Tag: layering

Layer Light into Scents – a Springtime Boost!

How can we layer some extra light into scents when we need it most? It’s certainly true that as spring unfolds and the days grow longer, many of us feel the urge to infuse our fragrances with a little extra brightness. And here’s how we do it…

Sometimes, the perfumes we adore can feel a touch too heavy or muted for these lively, sunlit days. Rather than retiring them, why not breathe new life into those scents by layering with lighter, fresher companions? Layering is a joyful, creative way to lift your spirits and add radiance to your fragrance wardrobe – especially when the afternoon lull threatens to dim your energy.

 

 

 

Why Layer?

Layering allows you to balance richness with luminosity. Look for notes that bring sparkle and freshness – zesty citrus like bergamot, mandarin, or petitgrain; sparkling spices such as pink pepper or ginger; delicate florals like neroli or jasmine; and soft musks or woods that add warmth without weight. These elements can enliven your mood and sharpen your focus, making layering a perfect pick-me-up when you need a burst of vitality.

Don’t be shy about spritzing a lighter scent over your usual perfume on pulse points or hair, letting the layers mingle and evolve throughout the day.

Start gently, experiment, and enjoy discovering new light-filled olfactory moments, whenever you need them.

Happy spring-light shopping and sniffing!

 

 

 

Edeniste Lifeboost Discovery Set 

These ground-breaking, mood-boosting fragrances have been researched and created with the help of neuroscientists to target the needs we all have depending how we feel. From energising and reviving to soothing and aiding bursts of joy while you wear them, we suggest trying their Discovery Set of the layer-able Lifeboosts to keep on hand (and wrist) as a kind of olfactory toolbox. Worn alone they’re wonderful, of course, but we think you get the best sense of their scented super-powers when spritzed atop another scent. They slice through any malaise and are noticeably adding newness, while perfectly harmonising with whatever you might already be wearing.

£32 for six samples in our shop

 

Try these next three from the Edeniste collection for EXTRA spring light-filled freshness…

 

 

Edeniste Lifeboost Happiness

Lifeboost Happiness is a vibrant celebration of exotic mango, bursting with juicy, colourful notes of raspberry and watermelon that dance like sunlight on water. This sparkling fruity floral is anchored by pure Virginian cedarwood essence, lending a warm, woody embrace that grounds the exuberance with subtle sophistication. Layered over a deeper floral or gourmand perfume, Happiness infuses your scent with a tropical fizz and carefree joy, transporting you to sun-drenched shores and brightening your mood with every spritz.

£80 for 30ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

 

Edeniste Lifeboost Wellbeing

Lifeboost Wellbeing offers a refined harmony of crisp Ethiopian ginger and vibrant pink peppercorn from La Réunion, creating a sparkling, invigorating top accord. At its heart, precious Indian jasmine and delicate Chinese iris add a floral softness, while the whole composition settles into a verdant, dewy quality reminiscent of a forest after rain. Layer this atop woody or amber fragrances and Wellbeing breathes fresh vitality and calm into your scent, balancing richness with a green, uplifting clarity that enlivens both mood and senses.

£80 for 30ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

 

Edeniste Lifeboost Energy

Lifeboost Energy is a sparkling symphony of bergamot, grapefruit, and lemon, lifted by a lively spark of Ethiopian ginger absolute. Jasmine and rose add a floral brightness that dances atop a soft base of musk, cedarwood, and amber. Layer over a richer perfume, and it cuts through any heaviness with fresh, zesty clarity – like sunlight breaking through clouds. Perfect for an afternoon boost, it transforms your scent into a lively celebration of spring’s vitality.

£80 for 30ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

 

 

 

 

The Merchant of Venice Accordi Profumo Petitgrain Paraguay

Petitgrain Paraguay offers a fresh elegance with peel-like citrus top notes and a herbaceous heart reminiscent of sunlit leaves. Its subtle woody undertones provide a seamless transition to deeper fragrances, making it an ideal layer. When combined with a heavier floral or amber scent, it breathes new life into the composition, lifting it with a crisp, invigorating breeze – like a stroll through a blossoming garden on a perfect spring day.

£65 for 30ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

 

 

 

 

The Merchant of Venice Accordi Profumo Bergamotto Italia

Bergamotto Italia reveals the juicy pulp and green nuances of bergamot, balanced by dry and woody facets that add refinement. Layer over a dense or gourmand perfume and it acts like a ray of sunshine – brightening and clarifying without diminishing character. This fragrance adds a tonic-like freshness to your collection, perfect for moments when you want your perfume to feel lighter, more sparkling, and utterly uplifting.

£65 for 30ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com)

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Merchant of Venice Accordi Profumo Arancia Brasile

Arancia Brasile captures sun-drenched Brazilian oranges with a juicy, vibrant heart. Beyond the citrus burst, it reveals woody and green layers that make it versatile. Layer this over spicy or oriental bases to add juicy sweetness, or pair it with lighter florals to amplify natural brightness. Like a sunbeam cutting through afternoon haze, it infuses your perfume with joyful, zesty spirit.

£65 for 30ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

 

 

The Merchant of Venice Accordi Profumo Neroli Marocco

Neroli Marocco celebrates orange blossom with a heady white floral heart softened by aromatic citrus notes. Layered atop rich amber or vanilla bases, it adds a Mediterranean glow – warm yet fresh, like a gentle sea breeze on a blossoming spring afternoon. This scent lifts heavier perfumes, imbuing them with sparkling elegance and sunlit charm.

£65 for 30ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

Layering fragrances is a delightful way to refresh both your collection and your mood. By combining bright, zesty notes with your favourite base scents, you create a personalised perfume that feels lighter, more energised, and utterly spring-like. Embrace experimentation – start small, test combinations, and enjoy the process of discovering new olfactory luminosity in your life.

 

 

 

When the afternoon lull creeps in, reach for a spritz of something fresh and light filled layered over your usual perfume. It’s a simple, powerful way to lift your spirits, sharpen your focus, and carry the joyous energy of spring wherever you go. After all, fragrance isn’t only about how it smells (though obviously that’s important) – it’s about how it makes us FEEL.

So, why not layer up, breathe deeply, and feel brighter by letting your perfume shine with the light of the season?

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Fragrance Layering: use these clever combos to brighten-up winter scents

Right now, many of us find ourselves caught between seasons – not quite ready to relinquish our cosy winter fragrances yet yearning for a breath of fresh air in our scent wardrobe. January offers the perfect opportunity to experiment with layering, allowing us to infuse our beloved cold-weather perfumes with a touch of brightness and olfactory optimism.

The art of fragrance layering isn’t merely about combining scents; it’s about creating a bespoke olfactory experience that reflects our mood and the changing world around us. By introducing fresh, invigorating notes to our deeper, more complex winter fragrances, we can craft a scent that bridges the gap between seasons and lifts our spirits on even the greyest of days! So here are some ideas about how to bring a sense of brightness to the warmer, snugglier scents you might not want to give up just yet…

 

 

 

 

One exciting way to explore this layering concept is with the Edeniste Lifeboost Discovery Set (£32 for six samples in our shop) These innovative fragrances have been meticulously developed in collaboration with neuroscientists to target specific emotional needs. While each scent stands beautifully on its own – and are also offered in full-size bottles, which we’ve linked below – they truly shine when used as aromatic building blocks, layered atop your existing fragrances to add dimension and vitality.

 

 

 

ENERGY EDENISTE LIFEBOOST

 

The Lifeboost Energy fragrance (£75 for 30ml eau de parfum in our shop) for instance, is a vibrant symphony of Italian citrus fruits, with peppery bergamot and juicy grapefruit taking centre stage. A whisper of Ethiopian ginger absolute lends a zingy, effervescent quality that can cut through the richest of winter perfumes, instantly imbuing them with a sense of vivacity and purpose. Imagine misting this over your favourite amber or vanilla-based scent – suddenly, that comforting warmth is shot through with sparks of sunshine.

 

 

 

For those seeking a more nuanced freshness, Lifeboost Wellbeing (£75 for 30ml eau de parfum in our shop) offers a sophisticated blend of spicy and green notes. The unexpected pairing of Ethiopian ginger and pink peppercorn from La Réunion creates a crisp, uplifting accord that dances atop a heart of precious Indian jasmine and Chinese iris. When layered over a woody or oriental fragrance, it adds a verdant, dewy quality reminiscent of a forest after rain – grounding yet invigorating.

 

 

 

HAPPINESS EDENISTE LIFEBOOST

 

If you’re craving a burst of pure joy, look no further than Lifeboost Happiness (£75 for 30ml eau de parfum in our shop). This exuberant creation centres around a luscious mango accord, enlivened by the tartness of raspberry and the aquatic freshness of watermelon. Underpinned by the smooth warmth of Virginian cedarwood, it’s like bottling a tropical holiday. A spritz of this over a deeper floral or gourmand scent instantly transports you to sun-drenched shores, even on the coldest January morning.

 

 

 

 

 

For those who prefer to focus on singular notes, The Merchant of Venice’s Accordi di Profumo range offers a selection of exquisitely crafted fragrances that celebrate individual ingredients that have been used for centuries by perfumers, and have been developed to layer in countless combinations for your own unique creations.

 

 

 

 

When used in layering, the Petitgrain Paraguay fragrance (£65 for 30ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com), for example, can breathe new life into warm fragrances. Its ultra-crisp, citrusy opening cuts through dense base notes, while its herbaceous heart adds a touch of natural green-tinged freshness. The subtle woody undertones in its dry-down allow it to seamlessly blend with a wide range of scent profiles, from florals to richer, resinous scents.

 

 

 

 

Their Bergamotto Italia (£65 for 30ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com) is a love letter to the fruit, capturing not just the zesty peel but the juicy pulp within. When layered over a heavier scent, it adds a bright, tonic-like quality that feels both sophisticated and effortlessly refreshing.

 

 

 

 

Similarly, their Arancia Brasile (£65 for 30ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com) is a multi-faceted exploration of the orange. Beyond the expected citrus burst, it reveals subtle woody and green facets that make it an surprisingly versatile layering option. Try it over a spicy oriental to add a juicy sweetness, or use it to amplify the citrus top notes in a classic chypre.

 

 

 

For a touch of floral freshness, Neroli Marocco (£65 for 30ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com) offers a masterful interpretation of orange blossom. Its heady white floral heart is tempered by aromatic notes, resulting in a scent that’s both opulent and invigorating. Layered over a rich amber or vanilla base, it adds a touch of Mediterranean sunlight to even the most wintery of perfumes.

 

Granado edp discovery set

And for those who enjoy a more playful approach to fragrance, Granado’s Tropical Birds Discovery Set (£58 for 5 x 10ml eaux de parfums in our shop) offers a delightful array of options you might want to experiment by wearing alone first, and then perhaps try layering. Their Imperial scent, with its intriguing blend of Brazilian and Portuguese influences, adds a light, elegant freshness to deeper fragrances. Jardim Real celebrates the vivacity of citrus fruits alongside delicate florals, with orange blossom taking a starring role – perfect for adding a touch of spring to your winter favourites.

Époque Tropical balances rich, woody notes of sandalwood and guaiac with the brightness of mandarin and the unique fruitiness of cashew, creating a scent that’s both grounding and uplifting. Infusão Botânica, meanwhile, offers an intriguing freshness through its blend of spicy and aromatic notes, and finally in this collection, Nostalgia marries citrus and spice with an elegant floral heart – each providing a unique way to breathe new life into your existing fragrances.

 

Remember, all of these fragrances can certainly be worn alone, but January invites us to be more adventurous with our scents. By layering fresh, bright notes over our comforting winter favourites, we create an olfactory reflection of the season – a time of transition, of looking forward while still embracing the cosy comfort of the past. So don’t be afraid to experiment – you might just discover your perfect signature scent combo for the year ahead…

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

What scents to wear & layer for autumnal sunshine?

At this time of year we are clinging on to every scrap of sunshine we can get – and one of the best ways to do this is to wear scents that seem to bottle that particular, golden quality of light we get in autumn. This way, even when the weather isn’t sunny all day, or there’s a chill on the breeze, we can still revel in that gilded warmth all day long.

For the Seasonal Scents subscription boxes, we choose fragrances ideally suited for wearing right now, so your fragrance wardrobe perfectly reflects the weather. But what else can you wear that feels right for right now (or brings that sunlight we’re desperately craving whenever it’s grey and drizzly, and TV weather reports keep promising an ‘Indian Summer’ to make up for the actual summer that never quite happened, here in the U.K.?!)

 

 

If you’re after a quick-hit of uplifting olfactory splendour to bring some sunshine into your life immediately, we have some excellent suggestions. So, if you are in the mood for fragrant joy (and oh goodness, we could certainly all use some at the moment), then here are four of the sunny yet autumn-friendly fragrances we are reaching for at the moment…

 

 

Molton Brown Sunlit Clementine & Vetiver

Capturing the essense of lazy, hazy autumnal afternoons, softly beguiling notes of lavender, creamy fig leaf, and roasted hazelnut conjure cosy brightness, while a sophisticated base of smoky vetiver and amberwood adds depth.

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

 

 

 

Sunny solar scents for summer Floral Street Arizona Bloom 
Floral Street Arizona Bloom

Capturing the heart-soaring feeling of freedom this wide-open vista evokes a desert oasis. Queen of the Night flower lush with Balinese coconut, grounded by woody oakmoss and salted musks.

from £29 for 10ml eau de parfum floralstreet.com

 

 

ESCENTRIC_MOLECULES_MOLECULE_5

 

ESCENTRIC MOLECULES MOLECULE 05

Showcasing pure Cashmeran, a complex note that perfumer Geza Schoen masterfully employs to evoke Mediterranean warmth. This single-note fragrance manages to be simultaneously dry, aromatic, soft, and comforting.

£115 for 100ml eau de parfum escentric.com

 

 

EAU.MG Flor Funk 

Packed full of the brightest orange blossom, swathed in a cloak of earthy moss, soft musk and smooth sandalwood – the creaminess is an addictive layer of warmth. One to swish through leaves while wearing, grinning joyously.

£95 for 50ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

But what if you’re not currently in the market for a new scent, and want to utilise those you already own? The good news is that it doesn’t necessarily mean investing in an entire new collection of fragrances – here are some general tips for layering a sunshine-filled seasonal balance in your choice of perfume:

 

  • Look for notes such as bergamot, orange, mandarin and lemon to add some zing to a scent – uplifting the spirit and reviving energy, these ingredients also cut through heavier notes in a fragrance composition and can remind us of bright sunlight breaking through the clouds. Or close your eyes and imagine the light streaming through amber or red coloured leaves in a woodland setting: citrus plus woody, smoky or resinous notes give this amber-hued olfactory impression.

 

 

  • Floral notes such as rose, iris and even jasmine are still beautiful in autumnal scents – tempered by woody, mossy or resinous bases they feel richer, more texturally akin to velvet, suede or cashmere than summery linen or cotton-centric scents. What’s more, autumn is often the best time of year to try these florals with more density, as in hot weather they can feel too overpowering. Consider looking through your current collection to rediscover scents you may have overlooked in summer – or break out of your comfort zone and try a brand new style of scent you’d previously discounted as ‘not really me’. Temperature and climate can play a huge role in how we wear and perceive a scent.

 

 

If it’s a sunnier autumn day and your choice of scent suddenly feels too heavy (as though you’ve put on a thick jumper or winter-weight coat too early), don’t be afraid to layer your fragrance with a lighter, brighter scent to feel like you’ve taken a layer off and can breathe again! We’ve a simple guide to layering fragrances you can follow to change-up your fragrance as the weather / your mood requires.

 

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Layering scents like clothes (for seasonal perfumed perfection)

As the leaves turn and the air cools, layering fragrances becomes an art akin to dressing for the season. Just as you might add a cosy scarf or a warm sweater, fragrance layering allows you to envelop yourself in comforting scents that mirror the textures and warmth of your autumn wardrobe.

 

Yes, we could moan about missing summer, and the fact we’re back in tights again; but instead, at The Perfume Society, we urge you to have some fun and make the most of this season with perfumed layering possibilities. It’s an olfactory opportunity to get creative and create a personalised, multi-dimensional fragrance that evolves with you throughout the day.

 

  • To start, consider using a scented body oil or lotion as a base. This not only hydrates the skin but also locks in the base notes of your chosen fragrance, ensuring longevity. Begin with rich, grounding base notes like sandalwood, patchouli, or vanilla (these can be in your perfumed body product, or perhaps a perfume with an oil base), which act as the sturdy foundation of your scent ensemble.
  • Next, layer on heart notes that provide depth and complexity. Think of spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, which add a warm, inviting touch. These middle notes should harmonise with your base, creating a seamless transition.
  • Finally, add a splash of top notes to brighten the blend. Citrus or light floral notes can add a touch of autumn sunshine, preventing the fragrance from feeling too heavy. Apply each layer strategically on pulse points such as wrists and neck, where the warmth of your skin will help diffuse the scent beautifully.

 

If that feels a bit complex for now, try layering two fragrances you already have in this way: organise your scents by their most dominant notes (those that smell most obvious on your skin); then, consider the following suggestions to try changing-up both perfumes for seasonal perfection…

 

 

Layering fragrances for autumn

 

 

Layering combinations of fruity and woody scents:

1. Cedarwood & Apple

Start with a rich cedarwood base, which provides a warm, earthy foundation. Layer it with crisp apple notes to add a fresh, fruity brightness. This combination captures the essence of autumn, evoking images of apple orchards and fallen leaves.

2. Sandalwood & Plum

Sandalwood’s creamy, soft woodiness pairs beautifully with the juicy sweetness of plum. This blend creates a warm, inviting scent that feels both luxurious and comforting during the cooler months.

3. Patchouli & Pear

The earthy depth of patchouli complements the sweet, ripe notes of pear. This combination balances the richness of patchouli with the lightness of pear, making it an intriguing choice for autumn.

4. Oudh & Fig

Oudh brings a deep, smoky richness that pairs well with the sweet, slightly earthy notes of fig. This combination creates a complex and sophisticated fragrance that is perfect for the season.

5. Birch & Blackberry

Birch offers a fresh, woodsy aroma that works well with the tart sweetness of blackberry. This blend captures the essence of autumn with its contrasting notes, making it lively yet grounded (and utterly delicious!)

Layering these combinations can create a unique fragrance that reflects the warmth and richness of autumn, making each scent experience personal and inviting. Which fragrance combo might you like to give a go first, we wonder…?

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Strength to strength – Cologne to parfum (what to wear, when?)

Navigating the world of fragrance strengths can sometimes seem as complex as choosing a fine wine, with a variety of strengths and concentrations to consider. From colognes to extraits, each type offers a unique olfactory experience and serves different purposes. Understanding these differences can help you select the perfect scent for any occasion.

 

Fragrance Strength and Concentrations

Fragrance strengths are determined by the concentration of perfume oils in the carrier, usually alcohol. Here’s a handy guide to help you distinguish between them:

  • Extrait/Extract/Solid Perfume: With a concentration of 20-30%, these are the most potent forms of fragrance. They are rich and long-lasting, ideal for special occasions when you want your scent to linger throughout the day or evening.
  • Perfume (Parfum): Containing 15-25% perfume oil, this is slightly less concentrated than extrait but still offers a robust and enduring scent. Perfume is perfect for formal events or a night out when you want to make a lasting impression.
  • Eau de Parfum (EDP): With 8-15% concentration, EDPs are versatile and popular for their balance of longevity and subtlety. They are suitable for both day and evening wear, providing a noticeable yet not overwhelming presence.
  • Eau de Toilette (EDT): At 4-8% concentration, EDTs are lighter and more refreshing. They are ideal for daytime use, especially in warmer climates, offering a pleasant scent that lasts a few hours.
  • Cologne (EDC): With 2-4% concentration, colognes are light and invigorating. They are perfect for a quick refresh during the day or after a workout, providing a subtle fragrance that doesn’t overpower.
  • Body Cream/Lotion: These products typically contain 3-4% fragrance concentration. They are excellent for layering with other scents to enhance longevity and provide a moisturizing base.
  • After Shave/Splash: Also at 2-4% concentration, these are designed to soothe the skin post-shave while imparting a light fragrance. They are best used for a gentle scent that complements other fragrances.

The concentration – ‘strength’ – of perfume oils not only influences the scent’s longevity on your skin but also its price. Generally, higher concentrations last longer and come with a heftier price tag. However, it’s essential to note that different concentrations, such as Perfume or Eau de Toilette, might feature varying notes and aren’t merely weaker or stronger versions of the same scent. To truly appreciate a fragrance, it’s worth exploring all its concentrations to find your personal favourite.

 

 

differing strength fragrances

Choosing the right fragrance strength for the occasion

Selecting the right fragrance strength depends on the occasion and your personal preference:

  • For Everyday Wear: Opt for an Eau de Toilette or a light Eau de Parfum strength. These provide a pleasant scent without being overpowering, suitable for work or casual outings.
  • For Special Occasions: Choose a Perfume or Extrait strength for a more intense and long-lasting fragrance. These are perfect for weddings, formal events, or evenings out.
  • For a Refreshing Boost: Use a Cologne or After Shave/Splash. These are great for a quick pick-me-up during the day or after a workout.

Understanding these fragrance strengths not only helps in selecting the right scent but also enhances your overall fragrance experience, ensuring that your chosen scent perfectly matches the moment. Some fragrance enthusiasts enjoy layering different scent types throughout the day to create a unique olfactory journey. Here’s a handy guide, if you’d like to follow this fragrant routine…

 

 

Fragrance strength

How to layer differing strength scents effectively

  • Morning Refresh: Start your day with a splash of Cologne to awaken your senses. Its light and invigorating nature is perfect for a refreshing boost.
  • Daytime Elegance: Transition to an Eau de Toilette for daytime wear. Its balanced concentration provides a noticeable yet subtle scent that complements your daily activities.
  • Hot Weather Tips: In warmer temperatures, consider pairing a Cologne or Eau de Toilette with a matching or unscented body lotion. This helps lock in the fragrance, as dry skin tends to make scents fade faster.
  • Hair Perfumes: Explore the world of hair perfumes, which offer a delightful way to wear your fragrance. These are often infused with moisturizing and protective properties, making them ideal for hot weather when alcohol-based scents can dry out your hair.
  • Evening Allure: As the sun sets and you prepare for an evening out, switch to an Eau de Parfum. Its richer concentration leaves a sultrier trail, perfect for making a lasting impression throughout the night.
  • Boudoir Intimacy: For a more intimate setting, a dab of pure Parfum or Extrait is ideal. These stronger concentrations are designed to linger close to the skin, creating a personal and alluring aura for you and those privileged enough to get close.

By understanding and experimenting with different fragrance strength formulas and layering techniques, you can tailor your scent experience to suit any occasion, ensuring you leave an unforgettable olfactory impression wherever you go!

Given the hot weather here in the U.K. currently, perhaps you’d like to further your fragrant knowledge with our guide to the fascinating history of Cologne.? Whichever type of scent you choose to wear, we hope this guide will help you go from strength to strength…

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Be Your Own Mixologist – How to Layer Perfumes…

Perfume layering is an art form that transforms we fragrance enthusiasts into olfactory mixologists, crafting unique scent cocktails with each spritz. Just as a skilled bartender combines spirits, mixers, and garnishes to create a signature drink, perfume lovers can blend different fragrances to develop their own aromatic masterpieces…

 

The process of layering fragrances is similar to mixing cocktails in several ways. First, it requires an understanding of the “ingredients” – in this case, the individual notes and accords within each perfume, and your personal preferences. Like a mixologist who knows the flavour profiles of various spirits, a fragrance enthusiast must be familiar with the characteristics of different scent families and how they interact.

 

 

 

 

When layering perfumes, the order of application is crucial, much like the sequence of adding ingredients in a cocktail. Typically, heavier or more intense fragrances are applied first, followed by lighter scents, allowing each layer to shine without being overpowered.This technique mirrors the way a bartender might layer spirits in a cocktail glass to create visually striking and flavourfully complex drinks.

The possibilities for fragrance combinations are virtually endless, just as with cocktail recipes. Perfume lovers can experiment with complementary scents, such as pairing a fruity fragrance with a deeper, oakmoss or patchouli-based fragrance to concoct a ‘Chypre’ effect. Alternatively, they might create contrast by combining different fragrance families, like adding a vanilla layer to a smoky oud for an unexpected twist.

 

 

 

 

Some fragrance houses have even embraced this trend by offering layering kits, similar to cocktail-making sets, allowing consumers to play with different scent combinations.These kits provide a perfect starting point for those new to the art of fragrance layering. But really, you can mix up your own scented cocktail using perfumes you already have. Here’s how to begin…

 

Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise!

Particularly in warmer climates. Nothing makes fragrance disappear more quickly than dry skin. Try using a matching body lotion or oil to your fragrance (many have matching products like shower gels as well – the more layers of the scent the better!) Aroma molecules evaporate far slower on well-hydrated skin.

Try also spraying the scent into your hair, too, so it wafts around you all day. Hair doesn’t heat up as much as skin, and will absorb the smell more deeply. Do a patch test, first, to ensure the fragrance doesn’t discolour your hair (spray on a tissue to be sure).

 

How to Pick Your Perfumes

Start by layering the ‘heaviest’ (often woody, gourmand or patchouli / resin rich notes being dominant), then a floral or fruity aspect, and finally a lighter, fresher scent. Stop and sniff-check between layers! You may have already found the perfect blend in two scents.

For more detailed instructions of which fragrance notes layer best (and how to add freshness, soften or add depth to an existing fragrance you have) do read our Tips & Tricks to Save Your Scent feature.

 

Experiment!

As with mixology, perfume layering is both a science and an art. It requires knowledge, of course – but here we mean your own sense of what suits you best, the notes you love above all others (rather than a degree in chemistry!) creativity, and most of all: a willingness to experiment. The result is a truly personalised fragrance experience that, just like a perfectly crafted cocktail, is greater than the sum of its parts…

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Pretending It’s Already Spring: how to layer floral notes in fragrance

Before spring has truly sprung, we’re excitedly looking for any hint of floral budding and blossom blooming in nature – and in the fragrances we want to wear at the moment. But sometimes the full-on floral scents we might adore a little bit later in the year don’t feel quite right for right now. So, how to transition a more winter-y feeling fragrance into something more seasonally appropriate?

Follow our guide to layering floral notes into a perfume that suddenly feels a little too stuffy…

 

Why layer?

Layering fragrances used to be seen as a scent sin, but we’ve all gotten over ourselves a bit (well most of us have). You don’t have to do this to a perfume you already love on its own – why would you need to? – but there are brilliant ways of adding a brightness and fresher beauty to a perfume that perhaps now feels a bit too dark or cloying on your skin. Give it a go, because, as we always say: perfume isn’t a tattoo – if you don’t like it, you can wash it off!

You can either try layering over other fragrances you have in which the above notes dominate, with a single-fragranced ‘soliflore’ (one main note) fragrance oil or spray, or try layering the scent you don’t currently like so much over a differently perfumed body lotion or oil (see below or the added benefits of doing this…)

 

 

Florals need hydration!

Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise! Nothing makes fragrance disappear more quickly, or dive to the deeper base notes more rapidly, than dry skin. To prolong brighter top notes and floral heart notes in a scent, try using a floral-scented body lotion or oil to your fragrance. Aroma molecules evaporate far slower on well-hydrated skin.

Try also spraying a floral hair mist scent into your hair, too, so it wafts around you all day. Hair doesn’t heat up as much as skin, and will absorb the smell more deeply, to waft around you in a delightful floral breeze all day.

 

 

What order to layer in? 

(You definitely don’t need to layer ALL of these – unless you’re feeling particularly decadent, and why not? – but here’s a general guide on what order your chosen layering scent should come…)

 

Scented shower / bath gel

Matching body lotion / oil / balm (or a pick out one of the notes of your chosen scent to echo that in the body product)

Eau de Cologne

Eau de toilette

Eau de parfum

Parfum

Perfume oil / attar

Fragranced hair mist (or simply spritz your scent into your hair, on to clothes (having patch-tested!)

 

 

Floral fragrances perfect for layering

The Merchant of Venice Accordi di Profumo fragrances have been designed to layer perfectly or to wear alone, if you prefer. The Neroli Marocco adds a stunning shot of sunshine floralcy to any scent, while the Rosa Turchia feels like spritzing a shower of freshly-picked rose petals into any fragrance.

 

 

[Both £65 for 30ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com]

 

The Edeniste Lifeboost Discovery Set has been created specifically as a kind of fragrant mood-altering toolkit to add on top of something else you’re wearing whenever you need it (which is an utterly genius idea, and comes backed by science having been developed with the aid of neuroscientists’ studies). Included within the set is a white floral, a floral musk, brighter, zing-ier florals and many other fragrant facets to change-up your perfume (and how you’re feeling!), and to be played with to your heart’s content.

 

[£32 for 6 x 2ml samples eau de parfum in our shop]

 

Another excellent way to test and hone your new found scent layering skills is by subscribing to the always seasonally-perfect perfumes chosen for the Seasonal Scents Subscription Boxes. And, of course, treating yourself to a Discovery Box to try all sorts of combinations – how many hundreds (or thousands?) of combos you could create by learning to layer, within each box we don’t pretend to know. But one thing we can say for sure: you’ll have a whole lot of fragrant fun!

Written by Suzy Nightingale

How to Layer Freshness into Fragrances

We’ve a whole feature on exactly how to layer fragrances to achieve your own perfect blend, but it can be tricky to find scents that behave well with others.

Here, we take a look at some fragrances that have been specifically designed to be layered – and these ones will add that much-needed WHOOSH of freshness and stalky greens to any perfumes you already on and love, but which maybe need a little livening-up – as do we all, right now…

 

 

 

 

The Merchant of Venice Accordi di Profumo fragrances were created in order to focus on notable perfumery ingredients that have been beloved for centuries, here evoked by their master perfumers to perform as  “…a harmonious combination of olfactory notes. These can be used together, layered, resulting in a tailor-made perfume.” Separated into fragrance families, the Fresh Citrus collection uses ‘essential oils obtained by pressing the peel of fruits such as bergamot, lemon, orange and grapefruit, popular in the Mediterranean for their freshness and liveliness.’ We recommend reaching for either (or both!) of this duo for adding an instant fresh zing to any scent…

 

 

 

 

 

The Merchant of Venice Accordi di Profumo Bergamotto Italia

‘The brightest and most elegant of the citrus family, Bergamotto Italia is like a fresh and sparkling water, tonic and dynamic, an ode to happiness and naturality. Bergamotto Italia lets you discover all the fragrant juice of the pulp and fruit for an exclusive Bergamot experience.’

£65 for 30ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

 

 

 

The Merchant of Venice Accordi di Profumo Arancia Brasile

‘An elegant citrus fragrance that releases a multifaceted fruity, green, dry and woody personality. Arancia Brasile is a fragrance that smells of summer: citrus fruits accompanied by the addictive sweetness of Brazilian oranges.’

£65 for 30ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

 

 

 

 

Edeniste Lifeboost Discovery Set 

These ground-breaking, mood-boosting fragrances have been researched and created with the help of neuroscientists to target the needs we all have depending how we feel. From energising and reviving to soothing and aiding bursts of joy while you wear them, we suggest trying their Discovery Set of the layer-able Lifeboosts to keep on hand (and wrist) as a kind of olfactory toolbox. Worn alone they’re wonderful, of course, but we think you get the best sense of their scented super-powers when spritzed atop another scent. They slice through any malaise and are noticeably adding newness, while perfectly harmonising with whatever you might already be wearing. Try these three for EXTRA freshness…

£32 for six samples in our shop

 

 

Edeniste Lifeboost Energy

‘A reviving musky woody citrus. A refreshing splash of citruses from Italy, infused with the energizing essences of peppery bergamot and regenerative grapefruit, boosted with zingy ginger absolute from Ethiopia. As bright and empowering as a tall dewy glass of freshly squeezed juice. Get up and glow.’

£68 for 30ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

Edeniste Lifeboost Wellbeing

‘An uplifting spicy green floral. A confidence booster with zingy Ethiopian ginger absolute and crisp pink peppercorn absolute from La Réunion. The quintessence of easygoing wellbeing, captured in a luminous accord of fresh spices and green notes enhanced by two of the most precious ingredients in perfumery: Indian jasmine absolute and iris concrete from China. Dive deep into your inner self, feel its uplifting sense of comfort. You’re golden.’

£68 for 30ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

 

 

Edeniste Lifeboost Happiness

‘A joyful woody fruity floral. A sparkling essence built around an exotic mango accord spiked with juicy, colorful notes of raspberry and watermelon, on a base of pure Virginian cedarwood essence. Surrender to the exhilarating beat of its fizzy tropical delight. Feel the bliss.’

£68 for 30ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

 

Experimental Perfume Club Discovery Set

The Experimental Perfume Club concept has always been about the freedom to blend fragrances as you wish – each of the scents cleverly comprising head, heart or base properties which you can then combine to your heart’s content. The very best way to experiment and discover your own perfect blend is by layering the fragrances contained in this brilliant discovery set. Showcasing brilliantly blended accords by perfumer Emmanuelle Moeglin, we’d point you towards the Bergamot Incense, Fig Neroli and Rose Rhubarb to add instant freshness to your fragrances in this selection. But really, the perfumed possibilities are almost infinite however you choose to combine them!

Bergamot Incense – Citrus and exotic spices are brought together in this bright fragrance with Eastern influence.

Fig Neroli – The crunch of fresh herbs in a Mediterranean garden in bloom. A garden combined, green leaves and dark woods.

Cardamom Moss – A swirl of spices wrapped in salty waves of mineral mosses and Ambroxan.

Jasmine Osmanthus – A tribute to white flowers growing on hot sand. Jasmine flowers growing on an apricot tree. Capturing all the fond memories of summer holidays.

Rose Rhubarb – A bright rose entwined with sharp blackcurrant and sparkling, zingy rhubarb.

Tonka Sesame – An utterly delectable combination of gourmand notes and woods; fused in perfect harmony.

Sandalwood Musk – A mineral sandalwood met by leather and musks. A soft, creamy sandalwood pierced with light, shining in the dark, enhancing the darker woods.

Amber Iris – An amber wrapped in powdery notes; dark yet soft. A power play of ingredients, a scent of juxtapositions. A smoky, smooth incense pierces through rich, resinous myrrh.

Cedarwood Absinth – Aromatic wormwood oil gives the scent of Absinth. Cypriol roots give a powerful earthy, woody, balsamic undertone, bolstered by Virginia and Atlas Cedar, and patchouli.

£50 for nine samples in our shop

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

STORIES Parfums – even more reasons to fall in love & layer the scents

Containing aloe vera, Provitamin B5, glycerin and coconut oil cleansers, these washes are exquisitely luxurious, lather wonderfully, and being woven through with their iconic, memory-laden scents, are of course are brilliant to layer with. Not only are they SLS and cruelty free, the multi award-winning wash formula has now been stunningly re-packaged for extra wow-factor in the bathroom, and are now available in our shop!
STORIES Parfums comments:
‘At STORIES Parfums we believe passionately in beauty without boundaries. While our story may have started with deep roots in traditional perfumery methods and ancient craftsmanship, our ethos is that of a thoroughly modern brand and at the heart of our brand is a deep respect for the planet we live on, and we want to make sure that the place we call home does not simply survive but thrives.
We view ourselves as New Niche Fragrance Pioneers, bringing luxury and sustainability together. This true sense of connectivity is why we are committed to ensuring that we are as sustainable as possible.’
All STORIES fragrances have been created ‘with the lightest carbon footprint we can,’ they continue. ‘It is also why all of our labels are rock paper derived from marble mining waste, we use recyclable Zamak caps for our glass bottles, all of our bottles are refillable and our boxes are made to be repurposed.’
This thoughtful re-working is all part of STORIES ongoing commitment to ‘recycle, reduce and reuse’ – a campaign and ethos that runs through the heart of the house, and which has already seen them win awards for sustainability in beauty two years running. A fact that means so much to founder and creative director, Tonya Kidd-Beggs.
“I believe passionately in beauty without boundaries. Right from the concept of STORIES it was hugely important to me to create a luxury fragrance house that came from traditional perfumery methods and ancient craftsmanship but with the ethos of a thoroughly modern brand. At the very core of the brand I wanted to carry a deep respect for the planet we live on – I want to make sure that the place we call home does not simply survive but thrives.”
The hardworking but so skin-gentle formula is laced with the delicate yet always evocative scent of the original STORIES Nº.01 fragrance, which contains notes of bergamot, grapefruit, cedarwood, and jasmine, and feels like tip-toeing through a garden at dawn.
Scent Notes: Bergamot – Grapefruit – Orange Blossom – Cedarwood – Jasmine – Heliotrope – Fig-Tea – Amber – Sandalwood – Vetiver
£68 for 500ml 
A gentle, foaming hand and body wash that leaves skin clean, deeply hydrated and feeling balanced. The hardworking formula is infused with truly personal scent memories of their STORIES Nº.02 fragrance, which contains notes of Bulgarian rose, ginger, green tea and honey tobacco.
Scent Notes: Bulgarian Rose – Ginger – Cardamom – Green Tea – Honey Tobacco – Cedarwood – Opoponax – Tonka Bean – Patchouli – Amber – Musk
£68 for 500 ml
The fragrant layering needn’t end there, as the sensorially and skin-soothing matching Hand & Body Lotions are available at £75 for 500ml – we’re all for these fragrant super-sizes, as apart from meaning they last way longer, they’re so stunning to display in your bathroom!
Written by Suzy Nightingale

How to Layer Fragrances

The art of layering fragrance is sometimes presented as a skill you must not attempt until you’ve fine-tuned your nose to the level of a master perfumer. Or perhaps even suggested as something you should never do. Worry not. We’re here to guide you through with some easy tips and tricks to ensure a fragrant harmony every time you spritz…

Did you know that in the Middle East, people layer up to SEVEN fragrances at a time? Sometimes more! Never be afraid to play with perfume. (The wonderful thing about fragrance is there is no right or wrong: if you like something, then it’s right. If you don’t, you can wash it off. It’s not a tattoo after all.)

 

The best way to begin layering

Start with a scent you like a lot but wish could last even longer / add more character to. Write the name of that fragrance into our clever Find a Fragrance database, and it will give you a description of the notes (individual raw materials and perfumer’s accords) that make up the composition.

Now, pick a favourite note and think which other scents you have with those notes (see if you’ve already got some of those the genius algorithm suggests, or add them to your Must Sniff List, next time you’re shopping!)

 

 

We very rarely seem to leave the house without at least a couple of scents on each arm (hey, it gets hard to choose) and after a day of sniffing and spraying various latest launches, there are occasions we have multiple fragrances vying for attention. Now, this is not the ideal way to wear them, of course – a perfume needs time space to bloom to perfection on your skin – but there are many times and differing reasons you may feel the need to stack up the scents, and here is how you should go about it:

 

 

How to layer if you want your fragrance to last longer

Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise! Particularly in warmer climates. Nothing makes fragrance disappear more quickly than dry skin. Try using a matching body lotion or oil to your fragrance (many have matching products like shower gels as well – the more layers of the scent the better!) Aroma molecules evaporate far slower on well-hydrated skin.

Try also spraying the scent into your hair, too, so it wafts around you all day. Hair doesn’t heat up as much as skin, and will absorb the smell more deeply. Do a patch test, first, to ensure the fragrance doesn’t discolour your hair (spray on a tissue to be sure).

 

 

How to layer if your fragrance is too sweet

Look for dominant citrus notes like bergamot, neroli, mandarin, lemon, lime or ‘green’ notes such as galbanum, tomato or violet leaf, green tea, marine/aquatic accords (synthetic recreations of sea-like, watery smells) and aldehydes (often described as being like Champagne bubbles).

 

How to layer & soften a scent

Vanilla and tonka bean can ’round’ a perfume, making it swoon on your skin (and addictive to smell), as can touches of synthetic notes described as ‘caramel’ or ‘dulce de leche’, ripe fruits, chocolate or even candy floss. For a smoother, woodier sheen to a scent, add a sandalwood-rich or cashmere/powdery scent on top. These notes feel cocooning, adding a layer of soft comfort to spikier ingredients.

Try to add less than you think you need, as adding more is always easier than taking away, and a little of these can go a long way!

[See many more suggestions for how to change-up a fragrance you’re not getting on with, here.]

 

 

How to layer if you need to change from day to evening

Consider boosting the base notes of the scent you’re wearing – these tend to be the last to linger on your skin, being made of heavier molecules, and are likely to include ingredients such as patchouli, labdanum, olibanum, vetiver, woods or musk. Or pick out a spicy note for extra sizzle! Once you’ve welcomed the darker side of your scent and allowed it to shine with extra power, your scent trail will be stronger, longer lasting and will add a little wiggle to your walk, as it were.

Also think about investing in a stronger version of your scent – an eau de parfum, if you use the eau de toilette; or a pure parfum if you can invest in it (or ask Santa!) Read about the differing scent strengths and how differently they react and project or ‘throw’ your scent, here.

 

 

What order to layer in?

 

Scented shower / bath gel

Matching body lotion / oil / balm (or a pick out one of the notes of your chosen scent to echo that in the body product)

Eau de Cologne

Eau de toilette

Eau de parfum

Parfum

Perfume oil / attar

Fragranced hair mist (or simply spritz your scent into your hair, on to clothes (having patch-tested!)

 

 

Don’t forget, the Experimental Perfume Club fragrances have been specifically designed to mix at home and layer to your heart’s content!

Another excellent way to test and hone your new found scent layering skills is by getting a Discovery Box to try all sorts of combinations – how many hundreds (or thousands?) of combos you could create by learning to layer, within each box we don’t pretend to know. But one thing we can say for sure: you’ll have a whole lot of fragrant fun!

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale