On The Scent

On The Scent Podcast Season 7, Episode 36: Classic Scents Remixed & Reinvented

Chanel N°5 Eau de Toilette
Housed in a redesigned, minimalist (label-free) bottle inspired by the original 1924 silhouette, the classic scent profile is absolutely there (bubbly aldehydes, light florals) but with a modern, more casually dressed feeling. Lighter, more intimate, but with a grounding depth beyond the beloved soapy floralcy, Chanel describes it as: ‘A woody abstract floral fragrance that is powerful and textured – an invitation to discover N°5 in a new light.’

Chanel N°5 L'EAU Eau de Toilette
‘Less abstract than its forebears, the composition of N°5 L'EAU radiates citrus like sun-drenched honey. Top notes of lemon, mandarin and orange soar skyward with the aldehydes. Like a second wind, you can hear the rustle of flowers. Rose melds with airy jasmine and a new fraction of ylang-ylang, more modern than ever.
Behind this floral whirlwind, vetiver and cedar impart a novel dynamism, softened by white musks notes. Never has Nº5 been so natural. So fresh.’

Chanel N°5 EAU PREMIÈRE
‘A floral, luminous and airy interpretation of N°5. The voluptuousness of Ylang-Ylang from the Comoros blends into the harmonious and delicate facets of May Rose and Jasmine. Aldehydes grant it a unique presence, and the smooth touch of Vanilla and musky notes create an incredibly feminine trail.’

Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau de Parfum
The quintessential sun-kissed, tropical blend now offers a more intense hit of sunset in a scent, via creamy coconut, tiare flower, warm amber, and vanilla. They say: ‘More intense. More glow. The unmistakable magic of notes of tiare flower and coconut, paired with notes of amber, sandalwood and vanilla, made even richer.’

AERIN Mediterranean Honeysuckle Soleil (Summer Edition)
This limited-edition 2026 solar floral fragrance is inspired by sun-drenched Mediterranean beach holidays. It features notes of neroli, monoi flower, and coconut milk, offering a warmer, creamier, and more radiant twist on the original. Founder, Aerin Lauder, says: ‘Mediterranean Honeysuckle Soleil is a radiant twist on our signature fragrance. This limited-edition was inspired by memories of sun-drenched beach days I have spent on the Mediterranean with family and friends. The scent reminds me of warm sun-kissed skin after a day by the sea with its notes of monoi flower, neroli and coconut milk.’

DS & Durga Debaser In Bloom
Reimagining the original fig scent with a brighter, creamier profile this version features top notes of raspberry flower and white currant, a heart of white gardenia, a base of musk and the highly intriguing grape soda-like ‘cassette tape’ accord. Fascinating and resolutely modern!

Founder David Seth Moltz explains: ‘Debaser is a cult favorite D.S. & DURGA fume inspired by my preteen years hanging out with cool older kids. Music was the binding force of the group. I was introduced to many bands, but the Pixies reigned supreme. I remember getting Doolittle on cassette tape. Back then, tapes smelled distinctly of grapey-orange blossom due to a mysterious mixture of polyester, magnetics, and lubricants from which they were manufactured. You would go to your local record shop, get the latest tape, and skate home fast to listen. When you tore off the wrapping, that familiar aroma was like an unconscious precursor to new music.

Playing with a perfume formula is like reworking a beloved song. New elements emerge, this version of Debaser renders beauty from the mundane. The nostalgic aroma of tapes amplified with choice fruit and flower notes. It wears easy and gives a perfect spring-to-summer vibration, not unlike the music that inspired it.’

Petit Fracas

"Play the game of love with Petit Fracas de Robert Piguet eau de parfum. The scent has an audacious air, inspired by our iconic Fracas. Petit is fresh, youthful and feminine, with a playful innocence. Flirtatious and charming, Petit Fracas opens with notes of fresh citrus and pear. At the heart of the scent is a foral with a vintage edge: tuberose and white flowers. Sophisticated, with a touch of whimsy, the base is underscored by the elegance of musk and sandalwood sprinkled with a touch of chocolate."

Don’t forget it’s the brilliant Barnes Fragrance Fair coming up soon! On Saturday 16th May the fragrance lovers will be gathering far and wide (we know four On The Scent Podcast listeners flying in to attend from America this year!) to sniff their way through the best independent fragrance houses in the U.K. With more stalls than ever where you can meet the founders / perfumers, there’s also a whole timetable of fascinating talks to attend…

Why not grab the last tickets for ‘Scent, Style & Self-Expression: Exploring how men can show up with confidence’ with an expert panel hosted by friend of the pod, Haydn Williams @yousmellgreatwhatisit. Looking at how scent and style can enhance self-expression - and help leave a lasting impression - expect practical advice and insider secrets from the panel of experts…

Robin James - 'Man for Himself' men's grooming, fragrance and lifestyle creator and Founder of Anforh. @manforhimself
Phill Tarling - 'The Image Coach', menswear stylist @philltarling
Jimi Oketunji - 'Aromajayy' - fragrance & fashion content creator @aromajayy

All remaining tickets for talks are available here:

https://www.barnesfragrancefair.com/talks-workshops-26

This week we attended the most incredible party thrown for @onthescentmedia by
Glorious Brands and Muse Communications - a room filled with friends: movers and
shakers of the scent scene, from press, PR and brands alike. All were there to
celebrate the official launch of On The Scent Magazine - and somehow, with all their
love and support - it suddenly felt real!

The magazine was arrayed on tables around the gorgeously flower-bedecked room,
Mimosa cocktails were sipped, fragrant friends laughed and we all basked in the
most spectacular view of London, delighting in the golden hour (and a rare
opportunity to come together across various companies who are usually the ones
holding launches, not getting to relax and attend them!) It was just JOYOUS, and
we are so grateful to everyone who helped organise it, and who came together in
such scented harmony.

Ahhhh! Bliss.

After reliving the magic of that night, we are excitedly counting the hours until the
Fragrance Foundation Jasmine Awards (the podcast is nominated for three awards
in Best Audio and Best Visual categories this year, while Suzy is up for another
three for her writing!)

Meanwhile, of course we had to continue our in-depth chat about
#whatwearewearing lately (because there’s a LOT to tell you about…)

Nicola: Guerlain Cuir Beluga
‘Typically tough, the leather accord reveals a new facet here. Gracing the skin with
softness and enhanced by a refreshing tangerine accord, leather becomes supple
and luminous, blending with intriguing immortelle notes before melting into a
velvety lingering trail of amber, musk and vanilla notes. An untameable leather, as
supple as white suede.’

Suzy: Amouage Love Hibiscus
By Jérôme Epinet
‘From the moment it begins, Love Hibiscus ingeniously presents both of its main
facets
at the same time: a hibiscus note – tart, berry-like, and herbaceous - and an
appetising sugar-coated Palmier accord - sweet, buttery, and caramelised. Linking
them together, with their citrusy, woody aspects, are a delicious passion fruit and a
generous proportion of frankincense. Finally, sandalwood, Indian papyrus, and
vanilla bring the depth that renders the whole perfume indulgent and sensuous.’

Nicola: M&S Discover Warm Neroli
‘This 50ml eau de parfum from Discover combines sparkling neroli and bergamot
top notes with a soft musk base for an elegant, long-lasting fragrance. The carefully
developed formula creates a distinctive scented profile that transitions beautifully
from day to night. The sleek bottle design ensures easy application, while the
concentrated parfum formula provides all-day wear without the need for frequent
reapplication. Perfect for adding an elegant touch to your perfume collection.
From sweet, fruity notes to spicy ambers, experimentation is a key part of finding
the fragrance that suits you. ʽDiscoverʼ offers you a variety of scents mapped across
the fragrance families for you to explore and find your perfect scent.’

Suzy: Balmain Destin (from £25)
By Quentin Bisch

‘An uplifting, feminine blend of strawberry, peony, and creamy sandalwood notes.
The bold and feminine fragrance embodies Balmain’s savoir-faire and modern pulse.
It opens with a flash of neon-saturated, ripe strawberry. The vibrant fruit sparks a
joyful, optimistic energy, playfully contrasting the spicy pepper notes of baies rose.
Rosy notes of peony reveal unexpected creamy lychee facets. The fragrance’s
floralcy deepens with a lily accord. Its delicate green note and the intense spice of
akigalawood come together, intermingling with a sandalwood accord and smooth
patchouli for a radiant woody effect. The brilliant, musky second-skin scent of
Ambrexolide grounds the composition in an irresistible, and unforgettable, sensual
warmth.’

