Tag: fruity

Perfectly Picked Pear Perfumes…

Pear is a radiant note in modern perfumery, known for its succulent fruitiness and cheerful sweetness. In scents, pear can evoke the dew-spangled, juicy bite of ripe fruit or lend a more translucent, watery green aspect – a delicate alternative to brighter citruses. Its rounded, mellow nature means perfumers often use pear to create a sense of lightness, to harmonise white florals, or to bring an appetising, almost mouthwatering quality to both feminine and unisex compositions.​

Extracting true pear essence is challenging, as the fruit yields little natural aromamaterial, so most pear notes in perfumery are skilfully crafted from both natural distillates and synthetics. Materials such as hexyl acetate and hexenol lend a fresh, juicy, and distinctly green-fruity profile reminiscent of pear. Aldehydes can also imbue fragrances with that shimmering, clean sensation often associated with pear. In a few instances, natural pear aroma may be produced as a by-product of pear juice distillation, carefully concentrated for perfumery use, though by far the most fine fragrances rely on expertly-balanced synthetic accords to ensure stability and vibrancy in a final composition.

With fruit having had a bumper year, and now being the perfect time to harvest ripe pears, we pay perfumed tribute to this note, and suggest you seek out these scents, ripe for the smelling…

 

Jeroboam Kun Amo

Kun Amo opens with a vivid burst of bergamot and mandarin, but it’s the gleaming, juicy pear that brings light and liquidity to the fruity top. Almond, jasmine and raspberry round out the heart, while a base of musks and ambery woods cushions and softens. Here, pear feels plush and nectarous, adding an inviting, gently succulent undercurrent that balances the musky depth and makes the fruity brightness linger just a little longer.​

£100 for 30ml extrait de parfum selfridges.com

Miller Harris Poirier d’un Soir

This fragrance is an ode to golden hour in an English orchard. The pear in Poirier d’un Soir is shrouded in bergamot and marigold, nuanced with rum for a warm, gently glowing opening. As it develops, the pear becomes more honeyed and plush, nestling into peony, Turkish rose, a delicate whisper of spice, and finally, musky birch and cedarwood. The pear note here feels autumnal—crisp at first, then mellow, surrounded by twilight florals and a wisp of smoke.​

£140 for 100ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

BDK Parfums Bouquet De Hongrie

Bouquet De Hongrie is an airy, luminous floral wrapped around a juicy pear note that glows in the opening. Blackcurrant and strawberry add vibrancy alongside the pear, giving the initial impression of fresh-cut fruit. As the florals—particularly Turkish rose and jasmine—emerge, the pear lends dewiness and lift, while a soft musk and cedar base keeps the whole composition transparent, sheer, and romantic.​

£190 for 100ml eau de parfum johnlewis.com

Ormonde Jayne Damask

Ormonde Jayne Damask weaves pear tightly into its tapestry from the very start. Blackcurrant and Italian lemon offer tartness, while the pear rounds those edges, offering a subtle juicy smoothness. Threaded with jasmine, pink pepper, and a gently powdery rose, the overall impression is both modern and classic. Pear in Damask acts as a soft, barely-there green sweetness, supporting the florals and offering a cushion for the musky amber and vetiver beneath.​

£175 for 88ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

Les Eaux Primordiales Couleur Primaire

Couleur Primaire is a study in cleanliness and harmony. Here, aldehydes and pear lead, evoking the sensation of freshly-laundered linen and the dew of an early morning. The pear offers watery, translucent sweetness, almost soapy in purity, and mingles with jasmine, peony and a musky, ambroxan-rich base. The overall effect is of clarity and ease—where pear feels like a breath of gentle, green air, integral to the scent’s tranquil, uplifting comfort.

£160 for 100ml eau de parfum lessenteurs.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

An apple (fragrance) a day…

In the gentle shifting of the seasons, as the air is laced with autumn’s orchard offerings – the ground scattered with gold – apple fragrances ripen anew. They evoke not only the fruit’s celebrated crispness but also ancient harvests, folklore of comfort and communion, and that exhilarating tang of orchard-fresh fruity skin against the cool, misty air.

In fragrance, this fruit can bring a fresh, mouthwatering quality – conjuring the sensation of biting into an apple at its ripest. Or it may meld with more gourmand deliciousness – offering a simmeringly-spiced or addictively caramel-swirled sensory experience. Each scent pays homage to the apple’s poetic versatility – framing it as a sun-warmed memory, a bite into brightness, an emblem plucked from centuries of scented dreams. But did you know that the apple belongs to the rose family?! Although to be fair, it boasts thousands of members, for there are countless varieties of Malus domestica, a tree whose origins trace back to Asia.

 

 

 

 

Indeed, apples have woven their way into the world of perfume since the medieval era of Arab perfumery. But it isn’t solely the fruit that’s cherished – apple blossom lends a soft, floral air, while a recent trend sees perfumers blending in ‘apple tree’ notes. These are, in fact, synthetic, fantasy ingredients – artfully crafted to infuse compositions with a nuanced fruity-woodiness.

As fruit notes can very rarely be distilled or otherwise extracted to use in fragrance, how are apple notes created in a fragrance? Some noses might opt for a ‘headspace’ recreation of the entire tree, others may use a combination or ‘accord’ of some of the following, depending on the effect they want to achieve. Perfumers, ever inspired by the apple’s evocative qualities, employ a blend of artistry and science to bring its scent to life:

 

 

 

 

Synthetic fruity esters – such as hexyl acetate and ethyl-2-methyl butyrate – capture apple’s juicy freshness and green tartness, conjuring both orchard-bright and honeyed skin facets.

Apple blossom accords are woven in for delicacy – layering a soft floral air like mist threaded through boughs at dawn.

Woody nuances or “apple tree” notes – evoke the entire tree in autumn, adding fruit-laden branches and sun-warmed wood to the composition.

Gourmand and spiced apples arise when perfumers marry apple notes with caramel, vanilla, cinnamon or clove – echoing the warmth of baked apples and festive tables.

 

 

 

 

Each creation is an aromatic echo of orchard walks and harvest gatherings, delicately crafted to evoke both freshness and nostalgia. And we have a wealth of apple-centric scents to tempt you with this season. The only question is, which will you pick first…?

 

 

 

 

 

DKNY Be Delicious original

Time to re-visit this original scent (and discover it’s still a stunner). Mouthwatering bites of green apple conjures the atmosphere of orchards on an autumn morning – dew still clinging to the grass. Its sheer juiciness forms the core – crisp, fresh but never cloying – wrapped in cucumber’s coolness and a glint of grapefruit, magnolia petal, and violet. As rose and tuberose unfurl, the apple’s tart brightness glistens through until dusk: awakening the senses and uttering the promise of harvest in every perfumed pulse.

£47 for 30ml eau de parfum theperfumeshop.com

 

 

 

 

 

Kajal Lamar Noir

The apple here is bathed in a dusky glow – glinting amid a tapestry of tropical fruits and velvet violets. In the opening, it feels like a secret just picked at sunset – sharp and lively, shimmering above caramel’s deep warmth and vanilla’s comfort. Rose and geranium lend their opulence – rendering the apple not as innocence but as allure. The finish, swathed in smoky woods and soft leather, whispers of autumn’s late nights – the languor of orchard shadows.

£198 for 100ml extrait de parfum kajalperfumes.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Penhaligon’s Artemisa

Nestled alongside plump nectarines, violet, and the silken touch of lily of the valley, the green apple is tender yet vibrant . Like orchard mist caught in moonlight, the apple note glimmers – illuminated by the brightness of the opening notes, then swiftly swirled with wisps of jasmine tea and vanilla. The fruit’s facet is gentle and luminous – a subtle nod to the season’s mellow drift and the comfort of gathering indoors as oakmoss and sandalwood blanket the senses.

£175 for 100ml eau de parfum sephora.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

Parfums de Marly Greenley

Here, green apple shines with the exhilarating clarity of autumnal sunlight – coursing through Sicilian bergamot and mandarin, a burst of crispness that’s almost effervescent. The heart pulses with cedar and violet – evoking the snap of twigs and foliage, while petitgrain and pomarose add layers of green and fruit. With oakmoss and amberwood grounding the trail, the apple is the soul of autumn – life’s vividness, distilled.

