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Can you imagine a whole day dedicated to wandering the streets of Paris and smelling their scented wares? Utter olfactory heaven, right?! Well, recently Suzy had a morning and afternoon to do just this, and in this week’s episode, she and Nicola retrace her steps and recall the gorgeous and inspiring Parisian boutiques she managed to visit, reviewing each of the fragrances sniffed and recounting the memories they evoke.

Nicola also adds some personal recommendations of places to stop and watch the world go by and have a spot of lunch - should you be so inclined to follow the perfumed path Suzy took, and which Nicola so fondly remembers during her time of living in Paris.

From exclusive Parisian perfumes not sold anywhere else, to newly launched scents, and the unique architecture and aesthetics that make these houses so worth your time - why not settle down with a (good) coffee and fresh croissant, and indulge in this Parisian fragrant fantasy of an afternoon with On The Scent podcast…

Boutiques Suzy visited during a morning and afternoon in Paris…

Maison Crivelli

314 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris, France

Designed by founder Thibaud Crivelli alongside Myriam Akl, the space functions as an "agora of perfume" combining personal objects collected ted from his travels, a stunning woven ceiling in the consultation room upstairs, signature terracotta tones, burnt wood curved benches, sculptural totems, and a series of interactive exploration boxes for visitors.

Ex Nihilo

326 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris

Designed like a contemporary art gallery combining architecture, lighting, and modern design. The Osmologue is an exclusive in-store technology system that lets visitors personalise and tailor signature fragrances to their individual preferences.

Paris exclusives:

Timeless Lovers

‘An exclusive fragrance created for the Galeries Lafayette, as an ode to Paris, it embodies the city's universal elegance and its romantic spirit.

Paris, the cradle of passion, proudly displays a flaming red color, reminding the typical red lipstick Parisian women wear. The fragrance opens with a spicy Pink Pepper top, then in the heart Cedarwood gently compliments a sensual yet sophisticated floral heart of Rose.

Eventually, Leather & Amber notes with Agarwood bring depth and power to this Parisian love story.’

Paname Palace by Ex Nihilo is a fresh, fruity unisex fragrance released in 2022. The composition opens with a bright and slightly spicy accord of bergamot, cinnamon, and pink pepper, leading into a heart where creamy fig is paired with rose and ylang-ylang. The base blends cedarwood, tonka bean, and vetiver, giving the scent a woody, softly sweet, and earthy drydown. This fragrance is available exclusively in the brand's Paris store.

BDK

Velvet Tonka Extrait

‘Almondy and vanilla-infused, Velvet Tonka is an oriental gourmand creation dusted with icing sugar, built around tonka bean, almond and orange blossom.

Velvet Tonka celebrates the tonka bean, between powdery softness and woody facets, like an oriental indulgence dusted with powdered sugar. Paired with almond and orange blossom, which lend it a luminous facet, it unfolds in a vanilla and honeyed accord, wrapped in amyris wood and tobacco. An addictive, velvety and translucent trail.’

"The scent of tonka bean has always been reminiscent of Proust's madeleines for me. Brazilian tonka bean enriches the perfumer's palette and creations with its warm and sensual almond notes. I am particularly fond of its balmy character and its milky hay aspect, which makes it incredibly addictive." Perfumer Alexandra Carlin

Solferino

310 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris

Lumiére d’Automne

‘Inspired by autumn in Paris, where golden light dances across Haussmann façades and trees are dressed in amber hues. This gourmand fragrance unfolds around a roasted chestnut accord,creamy and addictive, blending into a comforting trail of vanilla and sandalwood.’

‘The fragrance opens with notes of angelica, carrot seeds and ambrette, bringing a musky, aromatic breath. At its heart, roasted chestnut reveals a creamy, delicately smoky sweetness, evoking the melting flesh of a chestnut still warm from the fire. In the base, vanilla, benzoin and sandalwood come together to create a warm, enveloping atmosphere. An authentic olfactory stroll, celebrating the understated elegance and beauty of Parisian light in autumn.’

"I wanted to capture the golden light of autumn in Paris and the comforting gourmand emotion of roasted chestnuts, memories that are inseparable from this season."

Yann Vasnier – Givaudan

Acqua di Parma

205 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris

Created in collaboration with French designer Dorothée Meilichzon, blending Italian craftsmanship with a Parisian aesthetic. It features signature architectural arches, high-gloss yellow lacquer accents, marmorino walls, and wooden totems shaped like the iconic Colonia perfume bottle. Features an intimate consultation space at the back of the boutique highlighting the Maison's history and iconic collections.

Matiére Premiére

306 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris

‘The new 46-square-meter space reflects the brand’s philosophy. Designed by Swedish architects Halleroed, the boutique features limestone, wood, bronze, and handblown blue glass. Therefore, the space feels both refined and rooted in craftsmanship.Inside, visitors find two distinct areas. One displays the full fragrance collection. The other offers a sensory journey through raw ingredients. Because these materials change with the seasons, each visit feels new.’

Fragonard

207 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris

‘Founded in 1926 in Grasse, France, Fragonard is a family-run perfumery known for classic floral compositions and distinctive golden aluminum estagnon bottles. A stone's throw from the Jardin des Tuileries and the Place Vendôme, the Saint-Honoré boutique offers in a magnificent setting all the Fragonard ranges: perfumery, cosmetics, fashion, accessories and decorative objects.’

L'Oranger

This is a special anniversary fragrance centered around its signature orange blossom heritage. Created by perfumer Daniela Andrier, it features a bright bouquet of bergamot, Italian green mandarin, and lemon petitgrain at the top, a heart of orange blossom absolute blended with lavender and French cypress, and a soft base of white musks and blond woods.

Orange blossom has been Fragonard's signature scent since 2004, and the brand also celebrated the 2026 centenary with a special heart-shaped, orange-blossom-scented stamp issued by La Poste

Guerlain

356 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris

‘Scent creations are stored in a temperature-controlled, UV-protected cellar designed similarly to a fine wine cellar (grand crus) to preserve the integrity of the perfumes. • Visitors can customize iconic bee bottles and flacons by selecting bottle colors, custom text engraving, neck threads, ribbons, and packaging. These custom designs are recorded in a serial-numbered logbook, and the bee bottles can be permanently refilled.’

Maison Diptyque

7 Rue Duphot, 75001 Paris

‘Located in one of the French capital's most prestigious areas, halfway between a boutique and a cultural centre, you'll find iconic Diptyque creations and a range of artistic and cultural experiences, all in an architectural setting reminiscent of a Parisian aesthete's apartment. Designed like a 400m² Parisian aesthete's apartment featuring rooms such as a library, garden, home fragrance salon, bathing salon, and museum/exhibition spaces. Iconic and exclusive Diptyque creations, perfume refills, personalised engraving, gift boxes, recycling services, and rotating artistic or cultural events. Enjoy an exclusive personalised service in Le Salon Privé, where you can turn your inspiration into reality and create an extraordinary made-to-measure extra-large candle. 200 possible combinations of scents and finishes for a singular and precious...

Fancy a scented tour through unexpected florals (via toasted seeds and cool green leaves), autumnal sunsets in California, walled gardens where a warrior goddess might stroll, impeccably tailored heritage, and a gloriously gilded pop fantasy? Step right this way, because this week Suzy & Nicola are discussing perfumes for taking a calm breath, for making an entrance, for leaning into your own glow, and the pleasure of simply choosing the perfect scent to suit the moment.

They’re also asking whether fragrance can influence mood, considering solid perfume in a new jelly-like form, and finding plenty to discuss in a line-up that moves from poised and polished to maximalist, sensual and gloriously escapist…

Let’s dive in!

Dries Van Noten Velvet Violet

Violet is so often treated as a sugary, powdery floral that it is genuinely refreshing to find it approached from a greener, more fashion-conscious angle. Here, the leaf is the real focus, giving a cool, woody freshness that feels crisp and modern rather than cosmetic. Pink pepper adds a fizzy brightness, then the texture shifts. Toasted sesame is nutty and savoury, barley brings a softly cereal-like warmth, and vetiver with tonka bean leaves a smooth, earthy-gourmand glow on skin.

The effect is tactile and surprisingly chic, with a lovely tension between freshly crushed green leaves and the almost skin-like warmth of toasted seeds. This is violet for those who usually avoid violet, and a quietly unusual choice for anyone who likes their florals with a little friction.

Notes: Violet leaf, pink pepper, sesame, barley, vetiver, tonka bean.

L’Objet Alento

Named for a word that can mean breath, spirit, encouragement and vital energy, this is a perfume conceived as an olfactory pause. The opening is bright with juicy orange, though aldehydes give it a sparkling, airy lift that stops it from becoming too obviously fruity. Orange blossom flows through the heart with a fresh, creamy radiance, before lactones, vanilla, ambergris and white musks soften into a cocooning, close-to-skin finish.

It feels less like a perfume that announces itself and more like a gentle return to oneself. There is a luminous cleanliness to it, but enough milkiness, warmth and musk to make it feel sensual rather than merely fresh. A lovely choice for anyone craving comfort that still has a little glow about it.

Notes: Top: Orange, aldehydes Heart: Orange blossom, fresh floral notes, lactones Base: Vanilla, ambergris, white musks

L’Objet Ojai

This begins with the imagined warmth of a California afternoon, when the air is bright with citrus and green things, and the earth has started to hold onto the day’s heat. Bergamot, a green note and cardamom have a breezy, aromatic freshness, before the mango comes through with a rich, softly tropical glow. Bulgarian rose and saffron lend colour and texture, making the fruit feel more nuanced than merely juicy.

As it settles, patchouli, frankincense and vanilla bring a dusky, ambery depth that is far more soulful than a straightforward fruity floral. It smells like sun on skin, fruit warmed on the branch, and a trace of incense carried through an open window. This is for days when a perfume needs to offer an instant sense of escape, while still feeling grounded and wearable.

Notes: Top: Bergamot, green note, cardamom Heart: Mango, Bulgarian rose, saffron Base: Patchouli, frankincense, vanilla

Boadicea the Victorious Andraste

This is a full, dramatic walled garden scent, where hot brick, flowering vines, crushed greenery and aromatic herbs all seem to release their perfume at once. It has the kind of lavish, maximalist construction that Boadicea the Victorious does so well, combining cool eucalyptus and smoky Lapsang Souchong tea with saffron, thyme and a cascade of flowers. Honeysuckle, wisteria, jasmine and rose create an all-consuming floral richness, while powdered orris, ambrette, leather, fumed woods and vetiver darken the edges.

There is a sense of strength to it, but it does not feel remotely austere. This is floral drama with a leather-lined, resinous, slightly feral undercurrent. It has the atmosphere of a garden after a storm, when everything smells wetter, greener, hotter and more alive. Wear it when you want perfume to feel like a form of armour, a flourish of theatricality, and a reminder to take up rather more space.

Notes: Eucalyptus, Lapsang Souchong tea, saffron, thyme, honeysuckle, wisteria, jasmine, Lady Emma Hamilton rose, citrus notes, orris, ambrette, leather, fumed woods, vetiver.

Huntsman x Truefitt & Hill Cologne

The idea here is understated luxury, and it does that most convincingly by avoiding the kind of brash, traditional barbershop clichés one might expect. The opening has a bright, aromatic polish from bergamot, lemon, cardamom, pink pepper, saffron and elemi, feeling brisk but never sharp. Then the rose and violet arrive, adding soft floral refinement, while tobacco absolute gives the heart a gentle smokiness and richness.

Vanilla pod, guaiac wood, tonka bean and cedarwood create a warm, smooth finish that gives this more depth than a conventional cologne. It is elegant without being fussy, and classic without smelling as though it has been preserved behind glass. The overall impression is of someone beautifully dressed, completely at ease and not remotely interested in making a fuss about it.

Notes:

Top: Bergamot, cardamom, pink pepper, saffron, lemon, elemi

Heart: Damask rose, tobacco absolute, violet, petitgrain

Base: Vanilla pod, guaiac wood, tonka bean, cedarwood

Britney Spears Goddess Fantasy

If fragrance is sometimes about serious artistry, it can also be about joy, memory, confidence and indulging the part of oneself that would like to feel a little more fabulous. This goes wholeheartedly into that mood. Golden mango, mandarin and bergamot bring juicy, sunlit sweetness, while jasmine absolute, Turkish rose and orange blossom give the heart a lush, glamorous floral bloom.

The dry-down is where the Fantasy family resemblance really comes through. Benzoin, vanilla buttercream and gilded musk create a warm, creamy sweetness that feels designed for unapologetic pleasure. It is bright, pretty and noticeably gourmand, but the citrus opening stops it becoming too dense. Think glossy lips, warm skin, golden light and the sheer morale boost of deciding that one is, in fact, the main character.

Notes:

Top: Golden mango, mandarin, bergamot

Heart: Jasmine absolute, Turkish rose, orange blossom

Base: Warm benzoin, vanilla buttercream, gilded musk

Joonbyrd Mood Jellies

These portable water-based solid fragrances are intended as little mood rituals, with each jelly pairing a different scent profile with Bacillus ferment and neuroscience-led wellbeing claims. It is always worth holding such claims lightly, because scent is personal and context-dependent. Yet there is something rather charming about matching fragrance to a desired state of mind, particularly when the format is so playful and easy to carry around.

Bliss

Apple gives this a crisp, cheerful lift, jasmine brings a soft floral bloom, and woods with labdanum provide a mellow, gently resinous warmth. It sounds like the most easy-going of the trio, designed for a comforting, sunny sort of uplift.

Notes: Apple, jasmine, woods, labdanum.

Confidence

Peach and saffron make for a warm, radiant opening, while oak moss and ambroxan lend dry, musky structure. This has the most polished, skin-scent-like profile of the three, with enough fruitiness to feel friendly but enough moss and woody amber character to provide presence.

Notes: Peach, saffron, oak moss, ambroxan.

Peace

Violet and orris create a soft, powdery hush, while vetiver and cedarwood add rooty calm. Cacao brings a subtle darkness and comfort, making this the most introspective choice. It feels made for the end of a busy day, when one wants a small personal pause rather than a big perfume performance.

Notes: Violet, vetiver, cacao, cedarwood, orris.

Also mentioned: Buy the just-published third print issue of On The Scent magazine here!

https://www.onthescentmedia.com/shop

And read the news and blog here:

https://www.onthescentmedia.com/news

What does a fragrance feel like? This week, Suzy Nightingale and Nicola Bonn are

following their noses into the wonderfully tactile world of perfumery, where a scent

can suggest velvet brushing the skin, the smooth swish of nylon, or the crumbly

warmth of freshly sliced cake. There’s oudh as soft as autumnal sun-warmed suede,

a mineral hush reminiscent of earth after rain, and an aromatic breeze that arrives

wind-whipped and bracing before settling into comfort.

These perfumes invite you to think beyond notes alone. Some wrap around you;

others seem to lift you into cool, open air or draw you into the glow of a city after

dark. Join Suzy and Nicola for an episode devoted to sumptuous scents you can

almost reach out and touch...

The fragrances discussed in this episode are:

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Velvet Mood Extrait

Velvet warmed by desert sun is the irresistible idea here. Peach skin, delicate suede

and deep oud wood unfold in a slow, enveloping caress – soft, sensuous and richly

textured, with a sillage that seems to ripple across dunes beneath a starry sky.

D.S. & Durga Ain’t That Sweet?

The blissful comfort of a freshly sliced cake, with no apology for its sweetness.

Cinnamon lends a spicy dusting, fresh floral lily keeps things lifted, and creamy

vanilla melts into the skin, leaving a decadent trail that lingers like the last delicious

crumb.

Pigmentarium Aereo

Airy yet grounding, Aereo feels like finding a quiet moment after rain. Soft, mineral

cashmeran suggests warm soil, pink pepper brings a flicker of clarity, and soothing

myrrh anchors it all in a clean, contemplative stillness.

Aesop Unforeseen Aer

Wind-whipped and refreshing at first, this aromatic fougère brings rugged, mineral

heights to mind. Geranium, lavandin and rosemary create its cool rush of air, while

nutmeg lends a textured warmth as the scent settles into comfort.

Prada Olfactories Nylon Noir

Prada’s iconic nylon becomes something you can almost feel against your skin.

Luminous jasmine gives way to a clean, enveloping nylon accord, before musk

emerges in the dry-down, leaving a sleek, softly polished trail.

Prada Olfactories Troubled Midnight

A city after dark, where hot pavement meets cold air and light flares against

shadow. Smoky incense and patchouli bring depth to this warm amber-musk, while

a date accord adds a softly fruity glow – satin darkness in perfume form.

Suzy & Nicola are back for part two of their Pitti Fragranze roundup, continuing their deep-dive into the perfume launches, houses and ideas that made this year’s Florence fair feel so full of possibility.

Having attended Pitti Fragranze for thirteen years, Suzy felt this was one of the most exciting editions yet. Alongside the return of classical perfume structures reinterpreted for contemporary tastes, she noticed a growing confidence in brands drawing upon personal heritage, local materials, food culture, landscape, ritual and memory. In this episode, the pair explore some of the fragrances that most vividly expressed those stories.

From a Chinese-French house capturing the transient scent of sun-dried osmanthus, to Korean brands evoking fire-charred ingredients, graceful calligraphy and fine-dining balances of flavour, this episode travels widely through fragrance’s newest creative terrain. There is also a decadent, night-time gourmand journey through Bandra in Mumbai; a woody incense scent from Reserve en Afrique; and two beautifully emotional creations from Italian poet-perfumer Meo Fusciuni.

Listen for a perfume that smells of roasted chestnuts, fermented tea and Korean seaweed crisp; a vivid, herbal peach; a “new century” Parma violet growing in a cold spring garden; and a cocoa-rich love story that charts the bitterness and sweetness of heartbreak…

https://fragranze.pittimmagine.com/en/events-calendar

Reserve en Afrique’s Woodoo is a woody, resinous composition built around the warm, meditative pull of incense, balsams and dry woods.

It opens with ginger and olibanum, giving the fragrance both brightness and a slightly peppery, ceremonial character. Labdanum, iris and white flowers arrive at the heart, adding a soft, ambery texture: floral, but shadowed by resin and a certain velvety darkness. The base of musk, benzoin, cedar, tonka bean and cypriol brings a long-lasting warmth, with dry woods, sweet balsams and a gently smoky earthiness.

The name suggests ritual, mystery and a connection to wood, smoke and spirituality, and the composition seems to play with all those ideas. This is not necessarily a loud fragrance, but one that gradually develops its presence on skin: incense-lit, softly floral, smooth with tonka, and grounded by a woody, mineral base.

Reserve en Afrique draws inspiration from African landscapes, stories and olfactory traditions, translating them into contemporary fine fragrance. Woodoo feels like a particularly atmospheric example of that approach: a scent that uses familiar perfume materials, but lets them tell a more transportive story.

Eau de pensée, the debut fragrance from Chinese-French house Cent.PM, begins with an intensely personal memory: founder Haoyuan recalling the childhood ritual of sun-drying osmanthus blossoms in a field.

Rather than trying to make a literal flower portrait, Cent.PM treats the memory as something unstable and shifting. The perfume is intended to capture that instant when an old recollection suddenly brightens into focus, only to blur again as past and present overlap. The opening is vibrant and light-filled, with notes including neroli, pink pepper and mandarin lending a sparkling, green-citrus lift. From there, the fragrance becomes more veiled and contemplative, eventually settling into a warm, close-to-the-skin afterglow.

Osmanthus can be a fascinating material in perfume: floral, but also capable of suggesting apricot, tea, suede and a certain honeyed, almost leathery softness. Here, its role appears to be as much emotional as olfactory, carrying the atmosphere of childhood, sunshine, landscape and passing time.

Cent.PM approaches fragrance as a meeting point between cultures, materials and memory. Its name and first release suggest an interest in the fleeting, in-between time of late afternoon: a moment for reflection, imagination and sensory recollection.

Korean house Sisology’s Être toi is a tender, uplifting fragrance built around the idea that being fully oneself is its own kind of beauty.

The scent opens with freesia and peach, combining clean floral freshness with soft, gently juicy fruit. Rose sits at the heart, bringing a familiar, romantic bloom, but the fragrance’s real appeal lies in the ease of its overall structure. Patchouli, woods and amber provide a warm, lightly earthy base that gives the composition depth without overwhelming its airiness.

Sisology describes Être toi as a perfume for the easy laugh, the hopeful heart and the comfort of sincerity. It is imagined as sunlight through lace curtains: bright but soft, clean but intimate. That makes it sound less like a dramatic statement fragrance and more like a gentle confidence-builder, the kind of scent that feels naturally part of the wearer rather than something imposed upon them.

The brand is based in Seoul and works across fragrance and sensorial beauty. Its style is rooted in the expressive, emotional side of scent, but presented in a modern, approachable way. Être toi is a quietly optimistic introduction to that world.

Founded in Seoul in 2025, Insenf is a niche perfume house that combines traditional Korean craftsmanship with modern scent science. Its work takes everyday cultural references such as fashion, food and lifestyle, then interprets them through fragrance in unusual and highly textural ways.

Charred Wood is part of the Table Collection, inspired by ingredients transformed through fire, smoke and time. In perfume terms, that means the scent has the drama of a meal cooked over open heat: black pepper freshly crushed on the table; chestnuts slowly roasting; smoke rising from salted seaweed; the mineral warmth of charcoal lingering after the flames are gone.

The opening combines black pepper, roasted chestnut and smoked sea salt. It is dry, spicy and savoury, with the chestnut adding a nutty, almost comforting contrast to the salt and smoke. The heart moves in an even more unexpected direction: fermented tea, Korean seaweed crisp, incense resin, myrrh and clove leaf. These notes suggest a rich umami character, but the resins and clove also ensure it remains recognisably perfumery rather than becoming simply gastronomic.

Charcoal, hinoki, amberwood, patchouli and vetiver provide the base. Hinoki is especially evocative here, its dry, aromatic woodiness echoing Japanese and Korean bathing and temple woods, while vetiver and patchouli add rootiness and shadow. Charred Wood sounds like a fragrance for anyone who enjoys scent at its most savoury, smoky and unconventional.

Kuoca approaches fragrance through the lens of fine dining, treating its compositions as carefully balanced experiences in which freshness, sweetness, texture and contrast all matter. The Korean beauty brand is best known for making sensorial products that feel deliciously tactile, and Wild Peach takes that same appetite for pleasure into fragrance.

Wild Peach centres on the sunny, juicy character of ripe fruit, but it is not designed as a dense peach syrup. Verbena and mint bring a sparkling, aromatic greenness that makes the peach feel freshly picked and still cool from the morning air. Peach blossom adds a lighter floral aspect, while ho wood lends a smooth, softly woody finish.

The brand describes Wild Peach through the image of freshly squeezed peaches from Provence, with aromatic herbs giving a more sophisticated edge to the fruit. This sounds like a peach scent for those who usually find fruit fragrances too candied or obvious: bright, translucent and almost thirst-quenching rather than sticky.

It is also a useful example of one of the wider trends Suzy noticed at Pitti: perfume houses taking familiar notes and shifting expectations around them. Peach here becomes less about confectionery and more about the contrast between ripe flesh, green leaves, fresh herbs and pale wood.

Korean house Salon de Nevaeh was impossible to overlook at Pitti, not least because of its exquisite bottle design. The flacons are ceramic and inset with mother-of-pearl, giving them the presence of miniature objects of craft rather than simply containers for perfume.

Inside, the fragrances draw upon Korean aesthetic and cultural references. Choseo is inspired by “Grass Script”, a flowing form of cursive calligraphy in which brushstrokes can appear dynamic, spontaneous and unruly, while still carrying great poise and control.

That movement is reflected in the perfume’s green composition. Dried herbs, green leaves, lime and mandarin give the opening an angular, bright and almost brush-like energy. Spearmint, geranium and muguet create a cooler, softer heart, while pine needle, galbanum, rosewood and musk provide a base that is leafy, resinous and quietly woody.

The brand describes the fragrance as sharp and unruly green up close, but gentler and pale green from a distance. That is a beautiful way of describing the evolution of a green scent: the vivid snap of crushed stems and herbs gradually becoming more hazy, calm and atmospheric on skin. Salon de Nevaeh is described as Korea’s first niche perfume house and translates traditional Korean culture into contemporary fragrance.

If you’ve ever wondered what goes on in a fragrance trade fair, get ready for all the news as Suzy reviews this year’s Pitti Fragranze in Florence. There are some some thrilling new launches and brands to get excited by, and she reveals some of the trends we can expect to see filtering their way through to the wider fragrance world over the coming months.

In fact, firstly a storm stopped play as we arrived in Florence, with Suzy’s plane stranded on the runway for three hours as lightning struck. Luckily the rest of the trip was exciting for all the right reasons!

Suzy has been attending the Pitti Fragranze trade fair for thirteen years, and genuinely felt this was one of the best ever years. The overall vibe seemed to be a return to beauty - classical perfumery elements woven in new and intriguing ways, and with greater cultural diversity from brands showcasing their heritage and aromas they grew up with. We’ll be focussing more in this aspect - as well as talking about the trends Suzy saw emerging this year - in next week’s episode. But until then, enjoy this whistle-stop rundown of some of Suzy’s highlights of the show this year…

Suzy’s top picks of the show (well SOME of them - there were a lot! We’ll have to cover some more in future episodes and on our Patreon page).

Beaufort London Sunken Tobacco

Imagine an ancient, lead-lined wooden box of tobacco—lost in a shipwreck and submerged beneath the sea. Centuries later, the wreck re-emerges and its precious cargo is rediscovered. Barnacled and salt-encrusted, the lid is levered off - within, tobacco lies preserved in shadow and silt.

Exposed at last to the sun, the furled leaves begin to bloom: warm, dark, faintly honeyed. Salt crystals glitter on wave-lapped rocks as the tobacco is laid out upon sun-bleached driftwood, its leathery richness threaded with mineral air, smoke, tar and sea-spray.

A buried treasure, reclaimed from the deep - not pristine, but made stranger and more compelling by its long immersion. Sunken Tobacco is the scent of faded maps and flooded holds - of a sailor’s hoard brought blinking into daylight, still carrying the ocean in its grain.

Four new Olfiction Lab Editions (coming soon! Expected launch on their website by end of November)

BALSAM

Neo-vintage amber

Aldehydes, Apple, Bergamot

Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Muguet

Peru Balsam, Labdanum, Vanilla absolute, Fir Balsam, Benzoin, White Musks, Oakmoss

SUAVE

Neo-vintage fougere

Nutmeg, Shaving soap, Cedar Leaf, Coffee CO2

Lavender absolute, Lavender oil, Coffee absolute,

Geranium, Sage

Musk Accord, Suede, Animal notes, Incense resin, Rectified Cedarwood, Oakmoss

CASSISSIMO

Fruity floral

Blackcurrant Bud CO2, Blackcurrant Bud absolute, Blackberry, Red Mandarin

Champagne accord, Tuberose absolute, Rose absolute Bulgaria, Geranium Rosat

Musk, Cognac oil, Vanilla syrup, Benzoin, Patchouli, Sandalwood Australia

LASKIAISPULLA

Gourmand

Nordic Shrove Buns

Whipped Cream, Marzipan, Raspberry Jam, Raspberry

Leaf, Orris

Vanilla sugar, Vanilla absolute, Tonka absolute, Tonka infusion, Benzoin, Opoponax

OLYMRA

Founder: Born and raised in Greece, Dr. Frida Michailidou is an award-winning scientist whose work is deeply rooted in Greek botanical heritage, nature, and innovation. Previously a Lecturer and Collegium Fellow at ETH Zurich, she led the first scientific expedition to decode the rare scents of Mount Olympus using pioneering non-destructive technology. Recognised as an MIT Innovator Under 35 Europe and TEDx speaker, she is redefining perfumery through the convergence of science, sustainability, and the timeless spirit of Greece.

‘Born from the rare botanicals of Mount Olympus, OLYMRA transforms myth, memory, and wild nature into modern extrait de parfum.

Grounded in earth, inspired by the divine.’

Persephone

‘Deep. Intimate. Transformative.

OLYMRA PERSEPHONE is a fragrance of dual worlds: one of light, one of shadow. Inspired by the mythic queen who walks between both, it captures a moment of transformation: the instant spring yields to desire, and dusk begins to bloom.

The fragrance opens with bergamot, pink pepper, and cardamom; bright, spiced notes that shimmer like sunlight across stone. At its heart, a lush pairing of Damask rose, Centifolia rose, and the OLYMRA plant accord, a precise reconstruction of rare mountain flora, unfurls with velvet intensity. Beneath, a deep base of cacao, tonka bean, beeswax, grey amber, and hyrax evokes warmth, earth, and skin; the lingering traces of a myth reborn.

OLYMRA PERSEPHONE is not a fragrance of opposition, but of passage and evolution; from innocence to knowing, from surface to depth, from petal to flame. Crafted for those who carry both sunlight and shadow.

She walks between worlds. Will you follow her into the dusk?’

Kharon

‘Dark. Sensual. Elemental.

OLYMRA KHARON is a fragrance shaped by myth and memory. Inspired by Kharon, the ferryman of Hades, silent, unwavering, eternal, it is an olfactory passage through the darker recesses of the soul.

The scent opens with sharp lemon, luminous neroli, and the spark of black pepper, evoking the moment just before surrender. At its heart, the complexity deepens: Damask rose and tobacco entwine with the OLYMRA Accord, a precise reconstruction of wild flora from Mount Olympus. In the base, smoked wood, beeswax, vetiver, sandalwood, and a bold note of hyrax create a dry, tactile finish; intimate yet vast, like breath inside stone.

OLYMRA KHARON is not designed to please. It is designed to confront. To carry. To remain. A fragrance for those drawn not to light, but to truth; wherever it may lead.

The river lays ahead... Are you ready to cross?’

Laboratorio Olfattivo Bagage à main

(translates as hand luggage in British English)

‘Leather and Nutmeg; middle notes are Vetiver and Peru Balsam; base notes are Patchouli, Amber, Tonka Bean and Ambronova ™’

Laboratorio Olfattivo Rose Me Twice

(By Jean-Claude Ellena)

‘With over 40,000 varieties, the rose is the flower whose fragrance has been most extensively explored by perfumers — an entire universe in which one can easily lose oneself among its infinite nuances. This exploration took a decisive turn in 1867, when the breeder Jean-Baptiste Guillot created ‘La France’, the first hybrid tea rose.

With this innovation, Guillot introduced not merely a new flower, but an olfactory signature that would shape perfumery forever. Today, whenever I perceive a tea note within a rose, I immediately recognize its lineage from that historic hybridization. The secret of this aroma lies in a specific molecule: ionone — used to recreate the scent of violet, but also a key component in the olfactory impression of tea.’

Heeley Chiris

Historic French house revered and revived by James Heeley in this INCREDIBLE leather / iris / Chypre fragrance.

‘The fragrance house of Antoine Chiris dates back to 1768 and is considered to be the first and perhaps the greatest of the enterprises that made a business of harvesting natural materials and turning them into the raw materials of perfumery and, at times, creating the perfumes themselves.

Antoine de Chiris was born into a wealthy family of Italian origin. In Grasse he began buying up fields which produced flowers which were converted into perfumery materials. Chiris held early patents on a steam distillation process capable of producing significant amounts of high quality oil at an economic cost. This technology helped made Grasse the international focus of perfumery for over a century and a half.’

History from https://www.perfumeprojects.com/museum/marketers/Chiris.shtml

The fragrance: ‘Chiris by James Heeley is an iris and leather fragrance created by James Heeley and launched in 2026. It pays tribute to Chiris, the historic perfume-materials producer founded in Grasse in 1768, and to the Iris Pallida it cultivated in Tuscany. Osmanthus, citrus and peach open the composition, followed by Iris Pallida and olibanum over a base of leather, cedar, sandalwood and amber.’

Lorenzo Villoresi Vol D’Abaris

The nose behind this fragrance is Alessandro Villoresi. The fragrance features Tobacco, Amber, Vanilla, Musk and Woody Notes.

Are you feeling the need for snuggly scents yet? Suzy and Nicola are leaning into the cosiness in this week’s episode and have been gathering together some of new launches and favourite fragrances they’ve been wearing as autumn approaches. The discussion ranges from ultra-sophisticated gourmands encompassing chocolate and lattes, to a bohemian rose, a truly fantastic new woody scent, and an American niche tobacco fragrance Suzy fell for years ago and a listener kindly sourced a sample of for her. Plus, the #listenerprescription this week is for a ‘friendship fragrance’ to link and be shared by a listener and her best friend who is moving far away...

Tom Ford Tobacco Chocolat

By Daniela Andrier

‘TOM FORD has long been drawn to the sensual, masculine heat of tobacco – and now, the perfumer adds another iteration to its repertoire. Tobacco Chocolat is an eau de parfum founded upon the brand’s exclusive cocoa smoke accord, a note that fuses the rich, intoxicating quality of cocoa with the grounding earthiness of tobacco. Alongside this powerful core are a host of complimentary notes, from bright orange essence to balsam and patchouli, coming together to make a fragrance set to capture attention.

Top Notes: cocoa smoke co-distillation, Orange Essence

Middle Notes: peru balsam, chocolat noir grand cru delight

Base Notes: patchouli cœur Indonesia, Ambrofix.’

NEST New York Cardamom Latte

‘Like cashmere on bare skin, this spicy gourmand eau de parfum is endlessly wearable. The gentle heat of cardamom drifts through jasmine-laced air steeped in the creamy comfort of coconut milk.

Cardamom Latte unfolds like the perfect pour—layered and immersive. Heat blooms into softness. Spice melts into cream. Steam diffuses into air. Transforming your atmosphere with warmth you can feel. An enveloping fragrance that surrounds before it settles. Because comfort isn’t static. It’s fluid.’

Acqua di Parma Signatures of the Sun Cedar Virtuoso (& body cream)

‘Cedro Virtuoso celebrates the sensorial warmth of creation—the moment when an idea begins to take shape and inner confidence turns sensibility into emotion. Like the different stages of a creative process, the fragrance unfolds like a warm embrace, encouraging creativity to rise from within. Between vivid, vibrant notes and deeper, cocooning tones that accompany the journey from intuition to realization is the fragrance’s distinctive singularity: a co-infusion of Virginia cedarwood and hazelnut, whose encounter shapes a creamy woody signature.’

Miller Harris Scherzo Extrait

‘Developed at 30% concentration, Scherzo Extrait captures the vibrant spirit of the original Eau de Parfum while unveiling a deeper, more intoxicating signature. Bright, luminous sweetness meets newfound richness and warmth, allowing the fragrance to bloom with a more immersive intensity for lasting presence.

The fragrance opens with the familiar rush of tangerine and davana, radiating vibrant fruity luminosity. At its heart, delicate peony blooms abundantly alongside crisp pittosporum, while a new dimension begins to emerge: a more sumptuous and velvety rose, enrobed in golden honey and entwined with creamy vanilla for a richer sensuality, its floral radiance enhanced by threads of incense to bring light and vibration. Together, they introduce a magnetic tension, guiding the fragrance towards more mysterious territory.

At the base, shimmering oudh unfolds with greater texture, amplified by intensified patchouli and moss. The introduction of smooth amber woods brings warmth and refinement, creating a striking counterpoint to the fragrance's signature sweetness. As these richer notes emerge, they reveal new facets of its character.

The result is a fragrance which is radiant yet mysterious, vibrant yet profound, with a more enduring and enveloping trail.’

HEAD NOTES:

Tangerine*, Davana* (herb with a fruity, sweet, tea like smell, member of the Artemisia family.)

HEART NOTES:

Rose Nectar Accord, Peony, Olibanum* (Frankincense), Pittosporum.

LASTING IMPRESSIONS:

Patchouli*, Vanilla, Oudh, Moss, Amber Woods, Sweet Note.

Sonoma Scents Tabac Aurea

‘Tabac Aurea has an enticing golden amber drydown and a pipe tobacco note that is enjoyed by women as well as men. It’s smooth and softly gourmand, with notes of amber, woods, spices, tobacco, leather, tonka, labdanum, patchouli, and vanilla. The amber accord combines dry earthy notes with sweet elements and subtle fruity touches to create an addictive, beautiful, golden aura. One of our top three best-selling scents.’

Ormonde Jayne Sybarite

Nicola has been finding great comfort and energy in this, lately. It’s the only store-exclusive founder and creative director Linda Pilkington has allowed for her own Royal Arcade boutique, this was so worth the wait. A perfect melange of creamy hazelnut and orris butter, it’s the Timur pepper and the effervescently spiced sparkle it adds to the composition that ties it all together. Utterly unique, and beautifully balanced, it’s the finer things in life lovingly bottled. Those craving outside London: call or email them for information.

Perfume Prescription:

Luci Tither:

‘Hi lovely ladies, you very kindly gave me a perfume prescription for a magical trip to Porto last year (excellent recommendation of Claus Porto). And I wondered if you'd indulge a second prescription if I may. I loved the notion of a friendship fragrance mentioned in a recent episode. It really struck a chord with me as my best friend is very sadly moving to Canada from the UK early next year and although I'm very happy for her, I'm going to miss her immensely. I wondered if it would be at all possible to help us find a fragrance that we could both wear whenever we meet, and will remind us of each other when we're apart.

She loves a gourmand like Bianco Latte, Seven Virtues Vanilla Amber or skin scents like Not A Perfume and Phlur Not Your Baby. For me, I love clean, powdery skin scents (like Molecule Iris, Prada Infusion), and warm sandalwood/ambery scents (think Sana Jardin Sandalwood Temple, BDK Vanilla Leather). We also both love a rogue option like Dries Van Noten Fleur de Mal, BDK Rouge Smoking Jacket and Amouage Guidance.

Apologies for the long message - I hope you can suggest something that we'd both love and can make being thousands of miles apart that bit easier. Thank you in advance - your podcast is very much my happy place on my commute to work. Xx’

Suzy thinks it’s definitely worth trying a sample of Estée Lauder Glimmer (and the Acqua di Parma Cedro Virtuoso), and also suggests:

Molton Brown Milk Musk Eau de Toilette

Milk gently laps at luscious notes of pear, delicate florals and sheer white musk, while Ambroxan and cashmere add that skin-on-skin warmth. Scented contentment awaits, tender as a fluttery kiss, softly embracing rather than swaddling.

Fischersund Faux Flora No. 1

Encompassing the life cycles of plants and humans alike, this scent ‘springs from universal experiences.’ A sparkle of bergamot’s brightness is swathed by ‘mountain milk’, cool, pristine and porcelain-like, warming to salty iris’s mortal muskiness.

Eris Parfums Mothers Milk

Antoine Lee’s ‘primordial gourmand’ blends buttery orris and vanilla with hyper-realistic warm milk, subverting the soft-focus skin-swaddled kiss of comfort, as ‘good’ mother (rosily nurturing) becomes ‘bad’ (suede-like, sultry). Think fairytale mother turned Joan Crawford.

Maison Louis Marie Bois de Balincourt (You can get a mini travel set with the oil and EDP, so could purchase one to share, perhaps?)

‘Bois de Balincourt is inspired by our family home, nestled deep within an ancient forest. Along a trail we fondly called Lover’s Lane, generations wandered under towering trees, surrounded by stillness and memory. This signature scent layers creamy sandalwood and cedar with warming cinnamon and nutmeg, anchored by earthy vetiver — a romantic, comforting fragrance with effortless depth.’

Olfactive O Skin

Nicola had the brilliant idea of using this scent as your shared ‘base’ layer, which you can wear alone or layer with any other perfume you have. That way, she thought you’d always be grounded in the same scent. Suzy then had the idea if you both ordered bottles, you could use then personalise them – each full-size bottle of Skin extrait comes with a fingerprint ink pad and blank label for this purpose!

Olivia, the founder, describes Skin as: ‘...for everyone, universal yet deeply personal. The delicate balance of notes blends with your skin chemistry to create the absolute essence of you – unmistakable and compelling. It can be applied on its own or worn in combination with any of the other personality scents to magnify and enhance your unique scent. I am the alchemist, the musician, the storyteller. I am confident in my own skin and never need to pretend. I confound expectations and you’ll keep coming back to me, intrigued and charmed. I am sun-warmed skin on the beach, tousled hair, the cool of cotton sheets at the end of the day.’

This week Suzy & Nicola are pondering the resurgence of iris - one of the most traditional (and costly) notes in perfumery made modern by exploring it in surprising ways. From one of the all-time classic iris perfumes launching a new version after 114 years, to another historic house who’s just launched a dashingly debonair iris scent; and a brilliantly affordable iris from a high street shop that’s one of our star buys year… There’s a lot to love!

After discussing what else we’ve fallen for lately, and Suzy’s perfume picks from an Australian brand’s stunning new East End boutique; we asked Scott (@blublazer guy) to answer a listener’s question about fragrances to wear while visiting Edinburgh.

On the show:

Guerlain L’Heure Bleu (new)

Perfumer Delphine Jelk says she didn’t try ‘to modernise the original L’Heure Bleue from 1912, nor to revisit it, but to pay tribute to a masterpiece and to translate that emotion into the present through a new palette of ingredients.’ A ‘homemade iris tincture created exclusively for this perfume’ is woven into a fresher-feeling ‘ozonic blue sky accord to shiver’, together with ‘the softness of orange blossom’, on a base of vanilla, woods and musk, creating what Jelk calls ‘airy, powdery sensuality’.

Creed Iris Debonair

‘Unlock Iris Debonair, an addictive fougère floral capturing the allure of an aesthete's domain, where every room reveals an intentional art of living. Opening with a luminous stroke of bergamot co-infused with absinthe leaves, at the heart, crisp English lavender unfolds with cool, aromatic clarity. French iris pallida, suffused in pale blue, is magnetic and among perfumery's most precious materials.

Head Notes

Bergamot & Absinthe, Pink Pepper, Cardamom

Heart Notes

English Lavender, Violet Leaf, Fig Pulp Accord

Base Notes

French Iris Pallida, Ambrette, Amberwood’

Boots Last Note Echoes of You

50ml fragrance priced at £12.99 from the debut "Last Note" collection. It features a sparkling pink pepper top note, a middle core of velvety iris and cashmere musk, and a warm amber base.

Top: Pink pepper

Heart: Iris, cashmere musk

Base: Warm amber

Merchant of Venice Renaissance

‘By Calice Becker, this floral-leathery fragrance is inspired by Renaissance ideals of balance and harmony, housed in a golden-accented Murano glass bottle.

Top Notes: Galbanum, Orange Blossom Absolute, Saffron

Heart Notes: Iris, Indonesian Patchouli, Leather, Akigalawood

Base Notes: Ambrofix™, Vanilla, Frankincense (Incense), Musk.’

Jo Malone London Rose & Oud Leather Cologne Intense (Harrods)

‘The captivating fragrance is a tribute to the prevailing beauty of the flower and is brought to life by additional notes of patchouli and amber.

Top Notes: oud, leather

Middle Notes: damask rose

Base Notes: patchouli, amber.’

Thomas de Monaco Luisant Haze (Wild Iris)

‘Luisant Haze expands the Gold Collection of Thomas De Monaco Parfums with a fragrance that approaches sweetness in a different way.

At the heart of the composition is a reimagined tuberose. Not opulent or dense, but softened, diffused, and luminous. Sweetness appears here in a new form: airy rather than heavy, radiant rather than indulgent. Notes of fraise des bois, cotton candy, and tonka are lifted by white musks and amber facets, creating a transparent structure that stays close to the skin.’

Givenchy L’Interdit Elixir

‘L'Interdit Elixir evokes a precious talisman infused with power, created to unveil the magnetic strength within every woman.

The scent opens with the voluptuous intensity of Black Cherry, illuminated by the delicate bitterness of almond essence. It melts into L'Interdit's iconic bouquet of white flowers, where Orange Blossom, Tuberose, and Jasmine reveal an opulent, almost carnal femininity, enriched by the profound woody nuances of pure oakwood extract.

Faithful to Givenchy's art of contrast, L'Interdit Elixir balances shadow and light, sensuality and strength. At its most addictive, a warm, liqueur-like accord unfolds through the richness of Rum Absolute, Davana Essence, and Vanilla Extract, leaving behind a deeply enveloping trail. Fused with the skin, the fragrance becomes a captivating aura of confidence — a pure expression of empowered femininity.’

Giorgio Armani I WILL

‘A sensual strength forged through time, I WILL awakens tenacity with confidence and leaves an intense, unmistakable trail. Created by Nathalie Lorson and Alberto Morillas, it opens with bergamot and cardamom, develops through lavender and violet leaf, and settles into Madagascan vanilla with a woody leather accord.’

Flaner fragrances: new Australian niche fragrance boutique in East London. You can listen to a live recording of Suzy and Amanda Carr visiting their stunning shop and hearing all about the collection on an exclusive extra episode. Head to patreon.com here to sign up for an extra episode every week:

https://www.patreon.com/u84518038

Suzy’s favourites from Flaner were:

Sonic Silver

‘Inspiration: Tram tracks connecting city streets

The sun peaks through the clouds after rain, glistening off the sleek silver tracks. Urban landscapes echo past, providing a window into the irreverent spirit of an eclectic city with backdrop of thunderous rhythm of metal. Imbuing the artistic spirit found in the canvas of urban laneways, this fragrance captures the raw, urban edge of a city's atmosphere to create something truly unique.

Notes:

Top: Basil, Lavender, Bergamot

Middle: Metallic, Petrichor, Cardamom

Base: Asphalt & Tar, Green Patchouli, Musk & Tonka.’

Manhattan Cherry

‘Inspiration: Speakeasies of Manhattan

A laneway door opens and down a flight of stairs a small room with leather chairs, dark woods and the faint smell of tobacco signals a forbidden and mysterious world. Dimly lit and intimate, the night invites indulgence and seduction. A sensual tryst of cherry and dark bourbon, this fragrance evokes the boldness and intoxicating allure that comes from the Manhattan cocktail, in Manhattan of course.’

Enjoy responsibly.

Notes:

Top: Maraschino cherry, Red vermouth, Orange peel

Middle: Bourbon, Ginger, Cinnamon

Base: Amber wood, Tobacco, Leather, Vanilla

Listener prescription:

Ashley Burk

‘Hello! :) I have been listening to your podcast for years and years! I feel like you both have been traveling with me around the world because you have now helped me find fragrances to wear in Greece, Ireland, and Japan! This October I got myself a ticket to go to Edinburgh, Scotland and was wondering if you could recommend me some perfume to wear while I go for a week. I will be doing the Harry Potter steam train day trip one of the days! If you know of any perfume stores I should see in Edinburgh please let me know as well. I am so excited to be there during October. Thank you both! :)’

Who better to turn to than our friend Scott @blublazerguy (who happens to live in Edinburgh) and suggested:

Kingdom Scotland Portal

‘Ancient forest. Still air. The scent of Scotland before the world arrived.

A green woody chypre eau de parfum that opens on crushed heather and wild herbs, deepens into cool fern and forest moss, and settles into a long, intimate base of oakmoss, vetiver, and peat-warmed cedar.’

Jorum Studio Boswelia Scotia

‘Royal Green Hojari Frankincense, Pink Pepper, Saffron, Cistus, Sandalwood Mysore, Cypriol, Patchouli, Black Hemlock, Fir Balsam, Olibanum Absolute.

A golden veil of gossamer-light. Royal Green Hojari Frankincense soothed by fir balsam and black hemlock. Boswellia Scotia is incense reimagined; translucent, atmospheric and quietly magnetic.’

ANFORH Aire

‘Crisp citrus, cool ozonic air, and dry vetiver - Aire is clarity bottled. Fresh, textured, and quietly confident.

Fresh, zesty, and mineral. Green mandarin and Calabrian bergamot open with a burst of citrus brightness before giving way to the cool lift of ozonic air and the dry, earthy depth of vetiver. A fragrance that moves with energy and purpose, settling into a steady, confident calm.

From the Scots word "aire" (a gravel-shored coastal edge where land meets sea), Aire captures the sensation of standing on a coastal edge, breathing in invigorating, mineral air as light breaks across the water. It’s bright, citrus-driven, and full of energy - the feeling of movement and clarity. Inspired by the Scottish coastline, it balances natural vibrancy with grounded calm.’

Suzy suggests visiting Jorum Studio’s shop (incredible Scottish fragrance brand)

Jorum

In this episode we’re partnering with Estée Lauder for the first in a new series: Fragrant Focus. This is where we take our time exploring a single scent - smelling it together and sharing our thoughts. And we have an exciting GIVEAWAY for you to enter! Listen and read on to find out how to enter, hear our reviews of Glimmer, and the beautiful inspiration behind its launch.

We have a plethora of exciting new launches to tell you about, from niche names, designer and heritage houses alike. But we begin with an emotional journey to capture the scent of something very special to Suzy…

MANE Dad’s Rose

Suzy got very emotional about this olfactory delivery, as MANE - a fragrance creation house in the U.K. who’ve made scents for some of the biggest brands out there - managed to capture the scent of a rise her father planted for her when she was a little girl. One of MANE’s standout innovations is their ‘Jungle Essence™’ technology. In some ways similar to ‘headspace’ captures of previously unusable materials in perfumery, these essences are utterly unique and exclusive to MANE. And to see it in action is just MIND BLOWING!

Jungle Essence™ is a patented, eco-friendly scent and flavor extraction technology created by the fragrance house MANE. It uses supercritical carbon dioxide (CO₂) to capture the exact, true-to-life aroma of a raw material—whether it is a spice used in men's cologne, a flower, or wood—without using harsh chemical solvents or high heat. You can hear all about the process in a special Patron only extra episode on patreon.com (search for ‘On the Scent podcast’ to find us)

Penhaligon’s The Manoeuvres of The Baroness

Suzy and Nicola got very excited about this latest character in the Portraits collection (and it’s an orange blossom - one of the notes they regularly swoon over!) Key notes

Orange Blossom, Chantilly, Sandalwood

‘Collector of secrets and quiet conspiracies, the Baroness has always ruled from the shadows. Orange blossom sparkles with influence next to Chantilly. A whispered order of sandalwood. She doesn’t outrun danger; she outsmarts it.’

Jil Sander collection

Both Suzy & Nicola were hugely impressed by the latest Jil Sander fragrances, and these were Suzy’s two favourites:

Lily

‘Caught by surprise by an enchanting perfume on a warm Florentine night.

Lilies are white, sensual flowers that primarily release their fragrance after sunset.

In Jil Sander Lily the aldehydes bring the flower's metallic, blooming facets to life, while the floral power of the CO₂ extracted Jasmine Sambac, the warmth of Benzoin from Vietnam, and the verticality of the upcycled Cypress structure and balance this luscious, radiant fragrance.

This new majestic Floral White Flower fragrance magnifies the ephemeral into a lasting form.’

Mahogony:

‘The supreme energy of a tropical forest captured into a scent.

For the depths of its hues where red turns to black, mahogany is one of the most fascinating trees.

Jil Sander Mahogany pays homage to this exceptional expression of nature in a fragrance that fuses upcycled Cedarwood with the profound leathery facets of Cypriol from India, the fizzy, spicy notes of CO₂ extracted Ginger, and the aldehydes.

A rich and sophisticated Woody Leathery fragrance that raises mahogany to new heights.’

Nicola was so impressed by how realistic the Jil Sander Sesame was (though admits she may not be brave enough to wear it yet), while Suzy thought it was cosy and comforting.

French Cowboy Mezcal Chocolate (available at Wild Iris)

Suzy continues to be wowed by this exciting new niche house, and cannot wait for cooler weather in which to indulge in this one.

‘Mezcal Chocolat is fueled by extraordinary raw materials. It hits like a shot of mezcal: it opens with a sparkling Lime Oil, sharpened by Olibanum from Somalia for smoky depth. To push it further, our perfumer added an ultra-rare Rhum extract (as costly as some of perfumery’s finest Iris!).

Instead of just a synthetic cacao accord, Mezcal Chocolat goes all in on Cacao Absolute: the most precious form of cocoa, used here in unprecedented amounts. Its creaminess melts into a bed of woods: Virginia Cedarwood, prized for its soft smoky creaminess, and Cypriol Oil from India, adding shadow, depth, and a dark, earthy glow.’

Byredo Future Memories

Another fascinating take on vanilla, and our hosts both adored the juicy blackcurrant note balance g the sweetness here. ‘Byredo captures the tension between now and next: an invitation to live fully, to choose deliberately, to imprint the present with intention. Held like a quiet mantra at the back of the mind, one question remains: What do you choose today, to remember tomorrow?

A scent crafted like a memory in motion.

The fragrance opens with the vivid green freshness of galbanum, illuminated by the juicy brightness of blackcurrant and a veil of aldehydes that diffuse light through the composition. At its heart, powdery iris unfolds alongside warm, resinous labdanum, creating a textured impression that settles gently onto the skin. In the base, vanilla emerges in full, enriched by Ambrofix and an intimate veil of musks lingering on the skin as a subtle trace of what remains.

Top Notes: Galbanum essence, blackcurrant accord, and fresh aldehydes for a bright, sparkling, and green start.

Heart Notes: Iris butter, labdanum resinoid, orange blossom, and white vanilla accord providing powdery floral warmth.

Base Notes: Madagascar vanilla CO2, vanilla liqueur accord, Ambrofix, and sensual musks.’

Nishane Thorns Become Roses

When a rose is velvety and gorgeous but still displays its sharpness… This is by Julien Rasquinet, and inspired by the Rumi quote "With love, thorns become roses"

‘Thorns Become Roses is a contemporary, contrast-driven rose that embodies transformation, evolving from a vivid, luminous opening into an intense floral heart, and settling into a deep, enveloping woody amber trail. Crafted as an extrait de parfum, it redefines the rose through a balance of tension and softness, offering a structured yet sensual and evolving olfactive experience.

Lychee and raspberry, luminous and vibrant, meet the metallic sharpness of saffron and cardamom, evoking the harsh brilliance of noon light on Petra’s cliffs.

At its heart, Turkish rose unfolds with dense, velvety depth, held in contrast by the green-leathery facets of violet leaf and the powdery softness of mimosa. A rose both thorned and tender, asserting its beauty through contrast.

The base settles into a mineral, enduring trail of amberwood and patchouli, softened by creamy sandalwood. Here, tension gives way to a quiet radiance, neither sweet nor austere, but balanced, tactile, and lasting.

Top Notes: lychee, raspberry, saffron

Heart Notes: rose, mimosa, blackcurrant

Base Notes: patchouli, amberwood, aetoxylon’

FRAGRANT FOCUS:

AD: Estée Lauder Glimmer

Extraordinarily, this is the first new main line fragrance for 12 years, and the first ever gourmand style fragrance for the house! But Suzy and Nicola think that unmistakable Lauder DNA shines through. Indeed, this a scent that celebrates shining - finding your own light and the things that lift you every single day.

Dominique Ropion, Anne Flipo and Jean-Marc Chaillan are the incredible perfumers.

Top Notes: raspberry, orange blossom, milk mousse and mandarin

Heart Notes: Cashmeran, macarons, vanilla and rose

Base Notes: amber, tonka bean, sandalwood, patchouli and cedarwood.

Bright, sparkling and mouthwatering. Fruity-rosy raspberry, a fresh lift of mandarin, and a soft orange flower glow.

Warmer and more enveloping. Macaron Rose Accord comes forward with its gourmand impression, wrapped in the radiant depth of Amber Embrace Accord and Shimmering Patchouli, with a smooth, skin-warmed softness.

The fragrance settles into a lingering, addictive trail, a glowing blend of Amber, Patchouli, Woods and Tonka Bean notes. Still warmed by a whisper of sweetness that stays close and feels unforgettable.

Estée Lauder says:

This is the fragrance for life’s most extraordinary moments. It’s a scent not just to be worn, but to be felt, remembered, and shared. Because when you find what makes you glimmer, it lights up everyone around you.

For the full sizes, a beautiful rectangular bottle embodies femininity and strength. Sculpted semi-circles catch and reflect each ray of light. A circular gold-tone cap adds a luminous finish.

Travel Size:

The Travel Size is a deluxe mini fragrance spray. Perfect for on the go, to gift to a friend, or to try for the first time. 10ml travel size £25

Also comes in 30ml, 50ml & 100ml

GIVEAWAY:

We have a full size bottle of Glimmer to giveaway - see the post on our Instagram to enter!

How to enter: Follow both @onthescentpodcast and @esteelauderuk on Instagram, then like and comment on the giveaway post on our Instagram account. That’s it!

Entries must be made before 8.00 pm BST on Thursday, 3 September 2026. Because of delivery restrictions we can only accept entries from U.K. residents.

Terms...

We’re hanging on to summer with the fragrance launches discussed, and in what we’re wearing this week, but there is a noticeable change in the weather here in the U.K. There have even been sightings of socks, jackets, cardigans and knee-high boots on the streets! A week ago, such items were unthinkable, but now we’re almost looking forward to the seasons changing again.

ALMOST, but not quite yet. Not when there’s a plethora of new perfume discoveries to delve in to (many of which will prove incredibly versatile in cooler weather anyway, we feel). Quite apart from some exquisite new fragrant finds to welcome Nicola back from holiday with, we’ve two more of your utterly brilliant Listener Prescriptions to answer, and an exciting update from Madeline – the musician / vineyard worker / medal-winning fighter we helped find new fragrances for last week!

In this week’s episode we discuss:

Jo Malone London Sea Salt & Bergamot

‘Plunge into the exhilarating surf of the Celtic Sea. Immersed in the wild waters, every wave carries a fresh minerality. Joining a burst of bergamot, driftwood anchors this sea-salt fresh scent. Experience the untamed beauty of the British coast.

Top Note: bergamot

(Brightens with its sparkling, citrus freshness)

Heart Note: sea salt

(The crunchy nature of sea salt accord brings both texture and a sense of freshness and purity to the heart of the fragrance)

Base Note: driftwood

(Suffused with the saltiness of the sea, this accord brings a light woodiness to the fragrance)’

Jo Malone London Iris & White Musk Cologne Intense (recommend to listener in last week’s episode seeking clean / soapy iris fragrances!) Harrods

‘The Iris and White Musk Cologne Intense from Jo Malone London is a light and airy scent that’s perfect for everyday use. It marries powdery iris with creamy white musk, resulting in a distinctive aroma that’s ideal for layering with other fragrances but can also be worn alone.’

Ex Nihilo Demon Dancer (Harrods)

‘Ex Nihilo recreates the defiant freedom of dance in motion.

Inviting you to move to your own rhythm, Ex Nihilo’s Demon Dancer is a call for ‘unapologetic self-expression’. Inspired by contemporary dance performance, the fragrance ignites an inner fire through energetic fruity notes that flow with freeing freshness and grounded intensity.

Top Notes: rhubarb, bergamot, peppermint, blood orange

Heart Notes: orange blossom, blackcurrant

Base Notes: georgywood, akigalawood, ambrofix, musks, tonka bean.’

Une Nuit Nomade Sun Bleached

‘Clean Linen Accord • White Flowers • Bergamot •Ambrette Absolute

Muscat, the capital of the Sultanate of Oman, also known as the White City.

The sun drowns the immaculate walls with its rays. It is a bright light that makes eyes squint. Omanis wander the streets, elegantly wearing their dishdashas, a long white tunic decorated with a pom-pom that is delicately dipped in perfume.

'Sun Bleached' is adorned with freshness, in an accord of clean linen, white flowers and a zesty flight of citrus fruits as if biting into a piece of orange, with white musks and sandalwood rounding off its explosiveness.’

Connock London Pelago

‘A sun-drenched Mediterranean fragrance with bright citrus and aromatic herbs, evoking the warmth of golden afternoons along sunlit shores.

Top Notes: orange, bergamot, lemon, mandarin, grapefruit.

Heart Notes: rosemary, neroli, petitgrain.

Base Notes: amber, vetiver.’

Roger & Gallet Neroli Solid Perfume

‘Discover your Néroli Wellbeing Fragrant Water in a new solid format to put on the neck, the neckline and the wrists. An alcohol-free perfume merging soflty with the skin. A new way to boost and facet your trail all day long. Enriched with rose essential oil, known for its relaxing benefits, the solid fragrance is a real caress onto the skin. Its rich and unctuous texture with vegetal waxes encapsulates the olfactive notes and keep the trail longer. A small and nomad format with an addictive gesture, to bring everywhere, wherever you are.’

French Cowboy Pear Pavlova

‘Almond, Ambrette Seeds, Jasmine, Meringue, Pear, Pink Pepper, Powdery Musk, Vanilla.

Ashley Santiago is the youngest perfumer at Givaudan and the co-founder of French Cowboy. California-born with Mexican-Caribbean roots, she honed her craft in Paris, New York & Singapore: blending global flavour with French savoir-faire.’

PERFUME PRESCRIPTIONS:

Update from Madeline (the musician / vineyard worker / medal-winning fighter from last week’s Correspondence Special episode):

‘OH MY GOODNESS GRACIOUS!!

Suzy and Nicola thankyou so so sooooo much for my prescription!!

When I saw that you had dropped a new episode WITH MY NAME IN THE NOTES I screamed!!!! It's perfect perfect PERFECT beyond words.

I have already ordered a bottle of the Map Of Hearts Valour and I am currently hunting for samples of the others you both suggested!!

I CANNOT wait to let you know how I go, l am so so sooooo excited to try them all!!’

(If we don’t have time this week: NEXT WEEK’S EPISODE, another Perfume Prescription special?)

Jessi - aka @grotesquex_o

‘hi suzy and nicola,

the day that you answered my cave perfume prescription was one of the best days of my life. i was hiking around the forest on a break at the museum in san francisco where i work, squealing and reveling in our shared zeal! ill remember the feeling forever. although i havent gotten my nose on that perfect perfume you found just yet, my sister and boyfriend know exactly what to get me for Christmas…

I’m writing to you humbly with the hope of another perfume prescription. i love cold incense perfumes, and found that my favorites (andrea maack craft and CDG avignon) have a chlorine note (to my nose at least, tho unlisted) that i crave. like the way your skin and hair smell after a swim in the pool, not the smell of sunscreen or tropical fruits that so often characterizes pool culture-inspired perfumes. are there any other cold, chlorinated, incense perfumes you love?’

Suzy’s Answer:

Serge Lutens L’Eau Froide

‘By Christopher Sheldrake. The fragrance features Sea water, Pepper, Mint, Musk, Incense, Olibanum, Ginger and Vetiver.’

‘"The situation was too hot for me to handle.” or “A chill ran down my spine.” I simply applied a similar concept to an Eau. The hero of this story is a tree during the dog days of summer. If an incision is made in its trunk, "tears of glass" come out. Without air conditioning, the heat would kill it. Frankincense helps this scent preserve an icy cool." - a note from the brand.’

Bibbi Swimming Pool

‘By Jérôme Epinette. Top notes are mint, basil and Ginger; middle notes are Eucalyptus and Geranium; base notes are Blonde Woods, Grass, White Wood, Ambroxan and Light Amber.

You completely forget about time and space when you swim in the pool. The water forces you to go through all the darkest hours and brightest moments of your life. After swimming in the pool, you will be forever changed and have an intense basil-like scent stuck to your skin forever.’

Heretic Nosferatu

‘SMELLS LIKE: An encounter with an apparition in the cold, damp caves of Count Orlok's castle.’

‘In partnership with Nosferatu and Focus Features, Heretic is proud to present Nosferatu Eau de Macabre, a fragrance inspired by the iconic vampire. A chilling scent of wilting lilacs, velvety vegan ambergris and strikes of lightning that fill the air with petrichor and electricity—It's both delicate and hedonistic. Samples available.

Top Notes: lilac, ambrette

Heart Notes: petrichor, violet absolute, orris concrete, cypriol

BASE: vegan ambergris, oudh, labdanum.’

Pip:

‘Hi Suzie and Nicola. I’m looking for a perfume prescription. I’ve had a bit of a rollercoaster year, my partner and I were lucky enough to have a little boy together after IVF and it’s been a really incredible (though exhausting!) time. One of my oldest and dearest friends died a month before we had him and there’s not a day that goes by where I don’t think about her. I’m incredibly sad that we never got to share any of our boy mum moments together. She was always so positive though and down to earth, and I want to remember her with happiness, as well as have a comforting fragrance that will make me think of my little boy when he’s older and him of me. My memories of my friend when we were growing up together are scented with incense, books and the sticky floors of rock bars! I like vanilla, sandalwood and scents that have a bit of smoke. Thanks so much and thank you for keeping me company on my particularly sleep deprived days, I love listening to you both! Pip x’

Suzy’s answer:

The Perfumer’s Story Old Books by Azzi

‘Character: intelligent, eccentric, rock &...

We cannot tell you how much we LOVE receiving your questions and requests for

‘perfume prescriptions’ (something we’ve always specialised in at On the Scent

Podcast – it brings us such joy being able to match people to perfumes they’d

perhaps never tried or even heard of). And we get a LOT of DMs

@onthescentpodcast on Instagram, and messages on our On the Scent private

Facebook group, so here we are dedicating an episode to do a deep dive on two

fascinating fragrant conundrums...

Sometimes the prescription requests we get are to help find a ‘replacement’ for a

beloved signature scent that’s since been discontinued – to which we say, there’s

probably never going to be an exact match, but we can definitely guide you toward

trying some scents that match the vibe, the feeling that fragrance gave you when

you wore it, and the way it slotted into your life like a puzzle piece. We also get a

lot of requests for very specific scenarios, sometimes quite abstract themes or

intimate moments our listeners are seeking to scent! But when we think about

them more broadly, there’s ways of applying these scenarios (and the things the

listener needs to take from them: strength, motivation, comfort, energy...) to

aspects of our own lives.

In this correspondence special, we begin with some lovely feedback from a listener

who made a new discovery via a previous prescription suggestion, then we dive into

the two new requests, which are equally intriguing, and really showcase the kinds

of questions we get so many of and adore researching (often for hours!) to find the

perfect perfumes for.

Let’s begin!

Joanna said:

‘Dear Suzy and Nicola,

I can’t thank you enough for your amazing affordable iris prescriptions! Both sound

incredible and I will be definitely be hunting them down, especially Fragonard Belle

de Paris!

I especially want to thank you for your reviews of the new M&S perfumes. That

episode came out shortly before my trip to England from the States, and I

immediately added M&S to the itinerary! And WOW…Sheer Musk and Darkest

Vanilla are incredible! M&S perfumes are unavailable in America, so had my trip

been just a couple of weeks earlier I would have been completely out of luck, as I

would never have considered exploring M&S as a perfume haven without your

expert recommendation. I humbly beg you to do full reviews of the rest of the

Studio lineup! I feel that the interests of promoting truly exquisite super-affordable,

unique fragrances warrant such a podcast focus. Thank you for all you do for the

fragrance community!!’

Listener prescriptions:

Netta asks:

‘Hi! I recently discovered your podcast and I’m absolutely loving it. I’ve been binge

listening and enjoying every episode!!

I’ve always been obsessed with fragrance and smelling good, so it feels like I’ve

finally found my people.

I was wondering if you could recommend a perfume that’s similar to the

discontinued Armani Privé Pierre de Lune. I absolutely loved it and have never

managed to find anything that captures the same feeling. It had such a clean, soft,

almost soapy quality while still feeling fresh and elegant. I’d be so grateful for any

recommendations! Many thanks in advance, Netta.’

Daniela Andrier (well known for her love of iris) created Pierre de Lune, featuring

violet, iris, cassia & woody notes.

Suzy suggests:

Prada Infusion d’Iris

‘This modern and elegant fragrance opens with notes of mandarin, galbanum,

orange and orange blossom which lead to the heart composed of iris, cedar and

vetiver. The base is composed of incense and benzoin.’

Fragonard Belle de Paris

Another stunning iris scent by Daniela Andrier. And only £42 for 100ml eau de

toilette! ‘Belle de paris is elegantly cloaked in iris, a symbol of chic, and wears its

incomparable scent. Its fruity head notes of green mandarin, neroli, and pear

brighten a generous heart of iris absolutely adorned with violet and incense. Musk

and white cedar form its base.’

27 87 Per sē

‘Per sē is our scent identity and the olfactive translation of our core belief: There is

No Scent Like the Present. It combines the now. The achromatic, and the individual

in a sensory experience.

“In creating Per sē, we aimed to capture the very essence of the present moment.

This fragrance is unparalleled; it ebbs and flows with the dynamism of change, yet

its core remains strikingly constant. Just as time never stops, neither does ‘Per sē’.

It serves as evidence of the enduring within the ever-changing.”

Crafting a symphony of achromatic elegance, Per sē is composed of a floral

bouquet, orris butter, and violet leaves. Juxtaposed with clean aldehydes, bamboo,

and a pinch of spicy pepper, a subtle underscore of ambrette seeds, angelica roots,

and gentle musk complete the incompletable experience of the sensory now.’

Nicola suggested:

Diptyque Fleur de Peau

‘A tribute to the mythical love between Psyche and Eros, which led to the birth of

their daughter, Hedone. One scent can convey this legend: musks. At the heart of

Fleur de Peau, they are cottony, downy or soft. Highlighted with iris and ambrette

seed, they reveal their full tactile dimension.

Absolute ambrette seed extract comes from hibiscus flowers. Its notes are

extraordinarily rich: sweet, slightly animal, fruity (like pear and plum).’

Madeline @rocknrollgypsy_13 asks:

‘Hello Suzy and Nicola! Fragrance goddesses!

Long time listener of the pod, I work on a vineyard in the Hunter Valley NSW

Australia and listening to both of you have gotten me through some long, long days

working by myself. My name is Madeleine and I was wondering if you could give me

a perfume prescription to empower and ground me.

Apart from being a musician, one of my other passions is Muay Thai. As a female

fighter I compete quite regularly, recently coming back from a life changing trip to

Bangkok where I competed at the WBC games winning a silver medal for Australia.

It was a tough fight and I know I could’ve done more to win that gold, but my mind

always seems to stop me before I even step over the ropes. My mentality is

something I always battle with, self-doubt, self-confidence and self-belief is always

what I struggle with. This is a weird kind of prescription, but I would like something

to wear before my fights, something that is empowering, fires me up, grounds me

and makes me feel like I am an unstoppable force going into the ring to face my

opponent. Think a goddess of war, powerful, strong, unbreakable and fierce.

Something to spray on before I warm up, or walk into the ring that grounds me,

centres me and reminds me of who I am.

I am open to anything, as my love for perfume has grown so much since listening

to you both. Much love always, thank you for all you do.

Madeleine xx’

Nicola’s answer:

Olfactive O New Earth

‘I am the host who cooks to the rhythm of the seasons, the one who pulls up an

extra chair before you’ve even asked. I believe in the beauty of things made by

hand - the thumbprint in the clay, the worn-in softness of a family heirloom. There

is quiet joy in walking the same path every day and noticing the first green shoots

of change. For me, luxury resides in the weight of a heavy linen shirt and the

simple, rhythmic task of chopping herbs from the windowsill pot. I am a life lived in

the present tense.

NOTES:

Luminous top: shiso, pink peppercorn, spearmint, elemi Present heart: deep-leaf

immersion, armoise, geranium, chamomile blue, cardamom, clary sage Rooted

base: hay absolute, fir balsam, oakmoss, myrrh

MOMENTS:

Nurturing my sourdough starter Fantasising of a life in the wilderness Leaving the

bookshop with just one more A cup of tea in the garden Seeking out the perfect

soulful escape’

Amouage Meander

‘The Amouage Meander eau de parfum explores the exhilarating feeling of

happiness in a land covered by fog – think lush green mountains and running

waterfalls covered in steamy clouds. Translating this surreal landscape using notes

of frankincense and vetiver, the rich greenery with cypriol and jonquille, and the

caramel-hued earth with sandalwood, carrot heart and orris root, this unique

fragrance captivates the senses and doesn’t let go even hours after being spritzed

on the pulses.’

Suzy’s answer:

Eris Parfums Ma Bête

‘MA BÊTE (My Beast) caresses you with the suggestiveness of perfumed fur. A

collision of the floral and the animal, MA BÊTE combines a regal Tunisian Neroli with

spices and a 50 percent overdose of Antoine Lie's own animalic cocktail.’

‘Ma Bête is a fierce beast with raunchy elegance.’ – Antoine Lie (Perfumer)

Aldehydes, Tunisian Neroli, Indian Nutmeg

Indian Cypriol, Honduran Styrax, Indian Jasmine Sambac

Virginia Cedarwood, Indonesian Patchouli, Synthetic Animalic Accord

‘After interviewing Master Perfumer Antoine Lie for Scent and Subversion, Barbara

asked him to help her create a collection of fragrances as bold as her favourite

vintage perfumes but for a modern audience.

Named after ERIS, the Greek goddess of troublemaking and disruption, ERIS

PARFUMS is inspired by muses — divine, human, and fragrant — that exemplify

unconventional beauty and...

Okay, we all know vanilla has been trending for ages now, but WHY does it prove

so popular? We think half the reason is the sheer diversity of vanillas available,

and the incredibly high-quality materials perfumers are able to use these days.

Plus the fact that vanilla continues to be one of the most universally adored

scents. Love them or loathe them, we feel sure there’s truly something for every

taste (and maybe some that will surprise or even shock you) in this week’s

episode...

Now, obviously, we mean five favourites *each*, we couldn’t possibly contain

them all to only five vanillas when there are SO many excellent varieties of

vanilla fragrances around these days. We have to say, though, f you’re a vanilla

naysayer, please don’t shy away from this episode, as we’ve versions that segue

from the just-launched and fabulously tobacco-filled, the sweetly tempting and

addictive you might expect, to the mind-blowingly modern and unlike any vanilla

you’ve ever smelled.

Encompassing hip-swivelling seduction, a stunning body butter, hugely powerful

fragrant talismans, and summery every-day wearability, there’s also a truly

affordable modern classic vanilla – created by a Master Perfumer who trained at

Chanel, created scents for Frederic Malle, Guerlain, Gucci, Amouage and

Atkinsons, but THIS one can be snapped up for under £30!

While some of our top vanillas crossed over, we also surprised each other with

some of our choices. Now then, which have YOU tried or want to go and smell

after listening...?

We discuss:

D’Orsay Vanilla Affair Extrait

By Nathalie Lorson

‘Immerse yourself in the captivating mystique of D’ORSAY, with Vanilla Affair

extrait de parfum transforming your everyday allure into one of intriguing

elegance.

Its scent – reminiscent of forbidden encounters and fierce passion – is infused

with riveting notes of tobacco and tonka bean, deepened with a vanilla duo, and

grounded with a smoky base of white musks and patchouli. No matter the

occasion, its aromatic blend of exhilarating notes will elevate your essence with

ease.’

The Body Shop Vanilla Body Butter

‘This indulgent cream melts in beautifully, delivering up to 96 hours of hydration

without greasiness. Skin feels instantly softer, smoother and cared for. The

fragrance opens with juicy nashi pear and fresh coconut water, lifted by mood

orchid. At its heart, rich Madagascar vanilla tincture blends with upcycled vanillin

ex rice, creamy milk and heliotrope for a smooth, enveloping warmth. It settles

into a sensual base of vanilla absolute, sandalwood and second skin musk for a

long lasting, skin hugging finish. Every application is a warm, comforting routine.’

Jovoy Fire at Will

‘This perfume’s sweet promises echo around your like languorous kisses.

Crafted by independent perfumer Vanina Murraciole, Fire at Will eau de parfum

from JOVOY explores the duality of vanilla and mimosa – at once intense yet

subtle, seductive yet enchanting. The opening reveals an unexpected vanilla: airy

and ethereal, lifted by honeyed, powdery mimosa. As it evolves, the vanilla

becomes more gourmand and fruity, evoking the delicacy of real vanilla ice

cream while lingering with the allure of whispered promises.’

Top Notes: Mimosa Absolut, Vanilla Absolut

Middle Notes: Vanilla Sugar, Brown Sugar

Base Notes: White Musks, Amber Vetiver

Maison Louis Marie No.15 Vanille Infinie

‘Vanille Infinie, a luxurious and sweet gourmand, is a celebration of hope and

renewal. No.15 Vanille Infinie unfolds as a warm, luminous composition, soft vanilla

layered with citron, sugared amber and cashmere oud for gentle resinous warmth.

The Eau de Parfum evolves naturally on skin, shifting with your body heat to reveal

a smooth, enveloping trail that feels both intimate and enduring.’

Jeroboam Insulo

‘For François Hénin, the founder of Jeroboam, vanilla has always been the

absolute weapon of seductive souls. The ingredient is recognized throughout the

world as an irresistible enticement to be devoured. Insulo (meaning ‘island’ in

Esperanto) is used in this case as a code name for Madagascar, the island which

produces perhaps the highest quality and most famous vanilla in the world.

The olfactive pyramid of Insulo is incredibly simple with vanilla at the top, jasmine

at the heart and the signature blend of enigmatic musks at the base. These few

notes combine to produce a luxurious and irresistible.’

AKRO Bake

‘Bake is our addictive cupcake fragrance.

Everyone has their own favourite sweet treat, and for Akro, it's the small, but

perfectly delicious lemon cupcake—an item we just can’t resist any time we walk

past a good bakery. To honour our favourite cupcakes, we created BAKE, a

gourmand fragrance made up of Tart Lemon notes, followed by sweet Vanilla and

rich, nutty Praline. BAKE is so good, you might not need that second cupcake

after all.

TOP: Lemon peel

MIDDLE: Chantilly cream, Praline

BASE: Brown sugar, Vanilla.’

Matiere Premiere Vanilla Powder

‘A sophisticated take on vanilla, diffusing like a bright, soft cloud. I contrasted

dark vanilla absolute with an overdose of modern white perfumer powders — as

if the vanilla bean had been painted white.

Palo Santo Oil Ecuador brings structure and verticality. The addictive character of

Vanilla is reinforced by Coconut powder. White Musks envelop the Vanilla and

powders for a contemporary, luminous perfume.’ - Aurélien Guichard

Rochas Tocade

One of THE best vanillas if you’re on a budget. Or even if you’re not, come to

that!

‘Originally launched in 1994, and composed by Maurice Roucel, Rochas Tocade

opens with a vibrant burst of bergamot and green notes, setting the stage for a

heart that blooms with the rich aromas of rose, geranium, and magnolia. These

floral elements are beautifully balanced by the warmth of vanilla and amber,

creating a harmonious blend that is both sensual and inviting. The base notes of

musk and cedarwood add depth and longevity, ensuring that this enchanting

fragrance lingers on your skin throughout the day.’

Season 8, Episode 7 Alice du Parcq & The Philosophy of Perfume (her

NEW BOOK!)

This week we welcome back dear perfume pal and friend of the pod (star of two

previous episodes), the multi-award-winning fragrance writer, presenter, content

creator and now AUTHOR, Alice du Parcq!

Alice has always been ‘on a mission to decode perfume in a fun, relatable and

objective way.’ Now, added to her perfumed portfolio will be an incredibly gift-

able (to self or scent-loving friends) book, created in collaboration with none

other than The British Library, called The Philosophy of Perfume. Out in October,

we cannot WAIT to read it, and in this episode, Alice gives us a sneak peek at

what you expect to find inside, plus the entire story of how the book came to be,

and why she burst into tears in a library.

We’ve even managed to wangle a must-sniff list of perfumes Alice has been

wowed by so far this year (not in the book, just a little scented extra to get you

scurrying to smell them). We loved this warm, emotive, wide-ranging

conversation and, as ever, could have talked to Alice for hours longer, and we so

hope you enjoy this deep dive into one of the most hotly anticipated books for

some time...

Some context about the British Library and this collection:

‘The British Library has an in-house publishing division, and they have an

established collection of around 18 books called "The Philosophy Of...". It's a

family of small giftable books that cover fun and whimsical lifestyle topics, such

The Philosophy of Cheese, The Philosophy of Christmas of Gin, of

Tattoos and of Houseplants, where an expert in that specific field dives into the

origins and evolution of that subject. In January, I was invited to do The

Philosophy of Perfume and it will sit within this collection but as a slightly

longer and more standout format. It's out in October, in time for the gifting

season, and the RRP is £12.99.’

About the book:

‘The Philosophy of Perfume is a fun, warm, thoughtful and practical book all

about fragrance, which looks at its origins and how it's made, how we smell and

how best to shop for perfume. It is an adventure into the facts, folklore and

fantasies surrounding perfume, delving into how it has evolved through the eras

and decades as an artform, reflecting our cultural patterns through history. In

the book, you'llmeet perfumers who share insights into their fascinating creative

process; you'll learn the science behind how we smell and the wild emotional

voyage from smell to soul! There are tales of scented superstitions, and the

literary and historical figures who inspire perfume, plus the ways in which AI is

impacting the future of fragrance and a helpful guide on how to shop for

perfume and find The One(s!).

It was so important to me that this book was not for perfume experts, but for

fragrance lovers of all ages who want a moment of enchantment laced with

interesting facts, a sprinkle of science and some practical guidance when on their

next scent shopping safari.’

Can’t wait until October? You can see Alice talking live, interviewed by the

wonderful Amanda Carr (founder of Barnes Fragrance Fair @barnesfragrancefair)

at the Barnes Bookfest sat 26 th September at 6pm, and get tickets and more

info here: https://barnesbookfest.org/

Fragrances Alice has adored so far this year:

Pia Long’s Olfiction Iconic (by name and nature! An utterly staggering vision of

1980s department stores, expensive makeup and body creams – nostalgia

personified)

Botega Venetta’s new Ulta collection (especially Bare Morning which Alice

feels is the longest-lasting most comforting powdery scent she’s smelled for

years)

Hellenist (all of them basically – a stunning house Suzy first saw at Pitti

Fragranze, and which we all very much hope will be available in U.K. soon)

Neal’s Yard Remedies Mood Awakening Collection (Alice loved how true

these felt to the brand’s ethos, and how they slotted so perfectly into their most

beloved collections)

Ode Ona (all of them, again – an exquisitely crafted and curated collection, all

worth exploring)

This week is a truly madcap sniffathon HOPEFULLY encompassing [*takes a

deep breath*] wild seascapes, fragrant ghosts and a notorious rake; a spicy

summer scent to set your senses tingling; a fruity treat based on a perfumer’s

favourite breakfast; a splendiferous peacock strutting its scented stuff; a stunning

sueded rose; perfumes pulled straight from the vegetable patch; Harrods

exclusives to swoon over; a seriously affordable new niche house; a mesmerising

myrrh, and Alice du Parcq’s book pre-order discount code…

AND if all that wasn’t enough, we’re also answering a #listenerprescription for a

jasmine fragrance to remind her of a dance while wearing jasmine garlands.

Phew!

Can we possibly fit it all in without going off-topic? Listen along and find out!

BeauFort London continued: Following on from last week’s fascinating interview

with founder Leo Crabtree, Nicola tries a trio of intriguing scents:

Cape Wrath

‘Cape Wrath Eau De Parfum. Named after the rugged area of coastline on the

most North Westerly tip of Britain, Cape Wrath pulls inspiration from this wild,

treacherous seascape. The remote landmark - named after the old Norse word

for ‘turning point’ has for centuries been used by sailors to safely navigate the

coast of Britain, yet its treacherous waters have claimed countless vessels.

Character: Powerful; wild; windswept

 THE WEARING EXPERIENCE

Top Notes: Pink Pepper, Elemi, Galbanum, Angelica Root
Opens with a blast of

bracing ocean air.

Heart Notes: Frankincense, Mastic, Geranium
Resinous smoke and geranium

add both warmth and austerity.

Base Notes: Ambergris, Vetiver, Ambrette, Seaweed, Oakmoss

Absolute
Mossy oceanic base which powerfully lingers.

Perfumer: Euan McCall

Absent Presence

‘‘O absent presence, Stella is not here’

The fifth and final instalment of the Revenants collection draws inspiration from

the Elizabethan poet Sir Philip Sidney. In his Sonnet sequence ‘Astrophel and

Stella’ Sidney develops and captures the essence of a haunting… the presence

of one that is always felt but never seen.

‘Now I, wit-beaten long by hardest fate,

So dull am, that I cannot look into

The ground of this fierce love and lovely hate,

Then some good body tell me how I do,

Whose presence absence, absent presence is;

Blesst in my curse, and cursed in my bliss.’

Comprising the highest level of natural ingredients of any BeauFort fragrance,

Absent Presence explores its themes with typically ‘overdosed’ concentrations of

violet leaf absolute, vetiver bourbon oil, smoky leather and black pepper oil. As

with all the Revenants family, Absent Presence is presented as 30% Eau De

Parfum.

Character: Dark; enveloping; waves.

THE WEARING EXPERIENCE

Top Notes: Bergamot, Galbanum, Pepper
Fresh, green, and fleeting felt but out

of reach.

Heart Notes: Jasmine, Violet
 Jasmine and violet bloom with intensity.

Base Notes: Leather, Sandalwood, Musk, Amber, Cedarwood 
Warm leather,

woods, amber and musk linger like a ghost on the skin, the violet heart returning

in waves.

Perfumer: Julie Dunkley.’

Rake & Ruin

‘Rake & Ruin Eau De Parfum is inspired by the works of satirist William Hogarth,

this fragrance summons his characters from a gin soaked 18th century London.

This debauched Eau De Parfum incorporates the botanical ingredients of gin;

dark woods, civet, musks and amber bringing to life 'all manner of Vice and

Wickedness.’

THE WEARING EXPERIENCE

Top Notes: Angelica, Liquorice, Juniper, Coriander, Szechuan Pepper, Pink

Pepper, Orange, Lemon
Opens with a sharp, gin-like freshness, spiced and

effervescent.

Heart Notes: Cypress, Pine Needles, Castoreum, Labdanum, Cade Oil, Costus,

Violet Orris
Bowing to a heart of smoky woods, animalic tones and powdered

florals.

Base Notes: Dark Woods, Ambrarome, Sandalwood, Musk
Dark woods, musk

and animalic. Ambrarome complete the seductive yet slightly sinister finish.’

Alice du Parcq’s book: The Philosophy of Perfume

Pre-order at Waterstones for £10 (25% off with code SUMMER26)

https://tinyurl.com/AliceWaterstones

‘The Philosophy of Perfume is a fun, warm, thoughtful and practical book all

about fragrance, which looks at its origins and how it's made, how we smell and

how best to shop for perfume. It is an adventure into the facts, folklore and

fantasies surrounding perfume, delving into how it has evolved through the eras

and decades as an artform, reflecting our cultural patterns through history. In the

book, you'll meet perfumers who share insights into their fascinating creative

process; you'll learn the science behind how we smell and the wild emotional

voyage from smell to soul! There are tales of scented superstitions, and the

literary and historical figures who inspire perfume, plus the ways in which AI is

impacting the future of fragrance and a helpful guide on how to shop for perfume

and find The One(s!). 

It was so important to me that this book was not for perfume experts, but for

fragrance lovers of all ages who want a moment of enchantment laced with

interesting facts, a sprinkle of science and some practical guidance when on their

next scent shopping safari.’

AKRO Heat

‘HEAT is our addictive chili fragrance.

Chili is not just a spice. It is a rush. A burn you think you can handle. The first

time you smell it, it hits, it wakes you up. Then it warms you. Then you want it

again.

The best chili doesn’t just flavour. It ignites. It makes your skin tingle. Your

temperature rise. Your pulse quicken. Your senses sharpen.

HEAT is that moment when warmth turns into craving. When your body asks for

more. A vibrant indulgence. A dopamine shot you keep coming back to.

HEAT is a scent that sets you on fire and makes you love the burn.

TOP: CORIANDER SEED, LEMON, RED CHILI

MIDDLE: CARDAMOM, GINGER, JUNIPER

BASE: CEDARWOOD, AMBROX, MUSK.’

Jeroboam Oud Morning

By Vanina Muracciole

‘Oud Morning from Jeroboam is the perfect balance of brightness and depth.

Opening with an unexpected burst of blueberry, saffron and resins, the

composition moves into a heart of Indian oud, softened with leather and aged

woods. Sandalwood, ambroxan and white musk anchor it into a smooth, sensual

base, finishing the creation on an intimate note.

Top Notes: Blueberry, Gurjum Balsam, Saffron

Middle Notes: Indian Oudh, Leather, Dry Wood, Violet

Base Notes: Sugar, Sandalwood, Cedarwood, White Musks.’

Alexandre J Royal Peacock (Harrods Exclusive)

‘At the turn of the 20th century, Art Nouveau reshaped the decorative arts.

Mucha, Gallé, Tiffany, Lalique, all drew on nature to invent a new grammar of

curves, stylised plants and extraordinary birds. Among them,

the peacock reigned supreme: its iridescent eyes and regal bearing embodied

the movement's core belief in beauty for beauty's sake.

The opening evokes an Italian espresso served with Viennese pastry. Roasted

coffee dialogues with hazelnut in a frankly gourmand accord, before maple

syrup brings its unmistakable amber roundness, sweet without cloying, almost

woody. Caramel amplifies the indulgence, while violet casts a powdery floral veil

that keeps the composition from tipping into excess. The vanilla-almond base

settles into a lasting, addictive warmth.’

Ormonde Jayne Suede Silhouette

‘Bathed in crimson and violet, Suede Silhouette reflects the warmth of saffron,

the richness of raspberry and the quiet confidence of suede. Exclusively at

Selfridges.’

Jo Malone London Veggies collection:

Celine Roux says: ‘We just loved that people, even in the middle of cities like

London, can grow their own carrots and herbs – the fact that everyone wants to

have a grasp on nature from wherever they are. This [collection] takes that idea

of something homegrown and unmanicured but gives it a fresh take’

Velvety Butternut:

‘The path ahead is smooth, just like a velvety butternut playfully plucked from the

veggie patch. Notes of smooth butternut, warm tonka bean and patchouli create

a woody gourmand scent.

Top - Ginger

Spicy and fresh with a zingy lemon quality, it opens the fragrance with lively

brightness.

Heart - Butternut

Smooth and nutty, notes of butternut imbues the fragrance with a delicious

warmth and creaminess.

Base - Patchouli

Grounded in patchouli, a sensuously deep woody note that enhances the

longevity of the fragrance.’

Carrot Blossom:

‘Life is sweet, just like carrot blossom gloriously gathered from the veggie patch.

Notes of subtly sweet carrot, orange flower and white musk create a fresh floral

scent.

Top - Fennel

Herbaceous with hints of aniseed, it adds a dewy sweetness to the top notes.

Heart - Carrot Blossom

Lightly floral and sweet, with an earthy accent, complementing the powdery notes

of orris.

Base - Patchouli

Grounded in patchouli, a sensuously deep woody note that enhances the

longevity of the fragrance.’

Suzy’s favourite: Scarlet Beetroot

‘Colour is all around, just like a scarlet beetroot splendidly spied in the veggie

patch. Notes of beetroot, vibrant blackcurrant and a dash of...

[AD: This episode is proud to be in partnership with BeauFort London - a house Suzy has championed from the start, spoken about passionately over the years, and continues to be excited by.]

From a single, hand-poured moustache wax to one of the world’s most daringly distinctive fragrance houses, BeauFort London’s story is as elemental as the scents themselves. Founded in 2013 by musician Leo Crabtree, the brand was born from salt-spray memories, naval histories and a fascination with the poetry of smoke — quite literally “per fumum” (‘through smoke’).

In this episode of On The Scent Podcast, Suzy Nightingale and Nicola Bonn sit down with Leo to trace that journey: from the formative fragrances he wore as a teenager to the moment he realised scent could become a storytelling medium for his fascinations with maritime might, Shakespearean drama, and the awe-inspiring power of nature.

With the launch of Come Hell Or High Water in 2015 — featuring the now-iconic Tonnerre, Coeur de Noir and Vi et Armis — BeauFort London set out its stall with unapologetically bold compositions, rich in unusual materials and deliberately ‘overdosed’ in their intensity. As you listen, you will hear Suzy, Nicola and Leo smelling some of the creations together — Nicola encountering them properly for the first time, while Suzy revisits fragrances she has worn and championed for years, having known Leo since the brand’s earliest days and even helping to shape the direction of Fathom V.

Together, we delve into the inspirations behind the scents, the emotions they stir, and the evolving landscape of perfumery that Leo reflects upon with candour. It is a conversation about transformation — personal, creative, and within the industry itself — and one that invites you to explore these boldly original fragrances for yourself…

Embracing the heat, and leaning into the ‘Sunscreen Scent’ perfume profile this week, we’re following on from the BONUS episode originally available to Patreon subscribers (which should soon be available here too - keep checking & scroll back in your podcast app to find it), in which we explored our favourite scented sunscreens. Flipping that fragrant theme on its head, this time we’re all about those solar, ‘holiday in a bottle’ type perfumes, and find ourselves particularly drawn to those with a vintage vibe.

Later in the episode, Nicola answers a listener question from someone who had fallen head over heels for spicy tonka / vanilla fragrances way out of her budget, and seeks affordable scents to satiate this new obsession…

We discuss;

Nuxe Prodigieux Le Parfum

This first launched in 2012, and was created by Serge Majoullier (who also created Mugler Womanity Eau Pour Elle and Viktor&Rolf Bonbon).

Top notes are Orange Blossom, Mandarin Orange, Orange and Bergamot; middle notes are Gardenia, Magnolia and Rose; base notes are Coconut Milk, Vanilla and Pebbles.

DIOR La Collection Privé Eden-Roc

We rather suspect that Dior’s resident perfumer, François Demachy, enjoyed even more than usual his ‘research’ for this fragrance, a hymn to one of the world’s most legendary hotels, on the rocky shore of the Côte d’Azur. Flooded with sunlight, it’s cooled and ruffled by a salty breeze, revealing an accord reminiscent of nothing so much as expensive suntan oil, suffused with jasmine and a touch of coconut. Truly the stuff of holiday dreams.

Juliette Has a Gun Sunny Side Up

Ohhh allow yourself to dream of a scented destination somewhere more far flung. Close your eyes and imagine an impossibly perfect beach: warm sand, warm skin, an omnipresent hush of crystal waters massaging brightly coloured pebbles and your own deep, contented breaths. Sunny Side Up is all blissfully relaxed limbs glowing with the retro-smelling scent of suntan oil, the softness of the blanket beneath you and a waft of vanilla ice-cream on the breeze as the sun dips its toes in the ocean. Bliss in fragrant form!

Elie Saab Le Parfum Lumière

‘Like an haute couture dress, Elie Saab fragrances adorn the feminine form, with a radiant sensuality. Elie Saab Le Parfum Lumière captures the sensual sparkle of light. The Dawn. The time when night meets day, when a ray of light softly glides across the darkness and reveals the golden hues of daybreak. Inspired by Mediterranean sun rays, Elie Saab Le Parfum Lumière is an ode of warm light.’

Top notes

Mandarin Essence, Ylang-Ylang

Heart notes

Jasmine Samac Absolut India, Tuberose

Base notes

Patchouli, Musky Woods & Soft amber

Tom Ford Soleil

‘Soleil Brûlant captures the high-shine brilliance of the golden sun beaming on a private oasis. Sun-kissed citrus mingles with spices giving way to an ornate and regal floral heart—while orange flower absolute and black honey release a seductive vapor, melting into the burnished warmth of amber.

Soleil Brûlant releases sun-kissed florals warmed by amber, conjuring a blazing encounter between gilded rays and naked skin. Your own private summer.’

Jennifer Elizabeth:

Hi Nicola and Suzy, I find myself turning to your podcast and fragrance in general to comfort and sweeten my day during the cold winter in Melbourne. I am really enjoying my perfume journey and recently discovered a Libertine Parfumerie near me! I got a sample of Amouge, guidance and Tonka Kumaru Atelier Materi. I didn’t think I would like the spicy saffron in Guidance but I have really warmed to it! And now expanding my tastes into spicy fragrances with a bit of heat. I absolutely love Tonka Kumaru it has become my favourite! Unfortunately both perfumes are way above my budget, and I was wondering if you have any recommendations for a similar fragrance with tonka, vanilla, almond and a spice. I find this fragrance very complex and addictive and its projection is amazing, so it would be may to find something under 100 pounds . I love this scent so much I’d also like to find a candle with similar almond and cardamon notes.

I also like Vanilla Powder Matiere Premier.

Ps I am so happy I can walk into Mecca or libertine and identity so many of the perfumes from your podcast! It brings me such joy!

Nicola’s suggestions:

Essential Parfums Divine Vanilla

Granado Tonka Eau de Toilette

L'Occitane Almond Candle

Mama Moon Prosperity and Courage Candle

Scents Journey - Masala Chai Candle

Jsala - Apothecary Candle

Talk about varied - we go from a ‘posh banana’ Brazilian carnival in a bottle Nicola experienced at a vibrantly fun perfume pop-up in Liberty, to an extraordinary, burning, bloodied rose Suzy’s entranced by (don’t worry - it’s not as scary as it sounds!)

We’re also featuring two incredibly inspirational women on this week’s show - one who’s created her own fragrance brand to reflect a life lived in scent and adventure, and another who’s bringing the playfulness back into perfumery by allowing you (and your friends) to attend a blending workshop via Zoom - to create your own fragrance with her stunning and easy-to-use accords. A whole group of the #fragfam (Suzy, Nicola, Jo, Alice du Parcq, Amanda Carr, Thomas & Hayden attended a Zoom, and we were HUGELY impressed, plus love the scents we blended!)

Amidst all of that there’s talk of a naughty Toy Boy who’s back in town, and Suzy finds two exquisite (and very affordable) iris-forward fragrances for a listener.

Plus: get the second issue of On The Scent magazine which has just been published and is already flying out again! Order online here:

https://www.onthescentmedia.com/on-the-scent-magazine

Now, on with the show, and let’s jump in…

We discuss:

Granado Yes, Nós Temos Banana!

The Brazilian brand has taken over Liberty’s historic Atrium for the whole of July with a huge banana pop-up! Do see it in-person if you can. They say: ‘Evoking the tropical vibrance of Brazil in olfactive form, Yes, Nós Temos Banana! eau de parfum from Granado is an invigorating addition to any fragrance collection.

Anchored by a classic, woody base of sandalwood and cedar, this fragrance combines vibrant notes of banana and peach blossom with the romantic delicacy of fig and iris, while highlighting banana leaf as the protagonist of the creation - spritz onto skin for a breath of escapism.’

L’Entropiste Ensang Noir

[From Sainte Cellier] ‘This rose is on fire… Ensang Noir is an extraordinarily pungent rose perfume, sanguineous red petals stained with black ink, rusted at the bleeding edges. A scent of temptation, danger and the ritualistic fumes of burnt love. Fanatical, obsessive. Skin becomes an altar for this most plush and smoky offering.’

Top Notes: aldehydes, blackcurrant, coriander, cucumber

Heart Notes: red rose, magnolia, peony

Base Notes: incense, birch, opoponax, patchouli, vetiver, caramel

Moschino ToyBoy 2

‘Moschino’s celebrated fragrance for him is back! This time, the new TOY BOY 2 will take you on a sensory journey that opens with a spicy spark and closes with an amber caress.

Toy boy 2 comes alive with an explosion of intriguing nutmeg and sparkling ginger and sets out on a quest to start a journey of lively and ironic charm, to escape from the daily greyness by retracing distant but ever-present emotions. It wraps you in a warm embrace of intense coffee, while akigalawood adds a bold touch. As the adventure continues, it leaves behind a soft trail of myrrh and vetiver, comforting you and promising even more surprises.’

Top notes

saffron accord, nutmeg Indonesia, fresh ginger

Heart notes

coffee extract, cedarwood, akigalawood

Base notes

cistus concrete, vetiver oul, myrrh resinoid

Liz Astor Fragrances

‘Three perfumes, three chapters of a life lived through fragrance.

From an English garden to distant horizons and star-filled nights — each captures a moment in Liz Astor’s journey: where she began, where she wandered, and what she became.’

HETHERSETT

‘Hethersett is a return to origin — a chypre–fruity fragrance that feels like sunlight through orchard branches and summer gardens in full bloom. Each breath reveals the early whispers of creativity: petals, citrus, and memory intertwined. Bright, romantic, rooted — the scent of home becoming art.

Olfactory Notes Orange • Citron • Jasmine • Magnolia • Orange Blossom • Saffron • Cedarwood • Musk

From £40 for 7.5ml

8.7°S 118.3°E

‘The coordinates point to a remote stretch of the Indonesian sea — a place etched in Liz Astor’s travels, when she chased adventure beyond familiar shores.

8.7°S 118.3°E captures the spirit of exploration — the scent of salt spray and sunlight, the pulse of courage, and the thrill of finding beauty in the unknown. It is both fearless and fluid, an ode to self-discovery carried on the ocean wind.

Tone Wild, radiant, unbound — freedom bottled in light and sea air.

Olfactory Notes Bergamot • Mandarin • Grapefruit • Clary Sage • Jasmine • Patchouli • Vetiver’

From £40 for 7.6ml eau de parfum

Nadira No.9

‘Nadira No.9 evokes the sensual hush of desert air beneath a vast night sky — where time slows and the spirit expands. It’s a fragrance of reverence and reflection, born of distant travels and the quiet awe of standing beneath a thousand unfamiliar.

Soft, luminous, intimate — starlight woven through spice and skin.’

Amber • Musk • Night-blooming Florals • Spiced Woods’

From £70 for 7.5ml parfum

Discovery Set: £25 for x3 samples

Purchase the collection for £25 — this is fully redeemable against a future purchase of any 75ml fragrance once you’ve chosen your favourite.

https://lizastor.com

Elix perfume blending workshop (via Zoom)

Nicole founder Elix because: ‘Scent is uniquely powerful, yet we rarely have the opportunity to play and experiment with it. After a career in product innovation and creative facilitation, I returned to my childhood dream of perfume alchemy. Artisan perfumery became my creative outlet during lockdown, and I was inspired by the joy and mindfulness it brought into my life. I founded ELIX Personal Alchemyto share that playful magic with others and make artisan personalised perfumery more accessible.’

‘Our hand-crafted Eau de Toilette blending accords harmonise beautifully in endless combinations. Blend 2–4 accords together to create a range of scents that evolve with your mood, style or occasion; or enjoy them solo.

Our luxury set contains everything you need to enjoy a mindful personal ritual or a shared creative experience at home.

Our curated collections are inspired by some of the most-loved accord combinations created during our live workshops, and include a selection of popular blending ideas to inspire your own journey.

• Up to 70% naturally derived ingredients l • Blending accords can be worn alone or combined • Two refillable atomisers with replenishable elements • Additional accords available individually • Hand-crafted and hand-packed in the U.K.’

£149 Personal Alchemy Blending Kit

https://www.elixfragrance.com

Listener Prescription:

Joanna Caccavo:

Dear Suzy and Nicola,

First of all, a big congratulations on the new magazine! It is absolutely mouthwatering and Suzy’s prose is exquisite - I MUST read more! I am also eager for a perfume prescription for an affordable ($100 or under) very iris-forward fragrance. I’m accustomed to seeing iris perfumes raved about online, but they tend to be quite pricy. However, I recently blind-bought Zara’s Romance d’Iris Elixir, which is almost an iris soliflore and about $70, and I fell head-over-heels in love! I know that iris is a note in many fragrances, both expensive and inexpensive, but in my (admittedly limited!) experience it’s usually quite subtle. Surely there must be other affordable super-iris-y perfumes out there? (They needn’t smell only of iris, but I’d like that to be the dominant note.) Thank you! :)

Suzy suggested:

Fragonard Belle de Paris

Composed by Daniela Andrier (of Prada Infusion d’Iris fame!) here,;lbase notes are Musk and White Cedar Extract.

‘Belle de Paris is elegantly cloaked in iris, a symbol of chic, and wears its incomparable scent.

Its fruity head notes of green mandarin, neroli, and pear brighten a generous heart of iris absolute adorned

with violet and incense. Musk and white cedar form its base.’

Top Notes: neroli, pear and green mandarin;

Heart Notes: iris, violet and incense

Base Notes: musk and white cedar extract.

€42 for 100ml eau de toilette

4160 Tuesdays Hush Hush

‘Imagine a secret 1920s party, the perfumes that people are wearing are the new things: violets and iris, vanilla and musks. They're wearing smart suits and straight silk dresses with beaded tassels. Someone opens a new paper packet of cigarettes, and they all whip out their elegant holders, even the women!

It has a powdery feel reminiscent of early 20th Century perfumes, because we both love the violet-iris texture and aroma created by ionones and irones, including those from natural orris (slightly extravagant but worth every penny). Among the many materials assembled here to create a completely new scent, we have a smidgen of natural rose, a fair quantity of Cashmeran, woods, sparkly orange flower, bergamot, creamy ethyl vanillin and layers of musks.’

£35 for 15ml eau de toilette

Looking for some truly outstanding and very affordable fragrances? Have we got an episode for you! This week, as challenged by you, we went on a scent safari sniffing our way around the new fragrances in one of the U.K’s most beloved high street shops. The results? Well, we were rather awe-struck with how wonderful they were, to be honest.

Suzy is totally in love with a new perfume shop she popped into for a (free!) half-hour hand and massage the other day; and we’ve also got some suggestions for a listener desperately missing their favourite (now discontinued) fragrance, and start this week’s episode with some lovely feedback about a previous listener prescription…

Listener feedback:

Anja:

‘Hello, after listening to your brilliant podcast episode over the weekend and the scent prescription on marocan scents one perfume came straight into my mind: Andi Tauer's L'air du Desert Marocain.

Thanks again for your podcast and hard work, it brings us all joy every week. I blind bought DS&Durga Big Sur Eucalyptus after Suzy described it and it so amazing and exactly whati was looking for (for years!) in a eucalyptus scent. Thanks, Anja’

Marks & Spencer fragrances:

We asked our Instagram followers to suggest a high street store to find some affordable fragrances in, and share our favourites. The top request by FAR was Marks & Spencer. So, we went to the Oxford Street store, and were SO impressed by the selection, layout, accessibility and thoughtfulness that’s gone in to the design - not only of the scents, but the space they’re displayed in.

Not only was the layout chic and welcoming, the shelves were well-stocked with blotters and testers, making it a truly inviting place to go and explore perfumes (both M&S own-brand ones, and a great curation of other brands).

First up, we sniffed the Summer Limited Edition duo (which we’d already promised to test for you a couple of episodes ago):

Suzy’s favourite:

Marshmallow Delight £12 for 100ml eau de parfum

‘Indulge in a scent that feels soft, sweet and irresistibly playful with this Marshmallow Delight eau de toilette from our Discover range. Juicy raspberry brings a bright opening, melting into fluffy marshmallow and smooth cream for a comforting, dessert-like finish.’

Nicola’s favourite:

Solar Fleur £12 for 100ml eau de parfum

‘Capture the warmth of sunlit skin with this radiant eau de toilette from our Discover range. A bright burst of mandarin opens the scent, softened by delicate jasmine and wrapped in the creamy sweetness of coconut milk. The result is a smooth, glowing fragrance that feels effortless and uplifting.’

Then we made a beeline for the brand new M&S Studio Fragrance collection - and were both completely blown away! The quality is apparent the second you pick up the bottles: stylishly pared back they feel satisfyingly weighty with good quality lids, and even the labels are slightly recessed - a very luxe touch, all for £22.50 per 100ml eau de perfume. And the SCENTS! Oh my. So many great ones to choose from (shall we do a whole series?) but we chose…

Suzy’s favourites:

M&S Studio Amber Crème

‘This Amber Crème eau de parfum is a refined and evocative choice. Sensual amber and rich vanilla combine with notes of rum, patchouli and crème anglaise to create a lavish, indulgent scent.

Top note: Brown Sugar Middle note: Tonka Base note: Amber’

M&S Studio Ginger Flower

‘Enjoy a fresh and contemporary scent with the Ginger Flower eau de parfum. The heart of the fragrance combines lively ginger with sweet citrus and orange blossom for an uplifting accord. Sensual white musk and blond woods create a warm, grounded finish.

Top note: Ginger Middle note: Orange blossom Base note: White musk’

Nicola’s favourites:

Darkest Vanilla

‘Enjoy a rich and velvety accord with the Darkest Vanilla eau de parfum. The sensual vanilla heart is complemented by warm amber, luscious tonka bean and dreamy patchouli. Notes of floral orchid and sweet brown sugar ensure a luxurious finish.

Top note: Vanilla bean Middle note: Tonka Base note: Amber

Sheer Musk

This Sheer Musk eau de parfum from M&S Studio is a subtly sensual choice. A heart of vegan sublimolide™ musk and ambrette absolute is complemented by floral rose and velvety orris. Cashmere and sandalwood notes create a grounded finish.

Top note: Pink pepper Middle note: Cashmere Base note: Musk

They really are knocking it out of the park at M&S - in the beauty area (our fave, obvs) but also in their fashion and accessories. So many reasons to be excited again about going in-store! We must go back to try more perfumes, though, don’t you think?

Nicola loved her Atelier Rebul mixing masterclass experience, and this is a house we want to tell you much more about (and smell our way through all their creations) in future episodes.

Meanwhile….

Suzy had the most incredible FREE half hour scented hand & arm massage at Norfolk Natural Living in their Lambs Conduit Street shop. This relaxing, unhurried ritual uses their all-natural products and ends with a bespoke fragrance discovery.

Suzy chose to finish with a layered spritz of:

Geranium & Tomato Leaf

‘Beyond the glass the garden breathes a little slower. Leaves stir with a soft whisper as the warmth begins to soften at the edges. The scent of crushed tomato vine lingers green and vivid against the rosy sweetness of geranium bloom. Neroli drifts through the shade like a pale ribbon of light while cool earth settles everything into an easy calm.

It is the sort of afternoon that asks nothing of you. Sun warming terracotta. Green stems rubbed gently between the fingers. A bright citrus breeze wandering through open windows carrying lime and eucalyptus with it. The garden smells alive and a little unruly in the loveliest way.’

(Layered with)

Rose Garden

‘The afternoon unfolds in layers of scent and light. I sit beneath the cedar tree, reading... The breeze is bright, alive, moving through the garden like thought. It brings the first shimmer of geranium leaf and Sicilian lemon, quick and green, a scent that catches the light like a silver blade. Then, the roses. They lean into the air, full and fresh, their sharp sweetness almost shocking after the citrus. The garden hums with life: petals opening, leaves trembling, sunlight deepening into gold.

This rose is no dowager; it’s an ingénue with perfect posture. Geranium keeps it clean and quick, jasmine gives it flesh, cedar lends gravity, and amber that quiet, golden hum anchors it all. The air itself seems to thrum, half floral, half mineral, alive with that peculiar English freshness that smells of rain remembered rather than falling.’

The fragrances start from £20 for 10ml and every one Suzy smelled was genuinely excellent (though we also need to go bs k here and try many more!)

Norfolk Natural Living have stores around the U.K. (as well as selling their products online:

You can enjoy the free Norfolk Natural Living hand & arm massage at selected stores (Cambridge, Southwold, Lambs Conduit St London, Woodbridge, Aldeburgh & Holt] by booking online, here:

https://tinyurl.com/Norfolk-Natural-Living-Massage

Listener Prescription:

Meira:

Hi! I’m reaching out because I’ve heard you are experts in tracking down lost or discontinued fragrances. I’ve been on a long quest to find Ananya by The Body Shop (the original 1980s/90s version).

​It holds so many memories for me, and I’ve been struggling to find it anywhere. Since it seems to be unavailable to ship to Europe, I was wondering if you could help me find it or, if not, recommend a fragrance that is a very close match in terms of scent profile (tuberose, peach, coconut, and sandalwood).

​Any guidance or tips you could provide would mean the world to me. Thank you so much for your time and help!

Suzy suggests:

Chopard Casmir

‘Casmir was launched in 1992. The nose behind this fragrance is Michel Almairac. Top notes are Peach, Coconut, Mango, Fruits and Bergamot; middle notes are Geranium, Jasmine, Floral Notes and Lily-of-the-Valley; base notes are Vanilla, Amber, Sandalwood, Musk, Patchouli and Woodsy Notes.’

Kayali Eden Sweet Peach | 35

‘Sweet, luscious, and velvety, Eden Sweet Peach | 35 Eau de Parfum is pure happiness in a bottle. On first spritz, sweet-and-tangy peach and crisp red apple create a bright, mouthwatering opening while creamy frangipani adds softness and warmth at the heart of the juice. As the fragrance dries down, comforting musk melts into the skin, leaving a tender yet addictive trail that radiates effortless joy.’

(Layered with)

Kayali Utopia Vanilla Coco | 21

‘Take a dip in your daydreams, where the clouds seem within reach and you’re blissfully floating in a glittering pool of possibilities. Creamy sandalwood and sweet white florals are topped with milky coconut, then whipped together with vanilla bourbon to evoke that sense of freedom from reality, transporting you to your perfect world, your Utopia.’

On The Scent Magazine

To purchase a print issue of the first issue of On The Scent Magazine follow this link to order yours (delivery worldwide):

If this is your first bonus subscriber-only episode: welcome! We’ve so much more for you in store, with an extra episode every single week (even when we’re on a break from the main podcast).

Claggy, sweaty, humid weather: it’s the absolute worst for trying to get to sleep in, right? Well in this week’s extra episode, we’re discussing scents that, once sprayed, seem to instantly lower the temperature and create a cool, calming atmosphere.

Do you wear fragrances to sleep (and save some especially for hot weather), or use diffusers, essential oils, or other fragrant ways of staying cool? We’d love to hear about them!

Of course these fragrances don’t only have to be reserved for humid, sleepless nights - they can be used anytime you need to have an instant refresh or mood-re-setting moment.

Here’s what we waft when it all gets a bit much…

NEOM Super Shower Power Body Wash

‘Smells like a fresh mint tea – invigorating and energising. All the flavours that make you feel awake, and alert are blended into this incredible sensorial shower cream: pinging mint, euphoric eucalyptus, cleansing rosemary and empowering coffee. Plus, there’s creamy oat milk to add a gorgeous feeling of nourishment and care around you, charging you up for the best start to the day. - Alice du Parcq.’

NEOM Squeeze the Day Essential Oil Blend

‘Smells like freshly cut and perfectly ripe citrus fruits - juicy and uplifting. The ultimate get-up-and-go blast of sharp-sweet citrus zest, featuring the perfect balance of bitter and tart grapefruit with warm and juicy mandarin. For extra oomph, there’s a subtle ping of cooling eucalyptus that radiates through your space – the greatest of all feel-good scents. - Alice du Parcq.’

4711:

Eau de Cologne

‘One of the world's oldest and most famous authentic Eau de Cologne creations, having been produced in Cologne, Germany, since 1792. Known for its iconic blue-and-gold packaging, it is a timeless, unisex citrus-aromatic fragrance loved for its crisp, clean, and immediately refreshing profile.’

• Top Notes: Bergamot, Lemon, Orange, Peach, and Basil
• Heart Notes: Lavender and Rosemary
• Base Notes: Neroli (orange blossom) and Petitgrain

+ Eau de Cologne Tissues

+ Eau de Cologne Cool Stick

Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Herba Fresca

‘A note of fresh herbs sparkling with dew and springtime flowers, energised by a bunch of spearmint leaves and connected by a green tea accord. The fragrance is enlivened by a tonic accord with the aromas of cut grass glistening with dew.’

DedCool Mineral Milk

‘Your favorite MILK scent on a seaside getaway. The familiar, skin-like musk you love, refreshed with a salty breeze and mineral sparkle. A coastal daydream, bottled.

• TOP: GOLDEN NECTAR, PASSIONFRUIT
• MIDDLE: COASTAL LAVENDER, OCEAN AIR, MARINE SALT
• BOTTOM: AMBER MILK, VIRGINIA CEDAR,AUSTRALIAN SANDALWOOD.’

Roos & Roos Globulus

‘At the top, eucalyptus globulus in two aspects: the essence of the leaves (aromatic) and the extract of the buds (fruity greens) for a lively freshness. In the heart, essence of mint (spicata mint) for a lively spicy burst of cardamom from Guatemala. The green facet is amplified by salviac (smell of sage leaves).In the background the cascalone blows a wind of aquatic freshness, like a morning dew. A crystal moss note (close to oak moss) creates a woody facet. A breeze of lively and minty freshness.’

Diptyque Lemongrass & Geranium Body Spray

‘A bright, aromatic spray infused with essential oils known to help repel mosquitoes. A limited-edition design inspired by summer water gardens.

Lemongrass, geranium and neroli create a vibrant freshness on the skin. On the bottle, geraniums come to life in a design inspired by mosaic tesserae, imagined by Mathilde Jonquière.’

HERETIC PARFUM - NOSFERATU

‘In partnership with Nosferatu and Focus Features, Heretic is proud to collaborate on a fragrance inspired by the iconic vampire. Cold, pale and pellucid, this fragrance evokes the uneasy chill of encountering an apparition. The fragrance opens with a clap of thunder and downpour of rain, strikes of lightning fill the air with petrichor and electricity. Tangled in the stones of the dark, wet heart chord you will find lilac in vivid a bouquet of cadaverous hues punctuated by inky violet absolute. This floral accord of ether conjures memories of forgotten innocence and love everlasting that give way to the peculiar delights of vegan Ambergris. Soft and velvety the ambergris dances on the skin in a nostalgic waltz that is both delicate and hedonistic. Nosferatu is only in theaters this Christmas. © 2024 Focus Features LLC.’

Norfolk Natural Living Magnesium Spray

‘Our Magnesium Sleep body spray is…

For sleep. For tension. For 3am spirals. Created by a mum who just wanted her child to rest.

I didn’t set out to launch a magnesium sleep spray — I made this because my daughter couldn’t sleep.

She wasn’t dramatic, just quietly anxious. Her little mind wouldn’t switch off. Bedtime became a knot of questions, overthinking, and restlessness. So I blended magnesium with lavender and sweet orange. A gentle, calming spray she could trust—and so could I. It helped her sleep. Properly.

And once I saw it worked for her, I started using it too—after long days, before travel, when a migraine threatened, or when my own brain refused to slow down. Now it lives in every bag and on every bedside table. Not just for sleep. For calm.

What it does

• Helps you fall—and stay—asleep Spray on feet, wrists, or chest. Breathe deeply. Sleep comes easier.
• Calms anxiety For that wired-at-bedtime feeling, or mid-day overwhelm. A few sprays help settle things down.
• Relieves muscle tension & restless legs Ideal after workouts, desk days, or long flights.
• Soothes migraines & tension headaches Apply to neck and temples at the first sign of a flare-up.
• Supports sleep during perimenopause and menopause Great for night sweats, restless sleep, and general hormonal chaos—no hormones involved.

What’s in it

• Magnesium Sulfate – Known to relax muscles, reduce anxiety, and support melatonin production.
• Lavender Essential Oil – The classic calming scent, soothing and familiar.
• Sweet Orange Essential Oil – Uplifting and comforting; balances out bedtime anxiety.
• Nothing synthetic, nothing sticky – Vegan, cruelty-free, and handmade in Norfolk.

How to use it

• For sleep: 4–6 sprays on wrists, feet, or backs of knees about 20 minutes before bed.
• For muscle tension: 8–10 sprays, massage into sore areas.
• For anxiety: Spray on palms, rub, and inhale slowly.
• For migraines or tension headaches: Apply to back of neck and temples.
• For children aged 5+: 2–3 sprays after bath or before bed.
• On-the-go: Use before travel, meetings, or school runs to take the edge off.’

We’re back with a whole new season of On the Scent Podcast!

While we had a break on the main pod, we’ve still been recording our Patreon exclusive episodes every week, which you can catch up with on patreon.com https://www.patreon.com/u84518038

Meanwhile, we’ve been busy attending some incredible new launches, many of which you’ll hear about in this episode, and Nicola and her husband, Chris, got to have bespoke fragrances made for them by Nicola Pozzani, the Global Fragrance Ambassador and Bespoke Perfumer for Floris London! She’s talking us through the entire process here, and you’ll hear some recordings she made in the historic Jermyn Street perfumer’s office on the day.

Suzy also got to experience something rather wonderful, visiting the newly appointed Chanel salon in Harrods for a ‘Grand Parfumeur’ session revealing the fascinating symbolism present in Chanel’s life, aesthetics, and the new Extrait perfumes. She also attended the jaw-dropping launch of BDK’s three new fragrances, each inspired by spectacular fabrics.

After talking about the celeb-filled celebrations of The Fragrance Foundation Awards, with more being more, there’s much talk of what’s on the current ‘can’t stop wearing list’ (which includes a latex and lipstick scent Nicola adores, a mushroom fragrance Suzy’s obsessed by, and a reconnection with a past perfume love).

On this week’s episode…

Floris London Bespoke Experience:

https://tinyurl.com/florisbespoke

BDK Stellar Silk

‘Stellar Silk unfolds around the milky, textured richness of a creamy, precious sandalwood. At the top, a spicy spark of ginger and cinnamon bark is delicately dusted with saffron. Then, the floral heart of iris unfolds, echoing the intimate caress of fabric against the skin, enveloped in vanilla, tonka bean, and the profound warmth of benzoin tears. In the base, sandalwood and musks carry and extend the trail with gentle intensity. Like a precious thread of silk, Stellar Silk lays a veil of sensuality across the skin. A fragrance of passion, it radiates as a luminous halo, balancing depth and lightness to create an enduring, timeless elegance. Around the silk, a universe of luxury emerges, defined by a noble material exploring with subtlety the porous boundaries between masculine and feminine wardrobes. The softness and delicacy of the fabric flirt with the sensuality of evening gowns, evoking Haute Couture silhouettes where creative freedom blurs boundaries, reminiscent of designs by Yves Saint Laurent or Valentino Garavani. In the airy, whispering rustle of muslin, an ode rises to the preciousness of a millennia-old material, noble and treasured.’

BDK Silver Ceremony

‘Silver Ceremony is conceived in resonance with the precious radiance of sequins. At the top, bergamot, green mandarin, and lemon illuminate the fragrance as light strikes metal, sparkling with a crystalline, vibrant, almost icy freshness, heightened by the spicy brilliance of ginger and pink pepper. In the base, woody notes unfold, dominated by cedar, set with patchouli and oud, and faceted with the amber nuances of labdanum. A textured creation, rich in energy and vibration, where freshness accentuates depth and warmth anchors luminosity. Constructed like an architectural masterpiece in which movement and stillness coexist, it is at once solid and fluid. Like a luminous, shimmering, ethereal garment, Silver Ceremony reveals itself as a fragrance with an electric, magnetic, incisive, and radiant signature. In the 1960s, when Paco Rabanne was celebrated as a metallurgist, he boldly wove metal into his creations, sculpting dresses with the precision of an architect. Thierry Mugler conjured robotized silhouettes, evoking a visionary, almost cosmic futurism. As for sequins, with their meticulous artisanal craftsmanship, they endure as a luminous and precious signature of Haute Couture, illuminating the most sophisticated ensembles with a radiant brilliance.’

BDK Oud Paradiso

‘Oud Paradisio unveils itself: a fragrance at once powerful, captivating, opulent, and audacious. Dominating with majesty is a dark, enveloping oud wood. At the top, the fresh, citrusy brightness of bergamot is enlivened by the juicy, succulent sweetness of frosted pineapple, while a subtle veil of incense and saffron whispers through the composition. The exquisite floral heart unfolds as a precious trio of roses, two essences and an absolute, imbuing the composition with elegance and depth. The warm base marries shadowy oud with cocoa, creating an arrangement rich in intensity and sumptuous voluptuousness. Sensuality blossoms among a woody warmth, nuanced with subtle restraint. Its assertive character is sculpted by the animalic accents revealed through the potent olfactory presence of oud essence. Complex and surprising, Oud Paradisio is a nocturnal perfume steeped in mystery. In fashion, leather claims its nobility without forsaking its innate animality, which imparts strength and commanding presence. Designers have challenged leather, shaping it into a second skin, Claude Montana in the 1980s with exaggerated shoulders crafted for fearless, audacious personalities. More recently, Rick Owens has celebrated this material with brilliance, transgressing its codes with boldness, even a hint of provocation. Animalistic by nature, leather embodies strength, power, and confidence.’

Atelier Rebul Istanbul

‘Discover the hidden scents of Istanbul with this eau de parfum. The glittering notes of bergamot is blended with spicy notes of cinnamon, saffron and clove, as well as floral and woody notes. The fragrance of our Istanbul collection is truly striking and unique.’

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.’

Nasomatto Microdelirio

All we’re told is ‘The fragrance is the result of a natural vital delirium, evoking a flourishing ecosystem of organic disobedience.’ Suzy senses ultra-realistic petrichor (rain soaked earth), creamy mushrooms, leaf-mulchy forest floor, vetiver, perhaps some beetroot fruitiness (?) and bags of patchouli earthiness.

Lush Ginger

‘A fragrance of the sensation of tasting ginger for the first time and feel it warming your body. Ginger is combined with flowers – mimosa, geranium, rose, ylang ylang and jasmine. A touch of juniper berry makes the composition vivid and fruity.’

Goldfield & Banks Ingenious Ginger

‘Ingenious Ginger is a floral amber perfume inspired by the lush Atherton Tablelands. red back ginger blends with bergamot, mandarin, magnolia, vanilla, amber and australian sandalwood.

A world-first exploration of Australian Red Back Ginger, this best-selling Eau De Parfum offers an instant sense of nature in a blissful and sultry destination.’

Buy issue 1 of On The Scent magazine and feast your eyes on the fabulous fragrant features, news and reviews in print! Get your copy here:

https://www.onthescentmedia.com/shop

In this episode we’re catching up with the joyous beauty and fragrance journalist and broadcaster, Alice du Parcq, for part TWO of her mega-list of fabulous fragrances. (If you haven’t already, do go and listen to Part 1 (episode 11) where Alice hilariously explains how one of her favourites is forever entwined with frogs legs… Meanwhile, here we delve into those she’s adored for decades and more recent scent discoveries made on a shopping trip with Sali Hughes!

Part 2 of Alice’s Fragrance List:

@ysl Kouros

@ysl Rive Gauche

@guerlain Cuir Beluga

@guerlain Bois d'Armenie

@guerlain Tonka Imperiale

@lartisanparfumeur Bois Farine

@acquadiparma_official Colonia Essenza

@diorbeauty Éden Roc

@fredericmalle Musc Ravageur

@celine Black Tie

@loccitane_uk_ire Terre de Lumière

@tomford Métallique

In this episode we’re thrilled to welcome self-confessed fragrance obsessive, Alice du Parcq.

From the age of 17, Alice worked in the beauty departments of Tatler, the Telegraph, The Times and Glamour magazine and was Beauty Director at Conde Nast Brides and Easy Living for over 10 years. Since going freelance she’s written for British Vogue, Red, Stella, Stylist, Sunday Times Style (the list goes on), is now Contributing Editor at Glamour & writes for Space NK’s magazine. Phew!

During lockdown Alice began regular Instagram lives called Desert Island Spritz, which Suzy was honoured to be a guest on, but now we’re turning the tables to find out which fragrances have been her favourites for summer, lifelong loves, lockdown saviours and daily go-to’s…

During our chat, these are the fragrances we mentioned:

@ukgap Gap Heaven

@guylarochefragrances Drakkar Noir

@helmutlang Helmut Lang Eau de Parfum

@millerharris L’Air de Rien

@calvinklein Obsession

@creedboutique Creed Angelique Encens

@guerlain Mitsouko

@jeanpaulgaultier Le Male

@bentleymotors Bentley Momentum

N.C.P Olfactive 704 Incense and Musk

@cliniqueuk Aromatics Elixirs

@jomalonelondon Basil & Neroli

@diptyque L’Ombre Dans L’Eau

@chanelofficial Le Lion

@nivea_uk Nivea Sun (use Alice’s code to get 20% off! ALICE20)

We’re utterly thrilled our guest for this episode is @salihughes - a hugely influential journalist with her regular Guardian column, a broadcaster, author of the books Pretty Honest & Pretty Iconic, and who can often be found ferreting around in celebrities’ bathrooms for her fascinating YouTube series ‘In the Bathroom With…’ As if that wasn’t enough, she’s also Co-founder of @thebeautybanks - an organisation that gets donations of self-care and hygiene products directly to those in need.

We could have talked to Sali for hours, but in this episode we’re delving deep into the fragrances Sali uses in her emotionally-supportive toolkit. We just know you’re going to LOVE listening to this joyous (and often revealing) discussion.

Fragrances that formed part of Sali’s childhood:

@yardleylondonuk English Lavender

@officialbiba perfume (1970s)

@diorbeauty Miss Dior (the original)

The scents Sali uses now as…

Signature scents:

@chanelofficial No5

@yslbeauty Rive Gauche

@fredericmalle L’Eau D’Hiver

Confidence-boosters:

@chanelofficial Coco

@ormondejayne Ormonde Woman

@guerlain Mitsouko

Va-va-voom sexy (for herself):

@celine Nightclubbing

Immediately calming:

@johnsonsbabyuk Baby Lotion

@nivea_uk Creme

@fredericmalle Cologne Indélébile

Wild card:

@heeleyofficial L'Amandiere Extraits

Find out more about @thebeautybanks & how you can help: https://www.beautybanks.org.uk

Read Sali’s books:

Pretty Honest https://tinyurl.com/PrettyHonest

Pretty Iconic https://tinyurl.com/PrettyIconic

Wowie! So many excellent fragrances to get your noses around in this episode, it was difficult to know where to begin. But with so many to explore we started with a recap of the recent barnstorming success of Barnes Fragrance Fair...

We talked through Suzy’s choices for her sold-out talk with Alice du Parcq (and if you couldn’t go or were there but missed any of the talks: never fear! They were all recorded and will be on the Barnes Fragrance Fair YouTube channel when they’re all edited. We’ll let you know when they’re up, but meanwhile you can watch last year’s talks there, including the ‘Top of the morning’ show we so loved doing.)

Suzy chose:

Shloksha Soapy Heart

Based in Tunbridge Wells, founder Jay says “Moving from India to the UK in my

twenties, I do miss the immersive sensory joys found in everyday Indian culture.

Sourcing and working with traditional Indian materials connects me to my

childhood—scented trips down memory lane!”

Opening notes - red mandarin and grapefruit

Heart notes - jasmine, ylang ylang, green grass and saffron

Base notes – sandalwood, fruity musk, oudh

“You slip on your fine silk robe, gorgeously patterned with tropical birds, and

quietly pad along the hallway to the bathroom. Closing the heavy wooden door

with a sigh of relief, you lean over the sparkling slipper bath, slide the plug in

and turn both taps on full. Glittering beads of water dance in the diffuse light.

You perch your hip on the side of the bath as your ears fill pleasantly with the

roar and tumble of the cascading water. Your life is very busy and demanding,

and you get few opportunities to indulge yourself. But a long, quiet bath is often

what you crave.

Your eyes glance along the rich turquoise tiled shelf as you ponder how to scent

your watery sanctuary. Antique crystal jars hold delicately fragrant floral

salts—you carefully lift their lids- one by one - and their enchanting perfumes

mingle with the steam. But they’re perhaps not exactly what you’re in the mood

for.A waxed paper tablet of old-fashioned, handmade soap sits demurely at the

end of the shelf. Fresh, brand new and unopened. Your fingertips softly caress

the crackling paper as you carefully unwrap it and the dense, creamy pebble

drops into your silken lap.

You dip your hands briefly in the warm bath water and rotate the smooth soap in

your hands. Rich suds fly into the air, dense but light. Airy and iridescent. Yes,

this is what you were looking for.”

Jorum Studio Risso

‘An independent fragrance brand founded in Scotland in 2019 led by Scottish

perfumer Euan McCall. Jorum creates modern, poetic fragrances that capture the

beauty of nature with an unconventional spirit. Designing and manufacturing all

products in-house, Jorum Studio celebrates the craft of perfumery using only the

purest quality materials in truly unique and creative ways.’ (Based in Edinburgh,

now with a store in London, too.)

‘Impression

Douglas fir, Pear, Cypress, Mastic, Petitgrain, Bigarade, Carrot, Angelica seed.

Fade

Nerium Oleander, Pearwood, Olive, Neroli, Orange Flower absolute, Ambrette

seed.

‘Sculptural sunbeams filter through the breaks in gauzy linen, air is cool,

carrying the bittersweet embrace of seasonal citrus and the brightness of soap

on fabric and skin. Crisp, clean and radiant. Risso awakens with the cool

ambience of majestic Douglas Fir and bracing Cypress oils, evoking the hush of

dawn. Pear and Bigarade bring bright clarity, where expressive citrus meets

delicious soft-fruit sweetness. The centrepiece: a gilded rush of vibrant Neroli

and delicate Orange Flower Absolute, bringing a fusion of enduring luminosity.’

NEUNÉRE When All Things Were Divine

Founded in London 2025 by Alina Rosu. Her path led her from the foundational

discipline of the Grasse Institute of Perfumery to a Master's degree in Fragrance

Formulation. Alina says: “We live in the moment, just not this one. This perfume

is about the bittersweet nature of nostalgia.”

‘It opens with crisp notes of cut grass and green tea, followed by the bitterness

of Galbanum Oil. The heart is a soft infusion of Orris Butter and Orange Blossom

Absolute. It settles into a dry-down of honey and Benzoin from Laos, contrasted

by mossy notes.

Featuring: cut grass, watery notes, green tea, galbanum resinoid, orange flower

absolute, orris root butter, philadelphus/mock orange, honey, benzoin siam

resinoid, moss, Ambrofix™’

To the Fairest Cécile

Cécile, entwines luminous bergamot and mandarin with powdery softness atop

the warmth of amber and a tingle of clove bud, the rose rippled through with an

airy creaminess that wafts beguilingly.

Top Notes: bergamot, mandarin

Heart Notes: rose absolute

Base Notes: amber, clove bud

Suzy especially loves the matching fragrantly nourishing Satin Body Oil spray –

one of THE best you’ll ever try, no matter which scent you choose, and you could

easily wear any of them instead of a fragrance! Made using organic argan oil

extract, this quick-drying formula leaves skin luminous and delicately scented.

Beaufort London Fathom V Director’s Cut

To commemorate a decade of Fathom V we have produced a limited edition

‘Directors Cut’ EXTRAIT version of the scent: the ‘big green beast’ reimagined in

an ultra-strong variant at a 150% higher oil inclusion. This ‘extended’ version

brings to life the more muted aspects of the original and is incredibly powerful

and extremely long-lasting.

Each all-black bottle is individually numbered, with the edition running to only

1000 pieces worldwide. Each box contains a hand-signed note of authenticity.

Top Notes: Juniper, Blackcurrant, Green Leaves, Aquatic

Crisp green cut stem brightness open, darkened with earth.

Heart Notes: Lily, Jasmine, Cumin

Lush white flowers bloom at the heart.

Base Notes: Vetiver, Moss, Salt, Atlas Cedar

Salted woods, moss and vetiver leave a deep mineral resonance.

Perfumer: Julie Marlowe

Rather greedily, Suzy really wanted to choose Maya Njie Aethi Opum because

she’s been utterly obsessed with it since smelling Jo’s bottle, but Alice had

chosen that. AND she wanted to choose Olfiction ICONIC, but Alice had chosen

that, too. So... they compromised and both spoke about those incredible scents.

We’ll discuss them properly on the pod when the talks are up (and when Nicola’s

had a chance to get her nose on them.)

Nicola’s been falling in love with wearing Juliette Has a Gun Not a Perfume all

over again, for its pleasing, easy-to-wear character when worn alone, and for its

ability to coax beguiling intricacies from other scents while also boosting their

longevity.

Another new launch Suzy’s obsessed by is Essential Parfums Ambre Latte

by Jordi Fernández

“I envisioned Ambre Latte as a highly addictive overdose of my favourite amber

woods wrapped in a delicious swirl of almond milk. Infused with caramel, tonka,

vanilla, and benzoin, this creamy haze lends the amber structure an irresistible

and unforgettable signature. A fragrance that draws you in… and keeps you

close."

‘With Ambre Latte, Jordi Fernandez offers a unique and exquisitely refined take

on indulgence.​ The fragrance unfolds in a vaporous cloud of almond milk,

delicately infused with roasted tonka bean.​ Indulgence settles in — irresistible

yet perfectly controlled — as a luscious dulce de leche caramel melts into the

enveloping softness of vanilla, benzoin and white musks.​

Very soon, the fragrance reveals its duality. Beneath the milky caress emerges

an intensely addictive woody-amber alchemy. Ambrofix, Georgywood,

Akigalawood and white sandalwood structure the composition, infusing it with

depth, sophistication and modernity. They extend the trail with sensual richness,

leaving an unforgettable imprint — the perfect balance between gourmandise

and addiction.’

Escentric Molecules Cologne One

Suzy described this as feeling like a Cologne that’s been whizzed up in a Soda

Stream machine! The brand says: ‘Cologne One captures the freshness of a gin

and tonic in a single, sparkling gesture: effervescent, bright, unmistakably clean.

The fragrance lives in its top notes: juniper for the gin, lime and citrus for lift, a

touch of bergamot and mandarin, a whisper of ginger for a delicate spiciness,

and a hint of cucumber’s neutrality to enhance the crispness without becoming

literal. It is freshness concentrated, transparent, and immediate.

The heart remains understated: iris, rose, and hedione offer just enough

structure to support the top note, allowing the bright citrus and juniper to linger.

The dry down is linear, calm, and unobtrusive: Ambroxan, Iso E Super, and a

trace of musk. Nothing competes, nothing distracts.

“We have a very different approach to fragrance, so our first cologne captures

the very unique and wonderful freshness of a gin and tonic. I think it's quite new

with that sort of freshness. It's the idea of the sparkling, effervescent gin and

tonic first scent, this sort of your nose in the drink,” says perfumer Geza Schoen.

Cologne One is a cologne reimagined by Escentric Molecules: 15% concentration

for lasting freshness without leaving an overwhelmingly fragrant impression. It is

refreshing, refined, and gender-neutral....

How we’re loving - and living for - those moments when the sun properly shines this spring. It almost (whisper it) feels like summer’s knocking on the door. However, if grey skies meteorological or metaphorical are plaguing you currently, we’ve bottles of sunshine and hope to bring a smile to your face…

In this episode we discuss:

Lush Fresh As

‘Revitalising fir needle absolute and tagetes oils mingle to surround you with the bracing draw of nature. If any scent can embody the freshest of forests, snapping sticks underfoot and the warmth of a snuggly scarf, then this is it.

What's in it for you?- A herbaceous fir needle fragrance. - Like a bracing woodland walk in a nice warm coat.

Leaving the world Lusher than we found itOrganic ethanol helps this fragrance last longer on your skin and supports biodiversity on the ground. It's made from regeneratively farmed sugar cane produced with renewable energy in Brazil.’

Acqua Di Parma Buongiorno La Collezione

‘A set of five 10ml Eau de Parfums from the Buongiorno Collection, each one capturing a moment and transforming it into poetry. Presented in a compact splash bottle format, it is an invitation to carry the spirit of Buongiorno with you on-the-go.

A gentle manifesto of poetic dreams, the set brings together all five compositions from the Buongiorno Collection. Every fragrance represents small gestures and moments transformed into surreal sensations and dreamlike rituals.

Buongiorno Buonanotte: ‘A delicate and enveloping fragrance that marks the end of a night filled with shared laughter and spontaneous joy when buongiorno and buonanotte blur into a single moment.’

Top notes: Calabrian bergamot, olibanum, pink pepper

Heart notes: orris pallida concrete, gaiacwood

Base notes: musk, Virginian cedarwood, cashmere wood accord

Buongiorno Amore Mio: ‘A fragrance of unique, subtle elegance like fresh garments that softly embrace the skin, marking the beginning of a perfect new day.’

Top notes: Calabrian bergamot, aldehydes

Heart notes: fresh cotton accord, orris pallida butter, hedione

Base notes: musk, ambrette butter, ambroxe

Buongiorno Dolce Far Niente: ‘A fragrance of light-hearted ease that comes from choosing to do nothing at all, except enjoy the sweetness of an unhurried day.’

Top notes: Sicilian lemon tree petitgrain, Sicilian lemon, orange

Heart notes: lemon wood accord, fig wood accord, hedione

Base notes: musk, Virginian cedarwood, cistus absolute

Buongiorno Gioco del Destino: ‘A modern gourmand touch that evokes a moment sparked by chance, when something unexpected stirs a sudden, joyful sense of euphoria.’

Top notes: sweet orange, Italian green mandarin, Italian yellow mandarin, Sicilian lemon

Heart notes: bran wheat absolute, ginger, benzoin gum

Base notes: musk, sandalwood, peru balsam resinoid

Buongiorno Al Bacio: ‘A radiant dewy fragrance that evokes the gentle intimacy of a morning kiss - an affectionate spark that awakens the senses and welcomes a new day.’

Top notes: Calabrian Bergamot, rosemary, petitgrain

Heart notes: orange flower water absolute, neroli, angelica

Base notes: musk, white wood accord, co-distillation Virginia cedarwood & olibanum extract

Coty Infiniment Soleil D’Ikosim

‘Orange blossom shines at the top, warmed by Mediterranean light. Woody and ambery notes emerge next, revealing a lingering gold aura. The grounding depth of vetiver vibrates through, reaching the solar energy of orange blossom, for a radiant bliss.

Olfactory family: Gourmand floral

Main notes: orange blossom, neroli, vetiver

Farina 1709 Original Eau de Cologne

‘The world’s oldest perfume house. Inventors of the Original Eau de Cologne. Family perfumers since 1709. ‘The Original Eau de Cologne is the epitome of clarity, freshness and joy - a fragrance with a remarkable history that still feels effortlessly modern, universal, and timeless.

Inspired by Johann Maria Farina’s Italian roots, fresh citrus notes - especially bergamot - shape the character of the Original Eau de Cologne. Neroli and jasmine lend floral lightness, while herbaceous lavender, gentle musk and amber harmoniously round off the fragrance. Refreshing and never overpowering, the fragrance accompanies its wearer throughout the day - clear, balanced, and unmistakable.

More than three centuries after its founding, Farina is the oldest perfume house in the world and remains in family hands, now led by ninth-generation perfumer Louise Farina, the first woman to succeed directly in the family line. The house continues to produce the Original Eau de Cologne, the scent unchanged since 1709.’

Yardley London Floralscapes Meadow

‘Our Floralscapes Meadow Eau de Parfum is a green fruity floral fragrance capturing the astonishing beauty of an English meadow at the height of summer, where top notes of bergamot and pear meet a heart of tall grass and drifts of wild-flowers in buttercup, rose and white clover, enveloped with hints of musk and wood sage in the base.

Made with 90% naturally-derived ingredients, this Eau de Parfum is suitable for vegans, is cruelty-free, and comes packed in an FSC-certified carton.’

Olfactive O New Earth

‘I am the host who cooks to the rhythm of the seasons, the one who pulls up an extra chair before you’ve even asked. I believe in the beauty of things made by hand - the thumbprint in the clay, the worn-in softness of a family heirloom. There is quiet joy in walking the same path every day and noticing the first green shoots of change. For me, luxury resides in the weight of a heavy linen shirt and the simple, rhythmic task of chopping herbs from the windowsill pot. I am a life lived in the present tense.

NOTES:

Luminous top: shiso, pink peppercorn, spearmint, elemiPresent heart: deep-leaf immersion, armoise, geranium, chamomile blue, cardamom, clary sageRooted base: hay absolute, fir balsam, oakmoss, myrrh’

Laura Ashley Wild Woodland

A wonderfully rambling, rustic blend of ripe berries in hidden woodlands with notes of blackberry, gooseberry and vetiver. The ‘Parma Violet Berries” print inspired the blend via the utterly charming design of clustered ripe berries in an autumn garden. We feel this is a spring into late summer vibe, though.

Laura Ashley Joy of Primrose

Definitely bright and uplifting but fluffed around the edges with a powdery, cashmere softness, a beautiful blend of tangerine, mimosa and vanilla. After launching back in 1990, the Loveston print acted as inspiration for this fragrance with its leafy ditsy floral pattern of chrysanthemums and phlox plants.

M&S limited edition summer scents: Marshmallow Delight

‘Indulge in a scent that feels soft, sweet and irresistibly playful with this Marshmallow Delight eau de toilette from our Discover range. Juicy raspberry brings a bright opening, melting into fluffy marshmallow and smooth cream for a comforting, dessert-like finish.’

Solar Fleur

‘Capture the warmth of sunlit skin with this radiant eau de toilette from our Discover range. A bright burst of mandarin opens the scent, softened by delicate jasmine and wrapped in the creamy sweetness of coconut milk. The result is a smooth, glowing fragrance that feels effortless and uplifting.’

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!

We’re counting down the days until you can get hold of your very own On The Scent

Magazine – in print and online – when it launches on April 14 th . In this week’s

episode we welcome guest Jo Fairley, who explains why the magazine was so

important to launch, what you can expect to read in the first issue, and why fragrance

is continuing to absolutely bloom and blossom.

Jo also talks about some of the fragrances she’s been most excited by, recently,

mentioning...

Schiaparelli Shocking

Essential Parfums

Bienaime

Givenchy London Confidential

Fouquet Collection (Eight & Bob)

For all the latest news on our magazine and forthcoming events, follow us

@onthescentmedia

You’ll be able to order your magazines from www.onthescentmedia.com – sign up

now to join our mailing list!

Space NK’s Granary Square Kings Cross pop up promised you could ‘Step into our immersive fragrance gallery and get creative with scent. Delve into masterpieces by Phlur, Glossier and more, and learn how to express yourself through scent. You'll take on the role of both curator and artist as you move through the space, before leaving with an exclusive goodie bag*.’

We smelled:

DedCool Mineral Milk

‘This dreamy perfume combines notes of coastal lavender, ocean air, marine salt, amber milk, Virginia cedar and Australian sandalwood. The result is a subtle scent that can be worn on its own or used as a base to layer other perfumes. It can be described as a fragrance that smells like skin, only better.’

Escentric Molecules 01 + Champaca

‘This modern scent offers a rich, floral journey, as elements of sweet jasmine entwine with orange flowers, and the earthiness of tea. Designed to unfold over time, it dries down to reveal enduringly soft and creamy trails.

As part of the brand’s extraordinary M+ line, Escentric Molecules M+ Champaca has the super aroma Iso E Super as its base. This velvety, warm fragrance enhancer delivers gentle hints of vanilla and musk, and brings out the olfactory beauty of other aromas. Here, it’s blended with champaca to showcase the Indian bloom’s honeyed, floral charm.’

Glossier You Soie

‘Find a truly unique signature scent with Glossier You Soie Eau de Parfum, a sensual, floral personal fragrance that smells different on every wearer. This personal fragrance is designed to be fresh and genderless.

Long lasting and refined, the You Soie fragrance opens with a top note of bergamot. At its heart are notes of rice milk, jasmine and tiare water. The base is warm and musky thanks to a base note of ambrox.’

Parfums de Marly Delina (& flankers)

Delina Exclusif: “This enchanting floral parfum offers a deeper, richer and more sensual interpretation of the original Delina scent, layering fruit, rose and woods.

This highly wearable fragrance opens with bright and fruity notes of pear, lychee and grapefruit, followed by a heart of Damascena rose, incense and vetiver that adds a floral depth with a hint of smoke. A soft base of vanilla, musk and evernyl rounds out the scent with smooth warmth.’

Phlur Honey Moon

‘Calm the mood with PHLUR Honey Moon Eau de Parfum, an eau de parfum inspired by gentle renewal and slow transformation. This floral fragrance unfolds with a warm, grounded character that feels softly expressive and quietly assured.

The opening blends mandarin and lavender, bringing light citrus notes balanced by aromatic freshness. At the heart, orange blossom and Manuka honey add smooth, nectar-like warmth, enriched by saffron for subtle depth. These notes create a rounded, comforting presence. As the scent settles, tonka, vanilla bean and sandalwood form a mellow base with lingering warmth.’

Kayali Sweet Peach / Plush Pear

Sweet Peach: ‘The fragrance starts with a burst of juicy peach, crisp red apple and citrussy bergamot before flowing into a core of creamy frangipani and other floral notes. A complex base of earthy, woody and gourmand aromas rounds off this long-lasting perfume.’

Plush Pear: ‘Calm the mood with PHLUR Honey Moon Eau de Parfum, an eau de parfum inspired by gentle renewal and slow transformation. This floral fragrance unfolds with a warm, grounded character that feels softly expressive and quietly assured.

The opening blends mandarin and lavender, bringing light citrus notes balanced by aromatic freshness. At the heart, orange blossom and Manuka honey add smooth, nectar-like warmth, enriched by saffron for subtle depth. These notes create a rounded, comforting presence. As the scent settles, tonka, vanilla bean and sandalwood form a mellow base with lingering warmth.’

Ellis Brooklyn Isla Sirena

‘fragrance inspired by a sunlight escape and island warmth.

Top notes of Blue Java banana, creamy papaya, sea salt and lime bring a fresh, lightly fruity opening. At the heart, coconut water and vanilla orchid soften the profile along with ginger flower for gentle warmth. These notes give the EDP a smooth, sun-warmed character. The base settles into vetiver, brown sugar and teak wood, adding depth and lasting warmth.’

Glossier You

Clive Christian E Cashmere Musk

This week has been a curious mix of in-between weather: oddly misty days with some areas of the U.K. looking distinctly Dickensian as ‘pea-souper’ fogs rolled in, though spring sunshine tried to peek through. Other days it’s felt almost autumnal again - chilly enough to crave our cosier clothes (and fragrances!) again.

After chatting through what we’ve been wearing in these confusing times, we take a look at some more questions listeners have sent in (through Instagram DMs @onthescentpodcast & Facebook group comments), with requests including snuggly scents, two listeners desperately seeking replacements for discontinued perfumes they adored; and an _intensely_ personal memory-making fragrance.

In this episode…

What We’re Wearing:

Suzy:

Frederic Malle Contre-Jour

‘Built against conventional patterns, this fragrance reveals a dazzling yet elusive trail that invites one to never be defined. The perfume echoes the spirit of the mediterranean wildflower ‘Everlasting Flower’, famed for its extraordinary longevity, a sunlit yellow bloom, contrasting with dark, untamable depths of its scent.

Master perfumer Annick Ménardo drew from this inspiration to craft a fragrance that defies traditional olfactive structures. Notes of the Everlasting Flower unfurl a spicy, almond-tinged nature, dancing alongside an intense rose absolute, embracing its shadows and thorns. To imprint this manifesto on the skin, sandalwood oil offers a rhythm, amplifying the enigma of this creation. Captivated by the allure of contradictions, Annick Ménardo creates fragrances of a new era, for those who cherish their own mystery.

Top notes: everlasting flower

Middle notes: rose damascena

Base notes: sandalwood.’

Jean-Charles Brosseau Ombré Rose eau de toilette

‘A quiet morning unfolds in a sunlit Parisian salon. The air is filled with the soft rustle of silk and the gentle clink of porcelain teacups. A bouquet of fresh roses sits atop a lace-covered table, its scent mingling with the delicate aroma of peach and honey. The room exudes an air of timeless elegance, where every detail whispers of grace and refinement.’

Connock Kukui

‘Connock’s signature scent is an elegant, floriental fragrance inspired by the wild, natural beauty of the Hawaiian Islands.

Kukui is built around the gardenia flower, complemented by fresh bergamot and a full bouquet of delicate floral notes including white jasmine, moroccan rose and calla lily. The fragrance is further enriched with base notes of sandalwood, amber, patchouli and musk.’

Nicola:

Bamford Woodland Moss

‘A woody fragrance true to the elegant simplicity of its namesake. Earthy patchouli is balanced with aromatic notes of sage, angelica, and rose. Woodland Moss pays homage to the diverse and intimate landscape of English woods.’

Nécessaire The Deodorant

‘A woody fragrance true to the elegant simplicity of its namesake. Earthy patchouli is balanced with aromatic notes of sage, angelica, and rose. Woodland Moss pays homage to the diverse and intimate landscape of English woods.’

Merit Retrospect

‘A rich, nuanced scent that evolves throughout the day. Soft, clean notes open, followed by a subtle floral center before settling into a base of musk, vanilla, and moss for a warm, second-skin finish.’

Listener Prescriptions:

Aga7006 asked for ideas of warm, cosy perfumes for cold days.

We suggested…

Anillo Fig Whisky

Fig Whisky Eau De Parfum opens with ripe fig and smoky rum, deepening into woods and amber for a fragrance that feels bold yet comforting

Top notes: fruity (fig)

Middle notes: smoky (rum, patchouli, pepper)

Base notes: woody (sandalwood, musk, amber.’

Maison Louis Marie Vanille Infinie

‘No.15 Vanille Infinie unfolds as a warm, luminous composition, soft vanilla layered with citron, sugared amber and cashmere oud for gentle resinous warmth. The Eau de Parfum evolves naturally on skin, shifting with your body heat to reveal a smooth, enveloping trail that feels both intimate and enduring.’

Commodity Milk (Bold)

‘Milk's warm notes of Marshmallow, Tonka Bean and Mahogany Wood emblazoned with the unexpected smoky depth of Firewood and Amber. A smoky, sweet and inviting scent to be worn with confidence.’

Ellis Brooklyn Vanilla Milk

‘Delicious yet sophisticated, faceted yet smooth, VANILLA MILK is a fragrance of paradoxes. VANILLA MILK eau de parfum uses two types of vanilla extracts, a touch of florals, delectable cocoa shell, rich amyris, and a creamy milk accord.

Top: creamy milk accord, frangipani, peony rose

Heart: bourbon vanilla bean, madagascar vanilla bean extract, upcycled cocoa shell extract

Dry Base: benzoin resinoid, amyris, sandalwood, musk.’

Stelladoodle

‘I've been seeking a reasonable facsimile of Tom Ford's discontinued Sahara

Noir. Help!’

[Sahara Noir (2013) is a discontinued, amber-woody fragrance inspired by the mystery of the Middle East. It was all about intense, dry frankincense, resinous labdanum, beeswax, and oud. It was often described as a smoky, golden, and balsamic aroma.

We suggest…

Amouage Royal Tobacco

‘Royal Tobacco is a fragrant journey along the Tropic of Cancer from Oman to Cuba, connecting Royal Frankincense to Regal Tobacco. Interpreted by renowned perfumer Cecile Zarokian, a unique accord of Frankincense and Tobacco bursts alive in a novel and rich sensory experience.’

Top notes: frankincense oil, elemi, cardamom, anise, basil, bergamot

Heart notes: tobacco absolute, liquorice root, lavender, prunol, fenugreek, orange blossom, osmanthus, rose

Base notes: frankincense resinoid, peru balsam, benzoin, labdanum, myrrh, birch tar, tonka bean, vanilla madagascar, vetiver, guaiac wood, oud assam, musks.’

AKRO SMOKE

‘SMOKE is our addictive tobacco fragrance.

Tobacco is an ancient crop, which for centuries, has lured people in with its enticing aroma and powerful rituals. It’s the shared, flirtatious exchange of preparing a roll-up for someone, it’s the way the tobacco leaf crumbles between your fingers, the smell of flame hitting paper. SMOKE is the scent you’re not supposed to enjoy, but the one you can’t live without.’

NOTES

TOP: tobacco leaves

MIDDLE: birch

BASE: benzoin, tonka.’

Boadicea the Victorious Tobacco Sapphire

This glows with honeyed tobacco and shimmering oud, its smoky heart softened by magnolia, rose, and heliotrope. Spiced accents of cumin, coriander, mandarin, incense, and saffron ripple through resinous woods of benzoin, cistus, patchouli, and moss. Vanilla and musk lend a gilded warmth, while caramel, hay, and a trace of singed paper curl into the air - a golden haze of nostalgia and opulence.

(Also try the Sonoma Studio Tabac Aurea mentioned last week!)

jen.m.coyle

Asked for ‘A replacement scent for original Tiffany's by Tiffany and Co. (Now discontinued)?’

[The original Tiffany fragrance was launched in 1987, by François Demachy. The notes were: Top notes: black currant syrup and Italian mandarin, middle notes: violet leaf, lily of the valley, orange blossom, ylang ylang, iris, jasmine and Damascus rose. The base was: woody accords of sandalwood, vetiver, amber and vanilla.]

We wondered if they’d tried…

Diptyque L’Ombre Dans L’Eau eau de toilette

‘A fragrance with pictorial qualities. The green of blackcurrant leaves mingles with the tart, fruity notes of blackcurrant buds and the floral intensity of rose.

In L'Ombre dans l'Eau eau de toilette, a romantic painting comes to life - a summer slumber beneath a tree on a river bank.’

Tocca Maya

‘Maya is a thoughtfully indulgent manifestation of the divine feminine. In a warm floral of exquisite character, wild iris and Bulgarian rose find strength in blackcurrant, earthy patchouli and sandalwood.

Florida bitter orange, sweet violet leaf, blackcurrant, Bulgarian rose, jasmine, wild iris, patchouli, sandalwood, and oakmoss.’

Guerlain Chamade

‘Dedicated to liberated women, this green ambery floral blends the fruity accents of blackcurrant buds with a dynamic hyacinth accord and galbanum on a vanilla base. A bold embodiment of freedom, both to be and to love.’

Maison Margiela Replica On a Date

‘Inspired by a magical date on a late summer’s evening overlooking the magnificent vineyards of Provence at sunset. It captures the sparkling and addictive fruitiness of ripe grapes soaked in warm sunshine, and the delicate yet decisive character of wild roses.’

‘Britt Frank In Scents’ shared an incredibly personal story of loss and battling rare illness in her family. She sought ‘a fragrance that I could wear in memory of my extraordinary son and my father. Something that tells of the devastation of losing them but also the blessing and joy of having them in my life. Something that tells of the pride that I have in both of them for the mark they left on the world.’

Suzy

With the world feeling a bit uncertain at the moment we wanted to talk about some of the fragrances that help us feel better.

Here's what we mention:

Acqua Di Parma Colonia Il Profumo Millesimato

‘To mark the 110th anniversary… Expertly distilled over 24 hours and delicately fractionated, the 2024 harvest of Ylang-Ylang from Nosy Be amplifies the vibrancy of the citruses and gives density and depth to the perfume. Italian bergamot, blood orange, petitgrain and grapefruit open the composition with a golden freshness, while rosemary, orange leaves absolute, patchouli, and vetiver give structure and sophistication to this citrus aromatic creation.’

Zara Jo Malone The Golden Lullaby

Creed Wild Vetiver

‘Experience untamed elegance with Wild Vetiver, a composition sculpted by an unexpected harmony of timur berry, rose centifolia and noble vetiver.’

(inspired by an English garden party wandering into the wild. Wild Vetiver is a fragrance off the beaten path, walking the line between precise refinement and nature. Born from noble roots yet spirited in its freedom, this sculpted composition reveals a vibrant tension between sophistication and wilderness. Opening with the spiced vibrancy of hand-harvested timur berry, the heart unfolds as rose centifolia rambles freely. At the base, vetiver casts a woody trail, grounding the composition with modern elegance. This is an enchanting journey through an aristocratic garden, where halcyon moments and the joy of missing out drift through the air.)

Chloe Nomad Eau de Parfum Naturel

Jo Malone London English Pear & Sweet Pea

‘Sun-warmed orchards spring to life as tempting green pears fill the branches. The luscious fruits enveloped in softly scented pastel sweet peas, nestled on a base of powdery white musk.’

“I can't help but smile when I wear English Pear & Sweet Pea. It's playful,

subtle and instantly makes my day better.” – Lizzy Jagger

Jo Malone London English Pear & Freesia

(Georgia May Jagger wears): ‘Orchards steeped in golden sunshine, warming the russet curves of luscious pears. The sensuous freshness of the just-ripe fruit wrapped in elegant white freesias, enhanced with rose and rooted in patchouli.’

“I love it because it’s classic and elegant. I feel I can reach for it every day

and wear it anywhere. It’s really timeless.”

– Georgia May Jagger

Villa Bullognia

Maya Njie Aethi Opum

‘When the rain subsides, black pepper, aidan fruit and vanilla warm up the earth with the sun. Aromas of coffee, vetiver and leather stir with thiouraye (churai) incense over formations of stone.

The ancient keeper of lore secretly adorns itself with bark and leaves, its presence seen only by the vultures circling the skies above.’

Black Pepper, Wet Earth, Aidan Fruit, Thiouraye incense (Churai) Vetiver, Papyrus, Coffee, Iris, Suede, Frankincense, Vanilla, Leather.

Ormonde Jayne Bijou Zafran

‘Celestial, A Spell in a Bottle

Saffron, red gold on skin, trailing fire spun in silk, flares like a comet in slow motion.

It's not perfume. It's a presence, a spell in a bottle, softly dangerous, strangely celestial.

Every turn of the head feels choreographed by desire. It doesn't shout, it smoulders.

Wear it when you want the world to lean in just a little closer.’

HEAD: Saffron, Pear

HEART: Cypriol, Iris, Benzoin

SOUL: Patchouli, Musk, Mineral Amber, Vanilla Bean, Leather Accord

Thameen Centre Stage

Olfactive O New Earth

(Soon to be launched…) Green, earthy, petrichor: loamy, soaked soil after the rain, the sense of nature nurturing. Can’t wait to wear this!

This week we’re talking new London perfume destinations and prescribing scents that whisk you straight to the medina or wrap you in a sensuous tobacco haze.

Suzy visited the brand-new @nishane.official boutique in London’s Mayfair, sharing why she’s so glad this Istanbul-born house has a home on Maddox Street.

Just across town, Suzy explored the new @matierepremiereparfums store in Covent Garden, and why their single-ingredient focus feels so perfect to explore in person. Suzy was wrapped in @matierepremiereparfums Encens Suave Extrait, a smoky-syrupy incense that feels like velvet in candlelight.

Then it’s on to your Perfume Prescriptions…

Listener prescriptions!

Katy Rosenbaum – “the good parts of a Moroccan souk”

Katy asks for a fragrance that smells like the dreamy side of a Moroccan souk – oud, bakhoor, amber, saffron, orange blossom, incense and mint – but with no animalic growl or sweaty cumin.

Suggested for Katy:

@kayali Marrakesh in a Bottle Orange Blossom | 24 – sunlit orange blossom, shimmering spice, soft woods.

@kayali Oudgasm Tobacco Oud – honeyed oud, spiced tobacco, praline-smoked warmth.

Layering ideas:

@emiratesprideperfumes Future Oud – inky-modern oud glow.

@emiratesprideperfumes Future Bakhoor – smouldering bakhoor embers in perfume form.

@27_87 Wandervogel – Moroccan mint, cool spice, wandering-soul musk.

@sergelutens Fleur d’Oranger – narcotic orange blossom, honeyed white petals, shadowy spice.

Scott / @blublazerguy’s picks:

@contesdeparfums Marrakesh – sun-baked spices, warm skin, a whisper of cumin.

@aesop Marrakech Intense – vivid souk spices, dust, dry woods.

@marrakechimperial discovery set – a wardrobe of Marrakesh-inspired scents to mix and match your own souk.

Layering @jomalonelondon White Jasmine & Mint with Amber Labdanum – cool garden mint over golden, incense-warmed amber.

Memoirs of a Perfumer Collector – A Night in Marrakesh – inky sky, spiced markets, flickering lantern smoke.

Question from Cardamomefille – sensual, feminine tobacco (pipe, not cigarette)

Cardamomefille is seeking a sensual scent built around warm pipe tobacco, with a clearly feminine side rather than ashtray smoke…

Suggested for Cardamomefille:

@sergelutens Chergui – honeyed pipe tobacco, sun-baked hay, incense-swirled amber.

@guerlain Tobacco Honey – golden honeyed tobacco, plush woods, cozy purr of warmth.

@guerlain Absolus Allegoria Tabac Sahara – smoky desert tobacco, tart raspberry shimmer, ambergris glow.

Sonoma Scent Studio Tabac Aurea – boozy cherry pipe tobacco, dry amber, leather and spice wrapped in vanilla.

Dipping deep into the postbag for this week’s episode, we’re celebrating the strength of one of our listeners, Amy, and rejoicing in the perfect perfume found for @amtstevens for her anniversary trip to Bruges. Aaron’s moved to Mexico City and is seeking scents to stand up to the heat, and Louise is looking for bone-dry forest smells to remind her of home in the peak of summer. Suzanne, meanwhile, is craving watercolour spring florals for a sense of hopefulness we could all do with right now...

We reccommed:

House of Bō AGUA DE SANTOS

Arquiste L’etrog Acqua

Le Labo Bergamot 23

Czech & Speake Ausonia

Diptyque Tam Dao

DS&DURGA Cowboy Grass:

DS&DURGA Brown Flowers

Byredo Mojave Ghost

Xerjoff Naxos

Lords Fragrance House Pengelli Forest Ltd Edition 3 Wick Candle

Floris Bluebell & Hyacinth Diffuser

Floris Cherry Blossom eau de parfum

Connock Verdant

To the Fairest Élan Vital

Nancy Meiland Lupin Meadow

In this week's episode we are prescribing some wonderful fragrances for you our On The Scent Family.

From cuddly cashmeran to scents to conjure up warmer climates, there's something for everyone!

In this week’s episode of the podcast, we’re picking perfect perfumes for the cast of Emily in Paris (well, Rome when season 5 begins). As the show progresses we see all manner of complicated liaisons, along with a general theme of growth, glamour, ambition, & escapism. Here’s how we’d scent it!

Suzy suspects the fictional house of Muratorio in the show takes inspiration from Brunello Cucinelli. The designer set out to reinvent Italian luxury, marrying craft with conscience. Based in Solomeo, the restored Umbrian village now stands as the heart of his brand — a symbol of beauty, ethics, & enduring craftsmanship.

To properly scent the cashmere house of Muratori, Suzy chose: @brunellocucinelli_brand Pour Femme

A crisp Umbrian morning, bottled: citrus & spice over creamy chestnut, woods & musk atop a chicly paired-back but supremely soft cashmere embrace.

Marcello Muratori

Suzy: @brunellocucinelli_brand Pour Homme

Bright spiced citrus evokes Umbrian countryside air, warming into woody, resinous, balsamic notes & a handsomely smooth, amber-y dry down.

Nicola: @acquadiparma Colonia Essenza

Sparkling lemon, orange, bergamot and grapefruit over polished-wood woods; a vibrant, woody-citrus twist on the iconic Colonia – effortlessly elegant.

Emily

Suzy: @ormondejayne Gelsomino A Freddo Ambrosia Extrait

An iconic Italian house showing its elegantly addictive side via cardamom & lemon over jasmine enfleurage, black tea & myrrh melting into sweet, creamy woods.

Nicola: @cartier La Panthére eau de parfum

Utterly confident & chic: luminous gardenia wrapped in velvety musks & chypre notes, a feline-floral aura with unmistakable poise.

Mindy

Suzy: @grittifragrances Duchessa

Dark cherry, bitter orange and saffron swirl with chocolate, jasmine & brown sugar for a fun, more-ish gourmand radiating plush hedonism.

Nicola: @thameen.london Centre Stage

A spotlit cabaret fantasy of orange blossom, lavender and cardamom, grounded by leather & animalic nuances for a provocative trail.

@ormondejayne Sybarite

For the life & soul of the party, pink and Timur peppers, hazelnut & jasmine sashay over vanilla, labdanum, smoked woods & musk, pulsing sensorially.

Alfie

Suzy: @gallivant.stories London

Urbanite spring floral leather: rose, cucumber & violet leaf over sandalwood, patchouli, cedar & worn-leather nuances with a twinkle in its eye.

Nicola: @experimentalperfumeclub Cardamom Moss

Cool & sizzling spices collide: ginger, turmeric, cardamom & cinnamon on an Ambroxan/moss base, with salty woods, tobacco & powdery musks.

Sylvie

Nicola: @maisonfranciskurkdjian Grand Soir

An amber evening glow: labdanum, lavandin & cinnamon leaf melting into sumptuous amber-vanilla & benzoin, dressed-up & impeccably sensual.

Suzy: @goutalparis Ninfeo Mio eau de toilette

A proudly Parisian take on Italy: juicy citrus & green fig conjuring a lush, sunlit garden near Rome - leafy, sparkling & transportive.

In this episode we're talking about the fragrances that are giving us joy at the moment.

We also have some new brands to introduce you to, an amazing listener prescription and lots more.

Here's what we mention:

Ode Ona Carte Blanche

Chloe Atelier des Fleurs- Les Pins

This Works Own Time

Saville Row Private Collection:

Bucula and Tela

Guerlain Absolus Allegoria Tabac Sahara

Sabrina Carpenter Sweet Tooth Caramel Dream

Beaufort London Vie et Armis

Fantôme Vassago

Rubini Nuvolari

In this week's episode we're talking about a wonderful experience at Maison de Diptyque in celebration of their jazz club inspired fragrance Orpheon.

We're also updating you on some fabulous new fragrance launches and we're answering a perfume prescription that gets Suzy thinking about bracing seaside walks in Cornwall.

Finally we have the most powerful message to read out from a listener who is using Shalimar to empower her on protests.

Here's what we mention during the episode:

Diptyque Orphéon

Jo Malone Labdanum Amber Cologne Intense

Fine Scents Joie de Sannes

Amouage Remain

Sarah Baker Atlante

Ruth Mastenbroek Marlin

Perfumer H Salt

Coach Blue

and of course Shalimar

In this week's episode we're leaning into the our nostalgia needs and exploring the wonderful world of vintage inspired fragrances.

Here's what we discuss:

@guerlain Shalimar L’Essence Eau de Parfum Intense

“Shalimar celebrates its 100th anniversary. To mark this exceptional event, the Maison is revealing Shalimar L’Essence, a new intense variation which concentrates Shalimar’s distinctive codes: its quintessence. A homage to the timeless modernity, daring and seduction of Guerlain’s most famous scent for women.

Delphine Jelk has added the precious Madagascan vanilla tincture stemming from Guerlain's ancestral know-how to the ethylvanillin found in Jacques Guerlain’s original formula, giving Shalimar a new intensity.

Discreet and subtle, bergamot illuminates the floral heart which blends rose absolute with the powdery elegance of iris. Little by little, Shalimar’s amber note unfolds. Used in abundance, vanilla infuses it with new facets – smooth and woody with a hint of leather.”

“To wear Shalimar is to let your senses take over.” - Jacques Guerlain

@bienaime_1935 Vermeil @gather.fragrance & @fioleuk

We’ve previously talked about this one quite a lot, but you must also check out their gloriously evocative new fragrance…

Bienaimé Vesprée @gather.fragrance & @fioleuk

“Vesprée captures the quiet, luminous moment between day and night. As the sun dips and the air cools, an elegant breeze of cardamom, bergamot and lavender unfurls - soft, serene, and full of anticipation.

TOP NOTES Cardamom, Bergamot, Lavender, Carrot Seed, Celery SeedHEART NOTES Peru Balsam, Rose, Geranium, IrisBASE NOTES Vetiver, Benzoin, Vanilla, Cedarwood, Labdanum, Tonka Bean, Sandalwood

The fragrance opens with fresh spice and aromatic brightness before revealing a warm, resinous heart wrapped in iris and rose. As it settles, Vesprée becomes deeper and more textural, grounded in vetiver, benzoin and smooth woods. The result is a softly glowing, gender-fluid composition - equally comforting and refined, evoking the stillness and mystery of twilight.

@jouissanceparfums La Bague d’O

(1954 inspired) “Beguiling, intoxicating, romantic. A bruise-coloured bouquet.

TOP:Steel Chains, Pink Pepper, Orange Flesh

MID: Geranium, Jasmine, Rose, Violet

BASE: Amber, Animalic, Musk, Patchouli

@discothequefragrances Baise Moi on the Dancefloor

“Silky waters, crystal goblets and champagne bottles, iris sprigs, wild vines of jasmine, intertwined limbs and steamy handprints, a timeless ruse, a poet and a muse, an ocean of violets in bloom, “love is a reciprocal torture,” breathed through a cloud of powder.

1979, PARIS

TOP — Violet Leaf, Cassis HEART — Orris, Jasmine BASE — Cashmere, Sandalwood.”

@officine_universelle_buly Héliotrope du Pérou

The “unique water-based fragrance, reveals a bouquet of white flowers stung with tonka beans and violet. Charismatic, she rolls like velvet on the skin, without ever imposing herself to excess.

Heliotrope, leather, sandalwood, tonka, violet and ebony.”

@naomigoodsir Iris Cendre @soliflore_store

“fresh floral tone, led by bergamot, tangerine & spices. A rich & powdery heart of incense & purple iris. Sensuality is enhanced by cistus, tobacco & amber.” Lipstick, leather & smoke.

@jeroboamperfumes Origino

Top notes are Bergamot and Pink Pepper; middle notes are Juniper and Nutmeg; base notes are Sandalwood and White Musk.

“Worn on bare skin, Origino speaks for itself. The Esperanto word for beginnings, Origino was invented by perfumer Vanina Muracciole and marks nothing less than a new beginning; the genesis of a completely new brand and the creation of a new olfactory universe. Whilst every Jeroboam perfume is based around a musky cocktail, each one is distinct, enticing and seductive and given that the great majority of modern perfumes have a musky base, the Jeroboam stable of unisex perfume extracts are all designed to have universal appeal. Origino has top notes of bergamot and pink peppercorn that give way to a heart of juniper and nutmeg which, in turn, gives way to a base composed of sandalwood and a blend of enigmatic musks.”

@andreamaack Craft

“Purifying aldehydes and smouldering incense recall the crystal-clear mystery of a frozen lake at nightfall. Glittering metallic notes promise salvation, grounded in the holy sacrament of ancient resin.

Top notes: Aldehydes, Ice

Heart notes: Cold metal, Cedar Wood Base notes: Elemi, Patchouli.”

@erisparfums Ma Bête @wild_iris_perfumerie

“MA BÊTE (My Beast) caresses you with the suggestiveness of perfumed fur. A collision of the floral and the animal, MA BÊTE combines a regal Tunisian Neroli with spices and a 50 percent overdose of Antoine Lie's own animalic cocktail.

"Ma Bête is a fierce beast with raunchy elegance." – Antoine Lie (Perfumer)

Available in 50 ml / 1.7 fl. oz. atomizer bottles at eau de parfum concentration.

FRAGRANCE NOTES

1. Aldehydes, Tunisian Neroli, Indian Nutmeg
2. Indian Cypriol, Honduran Styrax, Indian Jasmine Sambac
3. Virginia Cedarwood, Indonesian Patchouli, Synthetic Animalic Accord.”

We're back with more of your brilliant prescriptions.

Here are the fragrances we recommend:

Roos & Roos Globulus

DS & Durga Big Sur Eucalyptus

Grossmith’s Shem-el-Nessimlwood

Molinard Habanita

Lanvin Arpège

Coty L’aimant

Bienaimé Vermeil:

@sergeslutens Fleurs d’Oranger

@mizensir Solar Blossom

@granadobrazil Citrus Brasilis

Happy New Year one and all.

We wanted to start 2026 with a chat about our favourite and most worn fragrances of 2025 (the ones we didn't have space to talk about during On The Scent Live!)

We hope you enjoy this first episode of the year.

Loads of love

Nicola and Suzy (both wearing Marc Antoine Barrois Tilia today naturally)

In this, the second part of our look back at On The Scent Live, we're reading out (and playing live) some of your AMAZING perfume prescriptions from the two events. As ever they were fantastically creative, emotional and in some cases utterly bonkers (which is what we love!)

Here are the fragrances that we mention:

@beaufortlondon Terror & Magnificence

@sergeslutens L’orpheline

@tombstone_fragrances Sweet Coffin

@nealsyardremedies Remedies to Roll Relaxation fragrance oil

Lavender & frankincense

Layered with either…

@rubini_profumi Nuvolari

@mschf MSCHF Smells Like WD-40

@fischersund Útilykt

No. 101 Fragrance

No. 8 Fragrance

(All 3 found in their Langdegi (Light) Discovery Set

@bdkparfumsparis Rouge Smoking

Ormonde Jayne Sybarite

@thameen Centre Stage

@jorumstudio Firewater

@kajalperfumes Lamar Noir

@jorumstudio Unspoken Gesture

@vallense Source

@ellakparfumsparis Rose de Pushkar

@infiniment Coty Ambre Antique

@millerharris L’Air de Rien

@hunq_amsterdam 006 Boxer

@andy_tauer L'Air du Desert Marocain

@jouissanceparfums Les Cahiers Secrets

@dsanddurga Portable Xmas Tree Candle@trudon Enchanted Night Holiday Collection 2025 - Fir 'Christmas Tree' Luxury Scented Candle.

@edeniste Wellbeing layered with their Energy fragrance:

@juliettehasagun Powder Love

@adscenture Turkish Delight

Gri Gri Moko Mauri (available / sample @shymimosa)

@fischersund 101

@ostens Rose Oil Isparta

@fredericmalles Portrait of a Lady

@matierepremiere Radical Rose eau de parfum

@officine_universelle_buly Eau Triple Damask Rose

@xerjoff Rose Gold & Amber Gold layering duo

Come and join us one and all for On The Scent Live. Whether you were there and want to relive the fun or you didn't manage to get a ticket and want to be part of it, we really hope you enjoy this bumper episode. You'll hear a combination of live recordings from both events and us reflecting on the scents we chose.

Onto the events:

Our wonderful helpers over both days

On the Scent-ers Little Helpers:

(Friday)

William Borrell @vallensefragrances

Amanda Carr @wewearperfume

Sharon Whiting @scentinelcomms

(Saturday)

Thomas @makingscentsmakesense

Hester @peacock.vintage

FRIDAY:

****Nicola’s fragrances:

1. Clive Christian E Cashmere Musk

Top notes: Baies Rose, Sichuan Pepper, and Fresh Ginger. Heart notes: Fleuriste Fusion, Egyptian Jasmin, and Cashmeran. Base: Guaiacwood, Ambroxan, and Musks.

2. Perfumer H Flower No.1

A bouquet of white flowers to turn heads and capture the imagination. Tuberose (India), jasmine (Egypt), orange flower (Tunisia) and rose oil (Turkey) rest on a silken base of sandalwood, vanilla bourbon and white musk.

3. Nest Hypnotic Amber

golden amber, Indian cardamom, dark woods, patchouli, incense, vanilla, and rose, Mirabelle plum oil.

4. Frederic Malle Acne Studios

Aldehydes, Rose, Peach, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Musk.

5. Ormonde Jayne Sybarite

Top: Hazelnut, Timur, Pink Pepper and Pepper; middle notes are Vanilla, Butter, Orris, Jasmine and Rose; base notes are Vanilla Absolute, Woody Notes, Labdanum and Musk.

****Suzy’s fragrances:

1.Acqua di Parma Buongiorno

Top notes: Lemon Essence, Spearmint Essence , Rosemary Essence , Codistillation Basil & Petitgrain essences

Heart notes: Lavandin Essence , Mandarin Leaves Accord. Base notes: Cedarwood Leaves Essence, Amber Accord, White Musks

2.ANFORH Kist

Top: Sandalwood, Blonde Woods, Havanalite (pressed-linen polish)

Heart: Sandalwood, Laotian Benzoin Resinoid (aged 24 months; smoky and resinous), Vintage Paperback Accord

Base: Texan Cedarwood (fresh-sawn timber warmth), Cypriol, Cashmeran

3.Amouage Lustre

Top Notes: Cardamom, Orris

Heart Notes: Patchouli, Sandalwood, Cedarwood

Base Notes: Benzoin, Labdanum, Vanilla, Cypriol, Styrax, Tonka Bean, Myrrh

4.Guerlain Shalimar L’Essence

“Delphine Jelk has added the precious Madagascan vanilla tincture stemming from Guerlain's ancestral know-how to the ethylvanillin found in Jacques Guerlain’s original formula, giving Shalimar a new intensity.

Discreet and subtle, bergamot illuminates the floral heart which blends rose absolute with the powdery elegance of iris. Little by little, Shalimar’s amber note unfolds. Used in abundance, vanilla infuses it with new facets – smooth and woody with a hint of leather.”

5.Jeroboam Kun Amo

Esperanto to English - kun amo. with love.

A luminous and sensual perfume extract in which pear reigns supreme. Sun-drenched, luscious and seductive, the fruit mingles with a generous dose of sweetness and captivating aromas, underpinned by modern, ambery woods and the house’s emblematic musks.

SATURDAY:

****Nicola’s fragrances:

1. Ormonde Jayne X’ian

‘Nutmeg, rhubarb, musk and sandalwood

HEAD Black Pepper, Nutmeg

HEART Cedarwood, Rhubarb

SOUL Musk, Indian Sandalwood

2. M.Micallef Hypnotic Musk

‘Top notes: Iris, Bergamot, Raspberry

Heart notes: Ginger, Lychee, Violet, Caramel Base notes: Musk, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Ambergris’

3. The Harmonist Sun Force

Top Notes: Pomelo, Bulgarian Rose Oil, Saffron Heart Notes: Cardamom, Incense, Organic Honey Base Notes: Sandalwood, Organic Benzoin, Musk

4. The Virtue Holy Smoke

Top: Cinnamon Bark, Clove, Tonka Bean Middle: Patchouli, Guaiac Wood Base: Frankincense, Oakmoss, Amber

5. Eris Parfums Green Spell

Italian Mandarin, French Black Currant Bud absolute (Bourgeons Cassis), Iranian Galbanum (oil and resinoid), Egyptian Violet Leaf absolute, French Narcissus absolute, Tomato leaf accord, Fig leaf accord, Haitian Vetiver, Ambroxan, Musk (synthetic)

****Suzy’s fragrances:

1.NOSU Been Trying to Meet You

Top: Elderflower, Dried Grasses, Pink & Black Pepper

Middle: Immortelle, Honey, Bran

Base: Hay, Ambrette, Amyris

2.Vivienne Westwood Boudoir (New)

(OG 1998, Martin Gras) to its 2025 relaunch by Cristian Calabro. The original mixed aldehydes, orange blossom, rose, carnation, vanilla & tobacco leaf — a daring, divisive scent.
The new version? Added CO₂-extracted vanilla, solar-powered ylang-ylang & no animal-derived ingredients. Now available at Vivienne Westwood boutiques in the UK, Paris & Milan — rolling out globally through 2026.

3.DS & DURGA Cognac Reign

‘Get out on the danse parquet and let your powdered wig down to vivacious viola de gamba grooves. It’s baroque, baby!’

TOP NOTES caramelized bergamot, antique wood HEART NOTES cognac essence, concrete of orris BASE NOTES tonka, limousine oak

4.Zadig & Voltaire ZADIG

Top notes are Sesame, Ginger, White Pepper and Black Pepper; middle notes are Orange Blossom and Neroli Essence; base notes are Chantilly Cream, Vanilla and Sandalwood.

5.Goldfield & Banks Tales of Amber

New Zealand Ambergris, De Laire Amber 83 (Labdanum & Vanillin), Australian Agarwood, Orange Blossom, Iris, Cinnamon, Oud

Huge thanks to the amazing brands that helped fill our legendary goody bags:

@profilepr

@uppublicrelations

@kga_beauty_pr

@aspectsbeauty

@phoenixbeauty

@agencedeparfumerie PR

Parfum Gres (@parfumsgres) - Available at:Superdrug

Jaguar (@jaguar) - Available at: Superdrug

Laura Biagiotti (@laurabiagiottiparfums) - Available at: Superdrug > Roma Uomo / Roma Donna

Nissaba (@nissaba.fragrances) - Available at: Fortnum & Mason (in-store only), Jovoy Mayfair, and Wild Iris

Hugh Parsons (@hughparsonslondon) - Available at: Fortnum & Mason, The Perfume Shop Boutique and Debenhams

Santa Eulalia (@santaeulaliaperfumes) - Available at: Liberty, Debenhams and Wild Iris

@ataratmalondon

@boucheron

@graff

@etro

@furla

@akrofragrances

@goutalparis

@robertgrahamnyc

@hollister

@coach

@roosandroos

@moresque_parfum

@themerchantofvenice

@granadobrazil

@narciso_rodriguez

@tropicskincare

@homework.store

@the_virtue

@orebella by @bellahadid

@bdkparfumsparis

@goldfield_and_banks_australia

@marcantoinebarrois

@weledauk

@jeroboamperfumes

@rndl.ltd

@millerharris

@parfum_muse (gift card)

@gather.fragrance (voucher)

@nosuparfum (voucher)

Incense is having a real moment and in this episode we're exploring why and also talking through some of our favourite incense scents.

Why is incense so popular again? 

Incense has moved from temples and churches into living rooms,

studios and perfume wardrobes; it’s become a chic, modern ritual as

much as a smell.

Trend reports link the boom to the hunger for spiritual and holistic

practices – incense is an easy way to pause, “set an intention” and

create a little ceremony around everyday life.

Incense vs frankincense

 “Incense” is the whole blend you burn – it might be on a stick, cone, coil

or rope – and can contain resins, woods, herbs, spices and florals.

 “Frankincense” (also called olibanum) is one particular resin, tapped

from Boswellia sacra trees in Oman, Yemen and parts of the Horn of

Africa.

 Etymology you can play with: “frankincense” comes from Old French

“franc encens” – high quality or “pure” incense – while “incense” itself

goes back to Latin for “to burn.”

 When a perfume lists “incense” as a note, it may mean a full accord of

resins (frankincense, myrrh, opoponax, labdanum, elemi, woods,

flowers) or a composition that highlights frankincense alone.

What incense actually smells like

 Frankincense: resinous yet airy; earthy, piney, slightly smoky with a

surprising citrus brightness.

 Myrrh: darker, spicier, slightly medicinal and very “churchy”, often

associated with ritual and antiquity.

 Opoponax: honeyed, vanillic, balsamic and comforting – it softens the

harsher edges of smoke.

 Labdanum: rich, ambery, leathery and almost animalic; gives incense

perfumes that plush, warm body.

 Elemi: sharp, lemony, peppery resin that brings sparkle and lift to the

smoke.

 Woods (sandalwood, cedar etc.): add dryness, creaminess or

pencilshaving smokiness and form the backbone of many incenseheavy

fragrances.

Quotes from perfumers:

 Francis Kurkdjian on why he loves Japanese incense at home: partly

practicality, because “it fills the room in five minutes, whereas candles

take ages.”

 Yasmin Sewell on the moodshift: “Where a candle may take twenty

minutes to resonate in your space, when you light incense there is an

immediate scent that fills the room.”

 Sewell again on why incense made more sense than candles for her

brand’s next step: “I felt that incense really connected with our values,

since it’s been used in spiritual rituals for so long,” and “what I really

love about incense is that it shifts the mood instantly.”

 Lyn Harris on her daily ritual: “It sets a spiritual tone to my day,” and

incense is “an ethereal veil that lingers in the air.” She burns it in the

morning to set her mood, sometimes midday to reinvigorate her senses,

and even before bed so “there is a sensual haze passing over my

nostrils before I sleep.”

 Chris Rusak on the psychology of burning it: incense is “a great vehicle

for empowerment or catharsis via controlled destruction” and “incense

use is intentional. It requires fire or directed heat for full expression,

which we must effect, contain, and control, in order to destroy it but not

ourselves.”

 How it’s harvested: frankincense resin oozes from cuts in the

Boswellia sacra tree and dries into golden “tears”, sometimes called

“frankincense tears” or “olibanum tears”.

 The jinn love story: a girl from the jinn falls in love with a human boy –

forbidden, of course. As punishment she’s turned into a tree; her grief

becomes crystal tears that people burn on coal for healing smoke with a

bitter taste that mourns lost love.

 Ecology: frankincense forests in northern Ethiopia are under threat as

they’re cleared for agriculture, with scientists warning production could

halve over the next 15 years.

 Mood altering science: frankincense contains a compound called

incensole acetate, which has been shown to have pain relieving and

psychoactive effects – helping with depression and anxiety and

activating a warmth perception channel in the skin.

 That might explain why those “sexy church smells” (as Alice du Parcq

so memorably terms them) can feel both spiritually elevated and

physically comforting – sacred, nostalgic, a bit forbidden and strangely

swoony all at once.

Suzy’s faves: 

@amouage Purpose 50

@jeroboamperfumes Ambra extrait

@eaudeboujee Gilded 

@vancleefarpels Perfume Extraordinaire Encens Précieux

@ataratmalondon Aroha Absolute

@nissaba.fragrances Berbera

Nicola's choices:

@aromariamx giant incense sticks

@the_virtue Holy Smoke

@lartisanparfumeur Passage d'Enfer

@matierepremiereparfums Crystal Saffron

Nicola:

Penhaligon's Festive Mini Set

https://www.penhaligons.com/uk/en/p/festive-mini-set-for-her-5x5-ml--000000000065224079

Jo Malone London Festive Cologne Duo

https://www.jomalone.co.uk/product/26322/127599/gift-sets/festive-cologne-duo

Bamford Geranium Candle

https://shop.claridges.co.uk/products/bamford-geranium-candle?srsltid=AfmBOopvh-fHP_E4r3friAxcOw4J40HInA0W1PQfVTCUGf2Ym_wb9mHM

Neal's Yard Orange and Geranium Hand Soap

https://www.nealsyardremedies.com/products/geranium-orange-hand-wash?_pos=2&_psq=orange+and+geranium&_ss=e&_v=1.0

Granado Gift Sets

https://www.granado.uk/uk/amazonico-scented-suitcase

Suzy:

Meadowfarm Smoked Honey & Orange 1 Wick Candle £25

‘This stunning new candle is inspired by my love of bee keeping. It’s a unique blend of bergamot, orange flowers and ylang ylang, with added honey notes and just a hint of smokiness from the amber. It’s summery and bright, yet has an intricate depth to it. This is guaranteed to be one of your new favourites, it’s perfect for summer but will work equally well all

year round.’

https://meadowfarmlifestyle.co.uk/shop/candles/smoked-honey-orange/

Lords Fragrance House Cotswold Scented Hand Dipped Taper Candles £30

‘Inspired by days spent with my best friend in the serene beauty of the English country side. This fragrance captures cottage gardens, surrounded by rolling hills, on sunny days spent laughing in the sunshine. A delicate blend of bergamot, lemon and orange, with heart notes of rosemary, lavender and mint, with a cedar and vetiver base. The perfect scent for those seeking a moment of calm.’

https://lordsfragrancehouse.com/products/monteverde-scented-hand-dipped-tapered-candles-copy

Boujee Bougies Candles (now 50% off RRP!) £30

Tart: ‘What comes to mind when you think of tartness? We wanted to capture that delicious, mouth-watering, and life-affirming taste sensation. Tart is our vivid homage to fresh tarts and invigorating teas - a feel good tonic with irreverent and unexpected twists. Tart is lush with greenery – cool, refreshing herbal notes of mint and basil - and fizzing with fruitiness – the juicy flesh of green plum and blackcurrant. To make sure it’s zesty, we played with the crisp zing of lemon, rhubarb, and ginger, and served it all over ice with the sweet apricot facets of osmanthus. Tart is vibrant, fun, and uplifting AF.

Mouthwatering, moreish, green-hued tartness

Mint, Lemon, Blue Ginger, Cassis, Green Plum, Rhubarb, Basil, Osmanthus, Moss, Musk’

https://eaudeboujee.com/collections/boujee-bougies/products/tart-candle

Vetiver items from RE:Found Objects

Vetiver Room Freshening Brush £7.50

Vetiver Pan Scrubs £4.95

Vetiver Soap Mat £7.50

https://www.re-foundobjects.com/product/view/vetiver-soap-and-bath-mats

Maison Louis Marie No.04 Bois de Balincourt Perfume Oil Mini Roller 3ml £17

‘A Timeless,endlessly wearable, deeply personal Perfume Oil Bois de Balincourt is inspired by Marie's family home, nestled deep within an ancient forest. This signature scent layers creamy sandalwood and cedar with warming cinnamon and nutmeg, anchored by earthy vetiver — a romantic, comforting fragrance with effortless depth.’

https://www.boots.com/maison-louis-marie-no-04-bois-de-balincourt-perfume-oil-mini-roller-3ml-10370280

CRA-YON Vanilla CEO Eau de Parfum 10ml £26

‘Vanilla CEO Eau de Parfum - A Gourmand, Vanilla, Amber, Woody Fragrance. Vanilla CEO Eau de Parfum is all about power, but refined and subtle. It serves as a reminder that power does not always equal strength and intensity.

Power can be in softness, power can be in kindness and power can be in a knowing rather than a loud voice. The Vanilla and soft woods work beautifully together and linger well on the skin without ever overpowering.

Vanilla CEO Perfume is a modern take on a classic Vanilla note, but here in good company with soft woods and fresh notes of orange blossom. The scent ignites the wearer with a sense of vigour, thanks to endorphin-boosting notes of orange blossom and juicy mandarin.’

https://www.boots.com/cra-yon-vanilla-ceo-eau-de-parfum-10ml-10373524

Eau de Boujee Gilded eau de parfum travel spray 7.5ml £30

‘All that is gilded will be bold. A celestial temple of golden light transcends Earthly reality. The whispered mysteries of ancient spirits, covered in gold by awe and time. All life endeavours to ascend to a higher plane, a state attained through incense and devoted spirituality.

Light, space, serenity; incense resin dipped in gold 

Top Notes: Lemon, Saffron, Gold accord
Heart Notes: Frankincense oil, Frankincense resin, Carnation, Cedar Leaf, Beeswax absolute
Base Notes: Myrrh, Cedarwood, Labdanum, Leather, Civet, Musk’

https://eaudeboujee.com/collections/travel-spray/products/gilded-eau-de-parfum-travel-spray

https://www.justmylook.com/products/dolce-gabbana-devotion-eau-de-parfum-30ml?&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=All%20Products%20-%20UK&utm_content=Dolce%20%26%20Gabbana%20Devotion%20Eau%20De%20Parfum%2030ml&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22637679829&gbraid=0AAAAADoybkpIyrNmwddpvf5BZNRJI0YzY&gclid=Cj0KCQiAxJXJBhD_ARIsAH_JGjiudBiY1dJakQ44xHskMnFzYh03ruVaBXvZWZg1LZ3AauhaebOPcBEaAhQ5EALw_wcB

Iris & Olive Scented Pencils £14

‘A set of six cedarwood pencils. These pencils are lovingly made for us by a 100 year old pencil factory, the cedarwood they are made from is impregnated with different garden fragrances.’

(Suzy’s favourite is the Orange Blossom, but they’re also do Gingerbread, Rose Geranium, Jasmine, and Lavender)

https://irisandolive.co.uk/products/copy-of-scented-pencils-orange-blossom?_pos=1&_psq=pencils&_ss=e&_v=1.0

Buly 1803 Scented Matches Sacre

‘Scented matches exhaling an elating pine, honey, incense and cedar fragrance.’

€16

https://buly1803.com/fr-gb/products/allumettes-parfumees-sacre

Papier d'Arménie - Rose Perfume Booklet £5.50 at The French Pharmacy

‘This fragrance was imagined in 2009 by Francis Kurkdjian, renowned perfumer creator.

Papier d’Arménie triple is the oldest room freshener in paper form, produced in France since 1885. 

It has been famous since the Antiquity for its antiseptic, healing and expectorant vertues; formerly, the benzoin balm was used externally to treat asthma, coughing and hoarseness. It has an efficient impact on the psyche and the emotions and the stressed persons appreciate it.

In the podcast this week, Suzy & Nicola talk fragrances they’ve been obsessed with wearing lately (& some are quite unexpected…) Plus, there’s an absolutely BRILLIANT #listenerprescription from ballet costume designer Isabelle, who asked for recommendations to scent her way through working on costumes for a 2026 tour of Don Quixote - dreaming of Spanish sunshine in the depths of a chilly English winter!

Fragrances we can’t stop wearing…

Nicola:

@nosuparfum Been Trying to Meet You - wistful, hay & meadow-infused memories

@nosuparfum Sain No More - Smoked herbaceous rituals welcome a fresh start

@merit Retrospect - Nostalgia meets newness via juicy sparkles & second-skin

@floraiku Sand & Skin - Amber-glazed skin, vanilla horizons & gilded dreams

@bamford Geranium Candle – Instantly-uplifting botanical bliss

Suzy:

@angelaflanders Rose Sauvage – Dew-bright, berried wild rose bursts with sheer joy

@headspaceparfum Rose - A rose frozen in glass, awoken by a silver bullet

@bdkparfumsparis 312 Saint-Honoré - Couture chalky floral drifts chic clouds of comfort

@memoizeperfume Imber - Succulent cherry, cassis & rhubarb spiced to a musky trail

@juliettehasagun Powder Love - Marshmallow, sugared almond & a gentle hug

#listenerprescription for Isabelle / Don Quixote ballet:

Principal Lady

@monegalperfumes Flamenco extrait – Raspberries, roses & sizzling saffron woodiness. Passion personified

@lartisanparfumeur Histoire d’Oranger – Orange trees, dappled sunlight & tendrils of incense

@parfumsmicallef Ylang in Gold – A solar shimmer of ylang-ylang, orange, fluffy vanilla & coconut for a glimmering finalé

The Rascals

@jusboxperfumes Studio 54 – Cocktails, cardamom-studded vanilla & naughty patchouli – for hedonists: flamboyant & ready for anything

@rndl.ltd Together – Bergamot & mandarin, irresistible vanilla praline & a spicy trail of suede – the scent of friendship & assurance for scene-stealers

The scent of Spain

@lamontagnacandles Winter Oranges – The scent of a Valencian orange harvest, warmly spiced, evoking citrus-soaked sunsets & festive cheer

@alvarez_gomez_perfumes Agua de Colonia Concentrada – Mediterranean lemons & aromatic herbs, bottled Spanish sunshine with historic soul

Listener @somestarrynight messaged us from Paris about the @maisonfranciskurkdjian installation at @palaisdetokyo (on until 23 November - so hurry if you want to see it!)

As it happens, Laurent from @ostens_official shared smelling strips from the expo at a recent dinner, a reminder of scent’s communal, artful side. So although we can’t get to see it, we *have* smelled the scents created for it)

Perfume: Sculpture of the Invisible (celebrating 20 years of MFK & @franciskurkdjian_official’s olfactive artistry - scenting galleries, theatrical performances, music, & places) “has opened up perfume to new forms and destinations, taking it out of the bottle.” - Jérôme Neutres, Exhibition Curator

#perfumeprescriptions

17-year old listener Sadbh asks for starting points in perfume shopping, balancing jasmine, fresh ginger, roses, amber, and not-too-sweet vanilla

Our guidance:

@marksandspencerstyle Spiced Amber EDT: powdery depths, amber heart, cedar and geranium

@marksandspencerstyle Apothecary Warmth EDP: cardamom, cinnamon, cedarwood, sandalwood for warming comfort

Nicola notes that niche shop @bloomperfumery’s site suggests related scents when you search a name, and well-trained staff at perfume departments can be invaluable - don’t be afraid to ask them for help.

@tocca Wonders Collection (stocked @theperfumeshop) – £55 for 6 x 5ml EDP:

Florence Eau de Parfum: green garden bouquet of gardenia, tuberose, iris; Parisian romance.

Cleopatra EDP: grapefruit, jasmine, patchouli—seductive and regal.

Stella EDP: citrus and florals with Italian sunshine; breezy, radiant.

Lucia EDP: sunlit lemon, vetiver, fig; slow living, luminous.

Laila EDP: luxurious indulgence, confident sensuality.

Colette EDP: citrus, floral, woods; Parisian literary spirit with daring edge.

New fragrances @oliverbonas

Fig & Tonka, Pomelo & Basil EDPs (£12.50 each)

Mandarin & Jasmine, Warm Oud & Saffron EDTs (£20 full size, £9.50 rollers)

Also at Oliver Bonas:

@floralstreet_: Wild Vanilla Orchid (£28/10ml); vanilla, jasmine, cassis with bamboo and sandalwood.

@ghostfragrances Orb of Night (£24/30ml EDP): Dark fruit, jasmine, roasted tonka—sundown to sunrise.

We’re plotting a full episode on this topic of helping those who feel overwhelmed by choice / want affordable starting points, & will also crowd-source tips from friends of the pod!

Nicola talks about the new scent from @granadobrazil Amazonica

The wonderful Claire @paperbackperfumes asks for a green / woodland-like, non-powdery violet scent…

Our picks:

@murphyanddaughters Violet Perfume Oil (Melbourne): violet leaf heart, violet flower high note; green and sparkling

@orizalegrand Violettes du Czar: violet-forward with green citrus undertones, smoky woods, iris in the background

@molinardparfums Violette: violet with black currant, bergamot, lemon; layered floral notes

@olfactivestudio Violet Shot: green grass, violet leaf, leather, patchouli; violet with edge

In this week’s episode we’re talking about atmospheric fragrances we love, which helped set the scene for our Halloween Scented Story. Because we believe just as reading a book can be an escape route; so too can perfume be a portal… 

You can watch the whole story from the start by clicking on the Halloween highlight circle beneath our Instagram bio @onthescentpodcast

Using those fragrances and describing them as part of our Scented Story, we infused the spooky tale with scents you can go and smell for yourselves (or perhaps have already experienced). 

We so hope you enjoy this deep-dive into fragrance, mood, memory and scented scene-setting. 

Meanwhile, we’d LOVE it if you were inspired to smell along with us by either collecting samples of the following scents or (as we’ know it’s not always possible), to imagine which fragrances you’d have used for each section. 

We chose: 

Chapter 1: Suzy

@marcantoinebarrois - Ganymede Extrait

@thesocietyofalchemists - Familiars

2: Nicola

@erisparfums - Green Spell

@pinewardperfume - Funerie

3: Suzy

@millerharris - WANDER through the parks

@headspaceparfums - Styrax

@diptyque - L’Eau Papier

4: Nicola

@perfumerhlondon- Dust 

@naomigoodsir - Bois d’Ascèse

@sergeslutens - Lait du Dent 

5: Suzy

@diptyque - Feu du Bois candle 

@lorenzovilloresi - Teint de Neige 

6: Nicola 

@bienaime_1935 - Vermeil

@the_virtue - Holy Smoke

7: Suzy

@beaufortlondon - Sirenide

@thesocietyofalchemists - ’Til Death

@shopforas - Mushroom Forest

@soulnotes.co - Soul Notes

@marksandspencerstyle - Apothecary Reassure