Nicola: Aime Parfum de Peau (from The French Pharmacy)

‘Creamy santal mixes with white musk and ambroxan – a renewable molecule with
woody, amber notes that assists in extending the perfume’s scent profile. With a
roll-on application based on jojoba oil, Parfum de Peau inspires an intimate gesture
of loving self-care. How to use: Apply a small amount of Parfum de Peau to pulse-
points on the body, allowing for development of the scent with your own natural
chemistry – on wrists, inner arms, the neckline and just behind the ears.’

Suzy: RNDL Circus

‘Life never stands still. It twists and turns, dazzles and delights. Circus embraces
the spectacle. Vibrant, unexpected, and a little bit crazy, yet always in control. For
the days that feel like a performance and the nights you steal the spotlight. Created
alongside Mathieu Maneuvrier, one of the most talented perfumers working today.
Top notes: peach, cherry, strawberry.
Heart notes: tobacco, maté, smoke, Greek saffron.
Base notes: musk, amber, gourmand, cypress, cedarwood.’
Nicola: Nuxe Huile prodigieuse® Multi-Purpose Dry Oil
‘The irresistible scent of sunshine and warm sand of this oil with an inimitable dry
touch will infuse your skin with radiant sensuality. Enjoy its subtle and enveloping
scent on your skin and hair. Its unique blend of seven precious botanical oils
(Argan, Sweet Almond, Macadamia, Hazelnut, Borage, Tsubaki, Camelia) and
Vitamin E will moisturise, nourish, repair and beautify the face, body and hair. Its
addictive scent of Magnolia, Orange Blossom and Vanilla and unique dry oil texture
promise a truly Prodigious experience.

Suzy: Miller Harris Tea Tonique extrait

‘Tea Tonique Extrait pays homage to the olfactive artistry of the original eau de
parfum, amplifying its beloved character into a richer, more immersive expression.
A study of infusion and tea in its many guises, dis1lled for longer and drawn deeper,
where brightness is intensified and lightness gains textured depth. Time and
patience allow each note to unfold slowly and completely.

The fragrance opens with the unmistakable sparkle of Calabrian bergamot but here,
the rind of the fruit heightened. The citrus oil feels more vivid, more tactile, as
though the peel itself has been pressed between fingertips. As the citrus radiance
expands, a softer dimension begins to unfurl. Peach blossom reveals, supple and
skin-like, like ripe peach warmed by the sun: luminous, velvety, quietly addictive.
Cool and sweet nutmeg threads through the fragrance with amplified presence, its
spice drawn out and lingering longer on skin.

At the heart remains the clarity of freshly brewed tea, while mate takes on a more
invigorating intensity. Jasmine and a whisper of violet lend a delicate, powdery
elegance that softens the composition without dimming its light. As the fragrance
settles, light woods, smoky birch and comforting musk anchor the radiance,
evoking the earth beneath the tea bushes and grounding the freshness…’