£220 for 75ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marc-Antoine Barrois B683 Extrait

In this extrait, apple is rendered acidic and seductive – harmonising with spice-laced pepper berries and cumin. The note’s tart freshness slices through leathery depth and smoky oud – both daring and intimately carnal. Violet leaf enhances the green bite, while sandalwood and patchouli soften its edge – revealing an apple that’s more than a fruit: it’s memory, skin, and velvet, ripened in autumn’s waning shadow.

£270 for 50ml extrait 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

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

Cherry Picking Perfumes…

Cherry fragrances have blossomed into a veritable orchard of olfactory delights, their sweet and tantalising aroma captivating perfume lovers and becoming an increasingly prominent trend in the ever-expanding fruity gourmand family.

Far from being a fleeting fancy, cherry scents have taken root in the fragrance world, branching out into diverse and sophisticated interpretations that are anything but one-note wonders….

 

Cherry has an allure in perfumery because of its versatility. It can be playful and innocent, evoking memories of childhood sweets and summer picnics, or it can be deep and sensual, reminiscent of ripe, juicy fruit dripping with perfumed possibility. Cherry notes can add a luscious, mouthwatering quality to fragrances, often serving as a bridge between tart fruity accords and richer, more indulgent bases.

As the cherry trend has matured, we’ve witnessed a delightful evolution in how perfumers are utilising this beloved note. What you might have thought of as being syrupy-sweet cherry scents are now more complex compositions that explore the multifaceted nature of this fruit. Cherry is being paired with unexpected, more, deeper and darker ingredients like leather, tobacco, and even oudh, now – creating cherry-infused aromas that are at once familiar and intriguingly novel.

 

 

 

The new crop of cherry fragrances we’re sniffing are more sophisticated than ever, bringing differing vibes to suit every mood and occasion. Some perfumers are opting for a more realistic interpretation, capturing the slight tartness and green facets of fresh cherries. Others are leaning into the gourmand aspect, blending cherry with almond, vanilla, and chocolate for an utterly decadent experience. Still others are using cherry as a subtle accent, a fleeting whisper that adds depth and intrigue to otherwise prominently floral or woody compositions.

 

Which of these cherry scents would you pick, we wonder…?

 

 

 

Cherry

 

THoO Oud Guilty Crush wraps black cherry in a velvety embrace of dark chocolate and smoky tobacco, creating a scent as indulgent as it is mysterious. It’s the olfactory equivalent of a midnight rendezvous in a luxurious speakeasy.

£220 for 75ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

 

 

Cherry

 

Edeniste Oud Ghazal marries the sweetness of red cherry with the rich, resinous depth of oudh, resulting in a fragrance that’s both opulent and inviting. It’s like biting into a juicy cherry while lounging on plush silk cushions in a Moroccan riad.

£240 for 100ml eau de parfum harrods.com

 

 

Cherry fragrances

Electimuss Caspian Cherry offers a sophisticated take on sour cherry, blending it with crisp apple and warm amber. The result is a scent that sparkles like sunlight on water, refreshing yet comforting.

£200 for 100ml extrait de parfum electimuss.com

 

 

 

 

Fragrance Du Bois Sirene captures the essence of glacé cherry, combining it with delicate rose and creamy sandalwood. It’s a scent that whispers of vintage glamour and stolen kisses in secret gardens.

£255 for 75ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

 

 

 

Cherry

Initio Narcotic Delight lives up to its name, presenting a heady cocktail of black cherry liqueur spiked with pink pepper and smoothed with vanilla. It’s an addictive concoction that leaves you craving just one more sip.

£265 for 90ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

 

 

 

 

4160 Tuesdays Cherry Who takes a playful approach, blending tart cherry with zingy citrus and a hint of almond. It’s quirky and fun, like a cherry-flavoured sherbet fizzing on your tongue.

£190 for 100ml eau de parfum 4160tuesdays.com

 

Cherry as a trend is continuing ti flourish and diversify, and one thing is certain: these fragrances are far from the cough syrup-sweet scents you might have sour flashbacks of from yesteryear. Today’s cherry perfumes are sophisticated, nuanced, and yes – utterly irresistible. Whether you prefer your cherries black, red, sour, or glacé, there’s a cherry fragrance out there waiting to seduce your senses and become your pick of the perfumed crop.

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Berry Different: Exploring Strawberry’s Multiple Personalities in Perfumery

The sweet, succulent allure of strawberries has long captivated perfumers, who’ve found myriad ways to capture both the cultivated and wild varieties of this beloved fruit in their creations. As we delve into some of the most intriguing strawberry-forward fragrances we’re wearing this February (and continuing well in to summer!), we discover just how versatile this note can be.

 

 

 

strawberry

 

 

 

Bluebell & Wild Strawberry is Molton Brown’s newest offering, presenting woodland strawberries in their natural habitat, intertwining with earthy violet leaf and dew-kissed bluebells. The strawberry here feels authentically forest-like, with that characteristic tiny-but-mighty intensity that anyone who’s discovered wild strawberries while walking will recognise.

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

 

 

 

 

strawberry

 

In Widian’s Luban, strawberry takes an unexpected turn, appearing in the opening as a honey-sweet prelude that mingles with resinous frankincense. This isn’t your typical fresh strawberry – instead, it’s a sophisticated interpretation that feels almost candied, creating an intriguing contrast with the spicy-resinous heart of the perfume.

£335 for 50ml extrait de parfum harveynichols.com

 

 

 

 

strawberry

 

 

Creed’s Fragaria captures sun-soaked strawberry fields in full bloom, where bergamot and mandarin amplify the fruit’s natural radiance. The strawberry note here feels warm and ripened, kissed by sunshine and bursting with vibrant energy – imagine walking through a strawberry field at the height of summer.

£260 for 75ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

 

 

 

strawberry

 

Pomona Vitalis by Electimuss London presents a voluptuous interpretation, where strawberry mingles with lychee and Calabrian bergamot. The result is a sophisticated fusion that transforms the familiar fruit into something altogether more opulent and complex.

£215 for 100ml extrait de parfum electimuss.com

 

 

 

 

 

strawberry scent

 

 

Soki London’s Empress takes a more abstract approach, where the strawberry note plays hide and seek with the wearer, sometimes appearing distinctly, other times melting into a sophisticated blend with patchouli and toffee notes. It’s a masterclass in how strawberry can be used as an accent rather than the star, creating intrigue rather than announcing itself too boldly.

£75 for 50ml eau de parfum intense theperfumeshop.com

 

What’s fascinating about these interpretations is how they demonstrate the remarkable versatility of strawberry in perfumery. From woodland wanderings to sun-drenched fields, from candied sweetness to sophisticated abstractions, each perfume house has found its own unique way to capture this beloved fruit’s essence.

 

 

Perhaps that’s why strawberry remains such an enduring note in perfumery – its ability to surprise us, even when we think we know exactly what to expect…

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Playing Gooseberry (& mulberry, blueberry, tayberry…)

Scents with berry notes aren’t a new thing, but we’re starting to see the less usual berry ingredients cropping up in fragrance formulas. Of course perfumers and fragrance houses are always looking for ways to entice, and in our earlier trend report we predicted that fruity fragrances are going to be everywhere. We’ve already sniffed several new crops of this vibrant fragrance family, and to get ahead of this trend, let’s take a look at some already-available scents who’ve embraced this distinctive and gloriously juicy trend by using the less often used berries.

February being ‘the month of love’, with the traditional Valentine’s it’s fascinating to note how often berries feature in romantically themed scents, and there’s a long history of berries and love being linked this way. Strawberries are perhaps the most obvious – being pleasingly heart shaped and often presented to loved ones, perhaps decadently dipped in chocolate. But those less-often usedfragrant berry notes also have many links to mythology and flower lore.

 

 

 

 

As Courtney Alexander, from the Department of Horticulture at Cornell University explains, in Victorian flower language, for example, ‘an elderberry branch signified remorse’, while ‘the cranberry blossom signifies that the receiver extend kindness to the giver.’ Meanwhile, ‘Gooseberries are also associated with a wide range of meanings’ (often rather nudge-nudge, wink wink ones) because ‘when British children ask where babies come from, they are told that they can be found “under a gooseberry bush.” This agrees with the Victorian flower meaning of the blossom: anticipation.’ And of course, ‘The phrase “playing gooseberry” signifies the third person and possible chaperone of a group where the other two people are dating.’

Whichever ripe berry you plump for, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect perfume, from our pick of the berry bunch this month…

 

 

berry fragrances

Gooseberry – Abercrombie & Fitch Authentic Self Woman

As bright and cheery as a sunny day in the English countryside. The vibrant yellow flacon hints at the explosion of freshness within – a zesty wake-up call that’s sure to lift your spirits on even the gloomiest of mornings. The star of the show is the tart, green gooseberry, which adds a delightful zing to the composition. Imagine biting into a perfectly ripe gooseberry, its sharp, tangy flavour bursting on your tongue. This vivacious note is beautifully complemented by the citrusy punch of lemon peel and the luscious sweetness of pear. As the scent develops, a beautiful bouquet of freesia, jasmine, and lily of the valley emerges, their delicate floral notes softened by a woody musk base.

£39 for 100ml eau de parfum thefragranceshop.co.uk

 

 

berry fragrances

Cranberry – Pictor Parfum Airbrush

Painting a picture of sophistication with its unique cranberry note, think of strolling through a misty landscape, the tart berries glistening with morning dew. The scent opens with a smattering of ripe cranberry, its sharp, slightly bitter aroma mingling with the sweetness of mandarin and the exotic allure of lychee. As it settles, the composition reveals a heart of rose and cyclamen, with an unexpected twist – the glamorous scent of waxy lipstick. The final brushstroke is a creamy blend of vanilla, dry amber, and soft musk, creating a truly flawless olfactive masterpiece.

£84 for 50ml eau de parfum In our Shop

 

 

 

 

berry fragrances

Tayberry / Loganberry / Sloe / Raspberry Leaf – Jorum Healing Berry

A veritable cornucopia of berry notes. This fragrance transports you to the Valley of Strathmore, where wild berries grow in abundance. Imagine crushing tayberries, loganberries, and sloes in a timeworn pestle and mortar, releasing their tannin-sweet juices. The scent is a complex tapestry of aromas, weaving together the herbaceous notes of artemisia and wild mint with the fruity richness of blackcurrant and violet leaf. As it dries down, the earthy warmth of raspberry leaf and orris butter emerges, grounded by a unique cereal accord that evokes images of sun-warmed fields.

£89 for 30ml extrait de parfum jorumstudio.com

 

 

berry fragrances

Blueberry – Shay & Blue Blueberry Musk

Created by perfumer Julie Massé, is a bewitching concoction that showcases the often-overlooked blueberry note. Close your eyes and imagine biting into a plump, ripe blueberry, its sweet-tart juice staining your fingers. This vivid note is paired with zesty orange in the opening, creating a sparkling, mouthwatering effect. The heart of the fragrance blooms with the heady white floral notes of magnolia and orange blossom, their creamy sweetness perfectly balancing the fruity top notes. As the scent settles, a sensual base of musk and cashmere wood emerges, wrapping the wearer in a warm, inviting embrace.

Try a 2ml sample as part of The Perfume Party Discovery Box (nine differing fragrance samples) £22 / £18 for VIPs In our Shop

 

 

berry fragrances

Blackcurrant / Blackberry / Mulberry / Blueberry – Lalique Amethyst

A true berry extravaganza created by Nathalie Lorson, this is a celebration of dark, juicy berries – blackcurrant, blackberry, and mulberry – with a hint of blueberry for good measure. Picture yourself in a sun-dappled forest, surrounded by bramble bushes heavy with ripe berries. The scent opens with a burst of spicy nutmeg mingling with the rich, jammy aroma of blackberry and the tart, slightly green note of blackcurrant. As it develops, a lush floral heart unfolds, featuring pepper-spiced rose, delicate peony, and intoxicating ylang-ylang. The base is a soft, powdery blend of Bourbon vanilla and sensual musk, creating a scent that’s as multifaceted and captivating as the amethyst-inspired bottle it’s housed in.

£63 for 50ml eau de parfum uk.lalique.com

 

These innovative fragrances prove that berries are more than just a sweet treat – they’re a versatile and exciting addition to the perfumer’s palette. From the tart zing of gooseberry to the jammy richness of blackberry, each berry note brings its own unique character to these olfactive compositions, creating scents that are truly unforgettable.

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Long-lasting citrus-fresh, Cologne-style scents (which won’t wilt in the heat)

We adore the freshness of a citrus-infused Cologne, but soul-reviving though that sparkle of freshness is in summer, they traditionally don’t last very long on the skin. Now, there’s a whole banquet of thirst-quenching and uplifting citrus scents to try, which last WAY longer and keep our spirits up for HOURS, hurrah!

There’s no doubt that in July, juicy citrus scents are the order of the month, we feel – yes, of course when it’s sunny they feel so appropriate, but even when the weather’s not playing ball (as of late) it’s time to let those citrus scents shine! Wearing juicy-smelling citrus Cologne-style fragrances brings the feeling of joyous sunshine in a fragrance, no matter the weather. Now, put the brollies away and get sparkling with these contemporary twists on the traditional Cologne…

 

 

 

 

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Media Forte

Francis Kurkdjian’s Aqua Cologne Forte collection is suffused with light and freshness, its philosophy seeking to help us cultivate ‘a healthy mind in a healthy body’. Thus, we welcome Media Forte, ‘the embodiment of balance and harmony’, a deceptively simple construction that is tangibly fresh and citrus bright, showcasing Italian bergamot, radiant hedione and aromatic sweet fennel, grounded in a green moss facet, patchouli and woody musks. Spray, breathe, chill.

From £115 for 35ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

 

 

 

 

Shloksha Bouquet Monument

This scent stands out from the rest of the stunning collection for its vivacious vibrancy and freshness. Excitingly zingy, they describe it as ‘young, aquatic and sparkly with an amber base’ (we’d say it makes you feel ten years younger to wear it, energy-levels-wise!’ From the juicy exuberance of the opening fruitiness there’s a floral bouquet as it warms, the petals fizzing as they bloom, with that warming amber glow of a base as the lasting, resonant trail…

£54.95 for 30ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

 

 

 

LABORATORIO OLFATTIVO Pompelmo

Master of understated simplicity, Jean-Claude Ellena taps into his Italian background here, where – as he explains – ‘several beverages celebrate bitterness.’ Front and centre is grapefruit, considered in Asia to be a sacred fruit which was offered to the gods; Jean-Claude worked on the fruit’s ‘lively and sour freshness’, while stressing its bitter scent.’ Pink pepper, resinous lentisque, patchouli, white musk and vetiver feature in the olfactive chorus line of this fresh, shareable masterpiece.

£90 for 100ml eau de parfum Cologne harveynichols.com

 

 

 

 

Experimental Perfume Club Bergamot / Incense

A bergamot full of complexities. This brings out all the facets of this radiant citrus fruit via contrasting ingredients, with frankincense and olibanum bolstering the dry warmth and slight smokiness of incense oil. Juniper berry plays to its bright, zingy nature, with a tingle to the nose. Tea notes and a supple iris absolute calm and soothe.

Currently £92 for 50ml eau de parfum experimentalperfumeclub.com

(Try Bergamot / Incense with eight other EPC sample sizes in their Discovery Set Essential, £50 for 9 x samples in our shop

 

 

 

 

Robert Piguet Cravache

Originally launched in 1963, we celebrate the revivification of Piguet’s classics, now under the guardianship of genius nose, Aurelian Guichard. Here, the citrus zing has the sparkle turned up to eleven, with quenching mandarin, bitter orange and bright petitgrain zesting up even the dullest of days. Granted the addition of jasmine, orris, sage and saffron, the clarity of the composition remains, even in the snuggle of tree moss-lined woodiness as it warms.

£205 for 100ml eau de parfum fenwick.co.uk

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Manfred Thierry Mugler 1948 – 2022 Written in the Stars

Legend has it that before he became famous, the artist, ballet dancer, designer and all-round creative visionary Manfred Thierry Mugler, once visited a fortune teller. So the story goes, she gazed intently at his palm and noted the lines formed a star. Telling him to incorporate the shape in all his designs to ensure his success, he did as she suggested and, well, the rest is history. Whatever the truth of this tale, the star emblem can be found woven throughout the cosmos Mugler created, and forms the shape of what continues to be one of the best-selling fragrances of all time…

Manfred Thierry Mugler died at the age of 73, on January 23rd. Shockwaves have rippled through the fashion and fragrance worlds alike. A message posted on the official Mugler fashion house Instagram account read:

‘It is with deep sadness that the House of Mugler announces the passing of Mr Manfred Thierry Mugler. A visionary whose imagination as a couturier, perfumer and image-maker empowered people around the world to be bolder and dream bigger every day.’

On the catwalk, Mugler’s designs might burst forth in a froth of feathers and acres of pastel tulle, cocooned in form-fitting armour and cinched-in waspie waists or swathed in fetishised, curve-accentuating fabrics on gleefully strident fembot style models. Never expected, always extraordinary, his clothes were vibrant, unapologetically fun and totally unforgettable.

Mugler was also the man behind countless signature looks of celebrities – including outfits for the Too Funky music video by George Michael and Demi Moore’s dress in the 1993 film Indecent Proposal. He also dressed the likes of Grace Jones, David Bowie, Celine Dion, Kate Moss and Diana Ross, with Ross paying tribute to him on Twitter, writing: ‘I will miss you Thierry Mugler this was a wonderful time in our lives.’

Mugler designed costumes for Beyonce’s I Am… World Tour, and the iconic singer paid tribute to Mugler on her official website, posting a black and white picture of the designer with the words ‘Rest In Peace’ above; while Kylie Minogue posted a comment on his Instagram, saying: ‘Deepest condolences (heart emoji) A true visionary. Thank you for your art Manfred.’

Thierry Mugler Angel

His art didn’t stay put on the catwalk, or in high-end clothing boutiques. It burst free again in the massive way his fragrance, Angel, shook up and forever changed the fragrance industry.

What makes an iconic fragrance? To bring about a scented shift, to become a true icon, it can never be a ‘me-too’ crowd-pleaser, it must do something new, take risks. Those ‘classics’ we revere and nod sagely at nowadays were once the punk rock of the perfume world. Angel was an olfactory ‘shock’, when it launched in 1992 – causing a sensation. It was also, crucially, given the gift of time.

In the early 1990’s the fragrance world was all about beachy, clean aquatic scents (now making a comeback in a new wave of water-inspired releases), so the emergence of a brashly swaggering, chocolate-dipped fruity funfair-inspired concoction was all the more shocking.

It should be noted that Angel wasn’t an immediate success. Indeed, one wonders if it had been launched in today’s more impatient marketplace if it would have been allowed to survive that first year. Thank goodness Mugler had the vision to stick with it, and Angel waited until the world caught up with what was the first true ‘gourmand’ or food-inspired fragrance.

To create Angel, Thierry Mugler approached Jacques Courtin-Clarins, head of the celebrated Clarins skincare and fragrance empire. Having revolutionised the world of fashion, the designer was seeking a partner who could bring his brand to life through a fragrance. So Angel was born, with its good-enough-to-eat notes, and an unprecedentedly high concentration of 30% ultra-rich, woody patchouli, added to keep the fragrance from becoming overly sweet.

 

 

The patchouli was the brainwave of perfumer Yves de Chiris, who knew he needed something to counterbalance the heart of sugary confections – the candyfloss, caramel and chocolate – which were inspired by Thierry Mugler‘s vivid, fairy-lit memories of a childhood fairground. Together with renowned perfumer Olivier Cresp, they created something more than a mere perfume.

On his personal Instagram account, Olivier Cresp wrote: ‘Thierry Mugler was a true genius in fashion, photography and shapes in a broad sense. I’ve always been amazed by his ability to project through his many projects, he was a great visionary. 2022 is the year of Angel’s 30 years, so let everyone honour her by staying in touch with her through perfume. Working alongside him was a privileged and unique moment that I am very proud and happy of.’

Thomas Dunckley (a.k.a The Candy Perfume Boy) once wrote about his first experience with Angel, saying ‘The very first time I smelled Angel, right at the beginning of my perfumista journey, I was shocked, appalled and disgusted all at once. Who would want to wear this? I thought. But I kept finding myself coming back to Angel, there was something about her, she lured me in and wouldn’t let me go, I was helpless. I became obsessed and after many sniffs I finally bought a bottle, wore it with pride and didn’t look back.’

In later years Thomas commented that Angel ‘is always the perfume that I come back to, and it’s the only fragrance that I can wear for weeks on end without thinking of anything else.’ He continues:

‘Angel isn’t just your typical perfume, she is a legend, a legend in exactly the same way that N°5 and Shalimar are legends. She’s also not just a legend, she is a fierce vixen and a complete diva.’

As Pierre Aulas, Mugler‘s Olfactory Artistic Director comments: ‘What makes Thierry Mugler fragrances successful? The power of the unexpected, the force of audacity and unbridled creativity’.

Angel will always remain an iconic fragrance, with new generations similarly discovering, being shocked by and eventually falling in love with her. Even if you’d never smelled the scent itself, the bottle will be forever emblazoned in our collective consciousness – one of very few flaçons to be instantly recognisable the world over from its shape alone.

As those in the fashion and fragrance spheres continue to mourn Manfred Thierry Mugler’s death, social media is filled with images of celebrities wearing archival pieces and fans lovingly clutching their bottles – ensuring his name, and Angel’s perfumed presence, will be eternally written among the stars. So, if you’re already a fan, fling caution to the wind and douse yourself in an extra spritz; or, if you’ve never quite dared wear it, now’s the time to don that fragrant armour and swagger-forth, deliciously scented and celestially blessed.

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Shay & Blue launch Kings Wood…

Shay & Blue have been exciting fragrance lovers since 2012, founder Dom De Vetta’s previous roles being Senior Vice President at Chanel and Global General Manager of Jo Malone London, joining with talented Grasse perfumer, Julie Massé, to create his very own fragrance house.

We were thrilled to get the opportunity to exclusively preview their latest – Kings Wood – in our New Man Discovery Box, and now the fragrance has officially launched, we’re able to fully celebrate. Scroll down to watch our Unboxing review of the fragrance…

Shay & Blue say: ‘Kings Wood is a unique men’s fragrance. Different and distinctive it is a real statement of confidence. Bursts of fresh pineapple are blended with the natural aromatic of fearn leaves to create layers of freshness with an intriguing depth. The base notes of fine leather and English oak leave an impression of classic masculine refinement.’

We’ve noticed a resurgence of heritage woods being used in contemporary fragrances – and here, English oak is showcased in all its majestic glory, and the pineapple makes for welcome change to those who prefer something a little more adventurous than citrus in the opening notes. Crisply green fern leaves are enhanced by a sprinkle of warm pepper on a luxuriously smooth and reassuringly solid base, and the supple leather in the dry-down just makes us want to snuggle up for a deeper sniff…

We filmed an Unboxing session live on our Instagram channel, and have now uploaded this to YouTube so everyone can enjoy – watch it, below! We get sniffing Shay & Blue Kings Wood around 23:50 on this video if you want to skip straight to it, and Part 1 of the Unboxing is also available on our channel if you want to sniff-along with all the scents.

We’re absolutely loving the pineapple in Kingswood, it’s a different kind of fruity – lusciously juicy but with a spikiness that cuts through the smoother, richer notes. But did you know that pineapples were once a symbol of wealth and welcoming, being so expensive they could be rented (at extortionate prices!) for hosts anxious to prove their importance, and still adored for their thirst-quenching exoticism?

If you want to try a sample of Kings Wood along with our other carefully curated fragrance selection, you can buy The New Man Discovery Box here. And we know those of you who’ve already got in touch to tell us how much you love Kings Wood will be anxiously counting the hours until it officially launches on 1st September, so you can finally get your hands on a full-size bottle in-store.

Shay & Blue Kings Wood £85 for 100ml natural spray
Buy it at shayandblue.com

Written by Suzy Nightingale