Tag: seasonal

Liberate the lemon! Free these citrus scents from seasonal exile…

Are your lemon scents languishing on the shelf in wait of summer and sunshine? We urge you to liberate them from seasonal exile and hug them back to your bosom for winter! Because actually, their effervescent sparkle and uplifting aromas can be the perfect perfume to reach for in the colder season…

The citrusy aroma of lemon is so often thought of as the sparkling garnish in perfumery, yet it is far more than a mere squeeze of zest at the top of a composition. Bright, lively and almost effervescent, lemon has an extraordinary ability to make other notes feel as if someone has drawn back a curtain and let the light in. Lemons and flowers, especially, are a perfect marriage in fragrance, just as a twist of lemon in cooking cuts through richness and sharpens flavours; that same clarifying quality helps petals feel fresher, clearer, more radiant on skin. So, while it may be familiar from classic colognes and breezy summer splashes, lemon is quietly working its magic in far more fragrances than you might suspect.

Its story winds back through centuries and across continents, with arguments about whether those first lemons hung from trees in north-east India, Burma or China, long before they travelled with traders and farmers. What is clearer is that Arab growers helped carry this evergreen beauty toward Europe, where it eventually took root and began to flourish, and that later still lemon seeds were transported across the ocean as part of that great wave of botanical migration. Today, lemons are cultivated almost anywhere there is enough sun, their fruit beloved in kitchens and medicine cabinets as much as in perfumers’ laboratories. The oil itself is obtained by cold – pressing the peel, a method that preserves its brightness and captures an aroma uncannily close to sniffing a twist of fresh zest held right beneath your nose.

 

That’s perhaps why lemon in fragrance feels so instantly recognisable – and so instantly cheering. It brings an almost tactile sparkle, at once refreshing and comforting, like opening a window in a stuffy room or taking the first sip of icy lemonade. In olfactory architecture, lemon is usually a top note, the early firework that flares and then softens, but while its overt juiciness may be fleeting, it changes the entire mood of what follows. Think of it as olfactive sunshine bottled, a golden filter through which woods, florals, spices and musks are gently, beautifully reframed.

Because lemon is so strongly associated with summer days and Mediterranean afternoons, those bottles often get relegated to the back of the shelf once the central heating clicks on and the knitwear emerges. Yet there’s something deliciously counterintuitive about wearing a bracing citrus when the air outside has a nip to it. In the cold, lemon behaves differently on skin; the sparkle feels crisper, more crystalline, as though the zest has been chilled in frost. That brightness can be wonderfully bracing on grey mornings, cutting through fog – both literal and mental – and lending a sense of clarity to the day.

 

 

Layered over cashmere, enveloped in a scarf, those same citrus notes that might seem almost too sprightly in high summer become a kind of portable light therapy in winter. The contrast between cold air and warm skin makes lemon’s radiance feel more focused, less diffused, so that each spritz is like stepping briefly into a sunbeam before tucking yourself back into your coat. If your mood is flagging, or your energy feels as colourless as a January sky, reaching for something sharply, joyously lemon – laden can be an instant mood shift. These are fragrances that deserve to be worn, not left languishing until the first daffodils appear.

So, if you have bottles you automatically label as “summer scents”, now is the moment to liberate them from seasonal exile. An extra dose of sunshine is arguably most needed precisely when there is none to be found outside, and a bright, lemon-laced perfume can feel like a brisk walk along a sunlit seafront, minus the sand in your socks.

With that in mind, here’s our edit of gloriously lemon-y favourites that feel made for winter wearing. Think of them as your scented daylight savings: a way to borrow back a little radiance, one spritz at a time…

 

Farina 1709 Eau de Cologne

Lemon shines in its most iconic role, twirling at the heart of a true Cologne classic that feels as though it has been freshly poured from a Venetian glass cruet in some light-drenched apothecary. Zesty lemon and kindred citruses fizz across the skin in airy waves, so translucent they are almost gauzy, before soft herbal and floral nuances and a delicately musky, woody undertone begin to glow through. In winter, that bracing opening feels like splashing your face with chilled water before stepping into the day, the tart peel note slicing cleanly through indoor fug and radiating a subtle, well – groomed freshness from beneath scarf and sweater.

Try a sample in our Essence Deluxe Discovery Box!

 

 

 

Kajal Sawlaj

Here, lemon is not a shy squeeze at the rim of the glass but a gleaming arc of brightness that slices through a richer, more opulent composition, lifting the blend with forked – lightning flashes of citrus. A vivid burst of lemon and other sunlit fruits and spices lights up the opening, gilding aromatics and florals before deeper, leathery, resinous and woody notes gather like shadows at the edge of the frame. That interplay makes it an especially beguiling winter wear; the lemon keeps the structure feeling airier than its warmth might suggest, so that the fragrance moves around you like a heated halo, the zest sparkling above a luxuriously smouldering base.

£171.14 for 100ml eau de parfum 50-ml.co.uk

 

 

 

30ml bottle of Argentum Everyman

ARgENTUM Everyman

This feels like a quietly luminous second skin, built around that connection between citrus brightness and tender green. Fresh circles of lemon rise first, airy and almost dewy, before dissolving into a gorgeously verdant bouquet where star anise, aromatic clary sage and wild daffodil weave together with a soft, salty – sweet breath of mimosa and powdery cassia. In winter, the lemon’s radiance slices through the chill with a gentle clarity, while the rich base of patchouli and cedarwood hums close to the body, giving the scent a mossy, cocooning depth that makes it feel like walking through a frost – tipped garden in perfect, contemplative calm.

£78 for 30ml eau de parfum in our Shop

 

 

 

 

 

Boadicea the Victorious Lavish

Opening with a truly generous squeeze of lemon, the zest tumbling over bergamot in a cascade of glinting droplets that instantly feels like standing beneath a skylight flooded with sun. As the fragrance settles, rose and a creamy scattering of nutmeg unfurl, warmed by vetiver, guaiac and other smooth woods and amber beneath, so that the initial brightness deepens into something plush and cocooning. Worn in winter, that big lemon opening is joyously almost too much in the best way, a dazzling contrast to leaden skies before it relaxes into a sophisticated glow around you, the zest still shimmering at the edges of a soft, spicy, woody warmth.

£37 for 10ml eau de parfum boadiceaperfume.com

 

 

 

 

 

Ghawali Noble

Pairing lemon with a juicy bite of apple in the top, giving the citrus an almost crystalline crunch, think: frost-dusted fruit in a chilled bowl. That vivid opening quickly drifts into aromatic facets and a gentle floral heart of lily of the valley, before cedarwood and musk wrap everything in a serene, polished softness that feels quietly regal rather than showy. In the colder months, the lemon here behaves like a streak of light across satin, illuminating the composition just enough to keep it feeling airy while the musky woods purr closer to the skin; it is the kind of understated radiance that works beautifully under a cashmere coat, offering a private flicker of brightness you can carry with you all day.

£175 for 75ml parfum selfridges.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Winter Gifting, Sorted – A Whole Season Of Fragrances In a Single Box!

There are always one or two names on the gift list that strike fear into the heart. The person who ‘doesn’t really wear perfume’, the one who has a signature scent and refuses to budge, the teen who changes their mind every eleven minutes. How on earth do you choose a fragrance they will genuinely love – and not just smile politely at before shoving it in a drawer for the next decade?!

This is where the Seasonal Scents Subscription – and specifically, the just-launched Winter Box – comes into its own. Rather than pinning all your hopes on one bottle, you are gifting them an entire wardrobe of scented personalities to try on for size. Affordably priced at just £21 for a single box, still beautifully packaged, still feeling utterly treat like, but with far more chance of at least one ‘oh my goodness this is SO me’ moment. In fact, probably several.

 

 

 

 

[And if you really want to maximise the gifting glory, you could always tuck in a homemade I.O.U. promising a full size of their favourite once they have had time to spray, sniff and swoon their way through all the samples.]

Don’t want to give them an entire year’s worth of scented adventures? Why not subscribe yourself, and give them the Winter Box when it arrives, with the others to look forward to yourself in the New Year? We won’t tell them…

See here for full details of the various subscription options open to you!

Wrapped together in the Winter Box, this luxurious selection of scent samples mean you no longer have to second-guess whether Aunt Julia still wears that 90s classic, or if your best friend is secretly bored of her usual spritz. Instead, you are handing them a whole season’s worth of fragrant adventures to explore. And when they fall head over heels for one – as they inevitably will – that is when your I.O.U. for a full size comes into play. Thoughtful, playful, budget friendly and really rather clever, if you are treating someone else or very much including yourself…

 

 

 

Inside the Winter Box:

Roberto Cavalli Serpentine slinks in for those who love their fragrance with a side of high glamour. Pink pepper, bergamot and blackcurrant sparkle at the opening, while jasmine sambac, lavender, saffron and rose petals create a lush floral heart, melting into vanilla, tonka and patchouli in the base. It is made for late nights, sparkling occasions and anyone who enjoys feeling just a little bit dangerous in the best possible way.

Perroy Goldfawn is unapologetically gourmand – a caramel macchiato fantasy draped in woods and spice – and yet it somehow stays poised rather than sticky. Cedar and sandalwood provide the backbone, wrapped in caramel, amber, vanilla and a flicker of warmth that feels wonderfully moreish. Perfect for the sweet tooth with great tailoring, the person who power dresses but keeps a secret stash of chocolate in their desk drawer.

Jeroboam Kun Amo, meanwhile, is pure bottled joy. A juicy flash of mandarin, bergamot and almond slips into crisp pear, jasmine, raspberry and a salty sea breeze, all anchored by cedarwood, cashmeran, amber woods and that addictive musk signature. It is radiant, flirty and a little bit beach club – the perfect pick for party people, holiday planners and anyone who refuses to let winter dim their sparkle.

Goldfield & Banks Tales of Amber is for the sunset chaser – or anyone whose phone gallery is 90 percent sky photos. Dewy moss and orange blossom give a fresh lift before labdanum, cinnamon, musk and creamy Australian agarwood unfurl into a glow that feels like warm light on skin. If you are shopping for someone who dreams of road trips, slow evenings and big horizons, this is their bottle in the making.

For the friend who loves a bit of drama with their dessert, BDK Parfums Nectar Oud delivers a jewel toned, gourmand oud that never shouts. Raspberry and saffron sparkle at the start before oudh, smoky resins and warm woods glow beneath, cushioned by benzoin and Atlas cedar. It feels like candlelight on gilded frames – perfect for theatre trips, dressy dinners, or that cousin who describes their style as “extra, but make it chic”.

Amouage Decision will speak to the deep thinker on your list – or to anyone quietly rebuilding their confidence this year. A woody aromatic with pink pepper, bergamot and cardamom fizzing up top, it softens into frankincense, juniper, myrrh and gentle woods, like standing beneath an ancient tree after a storm has passed. This is one for reflective mornings, big life choices, or when you want to feel composed and capable even if your to do list is chaotic.

Montblanc Explorer Ultra Blue, in its winter guise, is like a brisk walk by a cold sea followed by a cashmere jumper. Italian bergamot, citrus and a hint of pink pepper cut through the chill, while marine notes, grey amber, patchouli and woods bring a clean but comforting trail. Reach for this for travellers, outdoorsy types, or anyone who wants something fresh yet grown up for office days and weekend escapes alike.

Amber lovers and cosy night in devotees will gravitate to Ella K Parfums Amber K. Here, spices, spider lily and cigar leaf swirl into cocoa, iris and woods, settling in a soft, amber and vanilla cocoon with just a sigh of leather. It is the olfactory equivalent of slipping into the silkiest loungewear, ideal for intimate gatherings, fireside cocktails, or the person who always picks a velvet sofa over a bar stool.

Oman Luxury Nasaj will delight lovers of florals with depth and story behind them. Sparkling citrus fruits and spices give way to a plush bouquet of white flowers – tuberose, jasmine, neroli, magnolia, gardenia – laid on a base of leather, frankincense, sandalwood, patchouli, cypriol and tonka. It feels like an embroidered shawl around the shoulders, perfect for formal evenings, winter weddings, or the friend whose wardrobe is all silk linings and well chosen details.

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

 

Scented autumn style edit: unbox your new fragrance wardrobe…

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

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

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

 

 

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

 

 

CONNOCK_LONDON_KUKUI_NOIR

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

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

 

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

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Let the Light in! Four spring scented candles for radiant joy

As the welcome sunshine of spring begins to filter into our lives, it’s the perfect time to refresh our surroundings and usher in the brighter, happier days ahead. The season of renewal is upon us, and with it comes the urge to shake off the swaddling of winter and embrace the vibrant colours and scents that spring has to offer.

Alongside the traditional spring cleaning, which clears our spaces of clutter and dust, it’s also a great opportunity to update our home fragrances. This is where candles come into play, often overlooked as a colder months-only delight, but equally magical in spring. They can bring an immediate and radiant joy to our surroundings, capturing the essence of the season and filling our homes with the promise of longer days and warmer weather.

 

 

 

Even unlit, these beautifully crafted candles fill the air with their inviting aromas, and we urge you to shake off the cobwebs, fling open the windows, and let these four fabulous candles into your life…

 

 

 

spring candles

Let’s start with La Montaña’s First Light Candle, a soul-cleansing blend of wild, aromatic mountain flora including fennel, rosemary, mountain pepper, and rockrose. This scent transports you to a serene mountain morning, where the air is crisp, and the world feels full of possibility. The founders describe it as a ‘heavenly fragrance’ that weaves a magical spell, capturing the essence of a new day and a new life. We heartily agree! As the first light of spring dawns, this candle embodies the promise of fresh beginnings.

£39 for 220g 

 

 

 

 

spring candles

Next, we have La Montaña’s Siesta Candle, a soothing lullaby for your senses. Featuring hushed lavender and a cooling herbaceous breeze of juniper and thyme, it invites you to pause and bask in the warmth of a spring afternoon. Imagine yourself gently swaying in a hammock, surrounded by the sun-baked fragrances of the countryside, as the crickets serenade you to sleep. This candle is a perfect way to unwind and let the tranquillity of spring envelop you.

£39 for 220g

 

 

 

spring candles

Moving to Cochine’s Juniper & Ginger Candle, we find a fresh and uplifting scent reminiscent of lush, green woods and exotic mountains. The crisp fragrance of juniper combines with the sweet spiciness of ginger, complemented by hints of clove, bergamot, and patchouli, all blended with the invigorating freshness of eucalyptus. This candle is a breath of fresh air, capturing the invigorating essence of spring’s awakening.

£45 for 230g

 

 

 

spring candles

Lastly for this spring-edit, Cochine’s White Jasmine & Gardenia Candle brings the elegance of Saigon’s sun-filled streets and gardens into your home. The delicate white petals of jasmine, gardenia, and peony unfold an enchanting aura that is both soft and sophisticated. With a burn time of over 50 hours, this candle gently infuses any room, creating a delicately evocative and inspiring atmosphere that feels like inviting the warmth of spring to stay. The blend of jasmine and gardenia, dancing with the blossoming blush of peony, echoes the brightness of the season, making you smile every time you enter the room.

£45 for 230g

 

These candles represent so much more than being beautiful home fragrances – we see them as gateways to the joy and vitality of spring. They remind us that candles are not just for winter; they can be a vibrant part of our spring rituals – lifting our spirits and filling our homes with the promise of longer days and warmer weather. Whether you’re seeking a refreshing mountain breeze, a soothing siesta, a crisp forest scent, or the elegance of tropical flowers, these candles will bring the radiant joy of spring right into your heart and home. And isn’t that something we all need a bit more of right now…?

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Seasonal Spritz: The Perfume Society’s Winter Fragrance Collection

We might be seeing the occasional sunshine, but Winter is still in full-force currently – so we are delving deep into the fantastic fragrance selection in The Seasonal Scents Winter Box (just-about still shipping in the U.K. But don’t delay, these are about to run out!)

 

 

 

The Seasonal Scents Subscription will always contain a variety of hand-picked samples from across a beloved and new niche fragrances, and is priced according to how often you want it delivered: Quarterly Subscription £20 for a single box, with a super flexible rolling contract. See the full details here.

Launch dates 2025:

Spring – March 2025
Summer – June 2025
Autumn – September 2025
Winter –  December 2025

 

 

 

Yes, these seasonally perfect Winter ‘fumes are getting us through these long days of frost still nipping at our noses. So, while reaching for cosy jumpers, this carefully curated collection offers a delightful array of fragrances to warm your senses and brighten even the gloomiest of winter days.

Let’s unwrap the olfactory treasures within The Seasonal Scents Winter Box, and discover how to wear these scent samples for various occasions through the coming weeks…

 

 

 

Bentley Become

Kicking off our winter journey is the sleek and sophisticated Bentley Become. This woody aromatic scent is perfect for those crisp winter evenings when you’re heading out for a special dinner or a night at the theatre. The blend of sweet orange, bergamot, and black pepper in the top notes creates an invigorating opening, while the heart of juniper and myrrh adds a touch of mystery. As the fragrance settles, the base notes of vetiver, patchouli, and sandalwood provide a luxurious, leather-like finish that’s sure to turn heads.

Wear this when you want to feel confident and sophisticated, perhaps for a important business meeting or a romantic date night. It’s a scent that commands attention without being overpowering.

 

 

 

Guess Iconic

For those days when you need a reminder of spring’s delicate beauty amidst winter’s chill, reach for Guess Iconic. This floral fragrance offers a refreshing twist on winter scents with its blend of mandarin, pink pepper, and the intriguing Lilybelle note. It’s an ideal choice for daytime wear, perfect for brunch with friends or a weekend shopping spree.

The heart notes of orange blossom and ylang ylang add a touch of exotic warmth, while the base of amber and musk grounds the scent in a cosy embrace. Wear this when you want to feel fresh and feminine, even when bundled up in your winter woollies.

 

EAU.MG Cheeky Chypre

When you’re in the mood for something a bit rebellious, EAU.MG’s Cheeky Chypre is your go-to scent. This modern take on the classic chypre family is perfect for those who like to stand out from the crowd. The tart rhubarb in the opening adds a playful twist, while the heart of saffron and rose creates a smoky floral allure.

This is an excellent choice for evening wear, particularly for festive parties or nights out dancing. The earthy base of labdanum and cedarwood, enhanced by sultry benzoin, ensures the fragrance lasts well into the night. Wear this when you’re feeling bold and want to make a statement.

 

 

 

 

Affordable niche Fragrance

 

 

Soki London Artemis

For a touch of enchantment in your daily routine, look no further than Soki London’s Artemis. This woody fragrance takes us on a journey to a moonlit grove with its juicy blend of peach, nectarine, and plum. It’s a perfect daytime scent, ideal for wearing to the office or for a casual weekend outing.

The heart of osmanthus and green leaves adds a fresh, natural feel, while the base of sandalwood and cedar provides a smooth, sensual finish. Wear this when you want to feel connected to nature, even if you’re stuck in the city.

 

 

 

 

Molton Brown Re-charge Black Pepper

When you need an invigorating boost to face the winter chill, reach for Molton Brown’s Re-charge Black Pepper. This woody fragrance captures the crispness of winter air with its aromatic blend of lavender, cardamom, and a medley of peppers. It’s an excellent choice for daytime wear, particularly for outdoor activities or when you need a pick-me-up during a long workday.

The earthy base of oakmoss and vetiver ensures the fragrance lasts, making it a great option for day-to-night wear. Don this scent when you want to feel energised and ready to take on whatever the day throws at you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jaguar Era Reloaded

For those high-octane days when you need to be firing on all cylinders, Jaguar’s Era Reloaded is your perfect companion. This fresh amber fragrance opens with a vibrant blend of citrus and apple, followed by an intriguing heart of pineapple, watery jasmine, and pink pepper. It’s an ideal scent for important business meetings or presentations when you need to feel confident and in control.

The base of amber, caramel, and sandalwood adds a touch of luxury that lasts throughout the day. Wear this when you want to make a powerful impression and stand out from the crowd.

 

 

 

 

Lalique Soleil Lunar

When the sun sets and you’re ready for a night on the town, reach for Lalique’s Soleil Lunar. This floral musk fragrance captures the essence of a crisp winter evening, with its blend of mandarin, magnolia, and pink pepper in the opening. The heart of night-blooming jasmine adds a touch of mystery and allure.

The base of musk, moss, and ambergris ensures the scent lingers well into the night. This is the perfect fragrance for evening events, cocktail parties, or romantic dinners. Wear it when you want to feel sophisticated and alluring.

 

 

 

 

Parfums de Marly Althaïr

For those cosy nights in by the fire, wrap yourself in the warm embrace of Parfums de Marly’s Althaïr. This woody fragrance explores a fresh take on vanilla, surrounded by notes of bergamot, cardamom, and praline. It’s the perfect scent for relaxed weekends at home or intimate gatherings with close friends.

The addition of guaiac wood and cinnamon adds a spicy warmth that’s perfect for winter. Wear this when you want to feel comforted and indulged, like wrapping yourself in a soft cashmere blanket.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kajal Dahab

To round off our winter collection, we have Kajal’s Dahab, a fresh fruity fragrance that combines crispness with juiciness. The opening of Granny Smith apple and bergamot is beautifully balanced by a heart of passion fruit and coriander. This versatile scent is perfect for daytime wear, whether you’re running errands or meeting friends for coffee.

The base of patchouli, musk, and amber adds depth and longevity to the fragrance. Wear this when you want to feel uplifted and refreshed, even on the greyest of winter days.

 

Remember, these fragrances aren’t just for winter – they’ve been selected to be perfect for now but will happily see you through to spring and beyond. Don’t forget to check out the Smelling Notes and unboxing video available on our website (details and QR code with your box), so you can explore each scent at your leisure and find your perfect fit.

 

 

 

And here’s a pro tip: why not try layering scents from The Winter Box with other samples from previous editions, or wait for your Spring box and see which feel right for you to wear in the moment, or to create your own bespoke blend? The possibilities are endless!

So, whether you’re braving the winter chill with an eye to spring, or still cosying up indoors, there’s a scent in this box to suit every mood and occasion. Happy spritzing!

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Resolve to Smell AMAZING: 5 Fragrance Goals for 2025

As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to set some olfactory objectives. Whether you’re a seasoned fragrance aficionado or just beginning to explore the world of scent, these five fragrance goals for 2025 will help you expand your horizons and discover new olfactory delights.

 

 

 

We’ll be bringing you a plethora of exciting perfumes to delve into in the coming weeks and months, but for now, let’s focus on some broader, yet informative tips to enhance your fragrant journey…

 

 

 

  1. Explore the World of Indie Perfumery

Make 2025 the year you venture beyond mainstream brands and discover the unique creations of independent perfumers. Indie houses often offer innovative, daring compositions that push the boundaries of traditional perfumery. They frequently use high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients and create in small batches, ensuring a level of exclusivity. Look for online niche perfume retailers, attend perfume events, or join fragrance communities to learn about these hidden gems.

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Uncover Affordable High Street Treasures

Don’t overlook the potential of high street fragrances. Many affordable brands are stepping up their game, collaborating with renowned perfumers to create sophisticated scents at accessible price points. Next time you’re out shopping, take a moment to explore the fragrance sections of your clothing and makeup shops, local chemists or department stores. You might be pleasantly surprised by the quality and complexity of some of these budget-friendly options.

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Rediscover the Classics

2025 is the perfect time to revisit some legendary fragrances that have stood the test of time. Whether it’s a scent you used to wear years ago or a famous perfume you’ve always meant to try, classic fragrances offer a window into the history of perfumery. Many of these can still be found at reasonable prices, especially if you look for older formulations in vintage shops or online marketplaces. Remember, classics are classics for a reason – their enduring appeal speaks volumes about their quality and artistry. Begin with our two part feature on 50 Fragrances You Must Try…

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Expand Your Olfactory Vocabulary

Challenge yourself to describe fragrances more accurately and eloquently. Start by keeping a scent diary where you jot down your impressions of different perfumes. Try to go beyond simple descriptors like “fresh” or “sweet” and delve into specific notes, textures, and emotions evoked by each scent. Attend perfume workshops or masterclasses to learn from experts and enhance your ability to discern and articulate different fragrance elements.

  1. Embrace Seasonal Scenting

Make 2025 the year you curate a fragrance wardrobe that changes with the seasons. Just as you switch up your clothing throughout the year, your perfumes can reflect the shifting moods and temperatures of each season. That’s why we began the Seasonal Scent Subscription Boxes – perfectly curated to bring you newness and beloved names that always smell right for right now. Experiment with lighter, fresher scents for spring and summer, and richer, warmer fragrances for autumn and winter. But don’t be afraid to try unexpected combinations – a traditionally summery scent might bring a delightful contrast to a cold winter’s day.

Remember, the world of fragrance is vast and endlessly fascinating. These goals are meant to guide you on a journey of olfactory discovery, encouraging you to step out of your comfort zone and experience the full spectrum of what perfumery has to offer. Whether you’re drawn to niche creations, rediscovering classics, or finding hidden gems on the high street, 2025 promises to be a year filled with amazing scents.

Stay tuned for our upcoming features on exciting new scents to try as you work towards these fragrant resolutions. It’s going to be a fragrantly FABULOUS 2025, we can just feel it!

 

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

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

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

 

How to Bridge the Scented Seasonal Gap…

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

 

 

 

Five Perfumes Perfect for Right Now:

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

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

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Fragrances for… making the most of summer

It’s still officially summer, but – dare we say it? – there feels like a an autumnal touch to the air of late. Some may sigh and bemoan the lack of a proper summer, but really, when was the British summer ever a given? We say: grab some of these scents to try, and make the most of what’s left – they beautifully bridge the seasons, and provide sunlit warmth while welcoming an olfactory change…

 

 

Molton Brown Sunlit Clementine & Vetiver

Celebrating lazy, hazy days of endless summer (we wish!), Molton Brown sets the perfume bar high, yet again proving that fresh and citrussy needn’t be a fleeting, linear experience. Perfumer Julie Massé brings a long-lasting smile of sunshine with sophisticated, lightly smoky vetiver in the base – patches of dabbled shade offering a hint of mellow woodland leaves in a breeze. Creamy fig leaf and the delicious drift of roasted hazelnut add to the so-chic trail. Feel-better, bottled!

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

 

 

Ormonde Jayne Vanille Afrique Intensivo

Oh yes, it’s a vanilla – being filled to maximum strength with a superbly smooth Madagascan vanilla absolute – but the orris butter entwines so well with the aphrodisiac qualities it becomes a scent to enrapture with ‘…a level of comfort and quiet contemplation,’ they say. Spray this when you need to remember to love yourself, to entice the senses of all who come near, and to dream of balmy summer sunsets and billowing breezes.

£295 for 88ml parfum ormondejayne.com

 

 

late summer scents

Thameen Chords

Two cultural inspirations reverberate through this celebratory scent: British-German composer Handel’s London residency at 25 Brook Street (did you know?) and the gloriously swelling score used for the 1975 (rambunctious, 18thC-set) film, Barry Lyndon. Picture whispers and scandals within wood-panelled rooms, the soft spread of candlelight illuminating honey-drizzled, summer-plucked orange blossom with the flickering brightness of neroli. Meanwhile, plumes of tobacco smoke hazily settle on everything within Nathalie Lorson’s virtuoso performance. A welcome bridge between scented seasons, we feel. Encore!

£250 for 100ml Cologne elixir selfridges.com

 

 

 

 

Sarah Baker Peach’s Revenge

This ain’t no innocent prissy summer peach perfume, that’s for sure. Describing it as a ‘Viciously juicy peach for Renaissance power plays,’ perfumer Chris Maurice leans into the ripe summer 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 sarahbakerperfumes.com

 

 

 

Maison Crivelli Tubéreuse Astrale

Developed in collaboration with perfumer Quentin Bisch, this is tuberose, but not a summer white floral as we know it. For any of you naysayers who steer away from the heady bloom lest is screeches: relax. Inspired as this is by breathing in the scent of tuberoses while gazing in rapture at the night sky; expect tingling twinkles of cinnamon atop this creamy, dreamy white floral; all nuzzled in the most softly draped peach-y osmanthus leather. Perfect for summer star-gazers and rapturous reveries of warmer days through to autumn.

£205 for 50ml extrait harveynichols.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Bring Spring In! How Stories No.1 Candle Trio & Body Collection celebrates the original scent (& the season)…

Now that spring has truly sprung, and the weather feels that much more hopeful [looks out window to check…] we’re welcoming this change of season with the fragrances we chose to wear – but don’t forget to bring spring indoors, too, with our guide to scent-scaping your home via this scent-sational Stories No.1 Candle Trio to match the lighter, brighter mood…

‘The story of a fragrance wrapped itself around me like a cocoon. It came from nowhere; a divine aroma laced with sharp citrus and the warmth of something woody. It was this aroma I sought to create in my first perfume. STORIES No.01 tells the story of renewed hope and joy, sorrow transformed into beauty, darkness yielding to light.’

– So says Founder and Creative Director of Stories Parfums, Tonya Kidd-Begg.

 

 

 

 

She continues: ‘Uplifting citrus notes of Bergamot, Grapefruit & Orange Blossom, reassuring warmth of cedar wood, a delicate touch of Jasmine, Heliotrope and Fig. The mystery of this fragrance is revealed in its blend of Amber, vibrant Sandalwood and hint of Vetiver. Described as ‘a window to the past’, Amber is known to add warmth and depth, yet when blended with sandalwood and vetiver, results in a vibrant celebration of light.’

 

Stories No.1 £75 for 30ml eau de parfum

 

In the limited edition, sustainably made, scented candle trio inspired by the original fragrance, the individual top, heart and base notes of STORIES Nº.01 Eau de Parfum have been so-cleverly separated for you to enjoy across the three candles. This means you can choose to highlight just one section, a couple, or all three in the same place all at once. Or, consider our favourite way to enjoy them – placing the candles between differing areas of your room (or even splitting them between differing areas of your space) to waft the nuanced aspects of the scent.

STORIES Nº.01 Bougie Parfumée Scented Candle Trio

The candles come in a boxed set of three 70g candles, and though they’re inspired by the perfume, they are deliberately not identical – some creative tweaks have been employed to delight your nose and experience a fresh aspect of the scent each time you pass by.

 

To further indulge in the dewy deliciousness of the fragrance, we recommend using the wonderful Hand & Body Wash, or beautifully silky Hand & Body Lotion for an extra olfactory treat for spring every single time you wash your hands or have a shower. What a perfect way to begin your spring scent ritual.

 

Stories Parfums No.1 hand and body lotion

 

Did you know that if you are constantly surrounded by the same smell your nose can ‘switch off’, meaning you simply don’t smell it as strongly anymore? That’s why it’s so important to switch up your home scents just as you do the perfumes you wear with the seasons – otherwise you’re simply not enjoying them to their full extent. So yes, we adore this way of bringing freshness and celebrating the sense of newness into your home, and the ingenious fractioning of the fragrance across the trio of candles – or layering your seasonal scent choices with the accompanying body products – also means your nose never gets tired of the scent. Brilliant!

Written by Suzy Nightingale