Tag: scenting

Scenting Celebrity Traitors – Spoiler Free!

‘The fingerless gloves are ON as Claudia Winkleman returns to The Traitors castle with an all-star cast who are ready to play the ultimate game of deceit and betrayal…’ – The BBC

Arguably the biggest televisual ‘appointment viewing’ in years, certainly in this era of streaming shows whenever we wish and not being beholden to live TV schedules; Celebrity Traitors has debuted the first two episodes to much acclaim (and heated debate). So of course, we’re rolling up our flouncy sleeves to prepare another fragrance-matching opportunity.

There’s a whole series of these ‘scenting’ blogs for The Perfume Society, in which we take a zeitgeist cultural icon of the time and suggest scents to match literature, art, music and movies. In making connections and drawing allusions between characters we may know well and the complexities of attempting to describe an invisible smell, it’s our belief that they serve as a kind of shortcut to a truer understanding of both the perfume and whatever you’re pairing it with.

Now, holding up our promise of being SPOILER FREE (so therefore not revealing who the Traitors are, or which of the first Faithfuls have been bumped off or at risk), we’re delving in to the world of the castle’s current residents, and hoping to provide perfume suggestions that add to the atmosphere, or could help bolster the celebrity contestants during the many trials and various tribulations they will endure.

 

 

 

The full list of celebrities taking part this year, and competing to win money for their chosen charities, are:

 

 

Think of each of these recommendations as olfactory cloaks (for Traitors and Faithfuls alike to don). And though we’ve only pulled out a few examples here to perfume-match: which fragrances, we wonder, would YOU pair with your favourite celebrity, and why…?

[P.S: Click on the linked name of each celebrity to be whisked to their interview page on The Traitors Wiki website, BUT: BE WARNED, those pages do contain spoilers, so don’t read until you’ve caught up with the show!]

 

 

 

Clare Balding + Sarah Baker Riders

Obviously we plumped for a perfume that would bring a sense of familiarity and comfort for Clare, and of course (Clare often being found commentating at horse racing tracks and equestrian occasions around the country) it had to be something horsey. So what better than this hay-strewn, grassy-nuzzle from Sarah Baker’s stable? It veritably gallops out the bottle, Sunlit pastures meet leather saddles on verdant fields, ripe peaches drip luscious juices as tobacco and amber sizzle salaciously. We feel this perfume proffers nostalgic assurance alongside a serving of sass – exactly what Clare will need to stay grounded among this lot…

£150 for 50ml eau de parfum in The Perfume Society Shop

 

 

 

Stephen Fry + Penhaligon’s The Cut

Paying homage to the craftsmanship and timelessness of Savile Row tailoring is this creation by Paul Guerlain (yes, he belongs to that fabled bloodline, grandson of Jean-Paul), which we feel befits the inherent British stylishness of Stephen Fry. Fragrance mastery, then, is almost a given, here expressed with a whoosh of basil and mint (perfectly enlivening for the senses) tethered by the woodsiness of cedar and cypress (representing the rugged landscape of the Traitors castle). Fir balsam runs like a thread throughout, for a tailored creation that intelligently marries swagger and style to a wilder terroir.

From £85 for 30ml eau de parfum johnlewis.com

 

 

 

Celia Imrie + FERRAGAMO Fiamma

No spoiler, as she reveals this from the get-go, but Celia says that she has ‘a naughty streak that I find hard to suppress’; so it’s possibly a match made in heaven for her to wear this particular perfume. Radiating ‘luminous energy and timeless elegance’, white pear and wisps of saffron open to a creamy gardenia and jasmine heart, encircled by swags of wild honeysuckle. Warm Ambrox, patchouli and sugared moss linger, making a sensual, woody fusion. Passionate yet refined, classic yet contemporary, just like Celia’s own character, it empowers and envelops, leaving a so-wearable sophisticated trail. Blooming iconic.

£55 for 55ml eau de parfum houseoffraser.co.uk

 

 

 

Nick Mohammed + ARgENTUM Magician 

Paying tribute to transformation and a clever, quicksilver charm, Magician by ARgENTUM is a fragrant sleight-of-hand fitting Nick Mohammed’s ingenious wit (and his magician’s skills). A conjuring of orange flower and black pepper casts the first spell: brisk, surprising, and effervescent. Chilli pepper and clove bud follow with theatrical energy and pace, swirling through secret corridors. The base, drily resonant Atlas cedar, warm labdanum, benzoin and myrrh, evokes magical rituals and smoke trails. Magician is the scent Nick should wear to waft wonderment wherever he goes.

£78 for 30ml eau de parfum in The Perfume Society Shop

 

 

 

Charlotte Church + Wales Perfumery Country Gwlad

Capturing the verdant soul of her homeland, this scent evokes Charlotte Church’s lyricism, her voice as fluid as the rivers this is inspired by, her rebellious spirit rooted in the wild, rolling hills. Fresh green notes and water mingle with narcissus and petitgrain, reminiscent of dew-drenched meadows. Vetiver and woods offer grounding, something Charlotte will certainly need in her time cloistered at the castle. This is the fragrance for a woman who’s at home beneath clear skies, in chorus with song and soil, a sense of freedom perfectly balanced with deep-rootedness in the dry down.

£81 for 50ml eau de parfum in The Perfume Society Shop

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Fragrances for Downton Abbey’s Final (?) Goodbye…

The lush curtains are about to fall for the last time at Downton Abbey, the cinematic Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale glimmering on U.K. screens from 12th September – so we’re scent-matching the glamorous scenes for you!

There’s scarcely a soul who hasn’t, at least once, longed to be swept up in the grand drama – to join Lady Mary on the marble staircase, to eavesdrop in the drawing room’s glowing hush, to slip unseen through the warren of bustling corridors below stairs. And so we decided to once again turn a cultural entertainment moment into an opportunity to olfactively infuse the experience – this time by revisiting some classic scents to set the scenes. [You can read MANY more of these fragrance matching blog features here, or by searching ‘scent matching‘, by the way]. But why this time are we turning our gaze to Downton?

 

 

Well, this final glimpse of the Crawleys’ turbulent, glamorous lives is suffused with the ache of farewell. But for those who wish (desperately!) to linger in the world of Downton – or to relive every gilded triumph and quiet heartbreak by rewatching from the first episode – vintage fragrances remain our most powerful time machine. Even just thinking of the fragrances while watching the trailer (above), you’ll find yourself transported more fully into the feeling of it all – and isn’t that one of the most magical abilities our sense of smell has?

