Latest news with #scent
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.
Vogue Arabia
a day ago
- Business
- Vogue Arabia
This Kuwaiti Perfumer Creates Scents Based on Your Life Story
Imagine that someone is able to capture your essence as a scent in a bottle, and this scent could transport you wherever your heart desires and even to your future self. This ability is the forte of Hassan Al-Sarraf. The Kuwaiti innovator doesn't create perfumes; he creates identities, emotions, impressions, feelings, and movements. 'Perfumery is a language you have to practise in order to be able to speak it. Calling me a perfumer is not my goal; being a creative and a visionary is,' says the Kuwaiti perfumer and creative olfactive director. As one of the most creative perfumers in the industry, it is a given that Al-Sarraf is a trendsetter. 'I want to refine this industry to what I see through my eyes. I can revive companies with my scents and my mind.' Hassan Al-Sarraf Photographed by Sarah Buabbass Al-Sarraf's passion blossomed in childhood. 'I was known as the little boy who smelled everything before eating or drinking,' says the scent mastermind. Al-Sarraf also used to sneak into his father's room and mix the perfumes inspired by the sillage he left behind on his way to work. Today, Al-Sarraf creates scents that stem from his imagination and are later refined by fashion, people, stories, and sentiments. 'Sometimes situations allow me to create a scent in my mind,' adds Al-Sarraf. The perfumer can be inspired at any time of the day, even in his dreams, but reaches his highest level of creativity when listening to Om Kalthoum. 'I feel a scent before I create it; I taste it before I smell it.' With training and certifications from Cinquième Sens in Paris, Grasse Institute of Perfumery in Grasse, the Pratt Institute in NYC, The Institute for Art and Olfaction in Los Angeles, and PerfumersWorld in Bangkok, to name a few, it's no surprise that Al-Sarraf retains high-profile clients from the Kuwait Royal Family to prominent celebrities. To create a custom scent, Al-Sarraf first sends the client a questionnaire. He then studies their lifestyle through social media. Step three requires an in-person meeting to hear the client's stories, sync with their emotions, sympathise with their feelings, and learn their likes and dislikes. Clients visit Al-Sarraf's perfume lounge, where scents are explored while on plush couches surrounded by moody décor and views of Kuwait City. Just behind the wall, out of sight from clients, is Al-Sarraf's bright white laboratory where the magic happens. The last part of this intricate process involves having the client smell his private scent palette. From these series of events, Al-Sarraf begins creating the client's one-of-a-kind scent. He becomes a storyteller and quite literally bottles the client's experiences to create a bespoke scent. This intricate process can take Al-Sarraf anywhere from three hours to three months.
Vogue Arabia
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue Arabia
The Best Floral Perfumes Are More Unique Than You Think
Love 'em or hate 'em, floral perfumes are arguably the most popular fragrance category—and one of the most diverse, according to certified fragrance specialist Eudora Nwasike. That's right, you don't have to opt for something super-sweet or hyper-femme when choosing a floral scent. Blossoming flowers in all variations serve as a versatile base, contrasting and blending numerous notes—from fresh citrus to woody spice—for a scent profile that's far more unique. 'Floral scents just aren't for me,' I've proclaimed countless times, with a raging individualist complex that led me to dislike anything other than hyper-moody, and spice-forward fragrances. Little did I know, florals could be sensual and mysterious, too. It was Merit's Retrospect that turned me into a believer, thanks to senior beauty writer Kiana Murden who encouraged me to try a spritz from the sculptural bottle displayed with reverence on her desk. Senior fashion writer Cortne Bonilla shared in my same scent trepidations, telling me amidst one of our many office yapping sessions, 'I'm not a sweet, floral type of gal—this coordinates with my wardrobe, as well. I prefer a little spice, a little steam.' Color us shocked when we learned that her signature scent, Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Baccarat Rouge 540, is, in fact, a floral variation. Below, discover Vogue's 11 favorite unique floral perfumes to sport this spring and summer, with options for every mood, personality, and carefully curated aesthetic. Best Newcomer: Chanel Chance Eau Splendide Photo: Chanel Why We Love It : Nordstrom's beauty director Autumne West predicts Chanel's latest fragrance launch as one of the most popular scents of this summer. Crafted by perfumer Olivier Polge, Chance Eau Splendide offers crisp fruity notes thanks to raspberry accord. As the scent dries down, blossoming roses and violets are revealed, contrasted by a woody musk. The result? Playful, fresh, but by no means adolescent. : Nordstrom's beauty director Autumne West predicts Chanel's latest fragrance launch as one of the most popular scents of this summer. Crafted by perfumer Olivier Polge, Chance Eau Splendide offers crisp fruity notes thanks to raspberry accord. As the scent dries down, blossoming roses and violets are revealed, contrasted by a woody musk. The result? Playful, fresh, but by no means adolescent. Key Notes: Raspberry accord, rose geranium, violet, white cedar, musk accord Best Moody Rose: Frédéric Malle Portrait of a Lady Parfum Spray Photo: Frédéric Malle Why We Love It : Frédéric Malle's Portrait of a Lady is a moody interpretation of a rose scent. 'One of my personal favourite floral fragrances, this scent announces my presence the moment I enter a room. It's majestic blend of rose, incense, and patchouli creates an aroma that is charming, bold, and undeniably sexy. It's the perfect floral for those who are fearless and assertive,' Nwasike tells Vogue. : Frédéric Malle's Portrait of a Lady is a moody interpretation of a rose scent. 'One of my personal favourite floral fragrances, this scent announces my presence the moment I enter a room. It's majestic blend of rose, incense, and patchouli creates an aroma that is charming, bold, and undeniably sexy. It's the perfect floral for those who are fearless and assertive,' Nwasike tells Vogue. Key Notes: Turkish rose, black currant, naseberry, clove, patchouli, sandalwood, frankincense Best Smokey Jasmine: Diptyque Orphéon Eau de Parfum Photo: Diptyque Why We Love It : Diptyque's bestselling fragrance is an ode to Paris in the '60s. Titled after a local jazz bar of the same name, the Orphéon was filled with interesting creatives and this is an olfactory portrait of the legendary location. The woody fragrance evokes feelings of being immersed in a dimly lit bar lined with burnished dark wooden tables and plush velvet seating. Plus, it's an absolute favourite of Fragrance Foundation Linda Levy and her husband—both known to frequently sport this scent on dates. : Diptyque's bestselling fragrance is an ode to Paris in the '60s. Titled after a local jazz bar of the same name, the Orphéon was filled with interesting creatives and this is an olfactory portrait of the legendary location. The woody fragrance evokes feelings of being immersed in a dimly lit bar lined with burnished dark wooden tables and plush velvet seating. Plus, it's an absolute favourite of Fragrance Foundation Linda Levy and her husband—both known to frequently sport this scent on dates. Key Notes: Juniper berry, cedarwood, tonka bean, jasmine Best Spicy Rose: Matiere Premiere Radical Rose Eau de Parfum Photo: Matiere Premiere Why We Love It : This Matière Premier's perfume is a spice-forward floral scent that's anything but classic and sweet. 'Radical Rose is a dark, sultry rose fragrance featuring rich notes of saffron, patchouli, and pepper. It boasts incredible longevity—lasting up to 12 hours—and leaves behind the most intoxicating scent trail,' says Nwasike. : This Matière Premier's perfume is a spice-forward floral scent that's anything but classic and sweet. 'Radical Rose is a dark, sultry rose fragrance featuring rich notes of saffron, patchouli, and pepper. It boasts incredible longevity—lasting up to 12 hours—and leaves behind the most intoxicating scent trail,' says Nwasike. Key Notes: Chili pepper berries, saffron, rose centifolia absolute, patchouli The Editors' Pick: Merit Retrospect L'Extrait de Parfum Photo: Merit Why We Love It : Soft, clean, highly concentrated, and oh so chic are the immediate words that come to mind when describing Merit's inaugural fragrance, Retrospect. Upon launching this past October, it became an immediate favourite of many Vogue editors. Walking along the open concept office of Vogue HQ at 1 World Trade Center will reveal several Merit perfume bottles at the ready for spritzing. Subtle white florals are blended here with a nuanced base of musk, vanilla, and moss for a second skin sent that boasts up to 12 hours of wear. : Soft, clean, highly concentrated, and oh so chic are the immediate words that come to mind when describing Merit's inaugural fragrance, Retrospect. Upon launching this past October, it became an immediate favourite of many Vogue editors. Walking along the open concept office of Vogue HQ at 1 World Trade Center will reveal several Merit perfume bottles at the ready for spritzing. Subtle white florals are blended here with a nuanced base of musk, vanilla, and moss for a second skin sent that boasts up to 12 hours of wear. Key Notes: Bergamot, pear, ambrette, aldehydes, jasmine, rose, rosemary, violet, orris, vanilla, musk, moss Best Skin Scent Enhancer: Glossier You Fleur Photo: Glossier Why We Love It : The fourth instalment of Glossier's You fragrance portfolio, You Fleur, maintains the same skin scent enhancer promise with a warm, musky base—though this one takes on a floral twist. Mineral salt accord balances with a bouquet of osmanthus and ylang ylang. To keep things from getting too sweet, apricot skin and cashmeran level out the scent, which dries down to something more resinous. : The fourth instalment of Glossier's You fragrance portfolio, You Fleur, maintains the same skin scent enhancer promise with a warm, musky base—though this one takes on a floral twist. Mineral salt accord balances with a bouquet of osmanthus and ylang ylang. To keep things from getting too sweet, apricot skin and cashmeran level out the scent, which dries down to something more resinous. Key Notes: Mineral salt accord, osmanthus, ylang ylang, apricot skin, cashmeran, ambrox Best Sexy Floral: Narciso Rodriguez Musc Noir Rose For Her Eau de Parfum Photo: Narciso Rodriguez Why We Love It : 'Musc Noir by Narciso Rodriguez is a fabulous sexy floral,' Levy previously told Vogue. Think of it as a deeper interpretation of the original For Her fragrance by Rodriguez, with a more sensual edge. The fragrance opens with a burst of rich plum, blending into an array of pink pepper, bergamont, and soft rose. Vogue's senior beauty writer Kiana Murden considers it one of her go-tos. : 'Musc Noir by Narciso Rodriguez is a fabulous sexy floral,' Levy previously told Vogue. Think of it as a deeper interpretation of the original For Her fragrance by Rodriguez, with a more sensual edge. The fragrance opens with a burst of rich plum, blending into an array of pink pepper, bergamont, and soft rose. Vogue's senior beauty writer Kiana Murden considers it one of her go-tos. Key Notes: Plum, pink pepper, bergamot, musk, rose, tuberose, vanilla Best Earthy Lavender: Jo Malone London Amber and Lavender Cologne Photo: Jo Malone London Why We Love It : What you see is quite literally what you get with Jo Malone London fragrances—simple and to the point. There's no decoding the meaning behind each fragrance's name, let alone second guessing the scent profile. Case in point: This resinous fragrance blends French lavender with the aromatic warmth of earthy myrrh. : What you see is quite literally what you get with Jo Malone London fragrances—simple and to the point. There's no decoding the meaning behind each fragrance's name, let alone second guessing the scent profile. Case in point: This resinous fragrance blends French lavender with the aromatic warmth of earthy myrrh. Key Notes: French lavender, petitgrain, myrrh Best Etherial: Parfums de Marly Valaya Eau de Parfum Photo: Parfums de Marly Why We Love It : Described as cloud-like and etherial, Nwasike asserts that Valaya smells like heaven on earth. 'This floral-fruity composition opens with a sweet, bright burst of peach, aldehydes, and bergamot. Soon after, soft white florals bloom against a backdrop of musk, creating a clean, satin-like sensation on the skin. It's a versatile fragrance that feels joyful—and signature scent-worthy,' she says. : Described as cloud-like and etherial, Nwasike asserts that Valaya smells like heaven on earth. 