Perfume layering, scent pairing, fragrance mixing - whatever you call it, the technique of mixing multiple perfumes is a beauty tactic that’s been around for years. Seriously - people were doing it centuries ago.
We get it, the idea of wearing more than one scent might seem a bit strange at first but it’s a game changer. Why? It’s one of the easiest ways to create a customisable fragrance that works for you, is unique to you and contains blends of all your favourites. Apply it right and it can also last longer (more on that later).
Not sure where to start? We’ve done the hard work for you. Take note, this is how to layer your fragrance like a pro.
What is fragrance layering?
Jo Malone London’s, Fragrance & Lifestyle Expert, Emma South describes scent pairing as the art of ‘layering two fragrances together, chosen with reference to your style and tastes. In other words, fragrance layering gives you the ability to create a fresh new scent every day to match everything from your outfit to your mood or the weather. Pretty cool, right?
Fragrance layering with Jo Malone London
Jo Malone London are the queens of scent pairing. If you really want to make your fragrance last all day, this is how:
Start by cleansing the skin with the iconic Lime, Basil and Mandarin Body Wash – this will leave a delicate, ‘just out of the shower’ scent on the skin (the perfect base for any fragrance routine).
It’s time to add a bit of depth and there’s no better way to do this than with the Myrrh & Tonka Body Crème. Finally, it’s time for the fragrance. If you’re looking to create a contrast, to the creaminess of Myrrh & Tonka, complete the layering routine with a spritz of fruity English Pear & Freesia Cologne. Ideal for warmer months, it ensures that the Myrrh & Tonka doesn’t overpower the freshness and fruity notes of the Lime, Basil & Mandarin. Wanting to create an autumn-winter scent? Reach for the bestselling Pomegranate Noir. This enlivens the spiciness of the myrhh while working with the tonka beans to add a subtle sweetness.
Some of these notes seem a bit of an odd mix to you? Trust us, there’s method in the madness. ‘We have a mantra that there are ‘no rules, only thrilling discoveries” says South, ‘The formulas are short and simple which means pairings never become cluttered.’.
What are the benefits of fragrance layering?
Why are we obsessed with fragrance layering? We’re glad you asked. As South says, it’s the perfect way to create 'a third scent’ that’s completely bespoke to you. A unique fragrance that you won’t find anywhere else.
Plus, according to the Founder of BDK Parfums, David Benedek: ‘This method can also boost some notes in a perfume, create a more powerful dry down and increase its longevity'. So, really, it’s a no-brainer – we should all be fragrance layering.
Scent pairing with BDK fragrances
We can’t get enough of BDK fragrances, so the fact that we can layer two together is our idea of heaven.
Clinging to summer? If you tend to opt for fresh, citrussy scents, add Sel D’Argent and Citrus Riviera to your collection. Ft. orange blossom, grapefruit and bergamot, you’re transported to the Mediterranean coast in just a few spritzes. The. Dream.
With party season around the corner, go for Rouge Smoking and Tubéreuse Impériale. A blend of florals and musk with sweet and woody notes, both scents create a floral fragrance that ain’t quaint. The dream.
How to layer fragrance?
Layering scents isn’t just a case of spraying two perfumes on top of each other - think of it as more of a ritual or a regime. ‘For optimum longevity and indulgence, begin with a scented body wash to cleanse and provide the first veil of fragrance,’ explains South. ‘Following with an application of sumptuously rich, scented Body Crème reveals glowing, supple skin whilst ensuring the fragrant layers last throughout the day.’
After you’ve perfected your base, it’s time to start experimenting. We asked Eva Carlo, Fragrance Specialist for The Orange Square Company (PR experts in the luxury perfume industry), how she likes to approach fragrance layering. ‘Start with the heavier or more opulent one first and the lighter or fresher one on top,’ she says. ‘Start with two and as you get more confident you can start playing with three - any more will probably start to lose any definition.’
Top tip? If you’re stuck on how to get started, Benedek recommends that ‘you start layering two perfumes that have similar notes, like a fruity floral and a floral musky perfume.’
Are there any fragrances you should avoid layering?
The answer is no, not really. ‘Rules are meant to be broken, so be guided by your instincts,’ says Carlo. ‘If it goes wrong it will disappear after some hours - it’s not like waiting for a bad haircut to grow out.’
Perfume mixing with Juliette Has A Gun
If you’re new to the world of fragrance layering, Juliette Has A Gun is a great brand to start experimenting with. So passionate about it, they created their bestselling, one ingredient, Not A Perfume. Formulated with just one note: ceralox, (which is typically used as a base for many scents), it works to boost the scent of other perfumes. So, it’s ideal for wearing under or on top of other fragrances to create a one-of-a-kind scent on you – genius.
Our top picks? For a fresh scent, we like to pair Not A Perfume with Moscow Mule. If floral perfumes, are you ride or die, try Not A Perfume with Magnolia Bliss. Looking for a touch of sweetness? Infused with notes of iris, violet, vanilla and raspberry (to name a few), Lipstick Fever is a must-have. It’s already a strong scent but if you’re looking for one that’ll last all day, it’s the one - especially when paired with Not A Perfume.