So then, here are five glorious scents, redolent of the era, all mercifully still available to this day, to help you lose yourself in Downton’s embrace – and to imagine: who, or where, might you be within the Downton universe…

 

 

Guerlain Mitsouko Eau de Parfum carries the air of storm-soaked orchards clinging to late summer fruit, velvet shadows deepening in the evening. Wear Mitsouko for the scenes that demand a heart that dares – perhaps a clandestine rendezvous on a moonlit terrace, or as Lady Mary, porcelain composure veiling inner turmoil, glides through a grand ballroom. Its mossy, peach-laced chypre is a story in itself, sophisticated and a touch mysterious, a whiff of secrets best kept.

£130 for 75ml eau de parfum guerlain.com

 

 

 

 

Chanel No5 is an all-time icon swathed in powder, aldehydes, and the ghostly petals of May rose. It is the scent of crisp, elegant linen and polished marble beneath sparkling glass, the drawing room shimmering with sunlight and unresolved drama. Slip into No5 for moments of morning tea, for the clink of porcelain and the unfurling of letters – or as Lady Edith pens her future by window light. This floral classic is a Downton daydream, bottled.

£78 for 35ml eau de parfum johnlewis.com

 

 

 

Houbigant Quelques Fleurs L’Original is a breathless swirl of cut blooms gathered into the arms after a moonlit supper, opulent yet never brash. Imagine the fragrance trailing behind as one twirls across the marbled floor or as the camera finds the afterglow of a flirtatious conversation on a garden bench. This multi-floral bouquet, first created in 1912, still conjures the grand occasion.

£140 for 100ml eau de parfum lookfantastic.com

 

 

Floris No. 89‘s a true British classic from a house founded in 1730, evokes leather-bound ledgers in a noble’s study, crisp citrus zest bracing the old wood panelling as plans are laid and fortunes made (or lost!). This is for Lord Grantham, for the men of Downton, and for anyone dreaming of a vintage car ride down the winding drive, the world rolling quietly by.

£110 for 100ml eau de toilette selfridges.com

 

 

 

Penhaligon’s Bluebell beckons a dewy stroll through ancient woodlands just as bluebells tremble beneath the morning mist, a whispered memory of the Abbey’s sprawling gardens before the day’s dramas unfurl. It’s green, gently floral and utterly English, calling to mind soft footsteps over mossy earth or a secret tryst hidden by spring leaves – as if you’ve slipped away from a party down a wildflower path for a secret tryst.

£140 for 100ml eau de toilette sephora.co.uk

As the final credits roll, the echoes of these beloved characters will glide on – and perhaps, somewhere in the wings, lies the promise of more stories yet to be told (we hear rumours of a possible prequel. But with these fragrant timeless treasures, the perfume of Downton lingers a little longer, weaving us into its magnificent tapestry each time we indulge in a spritz and slip, ever so gladly, back into that Downton world…

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Scent Matching The Last Dinner Party Songs

The Last Dinner Party – a British band with theatrical performances and a contemporary baroque-inspired sound – have captured the imagination of critics and fans alike. Their meteoric rise to fame, culminating in sold-out gigs at London’s Apollo this October, and we think this makes them the perfect subject for our ongoing scent matching series…

The quintet’s unique blend of art rock and indie pop, coupled with their Renaissance-inspired aesthetic, creates a rich tapestry of sensory experiences. Their music is a heady mix of dramatic vocals, soaring melodies, and intricate instrumentals that transport listeners to a world of opulence and intrigue. It’s this multifaceted approach to their art that makes The Last Dinner Party ripe for olfactory exploration.

 

The Last Dinner Party

 

At The Perfume Society, we’ve long believed that fragrance has the power to enhance our appreciation of other art forms. By pairing scents with songs, we can delve deeper into the mood and character of both the music and the perfume. It’s a synesthetic journey that adds new dimensions to our understanding of these creative works.

 

The Last Dinner Party has a sound that has been likened to ‘a heady cocktail of influences’, from Kate Bush and David Bowie to ABBA and Florence and the Machine. This eclectic mix is reflected in their visual presentation, with the band often appearing in elaborate, period-inspired costumes that wouldn’t look out of place in a Baroque painting or a Victorian gothic novel. We reckon they probably all smell amazing as well! But which songs are we choosing to scent, and how…?

 

 

Bottle of Peach's Revenge by Sarah Baker Perfumes

 

Their debut single, ‘Nothing Matters‘, burst onto the scene with all the drama and flair we’ve come to expect from the band. The song’s powerful vocals and crescendo of instruments create a sense of euphoria and abandon that begs for a bold, statement scent to match its intensity.

Scent Match: Sarah Baker Peach’s Revenge

This ain’t no innocent prissy peach perfume, that’s for sure. Describing it as a ‘Viciously juicy peach for Renaissance power plays,’ perfumer Chris Maurice leans into the ripe fruitiness, which veritably drips deception, being laced with amaretto and hiding a sizzle of ginger and cinnamon in the flesh. Imagining ‘A handsome villain [strutting] out of the orchard trumpeting an exuberance of salacious fruit,’ the creamy caramel builds a delicious throb of anticipation.

£145 for 50ml extrait de parfum in our shop

 

Another standout track, ‘Sinner‘, showcases the band’s ability to blend the theatrical with the deeply personal. Its introspective lyrics and building instrumental layers pairs beautifully with an opulent, sensual scent that reveals new facets with each listen…

Scent Match: Jean Paul Gaultier Scandal Absolu Parfum Concentré

Monsieur Gaultier cares not for old-fashioned biblical warnings of ‘gilding the lily’: with customary twinkling charm this intensified version of the original dips every petal of a tuberose stem in gold. Thus encased, the floral notes shimmer to ripe, syrup-drenched fig and a silken sandalwood base. Daring the wearer to ‘indulge in the most eccentric and irresistible pleasures,’ we suggest you wear with your most glam party heels and dancing on tables!

£105 for 50ml parfum theperfumeshop.com

 

 

The title track of their debut album, ‘Prelude to Ecstasy‘, hints at the sensual and the sublime. One can imagine a fragrance that captures both the anticipation and the release, with notes that unfold slowly, mirroring the song’s journey…

Scent Match: Amouage Love Delight

Inviting us to ‘savour every moment of indulgence’, this is veritably laced with loveliness. From the warming, aqueous tingle of ginger (unusually used in the top notes, here), juicy mandarin and cinnamon-sprinkled rivulets of rose water; there’s an abundant floral bouquet via entwined swags of jasmine, heliotrope and rose. As the scent warms on skin, the fragrant garden path leads us to an altogether more sensual encounter of rum-swirled cocoa-flecked warm vanilla.

£320 for 100ml eau de parfum harrods.com

 

 

Another track on that album we feel is begging to be scent-matched is ‘Burn Alive’. The concept can symbolise transformation and renewal, akin to the rich, smoky notes that add a sizzle to a scent, and the song’s driving rhythms and passionate lyrics evoke feelings of heat and fervour, suggesting a spicy scent profile…

Scent Match: Marc-Antoine Barrois Ganymede Extrait

With a longevity and projection that will astonish and delight fans of the original Ganymede (and quite possibly summon fragrance lovers from other planets), this olfactive encounter imagines the dry, hot rockiness of Jupiter’s satellite. Brilliantly conceived by founder and designer Barrois, and composed by his good friend and genius nose, Quentin Bisch, waves of warm, sandy immortelle flowers drift with incense to a mineralic, leathery base. Truly otherworldly.

£260 for 50ml extrait harrods.com

 

 

 

Meanwhile, ‘My Lady of Mercy’, with its haunting melody and religious imagery, calls for a scent that balances the sacred and the profane – perhaps an incense-laden perfume with a twist of something unexpectedly modern…?

Scent Match Serges Lutens L’Orpheline

Lutens’ achingly personal inspiration conjures incense swirls, evoking the mystic rituals it’s used for. The cold flagstones of a darkened church echo here to carefully paced footsteps, before billows of smoke clear and slender slivers of brightness appear. L’Orpheline is veiled in a scented, sacred mystery, its emotions running deep.

£191 50ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Perfuming Emily in Paris, Season 4 (Part 2)

If you’re an Emily in Paris fan, you’ll have already hungrily consumed Season 4 Part 1 as though it were a fresh croissant still warm from the oven; and likely you’ll have devoured our perfume-pairing of the first half of Season 4 as well. Now, with the drop of the second half of this fourth season (releasing episodes 6 – 10), we pick up the perfume bottle challenge once again, scenting some of the main characters as they sashay to new scenery.

But don’t worry. If you’re still frantically trying to catch-up, we can assure you that there are no spoilers here, or in our first fragrance-matching feature! Other than the new setting of Rome. And that’s hardly a ‘spoiler’, being present in the posters of the new series, and having been revealed to fans at a Netflix event ages ago. As Netflix explains, in their fan-blog, this season of Emily in Paris certainly allows us to see some new sides to the city, along with the characters…

 

 

 

 

‘As you can see in new photos, this season introduces another fresh element to Emily’s Paris — namely, winter. Executive producer and director Andrew Fleming tells Tudum, “We’re getting a different textural feel of Paris. It was fun to think about the city in a different way for scenes that are more dramatically oriented, and to see Paris not all sunny and flowery but to see it a little gray and cosier and people in coats and dark skies. It’s just as beautiful during the winter, if not more so.”

Naturally, that includes lots of new layers, both sartorially and culturally. “Emily is really coming into her own, asserting herself, becoming much stronger with a style that is reinterpreting Parisian fashion codes,” costume designer Marylin Fitoussi tells Tudum. “And our motto was obviously to have fun, but to take maximum risks.” And don’t forget, Emily has a Roman holiday in her future when she heads to Italy in Part 2…’

 

If you are caught-up with the first part of Season 4, and don;t mind a little teaser of what’s to come, do have a little look at the official trailer for the second drop:

 

 

Some of the characters we scented first time around will be fragrance-matched again, here, to reflect the new setting. And other new characters will not appear in this feature, as to introduce them would be to spoil some important (and pivotal) plot points for viewers not fully up to speed with the series. So, let’s relax, and take these recommendations in the frothy, unashamedly frivolous nature of the show itself…

 

 

 

 

Emily – Salvatore Ferragamo Signorina Unica

Just like Emily, who runs full force into every situation, this nuanced fragrance is designed for ‘a soul who approaches life with curiosity, authenticity, and an open-minded attitude.’ With its vibrant notes of Italian bergamot and marine accord at the top, Signorina Unica unfurls like a sunny day in Rome, inviting you to explore its depths. The heart reveals a floral bouquet featuring white azalea and violet, echoing Emily’s emerging chicness and emotional maturity, yet still playful style. As it warms, the base of tiramisu cream and vanilla bean absolute provide a sweet, comforting finish that provides a much-needed grounding for her adventurous personality.

£55 for 30ml eau de parfum escentual.com

 

 

 

 

Gabriel – Valentino Born in Roma The Gold Uomo

Just as Gabriel strives for culinary perfection, this fragrance aims to create the perfect balance of warmth and sophistication, opening with a spicy burst, reminiscent of the aromatic in the kitchen he should probably spend more time in than the bedroom, one cannot help but reflect… The initial zest mirrors his passionate pursuit of that coveted Michelin star (among other things), a goal that constantly simmers in the background of, well, everything else currently simmering. As the fragrance develops, the heart of Virginia cedar gives a soul-grounding element Gabriel desperately needs, atop the rich amber/vanilla base, reflecting the sweet success he craves (professionally, romantically, or both? Only time will tell!)

£93 for 100ml eau de toilette thefragranceshop.co.uk

 

 

 

 

Sylvie – Fendi Perché No

Opening with a burst of pink pepper, this mirrors Sylvie’s razor-sharp wit and fiery determination. The heart of the fragrance unfolds with nonchalantly chic notes of sandalwood, reflecting Sylvie’s (seemingly, at least) unwavering confidence in the face of challenges. Meanwhile, the warm, musky dry-down echoes Sylvie’s hidden depths and sensuality, and even the name, (“Why not?“), perfectly aligns with her fearless approach to both high-stake career and romantic decisions. It’s a fragrance that says, ‘I’m here, I’m fabulous, and I’m not afraid to take risks,’ while the subtle complexity reflects the same confidence she exudes in her impeccably tailored outfits, and the emotional maelstrom beneath.

£270 for 100ml eau de parfum fendi.com

 

 

 

 

Luc – Moncler Ciel d’Hiver

Translating to  “Winter Sky”, we’re whisked away to the snow-peaked setting of the French Alps, as part two of the fourth season opens. Just like Luc’s quirky and unpredictable nature, this scent begins with an invigorating burst of juniper berries and cardamom, capturing the crisp mountain air and giving us a peek at Luc’s inner character – sometimes as clear and bright as a crisp winter day, other times as mysterious and unpredictable as a snowstorm. A subtle heart of iris and violet evoke delicate alpine flowers peeking through the snow, much like genuine emotions occasionally breaking through his eccentric exterior; while the base notes of cedarwood and white musk create a warm, comforting finish that reflects Luc’s role as the office’s unexpected voice of reason.

£257 for 100ml eau de parfum harrods.com

 

 

 

 

Julien – HermèsH24 Herbes Vives

With its invigorating notes of frozen basil and iced mint, here’s a fragrance that perfectly matches Julien’s cool look and often icy demeanour. The heart of pear granita adds a touch of sweetness as it melts, revealing the softer side hidden beneath his ever-stylish exterior. Grounded by the innovative Physcool® molecule, we’re reminded of the chilly air surrounding the opening of episodes of this season’s second serving; and of the ambition and competition (both professionally and in matters of the heart). H24 Herbes Vives really serves as Julien’s aromatic armour, and embodying his determination to make a mark in the heady world of luxury fashion.

£114 for 100ml eau de parfum hermes.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Eaux-la-la! Scenting Emily in Paris (Season 4)

We’ve so eagerly anticipated the arrival of Season 4 of Emily in Paris, and now it’s here, the excitement is palpable. As are the perfumes we’re matching the characters to! If you’re new to this perfumed-pairing lark, do have a look back at some of our previous posts (including the earlier season 3 of Emily in Paris), where we match characters to the scents we feel best evoke their personalities.

This season is aired in two parts – the first section of episodes available now, the second half launching September 12. Meanwhile, we promise there are NO SPOILERS for the fourth season in our scent-matching feature, below. But what tantalising teasers DO we know about what’s to come…?

 

 

The fourth season of Emily in Paris promises to whisk us away on an enchanting journey through the French Alps and the picturesque piazzas of Rome, all while delving deeper into the delightful chaos of Emily Cooper’s life. With her signature blend of charm and misadventure, Emily (played by Lily Collins) continues to navigate the complexities of love, friendship, and career in the City of Light (and fragrance!)

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the vibrant spirit of Emily in Paris, we at The Perfume Society are thrilled to once again explore the scents that perfectly encapsulate the essence of each character as they embark on their latest escapades. Just as Emily’s adventures are filled with fashion and flair, the fragrances we choose will reflect their personalities and the intoxicating atmosphere of Parisian life. Join us as we match the beloved characters with their ideal scents, capturing the essence of their journeys and the spirit of the show.

Get ready to indulge your senses and discover which fragrances will accompany Emily and her friends on their stylish escapades this season…

 

 

 

Emily Cooper – DKNY 24/7

She may have been a Chicago gal in Paris for some time now, but we think she needs the spirit of ‘the city that never sleeps’ with her in scented form. She’ll certainly need to use every hour of the day to untangle her love-life, and this new perfume pulsates with unstoppable energy. A fizz of of pink pepper and rhubarb mirrors her adventurous nature, refreshing quince and romantic rose reflect her multifaceted personality, while the textural floral / woody profile encapsulates her journey of self-discovery and ability to navigate the complexities of life.

£45 for 30ml eau de parfum theperfumeshop.com

 

 

 

Gabriel – AKRO Bake

Zesty lemon, airy vanilla sponge, and rich praline notes mirror Gabriel’s passionate culinary spirit. Just as Gabriel creates delightful dishes that tantalise the senses, this fragrance evokes the warmth and indulgence of a bakery, making it a perfect olfactory companion for a chef who thrives on creativity and flavour. Its enticing aroma captures the essence of his character – irresistibly charming and utterly addictive. But, would you want to share the deliciousness…?

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

 

 

 

Camille – EAU.MG Diaphanous Delight

Like Camille’s evolving character this season, this unfolds with a delicate balance of strength and grace. The fragrance’s woody floral musk composition mirrors her artistic sensibility and refined tastes. Its waterlily note would undoubtedly transport Camille to Monet’s ethereal garden, a source of solace for her, and resonating with her own artistic soul. Embodying Camille’s journey from newfound self-assurance and impulsive decisions, to her need for comfort and reassurance, this is one to wear when the world seems to be spinning too fast.

£95 for 50ml in our shop

 

 

 

Alfie – Marc-Antoine Barrois B683

B683 captures Alfie’s cheekiness and insouciant style. Opening with a subtle spiciness that mirrors Alfie’s witty banter, while the woody undertones reflect his grounded nature and professional ambition.As the scent develops, the leather notes emerge, emboldening Alfie’s suave confidence and aiding his ability to navigate both the corporate world and romantic entanglements. B683’s unique signature and remarkable longevity would ensure Alfie leaves a lasting impression: in business settings and (perhaps?) Emily’s heart…

£110 for 30ml eau de parfum harrods.com

 

 

 

 

Mindy – Maison Margiela Replica Jazz Club

Echoing Mindy’s fun but feisty character, this fragrance exudes depth, the sassy blend of rum, tobacco, and vanilla balancing her aspirations as a singer with her role as a supportive friend to Emily. There’s a real sense of comfort and approachability, too, in the smoothness that hugs your skin as it warms; and along with the spicy and woody notes wearing this creates a bold scent profile. Jazz Club is a scent which reflects Mindy’s confident demeanour, kindness, (and her willingness to take risks in pursuit of her dreams).

£60 for 30ml eau de toilette thefragranceshop.co.uk

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Scenting the Detectives: Part II

Earlier this month, while indulging the month’s general blog theme of ‘Endeavour’ (and mostly having confined that to sporting and Olympic-themed scents), I took a somewhat unexpected turn to the topic of Scenting the Detectives (‘Endeavour’ being the first name of Inspector Morse, and of the TV show revealing his backstory). There was such a lovely response to that fragrance-matching feature that I’m back with a second case, because there were so many iconic detectives yet to cover!

Why the scent-matching to apparently random topics, you wonder? Basically put, I always think it helps you get a much fuller sense of fragrance’s soul if you can liken it to other things or people you already know (rather than just listing notes). So, grab your magnifying glasses and track down these fragrant characters some time soon: one (or more!) of them may just solve your own case of ‘what fragrance shall I wear next…?

 

 

 

Magnum P.I – Jean Paul Gaultier Le Beau Le Parfum Intense

The iconic masculine torso (talking about the bottle, here! Well, mostly) comes to party. There’s always been something delightfully retro-inspired yet modern about Gaultier’s scents, so the wild sensuality of salt-licked ambergris, fizz of ginger and pineapple match the 80s magnetism of Magnum. A former naval officer turned private detective in Hawaii, ripples of woody tonka only add to his never fully-clothed yet cheeky charm.

£81 for 75ml eau de parfum intense  jeanpaulgaultier.com

 

 

 

 

 

Christine Cagney – Memoize London Eximus

A career-minded single woman at a time when such things were [ahem, often apparently still ARE] shocking, Cagney had the shorter fuse of the TV duo, and wouldn’t pander to being patronised or told (as she often was) that she ‘didn’t look like a cop.’ Eximus is inspired by the time ‘you went the extra mile and it paid off’, evoking strength of character via subtly sweetened spiced saffron, memorably contrasting pear blossom.

£177 for 100ml extrait de parfum in our shop

 

 

 

 

Mary Beth Lacey – Memoize London Curatio

I thought it would be appropriate to choose something from the same fragrance house, yet utterly contrasting in character for Lacey, and while this scent is fluffier around the edges than Cagney’s, it still packs a perfumed punch when needed. The peach-y hug is comforting, gently garlanded with jasmine in the heart, but it’s firmly grounded in warm amber with a long-lasting trail that sticks with you, steadfastly.

£177 for 100ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

 

 

 

Columbo – Miller Harris Feuilles de Tabac

Combining Columbo’s twin loves of cigars and chilli, the slowly smouldering cuban tobacco occasionally flares with firey pimento berries; but don’t expect the full story to be revealed at first sniff. This scent’s in it for the long game, like the lovable detective – shuffling measuredly back and forth from mellow patchouli to the surprising freshness of pine needles and sage leaves. You’ll definitely be back for ‘just one more…’ bottle.

£100 for 50ml eau de parfum millerharris.com

 

 

 

Lord Peter Wimsey – Atkinsons The British Bouquet

It had to be something classical but winsomely dapper for Wimsey. If you’re asking “who?”, you must immediately rush out and read the Dorothy L. Sayers series. Mannered, seemingly reserved but with a warm humour and deep seams of passion only his soul-mate, Harriet Vane, can reveal; the refined bitter orange and caviar lemon relax into leather like the first sip of the evening’s first martini (always served dry).

£148 for 100ml eau de toilette atkinsons1799.com

>Written by Suzy Nightingale

Scenting the Detectives…

Continuing with the ‘endeavour’ theme for the month (which we are mostly dedicating to sporting scents, and being more adventurous in your fragrance choices); we thought it would be fun to (special) branch out a bit and incorporate hunting for a new fragrance with our popular ‘Scenting…’ series of articles – where we pick perfumes we think would be perfect for well-known TV, movie or musical characters and artists, and have matched everything from Bridgerton to Stranger Things and the painter Sargent, so far. Well… we thought: why not scent match the detectives, too…? 

 

Why are we matching scents to detectives, you might be wonder – is it just a bit of fun? Well hopefully it’s fun to read, of course, but there’s a serious point behind the frivolity: fragrance is famously an invisible entity that’s tricky to convey in any format to someone who’s not yet smelled it for themselves.

 

 

 

When trying to explain what something smells like, we all have to navigate the emotional maze of cultural and personal associations and scent memories, while attempting to clearly convey the concept without merely relying on a list of fragrance notes – which is as useless as a shopping list is to tasting the finished meal, or the names of paints are to understanding the deeper meaning an artist is hoping to project.

So: we match scents to characters / people and programmes you may be familiar with to give you a nuanced sense of not only what that scent might smell like, but how it will make you feel when you wear it. And isn’t that really what we’re all most concerned about when choosing a new fragrance?

 

Of course, given our theme for the month, and the topic of detectives, we had to start with none other than…

 

 

 

Endeavour – The Merchant of Venice Maria Callas

Telling the fascinating backstory of Inspector Morse’s complex character, the prequel already shows him as refined, standing apart from the crowd, and placing great importance on culture, art, and especially classical music and opera. With this homage to the Divina of all operatic performers, there’s a nuanced vulnerability amidst strength. Endeavour would bring out the backbone of reassuring woodiness which grounds the softer, amber-warmed rose and sparkling top notes. Encore!

£206 for 100ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

 

 

Miss Marple – 4160 Tuesdays The Lion Cupboard

Jane Marple may be seen by some as a tweed-y, twittery, nosey yet harmless senior citizen, but the mischievous twinkle in those piercing eyes hints at her innate ability to see through lies, right to the heart of the matter. Here, ferns are pressed between pages of a diary, love letters discovered in faded ribbons, a lipstick kiss on a foxed mirror, a silk scarf with the faint tang of a gentleman’s Cologne entwined with a woman’s scent is found at the crime scene. Whodunnit? Oh, she knows.

£50 for15ml eau de parfum  4160tuesdays.com

 

 

 

Hercule Poirot – Floris Special No.127

The always immaculate Belgian detective requires a fragrance that feels understated yet characterful, utterly classic but timeless. Perhaps after living in London a while, and being (we are sure) a regular patron of Jermyn Street (known for its traditional tailoring and gentleman’s grooming); he would elegantly saunter his way to Floris. There’s a refreshing citrus blend of bergamot and orange with petitgrain, a cool heart of lavender and geranium, while patchouli and musk add longevity.

Discover in the Floris Classic Collection Set, £35 for 6 x 2ml samples in our shop

 

 

 

 

Jessica Fletcher – Map of the Heart Purple Heart v.5

Being dedicated to ‘a teller of tales’, this scent perfectly befits the murder mystery writer Jessica Fletcher, who seems more often embroiled in tangled reality than the tales she imagines. However, we picture her taking a break from discovering bodies at friends’ houses, and instead sitting at her desk pondering the next novel. Ink smudges the typewriter keys, a tin of licorice and bowl of black cherries sit beside a vase of purple roses. Intriguing and optimistic, this scent is a triumph on skin.

Try it in the Map of the Heart Discovery Set, £35 for 7 x 1ml samples in our shop

 

 

 

 

Sherlock Holmes – Redolescent Hive Mind

In the story ‘His Last Bow: An Epilogue of Sherlock Holmes’ we learn that the world-famous detective has retired and become a beekeeper on the South Downs. Not as unusual a transition as you may think, because, as Holmes’ tome on the subject reveals, it is “the fruit of the pensive nights and laborious days when I watched the little working gangs as I once watched the criminal world of London.” He’d take comfort in this honied meadow scent – as mellow as it is meticulously structured.

£145 for 50ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scenting Bridgerton Season Three (Part the Second)

 

Dearest Gentle Reader,

I’m sure we are all a-gawp to discover the latest Bridgerton gossip, having waited breathlessly for weeks to find out what became of our aristocratic friends since last we left them? As it happens, the breathlessness continues apace, with passionate encounters simply throbbing through this second half of Bridgerton’s third season, and all manner of revelations brought to boiling point. But once again, as with my previous perfume-matching missive, which covered Season 3 Episodes 1-4; I must ask you to avert thine eyes if you have not yet feasted on the fascinating frivolities of what the young people are calling ‘the second drop’ of Bridgerton Season 3 episodes 4-8 on Netflix. Thundering SPOILERS are necessarily afoot, and I shall not be held to blame if your careless gaze happens to fall on one of them if you read any further without having caught up. Comprendre?

 

 

 

 

Netflix have helpfully posted a blog, where you may catch up with the cast and investigate their particulars a little more closely. However, because you are all doubtless very busy people, I have selected a snippet here, which explains the main plot points to be aware of for this second part of the season, and its dramatic denouement. They say:

‘Part 2, which premiered June 13, picks up from the Part 1 finale, which saw Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) propose to blooming wallflower Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan). As Colin and Penelope reflect on their newfound relationship in Part 2, they seem to realise just how in love they are. Yet secrets still hang over the happy couple. Namely, that Mayfair knows Penelope by another, more secret, moniker: Lady Whistledown, the ton’s most infamous scandal sheet writer…’

As ever, yours truly has been very busy keeping up with all the, er, comings and goings… and pairing some of the main players with perfumes that should serve to enhance their ever-developing (and disrobing) characters. This ‘scent matching’ may seem incongruous to those of you not familiar with the concept, but let me reassure you that there is method in the apparent madness. When one knows a person more *cough* intimately, we may imagine the things that will not only suit them, but serve them well – a colour that particularly becomes them, which they feel more confident when wearing, for example.

Similarly, selecting the right fragrance helps embolden our spirits (though gracious knows this season has its share of bold behaviour!) Therefore, the putting together of people we know with perfumes they should wear also becomes a shortcut to understanding the vagaries of a scent’s character – the mood it brings, the textural subtleties a simple listing of notes can never attain. And though there may have been several scribes claiming the mantle of Whistledown thus far, you may also rest assured that this author has all your fragrant requirements firmly in hand (and wrist, neck, décollotage…) Which of these would you offer the next dance to, dear readers, while we impatiently await the next season? Until then, I remain

Yours Truly,

Suzy Nightingale

 

 

Penelope Featherington / Bridgerton + Alexandre J Ode to Rose Extract

Oh my, how the butterfly has spread its wings (among other things) this season. But all is not perfect for Pen, as the course of true love becomes ensnared in a scandal of her own making. With her true identity revealed, Penelope needed extra strength to withstand the possibility of a cruel backlash, and the exquisite beauty of this scent would certainly do the trick. Incredibly long-lasting, imbued with ripe plum, velvety rose, licentious jasmine and the sweet headiness of ylang ylang; the base swirls with warming rum and silky sandalwood. Scandalously gorgeous!

£240 for 25ml perfume extract harrods.com

 

 

 

Colin Bridgerton + Parfums de Marly Percival

The newly rakish Colin returned from his travels to find Penelope a changed woman, too – and the further *ahem* things she revealed wiped away his self-assured smugness almost as quickly as his tan faded. However, a gentleman may have subtlety and self-knowledge amidst his passion, and this fragrance will buck-up his spirits with juicy mandarin, encourage true love via violet and jasmine-tinged geranium, then tame his pig-headedness with soothing drifts of cool lavender and the dewy verdancy of coriander grounded in musky spices and fir balsam. That’s better.

£200 for 75ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

[Why not try a sample as part of The Scented Gent Discovery Box? A mere £23 / £21 for VIPs!]

 

 

 

Lady Cressida Cowper + BDK Rouge Smoking

Desperately escaping her family’s dreary choices of prospective husbands, Cressida craves independence (and yes, the taste of revenge). Her route out of society’s strictures at first seems to be via blackmail, but poison has a way of ending up back in one’s own goblet, does it not? Far better for Lady Cowper to sling this scent in her hastily-packed travelling trunk, and revel in its spirit. Being inspired by ‘…a woman who lives in Pigalle with a strong taste for fashion’, the powdery sweetness of luscious cherry is comforted by dark vanilla and cashmeran’s softness.

£175 for 100ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

 

 

 

Lady Tilley Arnold + Clive Christian Jump Up & Kiss Me (Ecstatic)

When Tilley catches Benedict’s eye, he’s not ready for where their heady encounters will lead (see below…), but neither is Tilley ready for the feelings she will catch along the way. Ooops. Easily done – especially when wearing something as shamelessly intoxicating as this tuberose-billowing enticement. Enveloped in orange flower, swooning with white flowers, no wonder this perfumed paean to ‘the flower of the night’ has so thoroughly seduced both wearer and admirer alike. As it warms, the amber and tonka beguile even further; and where might that lead, next…?

£490 for 50ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

 

 

 

Benedict Bridgerton + Contradictions in ILK Libertine

Quite the journey of self-discovery for Benedict this season, where he finds double the pleasure while exploring his personal proclivities. One wonders if he’s been helped along the way with liberal soakings of a scent such as this – inspired by Casanova himself, no less. You can smell his favourite tipple, ‘cordial orgeat,’ through dusky cognac-infused rose and bitter orange flower, with a saffron-soaked throb of leather, hot wax, animalic cumin lashed to the darker base of amber and deep woods. Golly. It’s addictive, that’s for sure; as is the sensual freedom that follows.

£95 for 50ml extrait de parfum ilkperfume.com

 

 

 

Queen Charlotte + Atkinsons Her Majesty The Oud

Ever feared of her position on the throne metaphorically being toppled by Lady Whistledown, Queen Charlotte uses her remarkable astuteness to finally discover her foe’s identity. But as advised by her ever-wise friend and confidant, Lady Danbury; sometimes it’s better to know thy enemy yet keep them on side. Gloriously powerful in nature, there’s a surprising softness to this scent, too – an opulently feminine celebration of Turkish rose at harmony with a steelier sizzle of saffron, and that unmistakable woodiness in the sweeping trail, all sweetened by a soupçon of vanilla.

£205 for 100ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

[Psst! Clever readers will want to try the sample available in The Platinum Discovery Box, at only £25 / £21 for VIPs]

 

Those readers left bereft and demanding more Bridgerton in their lives are in luck – Liberty London currently invite you to indulge your romantic Regency fantasies via their Liberty Fabrics & Bridgerton collection. Liberty says:

‘

Discover the collection brought to life within Liberty’s Tudor walls. Lose yourself in the whispers, scandal and glamour of the ‘Ton, in rooms inspired by iconic moments from the series and brought to life using fabrics from the Liberty Fabrics & Bridgerton collection. Consider this your invitation to an experience waiting to be discovered, on the Fourth Floor until 2nd July.

 

‘May we invite you to discover the match of the season? As Netflix and Shondaland’s hit series, Bridgerton, returns for its third season, here at Liberty we are celebrating the romance and Regency of the ‘Ton, with a collaborative collection of exquisite botanical fabrics, created in artistic partnership between Liberty Fabrics & Bridgerton.

Across nine uniquely crafted floral prints, Liberty’s print heritage and Bridgerton’s enthralling narrative entwine. Each design features details and motifs drawn from Liberty’s extensive archive, with inspirations ranging from Regency era print books to 1960s scarves: redrawn, recoloured and reimagined for the modern modiste on Tana Lawn™ cotton and luxurious silks.

In celebration of the collection, designer Huishan Zhang created a couture gown using one of the Belgravia Silk fabrics from the collection, as seen on actress Hannah Dodd, who plays the youngest Bridgerton sister in the show’s third series.

Join us, as we delve into the stories and inspirations behind the collection, and prepare to fall in love…’

Scent-matching Bridgerton Season 3… Scents for debutantes & heartbreakers!

Dearest Reader,

Society is ABUZZ with the welcome return of Bridgerton Season 3, and the mamas of the blushing debutantes (sometimes blushing for very good reason) are all set to find their perfect matches in the ballrooms and palaces (and – ahem – bedrooms) we’ve so missed waltzing through. Yours Truly has been busy making matches, too, as you shall discover, with this Whistle[down]-stop tour through the fragrances some of the main characters should be hastily spritzing if they know what’s good for them (which most of them assuredly do not.)

Before we begin with the olfactory introductions, lets us quickly adjourn to a précis of all the best gossip, via the ever-knowing wonders of the Bridgerton Wiki website. However, gentle readers must BE WARNED for their are potential SPOILERS ahead. So do not come to us with your pearl-clutching chagrin if you have not yet watched the first four episodes on Netflix (with the final four making an appearance on June 13.) 

‘Penelope enters Season 3 finally ready to give up her longtime crush on Colin. However, that doesn’t mean she’s done with love. Instead, Penelope has decided it’s time to take a husband — and preferably one who will give her the freedom to continue her double life as Lady Whistledown, far away from the prying eyes of her mother and sisters. Lacking in confidence, Penelope’s attempts on the marriage mart fail spectacularly.

 

 

Meanwhile, Colin has returned from his summer travels with a new look and a serious sense of swagger. But he’s disheartened to realise that Penelope, the one person who always appreciated him as he was, is giving him the cold shoulder. Eager to win back her friendship, Colin offers to mentor Penelope in the ways of confidence to help her find a husband this season. But when his lessons start working a little too well, Colin must grapple with whether his feelings for Penelope are truly just friendly. Complicating matters for Penelope is her rift with Eloise, who has found a new friend in a very unlikely place, while Penelope’s growing presence in the ton makes it all the more difficult to keep her Lady Whistledown alter ego a secret.’

WELL! What a to-do. The only thing for it is to reach for a new fragrance (and possibly the smelling salts, given all the drama and passion afoot). Which of these you may also decide to plump for is entirely up to you, of course, but we urge you to try them – and be careful whose hearts you may break along the way…

Yours truly,

Suzy Nightingale

 

Penelope Featherington + Alexandre J Butterfly

Penelope wishes to be a social butterfly, but she’ll need to come way out of her comfort zone and spread her wings. Will Colin be the man who can help her to fly? There’s certain to be lots of flutterings while wearing this. Butterfly whisks one away in a flurry of florals. Imagine handfuls of tuberose and neroli petals borne aloft on ribbons of pear and pink peppercorns, streaming joyously to a buoyantly soft musky/vanilla base.

£325 for 100ml eau de parfum harrods.com

 

 

Colin Bridgerton + Goldfield & Banks Silky Woods Elixir

There’s something different about Colin – whatever could it be? He’s attracting all sorts of attention these days… Freshly returned from thrilling adventures abroad and having gathered a bronzed glow, this fragrance has heaps of wood and will waft for miles. Despite the steamy scent of the tropics, a definite greenness can still be glimpsed through the smokey, sultry swagger, and there’s comfort to be found in the reassuringly fluffy base.

£215 for 100ml elixir fenwick.co.uk

 

 

 

Francesca Bridgerton + Thameen Fanfare

There’s a sparkle to this scent that just never dulls – perfect, then, to reflect the light that shines from Francesca as she navigates her way through the tumultuous marriage market. Bursting with talent (and only truly at peace when playing the piano that’s her guiding passion), she needs a fragrance that fills a room with its presence but never has to try too hard. Inspired by London’s musically-imbued history of Covent Garden, and the flower market it was famed for; Fanfare is a clarion call of white florals amidst the refreshing brightness of crisp citrus.

£250 for 100ml Cologne elixir selfridges.com

[Pssst! Clever readers will want to try a sample within the Launches to Love Discovery Box, £27 / £19 for VIP Members…]

 

Will Mondrich + Parfums de Marly Perseus

Attempting to get used to his new life – with his son having inherited Lady Kent’s entire estate – Will requires a fragrance that’ll make him feel like a king in his own perfumed court. Breezily fresh, this veritably gallops out of the bottle with vibrant grapefruit, bergamot and green mandarin, before an air of supreme sophistication takes over, via grounding vetiver and head-clearing geranium. Vigorously masculine at times, soft as a cashmere caress at others, it’s a scent which perfectly balances brightness with a newly found elegance.

£200 for 75ml eau de parfum uk.parfums-de-marly.com

 

 

Eloise Bridgerton + Yardley English Jasmine

Oh, Eloise has got herself into such a predicament. We suggest she gets herself out of the corner she’s put herself in and goes for a long walk in the meadows surrounding the Bridgerton family home. Wearing this, the distant coolness of tuberose thaws to joyous frangipani and the dawning light of jasmine’s tenderness, while lemon and mandarin cut through any nonsense. Embracing simplicity, as it dries down, the warmth of musk and cedarwood make an appearance – as we hope her treasured friendship with Penelope might yet emerge…

£17.50 for 125ml eau de toilette boots.com

 

Craving even more scent-matching shenanigans, or craving a catch-up? Do take a look at our Scenting Bridgerton Season Two.

Strictly Scents: Part Two (matching fragrances to all the dances)

Strictly season is hotting up, and we’re scenting all the major dances with fragrances we feel best compliment their unique characters. Don’t forget to read Part One for all the background context of these features, but briefly put, music and fragrance have myriad connections. What’s more, we love mixing cultural references, as it adds to our understanding of scent as an emotive medium!

So, simply decide which dance best sum up your personality, or would match your mood today, and then seek out the perfume we’ve picked to accompany it…

 

 

 

American Smooth – BDK Vanille Leather

The magic of seeing couples glide over the dance floor in this so-sophisticated number never gets old, and we know you’ll be won over by the rich smoothness of the glorious vanilla in this scent, too. But if you avoid gourmands, fear not! Get set to banish all thoughts of it being sickly: this has great depth but glides on skin like a silky caress. Rich, yes, but so, SO chic. Shot through with Indian tuberose, Egyptian jasmine and orange flower, there’s a fizzing sense of excitement from pink peppercorns and a swoony violet to infuse the trail, along with that creamy, dreamy vanilla.

£195 for 100ml eau de parfum harrods.com

 

 

 

Viennese Waltz – Chopard Imperiale Iris Malika

A classic dance style often depicted in romantic films, the sweepingly graceful moves are reflected in this regally arrayed fragrance. Enrobed in purple, the majesty of this Chopard scent is apparent even before the first spritz. Echoing both the colour of the iris flower and the robes associated with royalty, this fit-for-a-Queen fragrance billows wild berries and warm spices borne aloft on a feather-light, powdery cloud of that exceptional orris concrete, garlanded either side by jasmine and ylang ylang. Further spices infuse opulently silky balms and woodiness in the base. One to fall madly in love with, for sure.

£90 for 100ml eau de parfum fenwick.co.uk

 

 

 

Salsa – Jean Paul Gaultier Divine

Overtly feminine in style, this is a blur of boobs, hips and feet sashaying with intent (and filled with happiness!) You’d not be able to do it in the actual corset, but you can definitely feel the vibe wearing this fragrance. Gilded breast cones? Of COURSE it’s a JPG – referencing one of his iconic fashion pieces in fragrant form, it’s sparkly, yet has a satisfying gourmand hit. Envisage sun-warmed skin, now add opulent wafts of white flowers, and a scented surprise where the addictive sweet creaminess of whipped meringue is suddenly shot through with a lip-smacking hint of the salty sea. Breezy yet buxom, it’s an invitation to be the very best, fragrantly fabulous version of yourself.

£66 for 30ml eau de parfum jeanpaulgaultier.com

 

 

 

Argentine Tango – Floris Tuberose in Silk

Surely the most passionate dance of all, this drama-filled spectacle needs a scent that can balance the sheer sexiness with restraint. Teetering betwixt the hip-swivelling sensuality of tuberose and the softness of a rose’s velvet blush, this surprising dive into untamed eroticism is held at bay by the cashmere fluffiness of musk, a warm hug of amber and a dusting of iris. Calmed by these, the orange blossom and jasmine join the white flowers in a more controlled dance than if left to cavort, while camphor’s on hand with the smelling salts for the final dip.

From £30 for 50ml eau de parfum florislondon.com

 

 

Charleston – Vyrao Sun Rae

Need an instant shot of energy? You will with this breathlessly entertaining dance, and wearing this gloriously uplifting scent – infused with ‘a supercharged Herkimer diamond crystal for clarity and to boost energy levels’ – the brilliant Lyn Harris has created her own magic from a ZING! POP! FIZZ! of citrus explosions that feel like you’re being beamed above the clouds with every spritz. Turn on the scented spotlight for a sizzle of turmeric and black pepper, adding ruffled layers of welcome warmth, while bergamot, lemon, and aqueous ginger sparkle like bottled sunshine throughout.

£135 for eau de parfum libertylondon.com

 

 

Couple’s Choices: (a category introduced in 2018 – celebs and their professional dancer partners have a choice of performing either a contemporary dance, a street/commercial dance or theatre and jazz. We’ve chosen a scent for each..)

 

 

Couple’s Choice Contemporary – Bruno Cucinelli Pour Homme

A poetically lyrical style of dance that often incorporates balletic moves and lifts, this dance truly expresses the emotion of the music. The fragrance for this match is just as expressive, while masterfully understated. Paying tribute to the Italian design house’s home of Solomeo with every sophisticated, spice-infused spritz, Olivier Cresp evokes rolling Umbrian hills, an aromatic landscape brought to life via cypress, juniper, clary sage and Nigerian ginger flecked with flinty black pepper. Known for his masterful textures and superb fabrics, Cucinelli’s aesthetic and his homeland are so brilliantly nuanced within the blend: a sense of overlapping complexity that simultaneously feels effortless.

£160 for 100ml eau de parfum harrods.com

 

 

Couple’s Choice Street – Art de Parfum Sabotage

Often introducing a retro dance style to appropriately nostalgic tunes, this dance always puts smiles on the audience’s faces. Similarly, this scent joyously revels in revery, harking back to the 90s as its perfumed point of reference. We’re imagining it worn while dancing to MC Hammer’s ‘U Can’t Touch This’ for extra fun. And this really is fun to wear. It has us pining for the optimism and carefree attitude of that era, which is cleverly evoked here with a boozy Negroni accord, a breeze of spearmint, tuberose naughtily swirled with wormwood, earthy patchouli and a mossy dry-down. It’s ‘da bomb’ (as we liked to say, back then).

£125 for 50ml extrait artdeparfum.com

 

 

Couple’s Choice Jazz – Maison Margiela Replica Jazz Club

The vibrant allure of an illicit after-party in a wood-panelled club is evoked here via a fizz of pink pepper, the brightness of neroli and lemon slinking to the rum-infused fun of the rich heart. There’s a shadowy coolness of vetiver oil from Java, a sense of refinement from the tobacco, and a sensually resinous vanilla base; but it’s the kind of night that will linger long in your memory, and your secret smiles…

£115 for 100ml eau de toilette maisonmargiela.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale