlain Les Matières Confidentielles Eau de Cashmere

Intimately personal and part of a collection made to be spritzed on the skin ‘or over one’s favourite materials’, the Eau de Cashmere is whisper-soft, a creamy concoction of powdered iris and freshly plumped pillow-like lavender, with a breezy background of aerated woody and musky notes as it warms on the skin. It’s one of those ‘I don’t know what to wear’ go-to scents, and ‘Misted also over a jumper or across the entire wardrobe,’ says Guerlain, ‘it provides a pleasure of incomparable softness.’ We couldn’t agree more!

£145 for 100ml eau de toilette selfridges.com

 

 

 

Narciso Rodriguez Cristal

Perfumer Nathalie Gracia Cetto unfurls a ruffled citrus breeze that blooms into freesia and voluptuous orange blossom. The signature woody white musk is woven throughout the composition, making it unmistakably a Narciso creation, but with a crystalline gleam that sparkles enticingly. Wrapped in a whisper of cashmere-swathed warmth, think sunshine diffused by fluffy clouds, a soft stole worn insouciantly draped over tanned shoulders. One that fans will want to add to their collection.

From £61 for 30ml eau de parfum theperfumeshop.com

 

 

 

 

Acqua di Parma Magnolia Nobile

Crisp, sun-baked citrus immediately feels mood-lifting, and the mellow magnolia here wafts a softness through the sometimes more highly-strung notes of tuberose and jasmine. A feather-light, woody base grounds softly as a whisper. To be worn poolside in a white silk kaftan, ideally, but for Autumn and winter in the U.K. we suggest spritzing on a cashmere cardi, and revelling.
From £178 for 50ml eau de parfum johnlewis.com

 

Fragrance du Bois Santal Complet

Inspired by waves of bliss you feel on sunny but chilly days, lemon’s brightness frosted with coconut shavings gleams to the heart of soft violet and black pepper, before that creamy base sandalwood swirls like a cashmere wrap around your shoulders, a hug of warmth resonating with the amber, musk and vanilla that’s a joyously sun-filled snuggle.

£245 for 100ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Cosy scented candles for autumn

How many of you have sought out your scented candles in the last few days, we wonder? There’s something undeniably comforting about lighting a candle when the nip of autumn’s chill and the darker nights have drawn in. While we may not rely on them to illuminate our spaces entirely, the gentle flicker of a flame has an enchanting way of drawing our attention and soothing our senses.

In these darker months, when the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, candles become more than mere décor; they transform our homes into sanctuaries of warmth and tranquillity.The soft glow of candlelight can evoke the cosy ambiance of a crackling log fire, even if we’re not fortunate enough to have one in our living rooms. There’s a rhythm to the flickering flames that mimics the natural dance of fire, creating a serene atmosphere that invites relaxation and reflection.

 

 

 

 

This visual comfort is especially potent as we retreat indoors, seeking solace from the brisk winds and early sunsets.While it’s true that scented candles can be enjoyed year-round, there’s a special allure to them as the temperatures drop. The colder months bring with them a unique yearning for warmth, both physical and emotional. As we wrap ourselves in blankets and sip on warm beverages, reaching for candles feels instinctive. They become companions in our evening rituals, casting a soft light that enhances our surroundings and elevates our mood.

Moreover, the act of lighting a candle can be a mindful practice in itself. It serves as a moment of pause amidst our busy lives—a chance to breathe deeply and set intentions for the evening ahead. The flicker of the flame encourages us to slow down, inviting us to embrace the present moment and relish in its simplicity.

 

 

 

 

As we gather with loved ones or enjoy solitary evenings, candles create an inviting backdrop that fosters connection and conversation. Their presence can transform any space into a haven, offering not just light but also an element of magic that enhances our experiences.

So, as we embrace this season of longer nights and cooler air, let’s celebrate the humble candle. It’s more than just a source of illumination; it’s a beacon of comfort that draws us in with its warm glow and soothing presence. Whether you’re curling up with a good book or sharing stories with friends, let the flickering flames of some of our favourite scented candles remind you of the beauty in stillness, and the joy found in simple pleasures…

 

 

La Montaña Alfredo’s Café Candle

Capturing the essence of a vibrant Spanish village hub. Inspired by a real-life café owned by Alfredo, this fragrance embodies the heart and soul of community life. As you light the candle, you can almost hear the lively chatter, hearty laughter, and the satisfying clack of dominoes hitting the table. This complex aroma took exceptional craftsmanship to perfect, requiring over forty iterations before achieving its final, captivating scent. The result is a sophisticated blend of black tobacco, coffee, and brandy, intertwined with notes of leather and church incense. So evocative and alluring is this fragrance that it’s become the most requested as a personal cologne. Alfredo’s Café Candle doesn’t just scent a room; it transports you to the warm, cosy atmosphere of a bustling Mediterranean café.

£39 for 220g

Cochine Cedar & Vietnamese Oud Candle

Close your eyes, and imagine hidden temples of Central Vietnam’s lush forests. This exquisite fragrance artfully transports you there via nuanced tones of cedar and sandalwood with the precious resins of amber and oudh. As the candle burns, it releases a warming aroma that envelops your space in comforting woody notes. The deep, resinous scent of oudh adds a luxurious depth, while hints of incense evoke a sense of ancient rituals and tranquility. This grounding fragrance soothes the senses, creating an atmosphere of calm contemplation. The interplay of these noble ingredients results in a sophisticated, multi-layered scent that transforms your home into a serene sanctuary, perfect for meditation or unwinding after a long day.

£45 for 230g

 

 

 

 

Ostens Illumination Rose Candle

If you’re not quite ready for full on spices, consider the plush velvety scent of an opulent rose candle. Ostens Rose Illumination, for example, transports you to the valleys of Anatolia, Turkey, where the exquisite Rosa Damascena, known as the ‘Queen of Flowers,’ is harvested at dawn. The delicate blooms are kept in the shade until they reach traditional copper stills, where their essence is distilled into a luxurious rose oil, capturing the fragrance of thousands of fresh petals. This candle unfolds with a vibrant, green freshness that transitions into a voluptuous, warming heart of jammy rose, accented by notes of exotic fruits and ripe red berries. Light it to fill your home with the enchanting aroma of a blooming Turkish rose garden, and wrap yourself in a velvet robe, darling!

£65 for 220g

Cochine Agarwood & Amber Candle

Discover the divine essence of Cochine’s Agarwood & Amber Candle, a luxurious fragrance inspired by the legendary ‘Wood of the Gods’. This rich, woody scent masterfully blends the profound depth of agarwood with the sensual warmth of white amber, ethereal tuberose, and earthy patchouli for a scent that bridges seasons and feels cosy yet not overpowering. Crafted with meticulous care, the candle features eco-friendly cotton wicks and creamy botanical palm wax sourced from renewable resources. Each hand-poured candle promises over 50 hours of sublime fragrance, elegantly finished with an embossed silver lid, proving cosy can be ultra chic.

£45 for 230g 

 

Candle Mistela La Montana

La Montaña Mistela Candle

Inspired by the cherished tradition of Valencian dessert wines, the Mistela candle captures the essence of this beloved libation, perfect for family gatherings. Picture loved ones around a table, laughter mingling with the gentle clink of glasses filled with amber nectar. The candle’s aroma unfolds with the luscious sweetness of raisins, complemented by a blend of exotic spices like cinnamon and star anise, creating a complex yet comforting scent. Notes of zesty orange peel and roasted coffee bean add depth, making this fragrance both distinctive and familiar. With its warm embrace, the Mistela candle invites you to indulge in nostalgia and celebration.

£39 for 220g 

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

 

Pumpkin-Spice up Your Life with these perfumes!

The pumpkin spice latte – one comforting indulgence that rises to the forefront of our seasonal cravings, and is inspiring the scents we’re wanting to wear right now. This beloved beverage has transcended its café origins, influencing everything from beauty to fashion, and now it finds its way into the world of fragrance. In this feature, we’re snuggling up and delving into a curated selection of scents that evoke the cosy indulgence of this autumnal classic. Fear not: you won’t emerge smelling like a freshly brewed concoction from your local barista!

 

 

 

 

The fragrances we’ve chosen artfully capture the essence of pumpkin spice lattes, without feeling too overwhelming. Instead, they envelop you in a warm cocoon of comfort – which is exactly the vibe we all need right now. With notes that mirror the rich spices, creamy textures, and sweet undertones of this seasonal delight, each scent promises to evoke a fragrantly frothy feeling of warmth and nostalgia.

Join us as we explore these olfactory interpretations that celebrate the spirit of autumn, inviting you to wrap yourself in their comforting embrace and relish in the simple joys of the season…

 

 

 

 

Paco Rabanne Fabulous Me

Gorgeously warm snuggle that speaks of cosiness, with silky sandalwood wrapped around fleshy pumpkin; rhubarb’s tartness tempering the sweetness. A wonderful scent that feels like a fragrant hug, it’s the perfect to wear while sipping a Pumpkin Spice

£65 for 62ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

 

 

Maison Tahité Coffee Bomb

A bold double-shot experience that ramps up the coffee and spice, the rich, roasted aroma of freshly brewed coffee beans , layered with the sweet warmth of cacao, tonka, and a hint of nutmeg. This one definitely has an invigorating kick, leaving you craving more.

£90 for 100ml eau de parfum libertylondon.com

 

 

 

Etat Libre d’Orange Like This

A comforting embrace of autumnal warmth, this fragrance unfolds like a cashmere scarf on a crisp October day. Ginger’s spicy kick mingles with the velvety sweetness of pumpkin, creating an olfactory illusion of a freshly baked pie (and Pumpkin Spice). Delish!

£85 for 50ml eau de parfum bloomperfume.co.uk

 

 

Maison Crivelli Oud Cadenza

Combining the comfortingly rich, woody notes of oud with the sweet spiciness of cinnamon, it creates a complex and alluring scent yet ultimately soul-soothing aromatic aura. The cinnamon with that delicious date and sugar cane accord is next-level yummy.

£220 for 50ml extrait de parfum harrods.com

 

 

 

4160 Tuesdays Over the Chocolate Shop

A sumptuous hazelnut coffee experience drizzled with rich chocolate, perfect for those seeking a sweet yet sophisticated indulgence. Layer it with a pumpkin scent for a truly seasonal twist that captures the essence of autumn in every spritz.

£100 for 50ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Winter Candles & Diffusers to Bring the Outdoors In…

In the winter we can often be pining for the outdoors but feel stuck at home, hardly wanting to crack open a window in gale-force winds, or be able to sit in the garden or take a long walk to feel at one with nature. However, we can bring the feeling and freshness of outdoors inside, and transform the stuffiness and whole atmosphere of a room simply by  switching up our home fragrances via ‘green’ and woody scented candles and fragrance diffusers.

 

Whichever option you plump for, here’s our perfumed pick of perfect home scents to look for right now…

 

 

Cochine Agarwood & Amber Candle £45 for 230g

This rich candle combines agarwood with the warmth of white amber, tuberose and patchouli. Known as ‘Wood of the Gods’, agarwood is highly sought after due to the unique richness of its fragrance, and feels like living in a fairytale forest.

 

 

 

La Montaña Cloudburst Candle £39

Inspired by the mountainside after a summer storm, when the rain clouds part and strong sunshine lances through, stirring up a heavy mist of fragrance. In this haze, notes from our herb garden mingle with fresh citrus. Utterly uplifting!

 

 

 

Stories Parfums Nº.02 Bougie Parfumée Scented Candle Trio £95 for 3

Uniquely splitting the notes of the fine fragrance between three candles, you can dot these around your room to create the ideal harmonious ‘scent-scape’, with velvety moss, moonlit herbs and roses, wisps of smoke and honeyed wood.

 

 

 

Cochine Juniper & Ginger Diffuser £60 

Combining the crisp scent of juniper with the sweet spiciness of ginger, reminiscent of lush, green woods and exotic, evergreen mountains; this uplifting scent has hints of clove, bergamot and patchouli with the freshness of eucalyptus.

 

 

 

 

La Montaña First Light Candle £39 

“On our mountain, at first light, there’s a heavenly fragrance in the air” Founder Cassandra says. “Before anyone starts an engine, or lights a fire, the air is clear, and still, and silent.” Frosted herbs, wild fennel, and a soothing breeze. Blissful.

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Firework fragrances to smoulder in this season

Fireworks are a celebration of light amidst these darker months – as the clocks have gone back and the nights are drawing in – and so here we present a selection of fragrances with smoky, sensual notes to smoulder in this season…

A scorching interpretation of rose, in which smouldering leather tangos with rich Damask rose against a backdrop of patchouli, amber and deepest, darkest oudh. Think bonfire-smoke still clinging to your hair, pinpricks of starlight against a velvety black sky and cold lips soon warmed by passionate kisses.

Ruth Mastenbroek Firedance £90 for 50ml eau de parfum
ruthmastenbroek.com

P.S: You can try a sample of Firedance in the Ruth Mastenbroek Discovery Set – featuring the first four fragrances in her eponymous collection, so perfect to explore at home – try all four fragrances here for only £17.95.

Arabic dokha tobacco’s smokiness wafts through a spicy-woody-Ambrée with an unexpected note of raspberry, then a fabulous fug of full-on tobacco dust absolute and tobacco leaf, warmed by roasted tonka bean, creamy sandalwood and a delicious woody-amber blend of cistus absolute, castoreum and patchouli. This one’s all smoke – and mirrored label.

Tom Ford Oud Tobacco Intense £315 for 100ml eau de parfum
harrods.com

Rip-roaring along hot tarmac on the back of a motorbike with fireworks bursting and  ‘big hair don’t care’ optimism, the cypress, lemon zest freshness becomes dirty (in the best way), hugely smoke-smudged and sexy as all hell. Kudos, too, to the heavy magnetic lid, packaging and price.

Banana Republic Leather Reserve £55 for 75ml eau de parfum
debenhams.com

This feels like an homage to the very origins of perfume – ‘per-fumum’ meaning ‘through smoke’ – melding incense with fruity notes of fresh Turkish rose with a fragrant drift of exotic spices. And it lingers beguilingly, waves of wamth unfurling, tendrills of woodiness creating a sumptuously smoky cloak.

Atelier Cologne Rose Smoke £325 for 100ml pure parfum
Harrods

 

This fragrance’s Scottish geology is composed of black pepper, densely smoked minerals and rose absolute with a splash of whisky and amber-rich leather. It’s complex, fusing an invigorating opening with a trio of peaty swirls, fresh tobacco and incense metamorphosing as it warms – and wins your heart.

Kingdom Scotland Metamorphic £110 for 50ml eau de parfum
kingdomscotland.com

Whichever of these intriguingly smoke-infused scents you choose, we feel sure you will revel in their scented display for hours, days and months ahead. Now, all you need do is seek them out, choose your favourite, light the metaphorical ‘blue touch paper’ and get ready for the fragrant fireworks…

By Suzy Nightingale

Get ready for sandalwood’s snuggles

Suddenly our duvets have become irresistible and those opaque tights have made their appearance from the back of the drawer. Along with cashmere cardis and hot toddies replacing the t-shirts and G&Ts (okay, we actually haven’t quite given up G&Ts), so our fragrance tastes tend to swing toward something warmer – a snuggle in a bottle that helps you get out of bed in the morning and comforts you throughout the day.

Sandalwood-rich perfumes are great ones to look for in the autumnal months or colder climates, offering a smooth creaminess that clings to the skin like a cashmere blanket – a poncho made from perfume. Yes we may sometimes wish to be pepped up with a citrus blast every now and again, even on a chilly day; but the majority of us here at TPS Towers are longing for something to snuggle into, and sandalwood as a dominant note definitely fits that bill.

In our just-published Couture edition of The Scented Letter Magazine, my leading feature seeks out ‘The sensational history of sandalwood‘, looking into versatility of this ingredient, and finding out just why perfumers (and perfume-wearers) love it so. But the topic is so vast, I really wanted to give you even more sandalwood-filled snippets, and urge you to swathe yourself in sandalwood scents you already love, or to think about getting seriously cosy with something sandalwood-y and new to you…

Some sandalwood facts:

Sandalwood is used in the base of up to 50% of feminine fragrances.

Supremely versatile, it blends exquisitely with clove, lavender, geranium, jasmine, galbanum, frankincense, black pepper, jasmine and patchouli (among others).

It works as a ‘fixative’, tethering other ingredients and keeping them ‘true’, in a composition.

So many sandalwood trees have been cut down in India, largely for production of perfume and incense – often illegally harvested, because it’s such a valuable commodity – that it’s become endangered.

The good news is that plantations in Australia are now coming on-stream, producing (santalum spicatum) sandalwood oil of high quality – to the relief of ‘noses’ (and conservationists.)

A wide range of synthetic sandalwood-like ingredients are now used in place of this at-risk wood, to give a similarly smooth milkiness (see below for our guide)…

The synthetics now available for perfumer’s to expand their palette is now fairly extensive. With the cost of Mysore (often considered the best quality, and the most endangered) sandalwood increasing approximately 25% per year, you can understand why many fragrance brands are choosing to use these aroma-chemicals, for cost-effective (would you continue to buy a favourite fragrance if it doubled in price every four years?) as well as conservation reasons.