We’re rhapsodising about some of the incredible fragrances we’ve got our
noses on lately (and beautiful new stores we’ve discovered while out and
about) in this episode – so jam-packed with perfumes we’re telling each other
about that we’ll have to do a Part Two to fit them all in. What can we say? It’s
been SUCH a busy time for launches and exciting newness in the fragrance
world. Indeed, during the recording of this episode, Nicola got so excited by
Suzy’s descriptions of a new (and affordable!) niche brand that she purchased
their discovery set to try for herself.
Which of these would you want to try first, we wonder...?
Torti Massi Miliano
(57 Brewer Street)
‘Massimiliano Torti was born in Florence in 1975, and his early passion for
perfumery exposed him to the leading scents of the ’80s and ’90s. Torti has
revolutionised perfumery by stepping away from conventional training to focus
on monophonic essences, capturing the intrinsic purity of raw materials. He
collaborated with experts in tea, chocolate, and essential oils and opened a
laboratory in the heart of Umbria, to create his unique fragrances. Operating
exclusively from his workshop, Torti’s work is a testament to authentic
craftsmanship, where every product is meticulously handcrafted with a
profound commitment to quality.’
Atelier Rebul Golden Hour
By perfumer Pascal Gaurin
‘Inspired by Istanbul's most enchanting moment, Istanbul Golden Hour Eau de
Parfum transforms that magical time when the sun nears the
horizon—wrapping the city in a golden-hued glow—into a captivating olfactory
experience.
Top Notes: The fragrance opens with a bright and fresh touch of pear and
neroli, evoking the exact moment the light begins to soften.
Heart Notes: At its heart, jasmine and toasted coconut reflect the warm,
inviting tones of the Golden Hour.
Base Notes: Deep notes of amber accord, labdanum, and vanilla add depth,
leaving a long-lasting and elegant trail on the skin.’
Idiom Fragrances
‘Elevated, single-minded fragrances. Designed for layering. 7 fragrances.127
combinations. One you. Wear your way.’
All 30ml eau de parfum are £38. Suzy got:
Idiom Acoustic Rose
‘Rose centre stage. A timeless, modern, universal rose. It begins bright, floral,
moves through notes of juicy apricot and osmanthus before revealing deeper
notes that softly hum with spice, earth, and tobacco. It’s rose in all its
blooming glory.
Solo: A warm, juicy, skin-close floral
Layer: Adds rose-toned refinement and polish.’
Idiom Pepper Solstice
A warm pulse of black and pink pepper. It’s a sun-setting, compulsive burst of
velvet spice and rounded radiance. The scent of good times.
Solo: A soft, spiced skin scent. Skin on skin.
Layer: Adds a unique, spiced lift to any fragrance.
We wanted to capture the soul of pepper — a fragrant still-life of the most
famous spice in the world. We sourced black pepper oil from Madagascar, a
spicy but bright, citrus-laced and rounded variety that brings initial lift and a
sparkle of heat.
Pink pepper notes add a softer pulse — fruitier, almost rosy. Then come the
unexpected layers: cedarwood for dry, grounded warmth, and turmeric leaf
that deepens the pepper, adding golden spice, body and a hint of zest.
Together they create a pepper fragrance that’s warm, sumptuous and wholly
unique.’
(Suzy wants to get the Palo Santo and 3D Amplifier AND the Vetiver Ace
and Bergamot Hi Fi as well!)
Idiom Fragrances also do a Discovery Kit of all seven fragrances for £35,
which is the best way to try the layering experience.
Arkive The Bright Side
‘Introducing The Brightside, a fragrance that encapsulates wanderlust and the
spirit of adventure. The scent opens with zesty basil, lime, and bergamot,
bringing a bright and herbal freshness. Floral notes of frangipani, night-
blooming jasmine and orris linger at the heart, while grounding vetiver,
angelica root and cedarwood add warmth and sophistication. The Brightside is
your passport to unforgettable memories. The Brightside has been created
with AromaWellness™️ technology, scientifically proven to uplift, energise and
increase positivity.’
Olfiction Lab Editions: Iconic
By Pia Long
‘A floral bouquet inspired by the idealised memory of a luxurious 80s face
cream and cosmetics. Orris and rose de mai form the centre of this
sentimental creation, bringing powdery softness, whilst neroli and tuberose
impart freshness and natural complexity.
A previous version of ICONIC, designed specifically for skincare applications,
was exhibited in Unveiling the Essence: A Journey into Perfumery Formulas at
the Institute of Art and Olfaction in 2025. The formula has been modified to
perform as perfume.’
Ormonde Jayne Four Corners of the Earth Reimagined Patchouli
By Céline Ripert
HEAD: Pink pepper, cardamom, lemon, saffron
HEART: Cedarwood, amber, cashmeran, akigalawood
SOUL: Patchouli, ambroxan, musk, sandalwood
‘A scent carved from shadow and stone. A patchouli not bound by tradition but
reimagined.
Earthbound velvet, aged in the roots of forgotten forests. Patchouli rises bold,
sacred and unyielding, wrapped in the ancient hush of cedar groves balanced
with the breath of the mountain - raw and refined.’
Marc-Antoine Barrois B87.135 extrait
By Quentin Bisch
(Harrods exclusive)
‘Here, an evolution on the first perfume from the House – B683 – receives a
powerful update by way of the B87.135 extrait de parfum, celebrating the
arrival of the perfumer at Harrods and the opulence of One Thousand and
One Nights. The fragrance comes to life with a woody, spicy and amber profile
that evokes the scented treasures of a souk.’
Top notes: pink peppercorn, ambrette seeds, myrrh
Heart notes : saffron, rose oil, iris butter
Base notes: cedarwood, patchouli, vetiver, Georgywood’
[Georgywood is a synthetic aroma molecule developed by Givaudan that
provides a vibrant, clean, and intense woody-ambery scent to perfumes. A
durable base note, often resembling cedarwood, sandalwood, or agarwood
(oudh), to create modern, long-lasting fragrances with, in some cases, slight
fruity or spicy facets.]

From a listener’s mystery novel set in a perfume shop, refillable candles, a handsome man holding a bouquet by a fireside and where to find vintage fragrance posters - this episode is a veritably bulging postbag of perfume-matching pondering!

Kathy (aka Kat LaGue) is a long-time listener and author of two ‘cosy mystery’ novels set in a fictional perfume shop of her hometown, Baltimore, Maryland. You can read all about her work here: https://katlague.com

With her first ever signing event happening in May, Kathy ‘thought it might be fun to bring a bit of the shop experience to the table by offering pre-sprayed blotters for people to sniff.’ For the first book she wanted a leathery/rose Chypre; for the second, the smell of a ‘kouign-amann, the glorious Breton butter cake. I’d love to find a fragrance, or even a layering combination, that evokes caramelized sugar, rich butter, and just a hint of salt.’

We suggested…

For the leathery rose Chypre:

Angela Flanders Leather Rosa
‘Inspired by the soft and sensual quality of leather with its naturally dry aroma, yet warm skin like touch. Leather Rosa is a new dark rose scent, deep and bewitching in nature, cherished rosa damascena, but dressed this time in a coat of the finest vintage leather.
Sophisticated and elegant notes of exotic agar wood and smoky oudh add a leathery tobacco accord, while the warmth of amber makes an appearance in the base of this sensuous combination cherishing a heart of rosa damascena and a sweet top note of rose du mai and raspberry.’

Hermès Kelly Calèche
‘Kelly Caleche is a nod to two iconic Hermès objects: the Kelly bag and the caleche, a horse-drawn carriage and the House's signature. Kelly Caleche was created in 2007 by perfumer Jean-Claude Ellena. This "perfume exuding leather and flowers, as light as an angel's wing" is dedicated to women who exhibit free-spirited elegance and whose unisex equestrian style refuses to take itself too seriously.
A floral and leathery fragrance, Kelly Caleche Eau de Parfum combines the opulent notes of rose with powdery mimosa, along with the enveloping character of benzoin.’

For the second book:

Maison Margiela Afternoon Delight
‘Afternoon Delight captures a moment of self-indulgence, transporting you to a Parisian café where the uplifting aroma of warm madeleines fills the air. This sweet yet light, ambery gourmand fragrance evokes moments of joyful escapism.

At the heart of the fragrance is a Madeleine accord, evoking Afternoon Delight perfume’s sense of comfort and conjuring a moment of “me time,” where the quotidian fades away. This blends with the creamy and woody notes of sandalwood, while the deliciousness of Madagascan vanilla pod lingers in the fragrance. These notes all capture the memory of an enveloping moment for oneself.’

Frassäi Blondine
‘Once upon a time, in a faraway land, a fair and gentle princess grows up beloved by her father, surrounded by precious jewels, exotic fruits and mouthwatering dainties. When left behind in an enchanted forest by a deceitful coachman, BLONDINE is captivated by the most beautiful flowers she has ever seen. Rejoicing in their profusion and delighting in their perfume, she commences to fill her hat and pockets with them, until she finds herself farther and farther away from home. A fragrant tale of alluring florals, decadent sweets, and enigmatic musks, where courage and hope are the key to living happily ever after; here Blondine’s story begins.
Green mandarin, pear leaves, salted butter caramel, tiger lily, ashok flower, cocoa, castoreum, blond musks, and tonka beans.’

Kylie Cosmetics Caramel Cloud Hair & Body Mist
‘Caramel Cloud is a warm, ambery gourmand hair and body mist that envelops the senses with a smooth, buttery fragrance profile. The scent opens with rich notes of almond and pistachio butter, creating a nutty foundation that melts into a heart of caramel and brown sugar accords for a toasted, sweet character. At the base, soft musk and pure vanilla extract leave a delicious, cloud-like finish on both skin and hair.’

(Layered with…)

Demeter Fragrance Library Pretzel (available in Cologne, Bath & Body Oil, Body Lotion, Perfume Oil)
‘Savour the iconic aroma of a New York Style Warm Pretzel. This fragrance captures the essence of freshly baked dough, lightly salted and perfectly warm, creating a scent that is both comforting and nostalgic. This fragrance will transport you to the bustling streets of New York City.’

Penhaligon’s Changing Constance
‘Constance is what one might call A Very Modern Woman. She has no regard for custom, and does exactly as she likes. Cool cardamom, hot pimento, salted caramel - her contrary perfume breaks every rule.
Key notes: cardamom, salted butter, caramel, tobacco.’

PHLUR Caramel Skin Body Mist
‘Decadent, deep and full of warmth. Caramel Skin is a deliciously sweet sensation that sparks desire, with refined sophistication and bold attitude. The dance between spun caramel, brown sugar and vanilla provide an indulgent and tantalizing taste. Bergamot adds brightness, while creamy sandalwood and musk elevate the fragrance into a confident and sensual symphony. Caramel Skin Body Mist is sweet, sexy and simply irresistible.’

For B.O’Riodan, who’s ‘rying to be a more discerning shopper’ and wants to find fragrance candles where you can buy a refill separately, we recommend…

Lords Fragrance House Candle Refills
‘A new harder vegetable stearin wax formulation that allows us to make refills to slot into your pots! Available in 3 scents, Positano, Yellowstone and Oxfordshire. These fit our classic 1 wick vessel and our ceramic stripe vessel.’

TOLD London Candle Refills
‘This refill is hand-poured in the UK with 100% natural wax for a clean, long-lasting burn. Designed to refresh your Told London illustrated porcelain vessel, it delivers the same fine scent while reducing waste.’
The Constant Candle Company (the one that Nicola promised she'd mention in the notes)
"Constant Candle supplies everything you need to create a new candle sustainably - direct to your door. Pre-fragranced luxury eco-friendly candle wax to heat and pour into a candle holder of your choice, cotton wick plus a wooden wick holder together with instructions and videos."

Also try: finding a candle-making workshop near you. Many of them ask that you bring your own vessels to be filled!

Rachel Cooke loves wearing men’s fragrances, but is looking for something pretty specific, scent-wise. Namely, one that smells like ‘a sexy bearded man in a suit that’s smells typically masculine but he’s holding a beautiful bunch of fragrant flowers but also in front of an open a fire!!’

We thought these might night the spot…

Floris Leather Oud
‘Leather Oud has an opulent, deep sensual note of rich earthy vetiver and warm amber that combines beautifully with rose and sandalwood. Leather Oud has an opulent, deep sensual note of rich earthy vetiver and warm amber that combines beautifully with rose and sandalwood.
Top notes: bergamot, leather
Heart notes: carnation, geranium, oudh, patchouli
Base notes: oudh, vetiver, woody amber.’

Penhaligon’s The Cut
‘Penhaligon's The Cut Eau de Parfum is a refined blend of spices and woods. Opening with an energetic twist of saffron, nutmeg, and coriander, the fragrance is stitched together with remarkable precision, offering a bold yet refined first impression.
The heart unfolds with cistus labdanum, rose, and incense, creating a smoky, resinous warmth softened by a floral undertone. This sophisticated harmony evokes the swagger of Savile Row, where clary sage strides confidently, followed by lavender’s dignified applause.
In the base, patchouli, cedarwood atlas, and sandalwood deliver a deep, grounding finish. The result is a long-lasting fragrance of elegance and character, perfectly suited to both men and women who appreciate classic craftsmanship with a modern twist.

Parfums de Marly Layton
‘Layton blends juicy apple with calming lavender, wrapped in the earthy depth of patchouli. Elegant, sensual and flamboyant.

Top Notes: apple, bergamot, cardamom
Heart Notes: lavender, violet, geranium
Base Notes: patchouli, vanilla, guaic wood,praline.’

Horace Oud Rose
‘Oud Rose is refined yet extravagant, like wearing a leopard-print tuxedo to the opera. Geranium Rose and Rosemary offer a vibrant aromatic freshness. At the heart, a sensual, freshly cut Rose blends with a deep Patchouli. Finally, Oud, Cypriol and Sandalwood create a mysterious intensity.’

Anforh Sorn
‘Smoky, leathery, and floral with a deep amber resonance. Sorn is the most ornate and expressive of the three Anforh fragrances: indulgent but refined, modern yet vintage in structure.
From the Scots word “sorn” (to linger by charm or persuasion), Sorn is a fragrance of memory and atmosphere. It captures the sense of what remains - the warmth in the air, the trace on the fabric, the echo of an evening.
Top notes: pimento berry (allspice), clove bud, bergamot
Heart notes:...

How do you discover which fragrances evoke your personality, or find those perfumes that portray the character you’d like to be, rather than how you happen to feel that day? In this episode we reply to a listener’s email asking for help finding her perfect perfume(s), and discuss how we went about discovering our own perfume identities.

Then, we answer another listener’s question about scenting a wedding (including how to find fragrances evoking the evening, and the practicalities of perfuming an event)…

We suggested Jennifer tries:

The Raconteur Ms Macadamia: ‘A scent for those who value their independence and always leave room for a delicious slice of adventure. Go nuts!’ The powdery orris in this feels creamy with the macadamia, the prettiness of peach bolstered by grounding vetiver and vanilla. We love the poem that accompanies it!

‘Not here for likes, not here for follows Chasing the sun, not shadows to follow Built for love, she can’t help herself Not trying to be anyone—just herself Got a big heart, she’s street smart She knows the rules, but tears them apart Backs herself, always has a go Has the scars from letting go Looks to the stars for signs from above Knows that longing is part of love Always find her on the dance floor Always know, she backs up for more! Fear doesn’t faze her, it just rusts Some say she’s crazy... maybe even, ...nuts.’

Vyrao Ludatrix: ‘Naughty notes of lipstick and latex entwine with powdery rose, energising sichuan pepper and courage-enhancing orris to cast Ludatrix’s enticing and empowered spell. Tantalising ambrette for igniting arousal is layered with voluptuous cedarwood, sandalwood and olibanum for positivity and protection, while a potent blend of ambrox and musk sparks sensuality. Bold and boundless desire, bottled.’

Goutal Tenue de Soirée: A glorious waxy, lipstick powder scent paired with leather, creating an intimate boudoir-rescue cosmetic aroma. While it doesn’t include tuberose, it does use rose, iris and patchouli with a soft white musk, exuding beauty and inner-strength.

Byredo Rose of No Man’s Land: ‘The fragrance embodies the quiet power that comes from acts of kindness, with the delicate Rosa Damascena at its heart, enhanced by the bright freshness of Pink Pepper and Turkish Rose Petals. A lush blend of Raspberry Blossom and Turkish Rose Absolute creates a rich floral depth, while a base of Amber and Papyrus adds warmth and complexity. This fragrance captures grace, inner strength, and the enduring spirit of empathy.’

Hauto by Jeroboam (Extrait de Parfum): A potent extrait that beautifully blends a mix of intense white florals with a very powdery, almost "bubblegummy" lipstick feel, and is incredibly long-lasting without being overwhelming. It also has something of a steelier / silvery backbone.

Floris Tuberose in Silk (Eau de Parfum): This one specifically combines tuberose with powdery iris and orange blossom top notes, giving it a sophisticated and slightly vintage makeup scent vibe but still with an effortlessly modern feel.

Nishane Tuberóza X: ‘Entrusted to the talent of Master Perfumer Dominique Ropion, this interpretation of Nishane's iconic white floral pays homage to the captivating scent of tuberose blossoms swaying under a starry sky. Built around an exquisite Indian Tuberose Absolute from the Laboratoires Monique Rémy, Tuberóza X is more vegetal than its older version, its greenness here tinged with a bright Violet accord while the sultry character of this supreme flower remains boldened by fruity and narcotic accents of Ylang-Ylang.’

Em @truckstrailsandfails wants to scent her wedding with fragrances that imbue her personality and can evoke the evening itself.

We suggest:

Having scented candles / diffusers to fragrance the venue and set a scented theme for your wedding which guests will always remember.

Name tables after your favourite fragrances and have themed decor / floral displays on each, or simply have that scent on a display as the table’s central focus, with decants or mini samples of the scent for guests to take away.

Purchase mini ceramic discs from a craft shop, having ribbons printed with your names & the date of the wedding, and having them on place settings or piled near the perfume display. Then, inviting guests to spray their discs with a chosen scent to remind them of the celebrations.

So - do you think you’ve found YOUR ‘perfume personality yet, or does it change all the time? And how would you want to scent your wedding or a big event? Let us know via DMs @onthescentpodcast on Instagram!