Latest news with #perfume
Khaleej Times
a day ago
- General
- Khaleej Times
The art of seasonal scents: Choosing the right perfume for every season
Perfume is a deeply personal luxury, an invisible signature that lingers long after you leave the room. It has the power to uplift your mood, spark memories, and transform even the most ordinary days into sensory moments. From the delicate burst of florals in spring to the warm embrace of oud in winter, the right fragrance can capture the essence of a season with just one spritz. As seasons shift, so too does the way perfume interacts with your skin and environment. Summer's warmth can intensify lighter scents, making citrus and aquatic notes feel fresh and vibrant, while cooler months are perfect for rich, full-bodied compositions like amber, musk, and spice. Wearing perfume in harmony with the weather not only enhances its impact but also adds a touch of sophistication to your daily ritual. With the help an expert insight, you can explore the delicate balance between choosing fragrances that match the mood of each season, while also being kind to your skin and body. Whether you're layering your signature scent or discovering new seasonal favorites, let this guide inspire a more mindful and elegant way to wear fragrance; one that complements your style, the seasons, and your sense of wellbeing. Spring: A time for florals and fresh starts Spring welcomes lighter, breezier notes that mirror the rebirth of nature. Think peonies, lilies, green tea, or citrusy neroli. After the musky cocoon of winter, your body and nose crave something fresher. However, if you're prone to allergies, this season might come with a caveat. Dr Suresh Puri, Consultant Pulmonologist and Internal Medicine at JTS Medical Centre, Dubai, advises caution with fragrance choices, particularly for those with health sensitivities. 'Use scent-free products, try avoiding strong perfumes including smoky (Bakhur) fragrance,' he suggests. As some stronger scents may trigger respiratory reactions and create a stuffy indoor environment, especially if ventilation is poor. For spring, alcohol-free body mists or eau de toilette versions of your favorite fragrances; are suggested as they're usually less concentrated and less likely to overwhelm. Summer: Light, airy, and skin-safe The heat of summer calls for crisp, clean fragrances that won't become cloying in the sun. Popular choices include marine notes, citrus, and fruity blends like watermelon or grapefruit. But with increased sweating and sun exposure, fragrance application becomes tricky, especially for people with sensitive skin. Dr Teena Mathew, Specialist Dermatologist at JTS Medical Centre, Dubai, highlights the importance of skin health when using perfumes. 'For people with sensitive skin wishing to use fragrances, it is best to conduct a usage test. Apply it to a small inconspicuous area for two weeks. If there is no reaction, then it should be safe to use,' she explains. She also emphasises the need for proper skin hydration: 'It is important to keep the skin well moisturised since dry skin can precipitate irritation.' In other words, layering a good unscented moisturiser underneath your fragrance not only helps the scent last longer but also forms a barrier that protects the skin. So, for summers, it's best to opt for oil-based perfumes — they tend to be gentler on the skin and evaporate less quickly. Autumn: Warm, spicy, and grounding As temperatures drop and the air gets crisp, we begin to crave more warmth and that extends to our fragrance choices. Autumn is the season of vanilla, amber, sandalwood, and fig. These rich, spicy, and slightly sweet aromas mimic the cozy feeling of sweater weather. This is also a good time to explore niche or artisanal scents that evoke earthy tones and natural elements. But it's important to be mindful of where and how you apply these stronger perfumes. For individuals with sensitive skin or eczema, direct application on pulse points like the neck or behind the ears can trigger irritation. Dr Mathew suggests, 'Spraying fragrance on clothes instead of directly on the skin can help minimise contact with potential irritants.' Just be sure to test it on a small patch of fabric first to avoid staining. In cooler months, your skin tends to be drier. 'It is also important is to keep the skin well moisturised since dry skin can precipitate skin irritation,' she added. Winter: Bold, deep, and intimate Winter invites bold fragrances with depth; think oud, patchouli, leather, musk, and incense. These perfumes shine in colder temperatures and linger longer in the dry winter air. However, heavier scents can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially indoors or in confined spaces. Dr Puri warns against using smoky or overpowering scents. 'Have a well-ventilated home and workplace environment,' he advises, adding that scent-heavy spaces can negatively affect respiratory health. This is especially relevant during the holiday season when candles, incense, and perfumes are used simultaneously. A good rule of thumb is to balance your olfactory space, if you're lighting a strongly-scented candle, maybe skip the heavy perfume that day. Layering is key in winter. Start with a scented body wash, follow up with a matching lotion, and finish with a spritz of perfume to lock in the fragrance all day. Year-round wellness: Finding balance with fragrance No matter the season, your fragrance should enhance your day. With the rise of clean beauty and dermatologically tested perfumes, consumers now have access to options that are safer for both the skin and the lungs. If you have asthma, allergies, or sensitive skin, patch testing is essential. As Dr Mathew stresses, 'A two-week trial on a small skin area can help detect any delayed allergic reactions.' It may seem tedious, but it's worth it if it saves you from irritation or discomfort. Equally important is ventilation. 'Avoid strong perfumes and ensure your environment is well-ventilated,' says Dr Puri. This small habit can significantly improve indoor air quality and overall wellbeing, especially if you use fragrance daily. You might also consider scented hair mists, lightly fragranced deodorants, or diffuser oils in your personal space to maintain a subtle and pleasant scent. Scent with sensibility Lastly, wearing perfume isn't just about smelling good; it's about feeling good too. It's about understanding your body, your skin's needs, and the subtle ways your surroundings shape how a scent is received. A well-chosen fragrance can be a quiet act of self-care, a daily ritual that speaks to your mood, your story, and your sense of place. By tuning into the rhythm of the seasons and being mindful of your skin's sensitivity and others' comfort, you transform perfume from a fleeting indulgence into something more meaningful. You give it thought, intention, and grace. So, whether you're layering notes of jasmine on a spring morning or wrapping yourself in the velvet of oud on a winter's night, let your scent echo something deeper, your awareness, your wellbeing, and your respect for those around you. Because in a world full of noise, sometimes the softest things like a well-chosen fragrance can leave the strongest impression.
Khaleej Times
a day ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE perfume industry: From oud roots to global heights of luxury
From the smoky allure of oud to the delicate touch of rose and musk, fragrances have long held a sacred place in the cultural fabric of the Middle East. In the UAE, this age-old tradition has blossomed into a multi-million-dollar industry — one that marries heritage with innovation and is now drawing global attention. What was once a ritual rooted in tradition, with handcrafted perfumes sold in small glass vials at local souqs, has transformed into a sophisticated industry powering regional and international markets. The UAE has rapidly emerged as one of the largest producers and exporters of perfumes in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region, turning its olfactory heritage into a full-fledged economic success story. According to a recent report by IMARC Group, the UAE's perfume market reached a remarkable $748.9 million in 2024. With a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.22 per cent from 2025 to 2033, the market is expected to more than double and hit $1.72 billion by the end of the forecast period — a testament to the country's rising prominence in the global fragrance industry. A fragrant history Perfume-making in the Arab world dates back centuries, with roots stretching to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Yet it was the Arab civilisation that perfected the craft through the introduction of distillation techniques and the incorporation of regional natural ingredients like oud, musk, and amber. These elements form the backbone of traditional Middle Eastern scents rich, warm, and opulent — and continue to dominate consumer preferences in the UAE today. Perfume is not just a luxury item here; it is an extension of one's identity, a daily ritual, and an embodiment of hospitality and pride. A fusion of east and west While tradition remains at the heart of the UAE's perfume culture, the modern market reflects a growing global influence. Perfume makers in the country are embracing fusion — blending Eastern depth with Western freshness and aesthetics. Contemporary floral, citrus, and fruity notes are increasingly being layered with traditional base ingredients, appealing to a broader and more diverse audience. This cultural confluence has helped transform the UAE from a regional leader into a global influencer. The perfume industry here isn't just preserving a legacy — it's reimagining it for the modern era. Among the standout trends shaping the UAE fragrance landscape is perfume layering — the art of combining multiple scents to craft a signature fragrance that is deeply personal. This practice allows wearers to tailor their scent based on their mood, occasion, or even time of day, creating a fluid and evolving olfactory experience. This trend speaks to the growing demand for individuality and self-expression. Perfume is increasingly seen as a wearable identity — a scent that tells your story before you say a word. Preference for natural and oil-based scents In a market increasingly conscious of quality and longevity, oil-based perfumes have made a strong comeback. Favoured for their intensity and extended wear, these alcohol-free formulations resonate deeply with cultural traditions and consumer expectations. Natural ingredients — particularly oud — continue to reign supreme. Highly valued for its smoky, resinous aroma and spiritual symbolism, oud remains a hallmark of high-end perfumery in the UAE. Extracted from the heartwood of agar trees, it is both rare and revered, reflecting the country's appreciation for exclusivity and craftsmanship. Fragrance as everyday elegance There has also been a cultural shift in the way perfumes are consumed. No longer reserved for special occasions, fragrances are now a part of daily grooming rituals for both men and women. There's a growing awareness of how scent enhances personality and confidence, making it an essential accessory in modern Emirati life. Perfume has evolved from being a luxury to becoming a form of personal empowerment — a silent signature that speaks volumes. As the UAE continues to invest in its creative economy, the perfume industry stands poised for even greater expansion. Local manufacturers are scaling operations, while international perfume houses — drawn by the country's rich cultural base and strategic location — are seeking partnerships and presence in the market. The country's ability to blend the authenticity of its past with the ambition of its future is precisely what sets its fragrance industry apart. Whether through ancient attars or modern layering techniques, the UAE is redefining perfumery not just as a product, but as an experience, an identity, and a cultural art form. In a world where scent is often tied to memory, mood, and meaning, the UAE is ensuring its fragrant legacy not only lingers but leads.
Vogue Arabia
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue Arabia
Musky Perfumes Are the Most Versatile Tool in My Fragrance Wardrobe – Meet My Favourite Scents
Meanwhile, Emma South, fragrance and lifestyle expert at Jo Malone London, shares that musk was 'originally sourced from animals, it's now entirely replaced by plant extracts or synthetic recreations.' 'Consequently, 'musk' is elusive to pin down, there are many interpretations ranging from airy with hints of powder to deep, animalic and amber-like,' she adds. Emma also shares that 'each musk has its own nuance' and that it has the ability to 'enhance the scent trail.' What kind of notes best complement musk? 'Musk pairs well with a wide range of floral and powdery notes, which blend seamlessly to enhance each other,' shares Thibaud. 'At Maison Crivelli, we often use musks as a drydown, combined with vanilla and leather. They allow us to highlight textures and prolong the trail of the perfume,' he explains. 'You'll find it in the background of some of our best-sellers such as Hibiscus Mahajad, Oud Maracuja and Tubéreuse Astrale, where it brings roundness, elegance, and a tactile sensuality that anchors the composition while amplifying its emotional impact,' Thibaud says. According to Emma, musk pairs effortlessly with 'delicate, dewy florals', such as Jo Malone London's Wild Bluebell cologne. 'Whilst deeper, magnetic musks can give even more gravitas to incense notes or create the perfect foil for the iridescence of citrus,' she adds. How to best layer musky perfumes Emma suggests 'layering a minimal, airy musky scent with a soft citrus such as bergamot.' 'Alternatively, use musk to illuminate rich balmy white florals and let them take flight, this makes a mesmerizing way to wear musk into the evening,' she explains. Thibaud agrees: 'I would pair musks with fresh notes such as citrus or peony, or with soft powdery notes like violet or iris. These combinations create contrast and reveal new dimensions of both the musk and the supporting notes.' What are the challenges of creating a musky scent? 'As with any formula, true artistry lies in the balance of ingredients and musk can make or break a fragrance,' shares Emma. 'I have heard perfumers refer to musks as the triangles of the orchestra (if a bright and shimmering musk) or the garlic in cuisine (if rich and animalic),' she says. 'Musk requires a high level of technical skill to be handled well. One challenge is to avoid a flat or overly linear structure, especially since musks are often very diffusive yet subtle,' explains Thibaud. 'The goal is to blend them elegantly so they feel both complex and soft, with long-lasting qualities that stay close to the skin without losing their character,' he says.
Vogue Arabia
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue Arabia
Scented Escapes: Perfumes That Smell Like Summer Escapes
Picture this: you're spritzing a transparent mist that unfurls like a citrus‑kissed Mediterranean coast where terracotta walls absorb the warmth of the day. There's an undeniable magic in how a scent can instantly transport us to distant shores, sun-drenched terraces, or balmy evening strolls. Nothing sets the tone for sunshine adventures quite like a good summer fragrance. Summer fragrances are like linen on the skin — light, breathable, and effortlessly elegant. These scents lean on crisp citrus, salty marine accords, sun-drenched florals, or dewy greens. The best ones are typically citrusy, aquatic, green, or floral-forward, with bright top notes like bergamot, neroli, or grapefruit that uplift rather than overwhelm. Scent is our most primal connection to place and self. The right one lingers like a postcard in the mind. But, heat tends to amplify and evaporate perfume faster, making longevity a concern. With a higher concentration of fragrance oils, Eau de parfums (EDPs) typically linger longer on the skin than eau de toilettes (EDTs). Look for compositions with a solid base—woods, musks, or ambergris—that can anchor the brighter top notes. Citrus-forward scents often fade quickly, but those balanced with creamy or resinous bases (like sandalwood or vetiver) tend to endure through long, sun-drenched days. For best results, spritz on moisturised skin or use a matching body lotion to help the scent linger. Choose perfumes that feel like a breeze: airy, refreshing, and mood-boosting–ones that are a form of escapism. It can be a way to chase the world and travel—even when you're grounded. Discover these destination-inspired fragrances fragrances—perfect for summer escapes and that out-of-office auto-reply. Loewe If you could bottle joy, it might just smell like Paula's Ibiza. Think a juicy, fruity fragrance with notes of coconut cream, cedarwood, and the brand's own accord of Spanish rockrose wildflower. It's the kind of perfume that begs to be worn with oversized sunglasses and no plans. Destination: Ibiza, Spain LOEWE Paula's Ibiza Cosmic, AED 450 Maison Francis Kurkdjian There's a crisp, radiant clarity to Aqua Vitae, like drinking lemonade under the Lisbon sun, and the scent of cypress drifts in from the hills. It opens with lemon, fresh bergamot from Calabria elegantly blend with a trio of spices, grounding the brightness with a soft, sensual finish. It's clean but complex, a fragrance that feels like a secret escape—even when you're just running errands. Destination: Capri or the Amalfi Coast, Italy Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Vitae Forte, AED 985 Tom Ford Clean but sensual, fresh but indulgent. Tom Ford's Neroli Portofino is a tailored escape into the Italian Riviera, all bergamot, neroli, surprising floral notes and amber undertones. One spritz and you're transported to the shimmering turquoise coves of Liguria, hair tousled by sea spray, heels kicked off beside a bottle of Vermentino wine.
Forbes
a day ago
- Business
- Forbes
Summer Fragrances: Maximalist Scents Are Back
EXTRAIT EXTRÊME, Black Guava. A "Beastmode" scent from Borntostandout. It's an exciting time for the perfume industry, with several new summer fragrance trends emerging. One such new expression in today's aromatic landscape is the resurgence of bold, maximalist scents that make a strong statement, also known as 'beastmode' scents. With so many new tendencies surfacing, it's not surprising that, according to Business of Fashion, beauty's most dynamic category is outperforming an otherwise cooling market, with no shortage of hopeful new brands or viral moments. A report by TFS reveals that, overall, the global fragrance market was valued at $64.4 billion in 2023, and Euromonitor International predicts sustained growth across price points in 2025, with double-digit growth in both mass (+10.8 %) and premium sectors (+12.2 %). The fragrance market is expected to hit $68.9 billion by the end of 2025. Speaking with Jun Lim, founder of Bortostandout, he explains that these strong maximalist formulations are highly concentrated (usually a parfum or extrait strength in this category has a minimum oil concentration of 20% or more), plus they contain heavy-hitting notes like oud, amber, patchouli, or vanilla. These are materials that are characterized by their ability to adhere to the skin, persist for hours, and leave a lasting mark. He also tells me that what distinguishes these perfumes is their sillage, and how far the scent projects. 'If someone across the room can smell it? You're likely wearing a beastmode fragrance,' he says. These bold compositions—such as those with heavy doses of oud, amber, vanilla or robust florals—are making a statement, reflecting a desire for extravagance and presence. They're loved by consumers who are looking for high-impact and long-enduring fragrances with intense sillage. As described to me over email by David Seth Moltz, co-founder of D.S. & Durga, 'some people like to make sure other people notice them'. He also adds that there are instances when these fragrances aren't the best choice, as they can 'ruin a restaurant experience or airplane ride real quick'. Aitana López de Carrión, global fine fragrance development manager at CPL Aromas, tells me that one of the driving forces behind this trend is the influence of Middle Eastern perfumery, which is known for its generous use of scent and powerful ingredients—like leather, oud, saffron and amber—as well as attar, a natural perfume oil derived from herbs, spices, barks, flowers in bloom or other plant sources, best applied to pulse points. 'Over the last 30 years, we have seen a progressive increase in perfume concentrations with brands launching intense extract or elixir flankers,' says Aitana. Recent examples of this trend include Jo Loves Pomelo Oud, a vibrant fragrance that combines the zest of grapefruit with the luxurious depth of oud, symbolizing the union of old and new experiences, and D.S. & Durga's Amber Kiso, a striking scent with opening notes of indigenous Japanese cedar, incense and samara cypress that evokes a comforting warmth and soothes the senses, as it contains heart notes of maple, Asahi zuru, patchouli, and iris. Long-lasting scents are another interesting sub-category emerging in this classification. It's an interesting concept where cologne and other fragrances, usually associated with being fresh, light and ethereal, become extreme, powerful and enduring. A good example is 7V Clementine Dream, which, as the founder Barb Stegemann explains on their website, took a year and a half to perfect through extensive lab longevity tests to ensure that the clean citrus scent lasts for 24 hours. 'Our signature 'boomerang' effect delivers an initial burst of bright, juicy citrus, then circles back with warm, grounding notes of cassis, magnolia, and vanilla,' she says. Clementine Dream, The 7 Virtues, a long-lasting fragrance with citrus notes. Brands like Massimiliano Torti blend ancient artisanal techniques to achieve this excellent longevity. They describe individuality as a ritual, layering as an art, and perceive every fragrance as a masterpiece. Their Nektar de Perfume features a high concentration of essential oils (30-40%), which creates a high-impact and prolonged fragrance. Another example is YSL's latest perfume, Muse, a beautiful unisex scent that features ink as its main inspiration and is infused with sensual bourbon vanilla absolute pods. Marie Salamagne, Parfumeur Principal, describes it as a scent where the ink reveals enigmatic woody notes and intimate, elegant smoky facets. 'For me, the ink takes on the colors of creativity and mystery. It stimulates the imagination," she says. The result is what Salamagne calls 'a skin scent that explodes' and what YSL describes as a fragrant tattoo with an impressive trail. When discussing why maximalist fragrances are so in vogue, Jun Lin tells me that, from his perspective, this is the natural next step in the evolution of niche perfumery. He explains that once consumers get a taste for uniqueness, they want more. 'More drama, more intensity, more longevity. Beastmode fragrances are simply a reflection of that appetite,' he says. Jun tells me that the niche world is constantly pushing boundaries, and now we're seeing the rise of louder, wilder, bolder scents as part of that trajectory. Amber Kiso, a maximalist fragrance from D.S. & Durga. There are also several cultural forces converging to make beastmode fragrances so in vogue. Jun tells me that, aside from the Middle Eastern influence, consumers now want a bold presence. On social media platforms, especially on TikTok, the louder the fragrance, the more it gets shared. There's power in a perfume that fills a room, and people want to be part of that moment. He also explains that high-concentration, long-lasting fragrances offer great value, and that if one spray can last all day, it makes sense to invest in them. Finally, he describes fragrance as a way of self-branding. Wearing a bold scent says: 'I'm here, and I know who I am', he tells me, which resonates with some generations, especially younger consumers who want their fragrance to do more than just 'smell nice'. The stronger the fragrance, the more complex its formulation will be, and when selecting a maximalist perfume, you're encouraged to try different options to ensure the fragrance you choose suits your personality. If you're looking for a summer fragrance in this category, you might opt for something modern and evocative, or perhaps you want to make a statement by wearing a fragrance with Middle Eastern influences. Talking to Lin, he explains that a true beastmode perfume should be well-structured. 'It should last, yes, but also evolve, tell a story, and never overwhelm just for the sake of it.' YSL Muse Inspiring Ink, a long-lasting fragrance.