In my magazine feature, indie perfumer, and founder of 4160 Tuesdays, Sarah McCartney, explains why synthetic sandalwood is so vital for perfumers – and how most people asked to compare natural and synthetic sandalwood side-by-side in a blind smelling, will confidently declare those synthetics to ‘definitely be the natural’ wood. So generally, ‘…if you have sandalwood listed in the notes, it will either be accompanied by its synthetic sisters, or replaced entirely.’ Among these synthetics we have:

Beta santalol – considered to be one of the most ‘nature identical’ of sandalwood notes, this imparts the comforting creamy snuggle we expect.
Polysantol – formerly trademarked by Firmenich , it has herbal depth with just a touch of filth for the animalic scent lovers out there. Realistic enough in a composition, it also has great lasting power.
Levosandol  – by Takasago is shot through with tang of dry cedar-like notes for an overall woodiness.
Ebanol – a Givaudan trademark, is remarkably rich and surprisingly potent. The snuggle that just keeps going.
Fleursandol – by Symrise, this one has a lightly floral character beneath the dominant, life-like sandalwood note.
Try sandalwood in these beauties…

But McCartney also reminds us that many naturals also ‘replace’ or snuggle up to natural sandalwood in fragrances, ‘One good natural substitute is amyris essential oil,’ she continues. ‘Mine is from Haiti and smells closer to aged Mysore oil than my Australian or modern Indian sandalwood. Amyris is known as Hatian sandalwood, but is a different species. Sandalwood has strength and richness but never overpowers or forces its way through a composition.’

David Moltz, perfumer and co-founder of cult niche house D.S. & Durga agress on this so-special charcteristic of sandalwood, explaining, ‘Though long-lasting and incredibly umami for a wood, its overall throw is soft. So it’s persistent but never overpowers other oils.’ Personally, he likes to mix the types of sandalwood he uses, depending on what he’s trying to achieve, so he uses ‘…a bunch of different sandalwoods. In the D.S. fragrance, I used top-grade Sri Lankan sandalwood which is the closest we have to the fabled and ethically challenged Mysore varietal from south India.’

Whichever character of sandalwood you choose, it’s just perfect to embrace on chillier, grey days – so do have a look for some of these, and get ready to fully embrace sandalwood’s cosy sensuality…

Molten sandalwood and cedar melds with warm amber, a wispy jasmine that fluffs itself up around ghost lily, waxy magnolia and narcotic ylang ylang. It all dries down to the most glorious pepper speckled honey for a ‘your skin but better’ daily cuddle. Self-care in a bottle.
Estée Lauder Sensuous £56 for 50ml eau de parfum
theperfumeshop.com

 

 

Like burying yourself in a boyfriend’s favourite jumper, textural layers of pink pomelo, ginger and green lemon brush against soft lavender and jasmine whispers. Finally, skin’s wrapped in that comforting sandalwood, with birch, oak, patchouli and musk. Sans boyfriend? I think this amply replaces many.
Missoni Parfum Pour Homme from £33 for 30ml eau de parfum
thefragranceshop.co.uk

Distant recollections of being warm without woollen undergarments evoked with the delectable creaminess of iris butter swirled into sandalwood. It’s all blissfully relaxed limbs slathered in retro-smelling coconut suntan oil and a cool lick of vanilla ice-cream. Thanks for the memories…
Juliette Has a Gun Sunny Side Up £110 for 100ml eau de parfum
harveynichols.com

 

A handsome (completely unisex, we think) scent that’s crisp as a tall G&T (told you we were clinging on) at first, then sinks beguilingly to a dandyish clove, cardamom and nutmeg-laden heart and the softness of sandalwood and vanilla muskiness beyond.
Floris Santal £80 for 100ml eau de toilette
florislondon.com

 

A sacred signal to the Gods, incense billows through saffron’s golden glow, precious frankincense swirled amidst a plush heart of rose absolute, smooth sandalwood soothing you like a whisper on a breeze of translucent white musk. Wearing it feels like knowing the very soul of perfume – ‘per fumum’ meaning ‘through smoke’.
Van Cleef & Arpels Collection Extraordinaire Rêve d’Encens £260 for 125ml eau de parfum
harrods.com

Written by Suzy Nightingale