Tag: fall

We’re Fall-ing for these Woodland Walk Scents

Here in the UK, autumn is a master magician, pirouetting the landscape into russet and gold, tossing crispy leaves under wellies and inviting brisk woodland walks punctuated by brisk sniffs of “what’s that scent in the air?” Naturally, November puts us firmly in “fall-ing” mode – craving perfumes that conjure forests in all their earthy grandeur, a twist of rustic eccentricity, and a generous snuggle of moss and wood.

 

 

Whether you’re a mud-spattered nature enthusiast or simply scrolling woodland photos from your sofa, these fragrances offer crisp leaves, head-clearing verdancy and all the cosiness of enchanted autumn walks you could possibly desire. We suggest it’s high time to spritz, sniff, sally forth – and don’t forget to kick some leaves on the way.

So dust off your Barbour, keep an eye out for deer (or at least a stray squirrel) and plunge with us nose-first into these woodland wonders…

 

 

 

 

Experimental Perfume Club Cedarwood Absinthe

This is the olfactory equivalent of reciting mysterious poetry to a grand cedar tree while sipping a (possibly inadvisable while walking) herbal cocktail. Woody, leathery and gloriously herbaceous, it starts with a spritz of absinthe via aromatic wormwood, before plunging into deep, balsamic cypriol. Virginia and Atlas cedar bring that forest floor energy, with smoky patchouli and tobacco swirling in the undergrowth. At first, you’ll catch a burst of fresh, crisp air – then it melts into warm skin, sultry woods, and the promise of woodland mischief at twilight. Marvellous!

From £35 for 10ml eau de parfum experimentalperfumeclub.com

 

 

 

 

 

Penhaligon’s Daphne Bouquet

Penhaligon’s Daphne Bouquet carries you straight to Highgrove Gardens, where daphne blossoms flirt outrageously with blackcurrant leaves and mossy undergrowth. There’s something riotously British about it – elegant, radiant, and bursting with a folklore twinkle. Every spritz is a spring tennis rally between sharp green notes and velvety florals, created in support of The King’s Foundation and inspired by King Charles III’s private paradise. Bonus points: wearing it gives you instant charity chic, with 10% of proceeds whisked to an excellent cause. If moss had a tiara made of silver cobwebs glinting with morning dew, it would smell like this.

£175 for 100ml eau de parfum penhaligons.com

 

 

 

 

 

Granado Patchouli

Patchouli often gets typecast as the hippie cousin at the perfume family reunion, but Granado’s interpretation is charmingly rustic, green and earthier than a well-fed compost heap (in a delightful way). With 88% natural ingredients, it is rich in natural patchouli, warmed by cardamom and nutmeg, and freshened up with twangs of lavender and geranium. It’s an aromatic stroll through bramble and undergrowth, minimalist yet secretly opulent. Layer it, wear it solo, or just revel in its moody autumnal hug – here, patchouli wears tweed with cool panache.

£70 for 100ml eau de toilette harveynichols.com

 

 

 

 

 

L’Artisan Parfumeur Il Était Un Bois

With a name that practically dares you to swirl your scarf and recite something poetic, Il Était Un Bois is woodland comfort bottled. Vetiver anchors the scent, buckwheat adds unexpected softness, and cedarwood shines with life as if the bottle were secretly whittled from an enchanted tree. The result? A walk through a serene forest on a crisp afternoon, bird calls above and a sense that somewhere nearby, something magical might happen. It’s harmonious, quietly divine, and the very essence of a peaceful autumn ramble.

£170 for 100ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Moncler Le Bois Glacé

Think spiced vetiver breeze in a posh apothecary bottle. Le Bois Glacé modernises Haitian vetiver’s smoky charms, pairing them with the effervescent brightness of Calabrian bergamot and pink pepper. The packaging – all wood-grained paper and three-dimensional logo chic – promises sophistication, but the juice is what truly forest-bathes your senses. Imagine a stride through piney heights, autumn wind in your hair, topped with peppery zest and a knowing smile. This is the fragrance for anyone who’s ever wanted to smell like they just completed the world’s most stylish forest trek.

£175 for 100ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Perfect plum – fruity fragrances for autumn

This autumn, you may notice plum has emerged as one of the most seductive shades of the season – a colour that feels both sumptuous and comforting. Rich with depth, plum has always carried with it a sense of quiet drama, a touch of decadent mystery. In fashion this autumn, it slips between velvet and silk, lipstick and lacquer, embodying a mood that is at once opulent and understated.

Just as colour can carry texture, so too can fragrance. Plum in perfumery is never merely fruity – it’s plush, velvety, and enveloping, often conjuring the sensation of fabric against skin. It can feel juicy and mouthwatering on the one hand, or shadowy and cocooning on the other, and it is this duality that makes it fascinating. Worn as a scent, as on the fashion catwalk or in now-cosier interior furnishings, plum invites us into autumn’s embrace with a richness that lingers, like dusk gently gathering around you.

 

 

While plum scents are what we’re plumping for right now, did you know that creating fruity notes in perfumery is a far more intricate process than it might first appear? Fruit notes are typically recreated synthetically rather than extracted directly from the fruit. This is because the natural extraction process for fruit essences is often challenging due to their high water content and the complexities of their aromatic compounds. Synthetic molecules are cleverly used alongside naturals to mimic the desired scent profiles of these fruits, while some houses may use Head Space technology to capture the scent of the air around the naturally growing fruit, to evoke climate and place as well as it’s smell.

Well luckily, the clever noses who created our curated selection, below, know exactly how to best evoke the complex scent of plum. And so, if perhaps you are casting aside the more summery scents, finally, and looking for a transitional note to welcome the season (without feeling too wintery and swaddling just yet); well then, plum may be the note to seek. Here we array a bounty of perfect plum perfumes just ripe for the picking…

 

 

Affordable niche Fragrance

Soki London Artemis

This enchanting exploration of a moonlit woodland opens with luscious plum, a juicy sweetness evoking ripe fruit kissed by a cool evening dew. The heart reveals delicate osmanthus flower, that apricot-leather-y note settling as warm sandalwood and cedar emerge. Inspired by ancient trees and magic, this plum will have you hooked.

£75 for 50ml eau de parfum shop.sokilondon.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Glossier You Rêve

While still designed to adapt to the wearer’s natural skin-scent – the thumbprint on the bottle is a clue to that – Glossier Rêve most definitely has a gourmand sweetness, leading us into temptation with its notes of buttercream, plumptious plum butter and toasted almond, with white sandalwood, iris and an Ambroxan va-va-voom smooch.

£70 for 50ml eau de parfum uk.glossier.com

 

 

Pictor Parfum Silhouette

Inspired by a perfectly composed photograph, vibrant mandarin and lychee are reminiscent of an initial bright flash. but Its heart of powdery rose and plum form a central soft focus that pulls the perfume together. Suede adds texture, spices of clove and pink pepper base provide a sharp contrast, casting deeper shadows as the plum still swirls.

From £84 for 50ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

 

 

 

 

Lalique Velvet Plum

Here, we are invited to wrap ourselves in suede and cashmere, the ripe plum soon to be enfolded in a soft velvety swathe of bohemian lushness via heliotrope with iris and osmanthus – all snuggled up on a dark chocolate-y patchouli base. And that extraordinary coloured juice! In the frosted bottle, it looks (and wears) otherworldly.

Now £67.09 for 100ml eau de parfum superdrug.com

 

 

EAU.MG Berry Fleur

Berries, yes – bursting from first bite with delicious, sticky cassis. But it’s the plum that grounds in a more velvety opulence. From the piquant to the playfully flirtatious, as it warms we find a passionate floral heart of delicate rose and heady white flowers. smoothed and sensorially heightened by creamy vanilla, rich patchouli and more-ish musk.

£95 for 50ml eau de parfum in the Shop

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Scented autumn style edit: unbox your new fragrance wardrobe…

The seasons may turn, but one rule remains steadfast: perfume wardrobes must be kept as lively and ever-changing as the British weather itself. This autumn, The Perfume Society’s Seasonal Scent Discovery Box lands with all the anticipation of opening the door to a new adventure with every spritz – your very own olfactory post to usher you out of the rut and into a world of dazzling new scents. Fetch the snuggest jumper, a half-empty notebook, and a quietly excited sense of curiosity, because this season’s edit is a little rebellion against predictability.

If you’re not already subscribed to the Seasonal Scent boxes, which are from just £21 every three months, below you’ll find out the perfumed possibilities within this month’s edit (and if you’d like more info on subscribing, find out everything you need to know here!) Meanwhile, if you’re already a savvy scent lover who’s just received (or is anxiously awaiting) your next perfumed post delivery, here’s some fragrant autumnal inspiration to further look forward to exploring, and building your own autumnal wardrobe with.

In this season’s scent edit, you’ll find samples of…

 

 

  • Connock London Kukui shivers onto the skin with a dewy gardenia mist, New Romantic in mood – it’s as if sunlight filters through gauzy curtains, warming pale woods and sleepy flowers lingering from summer’s lavish bouquet. There’s a gentle sway of jasmine-white linen against tanned sand, a scent for those who’d wear unstructured wools, tousled hair and a satisfied smile, off to places real or imagined.

 

 

CONNOCK_LONDON_KUKUI_NOIR

 

  • For duskier moods, Kukui Noir purrs with intent. This is wine-dark velvet, a late-night rendezvous under star-splashed skies where roses flirt with oud and cashmere musks wrap around your embrace. Imagine silk camisoles beneath sharp tailoring, boots ready for midnight wanderings, hair let down in a way that promises stories. Kukui’s twin, but with a raised eyebrow – and definitely that lipstick shade you save for memorable evenings in or out.

 

 

  • Elie Saab Le Parfum Eau de Parfum breezes in like the echo of grand occasions and impromptu confetti – its orange blossom glow is crisp and opulent, like slipping on a silk scarf chosen to add just the right nonchalance to a perfectly tailored trench. It’s not shy but never shouts, leaving a whispering trail of jasmine and honeyed wood that dresses up a Monday as elegantly as a gallery opening.

 

 

 

 

  • Parfums de Marly Greenley is a crisp dash through an orchard at dawn: think green apple’s sharp snap and the reluctant warmth of autumn sunlight streaking through citrus-splashed air. The brisk green is worn with a classic blazer – a shot of optimism when the calendar pages turn; the sort of fragrance that turns errands into escapades. Oakmoss and musk ground the energy, giving the whole thing a quietly confident swagger.

 

 

 

 

  • Goutal Eau D’Hadrien is a zesty aperitif poured on a terrace overlooking pines and lemon trees, an aromatic breeze lifting linen cuffs. Sicilian lemon and grapefruit fizz like sunlight, cypress lending just enough shade to tether the exuberance. Effortlessly chic, terrifically refreshing: a white shirt, sleeves rolled, the sort of scent to summon light on a grey-skied afternoon.

 

 

 

 

  • Montblanc Explorer Extremecalls to mind a leather passport wallet and maps marked with the promise of distant cities. Bergamot’s green lift is a quickened pulse, heartened with earthy patchouli and vetiver, while amber and leather wrap the dry-down like the embrace of a seasoned travel coat. Best paired with a sense of direction (or a willingness to pretend), and a pair of boots made for both airport lounges and out-of-the-way places.

 

 

 

 

  • Maison Crivelli Cuir Infragrouge is pure drama – raspberry neon over a dusky suede jacket, cinnamon’s low hum beneath flashes of bergamot. The scent is both fierce and flirtatious: patchouli and oud glide underneath, vanilla softens the edges. To wear it is to turn heads – possibly even your own – and to justify a red lip and an attitude that hints at salacious secrets.

 

 

 

  • Memoize Levatio is autumn’s clean break and optimism: lively cardamom and citrus fizz over the woods, softened with fig and jasmine like a scarf flung casually over your favourite coat. There’s a gentle, ever-present warmth – not a roaring fire, but glowing embers and laughter echoing from another room. Wear with anything, especially if your mood leans towards starting something new.

 

 

 

 

  • Initio Power Self is modern armour fragranced – uplifting white florals, osmanthus, and magnolia tailored with a sharp dose of pink pepper and the comforting solidity of cedarwood and musk. It’s a scent for standing a little taller, for moments that require inner fortitude; the perfumed equivalent of silk-lined power dressing when the world expects something extraordinary.

 

 

 

And to finish, an extra special skincare bonus treat: Skinsense Cedarmide24 Recovery Support cream is your ritual of quiet self-kindness. Rich with lactic acid, shea butter and oils, it cocoons the skin overnight, smoothing and plumping as the world sleeps. Consider this the cashmere socks of your routine: don’t save it for best, let it be the thing that soothes and restores, reminding you – as every fragrance in this edit does – that adventure is as much about self-care as scented discovery.

 

We hope you agree that olfactive adventure in these autumn months should be a daily act, not a once-in-a-blue-moon extravagance. Signing up for The Perfume Society’s Seasonal Scent Subscription is the best possible (and affordable) nudge out from habitual favourites and into the marvellous – each Discovery Box arrives as a hand-picked perfume sample collection (think of it as having your own scent stylist) to try something gloriously new. Because, honestly, what’s life if not an excuse to dress – and scent – for every mood, no matter the season?

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Wrapped in Brambles – Blackberry Scents to Welcome Autumn’s Arrival

Get ready to feast your senses on a bounty of blackberry scents, because as the exuberance of summer yields to autumn’s golden hush, a shift occurs in the air – a coolness, a softening, a whisper of change that rings with the promise of misty hedgerows and brambly adventures. Let’s explore…

 

Yes, okay, part of us wishes the beautiful summer sunshine could have carried on awhile longer; but there’s also beauty to be found in the days when the earth’s palette deepens, shadows lengthen under coppery light, and nature offers up the succulent yield of late harvest. Plump, wild blackberries, their skins inky and glistening with dew and tinged with the sense of transition.

The poet Sylvia Plath once marvelled at coming across a lane laden with blackberries, sharing that sense of wonderment at seeing them en-masse, and at the world proffering us such jewelled, juicy gifts:

Blackberrying by Sylvia Plath

Nobody in the lane, and nothing, nothing but blackberries,
Blackberries on either side, though on the right mainly,
A blackberry alley, going down in hooks, and a sea
Somewhere at the end of it, heaving. Blackberries
Big as the ball of my thumb, and dumb as eyes
Ebon in the hedges, fat
With blue-red juices. These they squander on my fingers.
I had not asked for such a blood sisterhood; they must love me.
They accommodate themselves to my milk bottle, flattening their sides.

How wonderful, then, to now allow ourselves to revel in fragrances which seize upon this luscious note, bottling late summer’s last hurrah and welcoming the cosy embrace of the colder months ahead. We feel blackberry-centred scents can marry both worlds: they fizz with fun and fruity brightness, yet linger with spice, woods, and warmth, offering a sense of sensory escape and snuggle-worthy hugs with every spritz.

Now then, which of this lusciously juicy crop of blackberry perfumes would you pick first…?

 

 

Shay & Blue Blackberry Woods 100ml

Shay & Blue Blackberry Woods

This is a dusky stroll through an enchanted forest as twilight seeps through the branches. Created by Julie Massé, we’re plunged into the heart of blackberry season, the first cool nip in the air raising goosebumps on your arms, fingers stained purple from the sweet-tart juice of berries picked at their prime. Sparkling zesty orange flutters at the top alongside the signature sleekness of blueberry, painting a scene of sweet anticipation. The fragrance blossoms into a creamy heart of magnolia and orange blossom, their soft florals lending a gentle embrace before being enfolded in the comforting warmth of musk and cashmere wood. You’re left with the sensation of leaves crunching underfoot and the woodsmoke of dusk in the distance – a perfectly woven olfactory scarf for autumn’s arrival.

£65 for 100ml eau de parfum in the Shop

 

 

 

 

Lalique Amethyst

Unfurling like a freshly embroidered berry tapestry, this exuberant ode to hedgerows is groaning with the bounties of blackcurrant, blackberry, mulberry, and a whisper of blueberry for extra piquancy. Nathalie Lorson crafts a vibrant opening – nutmeg’s spicy prickle meets the tangy, jammy explosion of blackberry, underscored by the gentle freshness of blackcurrant. As the fragrance deepens, its heart reveals the silky, powdered blush of peony, a subtle dusting of rose peppered with spice, and the hypnotic warmth of ylang ylang. The base emerges soft and feathery with vanilla and musk, evoking the last rays of late afternoon sun glinting through a many-faceted amethyst gem, glowing with the remembered heat of summer and the anticipation of autumn’s many mysteries.

Currently £44.50 for 100ml eau de parfum superdrug.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jo Malone London Blackberry & Bay

Ah, now this conjures a rush of childhood memories – muddy boots stomping through tangled brambles, cheeks flushed from crisp air, baskets overflowing with glossy fruit. The initial impression is a bold, tart burst – blackberry juice bursting beneath your teeth, blackcurrant and bucco tree essence lending their green snap to a portrait of autumn hedgerows. Bay leaves in the heart – fresh, herbaceous galbanum and leafy verdancy – signal the moment when fruit and foliage are entwined. Anchored by cedarwood’s dry, charismatic depth, the fragrance lingers like the memory of a wild ramble, wrapping your senses with the promise of comfort and exploration.

From £56 for 30ml Cologne jomalone.co.uk

 

 

 

 

Salvatore Ferragamo’s Signorina Misteriosa

Effervescent as the last sparkling sip of summer, we find this quickly drapes itself in intrigue fit for long, candle-lit evenings. Wild blackberry and neroli fizz vivaciously atop the fragrance, beckoning you closer to an opulently plush heart of orange blossom and tuberose – florals that unfurl in sultry, petal-soft waves. Finally, the base, a mesmerising black vanilla mousse, emerges like dusk itself – sweet, enigmatic, almost edible, cocooning you in an irresistible, velvety warmth as night falls outside.

Currently £64 for 50ml eau de parfum debenhams.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tommy Hilfiger Tommy Girl Forever

That first glorious rush of blackberry is joined by the sunlit optimism of bergamot and juicy pear. It is nostalgia and modernity entwined, echoing the familiar warmth of the beloved icon with the joyful anticipation of new beginnings. Peony, iris, and jasmine bloom in the heart, like a floral crown tossed joyfully in the breeze, before settling into a gently enveloping base of amber, sandalwood, and cedarwood. This fragrance is a soft, nostalgia-laden embrace, wearable for crisp spells and those golden afternoons destined to become scent memories.

From £22 for 30ml eau de toilette theperfumeshop.com

 

With blackberry scents, it’s as though autumn reveals its playful side, yet at the same time invites us closer, urging us to wrap ourselves in the comfort of berries and woodsmoke, spice and memory, with an invitation to linger a little longer in the mellow magic of the season.

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Fall-ing for… autumnal fragrances

As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, autumn (or ‘fall’ for our American fragrance friends) invites us to embrace the comforting scents that reflect the beauty of the season. There’s something magical about this time of year; the rich aromas of fallen leaves, spiced beverages, and warm fires evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth…

In the world of fragrance, autumn offers a unique palette of scents that perfectly complement the colder months, allowing us to wrap ourselves in olfactory comfort as we transition from summer’s brightness to winter’s chill.In this blog post, we celebrate a selection of exquisite fragrances that embody the essence of autumn.
From deep, earthy notes that remind us of forest walks to warm, enveloping scents that evoke cosy evenings indoors, these perfumes are designed to enhance your seasonal experience. We’ll explore captivating options like Malin & Goetz’s Leather perfume oil, which nourishes the skin while providing a comforting aroma, and Ojar’s Wood Whisper, a sophisticated blend that captures the spirit of autumn in every spritz. Whether you’re an autumn lover or simply seeking a new signature scent for the colder months, join us as we delve into fragrances that will elevate your seasonal wardrobe.
Fall fragrances
Wales Perfumery FOREST
Forest by Wales Perfumery encapsulates the essence of the Welsh woodlands, offering a deep and earthy aroma that resonates with the rich biodiversity of the region in ‘Fall’. This fragrance is a tribute to the expansive network of forests that stretch across Wales, where tree canopies create a verdant tapestry over fields, mountains, and valleys.As autumn descends, Forest becomes particularly enchanting. It opens with the invigorating freshness of moss-covered oak trees, evoking the crisp air and damp earth typical of this season. The heart reveals a complex interplay of notes: the bright juiciness of apple harmonises beautifully with the warm spices and saffron, while fir needle adds a refreshing green touch. The base is a luxurious blend of sandalwood, cedar, vetiver, and patchouli, grounding the fragrance in a rich, woody depth that lingers on the skin. Perfect for this time of year, Forest invites you to take a sensory stroll through the enchanting landscapes of Wales.
£81 for 50ml eau de parfum walesperfumery.com
Ruth Mastenbroek GAIA Chamomile Moor
A serene olfactory journey through Britain’s lush natural landscape, capturing the essence of the Norfolk Broads. This woody fragrance opens with a crisp burst of bergamot, complemented by the aromatic freshness of rosemary, evoking the invigorating air of the countryside. At its heart lies soothing chamomile, locally grown in Norfolk, imparting a sense of calm and contentment. This central note is beautifully interwoven with the warm, spicy tones of rosewood and the delicate, grassy nuances of green tea, creating a harmonious blend that transports the wearer to a tranquil meadow. The base notes provide a grounding foundation, with tonka bean adding subtle sweetness, vetivert contributing earthy depth, and white musks lending a clean, airy quality. Together, these elements create a lasting impression of zen-like tranquillity, reminiscent of a peaceful day spent amidst nature—perfect for those seeking solace and serenity in their fragrance.
£65 for 30ml eau de toilette ruthmastenbroek.com
Noyz SH**TY DAY
A remarkable fragrance that lives up to the day-transforming cheeky name, offering a perfect pick-me-up for those less-than-stellar moments. Crafted by the esteemed perfumer Jérôme Epinette, this scent is a masterful blend of invigorating and comforting notes. The opening burst of eucalyptus leaves provides an immediate boost, while the salty ocean air and lavender create a revitalising effect that clears the mind and lifts the spirits. As the fragrance settles, the warmth of tonka bean and sea-soaked woods emerges, enveloping the wearer in a cosy, addictive embrace. This duality makes it an ideal companion for crisp mornings and frosty walks, where its fresh top notes mirror the brisk air, and its comforting base provides a sense of warmth against the chill. The longevity is impressive, with the scent evolving beautifully throughout the day, making it a versatile choice for any occasion that calls for a mood boost.
£85 for 50ml eau de parfum harrods.com
MALIN+GOETZ LEATHER PERFUME OIL
Paying perfumed homage to the centuries-old tradition of fragrancing artisanal leather goods. This modern interpretation masterfully blends rawness and refinement, creating a scent that is both immediately recognisable and universally appealing. As the cooler months set in, this perfume oil becomes an essential companion, offering an extra layer of fragrant comfort that’s perfect for keeping close at hand in your bag. The oil format is particularly lovely at this time of year, nourishing the skin while allowing the scent to develop intimately with your body’s warmth. Opening with muted florals that mirror the elegance of smooth leather, the fragrance evolves to reveal rustic wood notes reminiscent of a well-worn vintage find. Its nostalgic quality is enhanced by delicate notes that create a warm, enveloping sensation that only improves with time, shaping itself around the wearer like a second skin.
£32 for 7ml perfume oil malinandgoetz.co.uk
Ojar WOOD WHISPER
A sublime fragrance that captures the essence of autumn’s intimate beauty. This enchanting scent unfolds with a delicate whisper of woods, beautifully interwoven with soft plum and rose notes that create a harmonious, elegant composition. As the fragrance develops, it becomes increasingly creamy and sweet, with vanilla adding a warm, comforting dimension that makes it perfect for the colder months.Remarkably versatile, Wood Whisper leans slightly feminine but remains wonderfully unisex, feeling like silk against the skin. Its performance is impressive, lasting a solid 6-8 hours and projecting beautifully at an arm’s length. The fragrance is never overwhelming, instead offering a nuanced, sophisticated experience that evokes the gentle rustling of autumn leaves and the quiet intimacy of woodland walks. For those who love fragrances that whisper rather than shout, Wood Whisper is an absolute revelation.
£195 for 100ml eau de parfum selfridges.com
Written by Suzy Nightingale

Smoky Scents for Bonfire Night (& beyond)

‘Tis the season for smoky scents to come into their own, and we have collected together some favourites of these smouldering fragrance family, which we think are not only perfect to wear right now, but will see you through these colder months…

 

As the crisp autumn air settles in and the promise of bonfires and fireworks fills our senses, fragrance aficionados know it’s time to reach for those deliciously smoky scents that perfectly capture the essence of November nights. But why limit these olfactory delights to just one evening? Let’s explore a curated selection of fragrances that not only embody the spirit of Bonfire Night but also offer a year-round journey into the captivating world of smoky sophistication.

 

 

From the cosy embrace of a crackling hearth to the mysterious allure of incense-laden temples, smoke has long been an integral part of our scent memories. Today, we’ll delve into six extraordinary fragrances that harness the power of smoke, each telling its own unique story through a masterful blend of notes. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill bonfire scents; they’re complex olfactory tapestries woven by some of the most innovative noses in the industry.

Whether you’re huddled around a bonfire or simply seeking a touch of smouldering elegance for your everyday wear, these scents promise to ignite your imagination and leave a trail of intrigue in your wake…

 

 

 

4160 Tuesdays Black Velvet Cafe 

A masterclass in olfactory chiaroscuro, where the interplay of light and dark creates a scent that’s both comforting and enigmatic. The smokiness here isn’t the acrid bite of a bonfire but rather the gentle waft from a freshly pulled espresso shot. This coffee-tinged smoke intertwines beautifully with rich dark chocolate and the earthy sweetness of patchouli, creating a velvety backdrop for the fragrance’s more luminous notes. As it develops, hints of bright citrus and subtle spice from cardamom add depth and complexity. The genius of Black Velvet Cafe lies in its ability to evoke the cosy atmosphere of a dimly lit café long after Bonfire Night has passed, transitioning seamlessly from crisp autumn evenings even to the depths of winter.

£50 for 50ml eau de parfum 4160tuesdays.com

 

 

Cochine Vanille & Tabac Noir 

This is a wonderfully seductive dance between sweet and smoky, light and dark. The smokiness comes from rich, aromatic tobacco leaf studded with cardamom, providing a deep, resinous quality that evokes images of leather-bound books and whiskey-filled tumblers. This central tobacco note is beautifully balanced by creamy vanilla and warm patchouli. As it unfolds, delicate white flowers add subtle femininity to the composition. The result is a scent that’s both comforting and alluring – perfect for chilly November nights but equally at home on crisp winter mornings or balmy summer evenings.

£110 for 50ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

 

 

 

AKRO Smoke 

Ah now this is an unapologetic celebration of all things smoky, capturing the very essence of its name. This bold olfactory experience features multifaceted smoke notes—sharp, acrid hints reminiscent of freshly struck matches blend with woody warmth and resinous incense. Beneath this smoky exterior lies a complex heart of spices and woods; cardamom adds aromatic freshness while cedarwood and sandalwood provide grounding depth. As it evolves on the skin, whispers of leather and sweetness emerge, perhaps from tonka bean or vanilla. While perfect for Bonfire Night, Smoke is ideal for those who dare to make a smoky statement year-round.

£80 for 30ml eau de parfum fenwick.co.uk

 

 

 

 

Molton Brown Tobacco Absolute 

Exploring tobacco in all its glory with refined elegance, here the smokiness evokes a gentleman’s study rather than a raucous bonfire; rich tobacco offers honey-like sweetness alongside its inherent depth. Complemented by spices like nutmeg, elemi, and ginger, this fragrance also features bright bergamot in its top notes for contrast. As it develops further, smooth tonka bean and woody vetiver create a beautifully balanced dry down. Tobacco Absolute transitions effortlessly from cosy November nights to office days or winter gatherings — proving that smoky scents can be both refined and utterly addictive.

£140 for 100ml eau de parfum moltonbrown.co.uk

 

 

 

 

Marc-Antoine Barrois Encelade 

A tour de force in smoky fragrances named after one of Saturn’s moons, its otherworldly smokiness evokes cosmic dust and volcanic eruptions — a truly unique olfactory experience. The smoke here is complex; mineral notes create an almost metallic coolness that contrasts beautifully with warm undertones. Hints of leather and woods add richness as it evolves on the skin, revealing new facets throughout the day. Of course it’s striking on Bonfire Night, but we think you’ll agree that Encelade is perfect for avant-garde fragrance lovers seeking interstellar intrigue year-round.

£103.50 for 30ml eau de parfum 50-ml.co.uk

 

 

 

 

Shloksha Nicotine Factory Eau de Parfum

Presenting a daring take on tobacco themes that pushes olfactory boundaries, this modern interpretation dazzles by capturing the essence of a working tobacco factory with raw industrial smokiness reminiscent of freshly cured leaves. Enhanced by spices and woods, hints of leather and incense create an intriguing scent tapestry. Nicotine Factory starts off bold – ideal for brisk November celebrations – but mellows into a more subtle scent perfect for everyday wear. It’s an audacious choice for those unafraid to make a statement while enjoying contemporary twists on classic tobacco aromas, lasting long after the last firework has fizzled out!

£54.95 for 30ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Green Scents of the 70s – a bridge between seasons

Green fragrances are often thought of as spring-like, but these olfactory marvels are far more complex than mere harbingers of vernal renewal – and they’re PERFECT for ‘not quite autumn’…

Beneath their fresh, leafy exteriors lies a world of depth and sophistication, where earthy musks and woody notes create a captivating juxtaposition of light and shadow. And because they classically lean toward the Chypre fragrance family – full of mossy, musky delights as they warm – green can be the perfect perfumed bridge for the autumnal seasonal shift.

In recent years, we’ve witnessed a resurgence of fragrances that harken back to the golden age of green scents, but while later features will show some modern scented examples of the trend, first we wanted to go retro, and see from whence this scented trend originally sprang. The 1970s first saw an explosion of these verdant creations, beloved by both men and women for their bold, nature-inspired profiles. So, exactly WHY were they so popular then (and what’s made them stand the test of time, to be relevant again…?)

 

 

Green Connection to Nature and Counterculture

The green fragrance trend aligned with the growing environmental movement and counterculture of the 1970s. These scents evoked a sense of naturalness and connection to the earth, appealing to those embracing a more eco-conscious lifestyle. The use of patchouli, with its deep, earthy aroma, became particularly popular among hippies and free spirits of the time.

Gender Fluidity in Fragrance

Green fragrances often blurred traditional gender lines, reflecting the era’s evolving attitudes towards gender roles. Many green scents were considered unisex or were popular among both men and women, challenging conventional fragrance marketing.

Fashion and Lifestyle Integration

The popularity of green fragrances coincided with broader fashion trends of the 1970s, including the rise of casual wear and natural fabrics. These scents complemented the era’s style, which often emphasised a more relaxed ‘Hey man, let’s just go with the flow’ vibe and the overall nature-inspired aesthetic.

 

 

Green fragrances of the 1970s

Classic Green

The annals of perfumery are rich with legendary green fragrances that have stood the test of time: Paco Rabanne Pour Homme (1973): A masterful blend of lavender, oakmoss, and honey, this scent epitomizes masculine freshness with a warm, sensual base; Chanel No.19 (1971): Named for Coco Chanel’s birthday, this fragrance marries galbanum’s sharp greenness with the powdery elegance of iris. Sisley Eau de Campagne (1976): A tribute to the French countryside, it captures the essence of tomato leaves, herbs, and cut grass. Silences by Jacomo (1978): A study in contrasts, Silences juxtaposes bright galbanum with deep, mossy undertones. Clinique Aromatics Elixir (1971): A bold chypre that intertwines green notes with a rich, spicy heart and a warm, ambery base.

The Green Chypre Connection

Green fragrances often blur the lines with the chypre family, sharing a love for oakmoss, patchouli, and woody notes. This overlap creates scents that are at once fresh and grounded, making them ideal for transitional seasons.

Bridging the Seasons

As summer’s warmth begins to wane, green fragrances with their aromatic, woody, and musky facets offer the perfect olfactory bridge to autumn. These scents echo the changing landscape, where lush foliage gives way to earthy forest floors and sun-warmed bark.In essence, green fragrances are a testament to nature’s complexity, beckoning an undercurrent of depth and mystery, just waiting to be discovered…

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Between-Seasons Scents (what’s right for right now?)

As we transition from the last days of summer into the early whispers of autumn, our fragrance choices can play a delightful role in embracing this in-between season. The changing temperature and humidity levels can dramatically alter how perfumes interact with our skin, giving even our tried-and-true favourites a fresh character. But WHAT do we feel like wearing when the weather can’t make up its mind…?

 

How to Bridge the Scented Seasonal Gap…

When selecting a scent for this time of year, look for notes that bridge the gap between summer’s lightness and autumn’s warmth. Woody notes like cedar and sandalwood provide a cosy base without feeling too heavy – we don’t know about you, but we’re not quite ready to swaddled just yet! Spices such as cardamom and ginger add a tingle of warmth while maintaining elements of freshness, and not dominating a fragrance composition. Meanwhile, floral notes like rose and jasmine can still feel appropriate, especially when balanced with layering deeper elements or layered with a woodier / earthier scent you already have in your collection.

 

 

 

Five Perfumes Perfect for Right Now:

Jo Malone London Wood Sage & Sea Salt (£55 for 30ml): This perennial favourite takes on a new dimension in cooler weather, with the sage becoming more pronounced against the salty backdrop.

Diptyque Orphéon (£140 for 75ml): A sophisticated blend of juniper berries, cedar, and tonka bean that evolves beautifully as temperatures fluctuate.

Maison Margiela Jazz Club (£49 for 30ml): Rum and tobacco notes provide warmth, while pink pepper adds a crisp edge suitable for warmer days.

Byredo Mixed Emotions (£127 for 50ml): Black tea and violet leaves create a refreshing opening that settles into a comforting base of birch wood and papyrus.

The Body Shop White Musk (£20 for 30ml): An affordable classic that adapts well to changing weather, with its clean musk becoming more pronounced in cooler temperatures.

 

 

 

 

 

Samples and travel sizes are also perfect for this transitional perfumed period. Just as we may have spent many extra minutes each day staring into our wardrobes and pondering how to dress for weather that’s sunny and clammy one minute, then cold, wet, and windy the next; so too can our scent choices be thrown for a spin, leaving us wondering ‘what to wear?!’ Having a good selection of sample sizes and miniatures, however, gives you the opportunity for some to olfactory experimentation with different scents as the weather changes (and without committing to a full bottle!) Plus, they’re ideal for those last-minute weekend getaways or unexpected warm spells.

Seasonal Scents Subscription 2024The Perfume Society’s Seasonal Scents Discovery Boxes are an excellent way to explore new fragrances tailored to the time of year. While the Autumn box is on its way, your Summer box still remains a fantastic option for the coming weeks, especially if you’re planning a late summer holiday (lucky you!)

Remember, fragrance is deeply personal and can react differently on each individual. This betwixt-and-between perfumed period is the BEST time to allow yourself the joy of playing with your perfumes, being braver, exploring and discovering new scent combinations – or new brands / fragrance families to try, each of which will work uniquely for you.

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Step into the woods with these stunning scents…

With signs of autumn all around us, this month we’re embracing the season with scents that remind us of walking in the woods, wisps of smoke on the breeze, and that golden sunlight that streams through the leaves and warms our souls.

Now is the time to delight in that new freshness to the air – or add an extra layer of cosiness via your fragrance – reaching for perfumes that have a more contemplative feel, perhaps, or deeper scents, tinged with spices? Whatever you may choose, it’s a time to make the most of sunnier autumnal days while we can, and savour the best of the season. Which of these could be on your list to try…?

 

 

La Montaña First Light

Picture early morning in the pine woods, a walk at dawn when the mist veils trees with jewelled droplets, gossamer spiderwebs silvered by the chill. Then, slowly, the rosy blush rises over a mountain, the breeze alive with wild herbs, fronds of fennel, a verdant stillness which seems magical. That awed alchemy is bottled, here, to perfection.

From £22 for 10ml eau de parfum lamontana.co.uk

 

 

Maison Margiela Autumn Vibes

Capturing ‘a deep breath of woody autumn air in a bottle” this is a scent that recalls the crunch of leaves underfoot, towering trees in the woods a comforting canopy while you explore, a sense of stillness as the season swings anew. Pops of spices fizz beneath the fir balsam – cardamom, pink pepper and aglow amidst the mossy, snuggly soft base.

£58 for 30ml eau de toilette johnlewis.com

 

 

Goldfield & Banks Wood Infusion

An homage to the perfect beauty of a landscape you’ve fallen in love with, this moss-nestled hug of woods feels lined in silk, being dusted with smooth iris and slicked with a sheen of sandalwood. Inspired by Australia’s heritage-listed Fraser Island, it’s an immediate escape route in a bottle – spray, breathe in, close your eyes and exude the bliss.

£138 for 100ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

Escentric Molecules M+ Guaiac Wood

Taking the ‘your skin but better’ creaminess of that original molecule and adding guaiac wood was genius, ‘It has a gentle ‘cocooning around the fireplace in winter’ feel to it.’ explains Geza Schoen; ‘It’s like emulsified smoke that melts into the Iso E Super.’ Swirling amber-hued rum, this will warm your heart and make those around you utterly swoon.

From £20 for 8.5ml eau de parfum escentric.com

 

 

 

Laboratorio Olfativo ExpLOud

Described as a ‘quintessence of woody notes’, this hums with the power of its presence – a call on the breeze, entwined with woodsmoke, drawing you to the heart of the forest. Sublime layers of scent unravel, a duo of Indian and white oudhs swirling majestically, with bright red berries glistening, a surprising brightness atop resinous patchouli.

£110 for 100ml eau de parfum libertylondon.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Fragrances For… fall-ing in love with autumn

Hailed as ‘the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’, the start of autumn means golden sunlight, soft cashmere sweaters and a chance to snuggle up in scents that take a cosier turn. We’re hailing these new-season scents as a reason to celebrate fall (see what we did, there?) in love with some new fragrances again…

FLORIS
GOLDEN AMBER
Just 200 bottles have been hand-poured of this limited edition, portraying a summer stay at La Garda – ‘the home of ever-changing sunlight, the aperitif lifestyle, and the picturesque destination for many legendary Floris customers.’ Freshly amber-y, it bursts open with cassis and bergamot, with milky fig and sparkling aqua notes, riffled by a breeze of flowers and with an ambery finale of tonka, patchouli, almond blossoms and sandalwood that’s warm, wonderful and wearable.
£200 for 100ml eau de parfum
florislondon.com

 

 

FURLA
Preziosa
A glorious first collection of fragrances from the renowned Italian luxury goods house, the elegant curvature of the bottles is based on the arch of their historic 18th-century HQ in Bologna. This one’s a stunning saffron and pink pepper atop rose and geranium in the heart, but it’s the base that will have you swooning – creamy yet never too sweet vanilla caressed by chocolate-y suede. We adore the 10ml & 30ml sizes, too.
From £17 for 10ml eau de parfum
next.co.uk

 

 

JULIETTE HAS A GUN
Pear Inc.
A twist of muskiness and juicy yet crisp pear, another element we found prominent here is the milky heart (milk fragrances, too, are trending of late), laced with Ambroxan for a distinctly modern touch. Neither totally green or fresh due to the gauzy gourmand vibe throughout, it’s ‘a heavenly fragrance evoking happiness, sunny days and positivity,’ which founder Romano Ricci wanted to be ‘like the promise of a beautiful summer.’ (or autumn, we feel – seasons being interchangable now!)
£85 for 50ml eau de parfum
harveynichols.com

 

 

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS
Orchid Leather
You may think you know leather, but you’ve not yet smelled this, which conjures up a supple, almost silken floral around that note. The vanilla bean (fruit of the orchid) here feels lithe and smoky, while cardamom and plum deliver opulence – but there’s something animalic, too, a subtle snarl tangled amidst the cistus and a swirl of incense in the base. We’d also adore this on a man’s skin.
£130 for 75ml eau de parfum
harrods.com

 

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO
Intense Leather
Surging with freshness then taking an unexpected twist into supple, sensuous leather, perfumer Antoine Maisondieu fuses summer’s sparkling mandarin and crisp apple with flecks of pink peppercorn’s fizz. The heart sings of spring, meanwhile – lily of the valley’s verdancy dusted with a sprinkle of orris – and proving a scent for all seasons, the base is a warm autumnal hug of nuzzle-worthy oakmoss and musk. Beneath it all the leather invites caress, closeness, all you’ve been missing…
£56 for 50ml eau de parfum
ferragamo.com