Shall we do something positive to match (or counterbalance) our mood with fragrance right now?
Because quite frankly, we’re a bit fed up of these seemingly endless last days of January and the still-gloomy visage of February, when it feels like all cheer has faded, leaving us with nothing but grey skies, chilly winds, and a distinct lack of motivation.
But fear not, fragrance lovers! We are here to rescue you from the depths of winter despair in fragrant form…
Let’s start with those days when you’re feeling particularly gloomy, shall we? You know the ones – when even getting out of bed seems like a Herculean task. For these moments, might we suggest Adscenture Cosmic Purple? (£60 for 30ml eau de parfum) This galactic scent is like a mood-enhancing shot of espresso for your senses. The tangy rhubarb and zesty lemon will give you that much-needed mood jolt, while the bitter coffee note serves as a reminder that yes, you do indeed need to caffeinate yourself. As you slowly come to life, the spicy pimento and rose petals will transport you far away from your rain-soaked reality. Who needs a holiday when you can smell like you’re on an intergalactic adventure?
For those days when you’re feeling a bit more optimistic – perhaps you’ve poetically spotted a lone daffodil bravely poking through the frost – reach for ARgENTUM Innocent (£228 for 20ml eau de parfum). The minty herbs and tropical basil will remind you that yes, warmth and greenery do still exist somewhere in the world. The green apple note might make you feel like you’re frolicking in an orchard rather than trudging through slush. And if anyone gives you grief for being too chipper in the face of winter’s gloom, just tell them you’re embracing your inner ‘archetype’ and moving through life with grace and humility. That’ll confuse them long enough for you to make your escape.
Now, for those cosy nights in when you’re trying to convince yourself that winter isn’t so bad after all, 4160 Tuesdays Amberama (£85 for 50ml eau de parfum). is your perfect companion. The soft woods and smooth amber will wrap around you like a mood-soothing cashmere blanket, while the hint of raspberry adds just enough zing to keep things interesting. It’s like the olfactory equivalent of a good book and a cup of tea – comforting, familiar, but never boring.
But what about those rare winter days when the sun actually makes an appearance? When you want to throw open the windows and pretend it’s spring already? That’s when you reach for EAU.MG Rubus Rose (£95 for 50ml eau de parfum). The tart raspberry opening is like a breath of fresh air, while the rose and saffron heart will have you dreaming of blooming gardens. The woody base keeps your mood grounded, reminding you that yes, it is still winter, but spring isn’t too far off.
Finally, for those moments when your mood needs a bit of a confidence boost – perhaps to face that dreaded winter work presentation – Memoize London Humilitas (£177 for 100ml Extrait de Parfum) is your secret weapon. The citrusy opening will perk you up, while the floral heart combined with saffron and nutmeg will make you feel sophisticated and put-together. The rich base notes will linger, giving you an air of quiet confidence throughout the day. You’ll be radiating such an aura of humble grace that your colleagues won’t even notice you’re wearing three jumpers under your suit jacket (while pondering job-listings at other companies as you Just Cannot Even with this lot anymore, perhaps?)
Remember, dear fellow fragrance lovers, these are MUCH more than just pleasant smells – they’re your bridge to spring, your scented life-raft in the sea of winter blues.
These – and any fragrances you personally find emotionally resonant – really do have the power to uplift, energise, and transport you, carrying you through until the first proper sunny day when we can all emerge from our cocoons, blinking in the sunlight, and wondering why on earth we own so many thick socks.
Until then, spritz on, brave winter warriors. We can do this!
Written by Suzy Nightingale