'This floral-fruity composition opens with a sweet, bright burst of peach, aldehydes, and bergamot. Soon after, soft white florals bloom against a backdrop of musk, creating a clean, satin-like sensation on the skin. It's a versatile fragrance that feels joyful—and signature scent-worthy,' she says. Key Notes: Bergamot, mandarin, white peach, orange flower, nymphaea, vetiver, musk Best Leathery Floral: Phlur Rose Whip Photo: Phlur Why We Love It : Opposites attract in Phlur's latest fragrance launch—at the top of the scent profile, a leathery, resinous base contrasts with velvety rose and sweet black currant. While the scent bounds in with an initial boldness, it dries down to something more subtle with gentle musk and osmanthus. : Opposites attract in Phlur's latest fragrance launch—at the top of the scent profile, a leathery, resinous base contrasts with velvety rose and sweet black currant. While the scent bounds in with an initial boldness, it dries down to something more subtle with gentle musk and osmanthus. Key Notes: Pink pepper, black currant, rose, osmanthus, nutmeg, amber, cashmere wood, musk Best Oud: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Mood Extrait de Parfum Photo: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Why We Love It : Another Extrait De Parfum—i.e., a super-long-lasting and intense scent—Oud Satin Mood evokes woody, aromatic, and resinous scents. Nwasike describes it as 'an elegant, sweet, jammy rose paired with powdery violet and a soft touch of oud for depth and sensuality. Look no further if you're searching for a floral fragrance with phenomenal staying power.' : Another Extrait De Parfum—i.e., a super-long-lasting and intense scent—Oud Satin Mood evokes woody, aromatic, and resinous scents. Nwasike describes it as 'an elegant, sweet, jammy rose paired with powdery violet and a soft touch of oud for depth and sensuality. Look no further if you're searching for a floral fragrance with phenomenal staying power.' Key Notes: Violet accord, geranium, rose oil, cinnamon, rose absolute, oud, benzoin, vanilla Everything You Need to Know What scents pair well with florals for a more unique twist? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron 'If you want to avoid a classic, overly sweet or feminine florals, several note families pair well for depth, edge, and contrast,' says Nwasike. Below, she breaks down common note families, to help decipher the scent profile you're after. Citrus Notes : Lemon, mandarin, bergamot : Lemon, mandarin, bergamot Woody Notes : Cedarwood, sandalwood, oud, vetiver, guaiac wood : Cedarwood, sandalwood, oud, vetiver, guaiac wood Green Notes : Maté tea, galbanum, blackcurrant buds, violet leaf : Maté tea, galbanum, blackcurrant buds, violet leaf Ambrée Notes : Vanilla, tonka bean, myrrh, frankincense, labdanum : Vanilla, tonka bean, myrrh, frankincense, labdanum Spicy Notes: Cinnamon, saffron, clove, cardamom, pink pepper, ginger Are spring floral fragrances different from summer floral fragrances? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron Spring and summer florals offer different scent experiences, though they're versatile enough to be worn interchangeably in either season—simply pick your mood. 'Spring florals are delicate, fresh, and airy,' says Nwasike. 'Common flowers include lily of the valley, peony, and iris. These scents evoke a youthful, light-hearted feeling — like a garden just beginning to bloom.' On the hand, Nwasike says summer florals are 'brighter, bolder, and often have a rich, lush quality.' 'They're frequently paired with fruity or tropical notes, creating a sun-drenched, radiant effect on the skin. Key blooms include ylang-ylang, frangipani, and tuberose.' What are the different types of florals? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron Nwasike reminds us that florals are by no means one size fits all in nature. 'The floral family is the largest and most diverse olfactory group,' she explains. Below, Nwasike breaks down the core floral subcategories: Fresh Florals : Lily of the valley, hyacinth, narcissus, freesia : Lily of the valley, hyacinth, narcissus, freesia Cool Florals : Rose, geranium : Rose, geranium Spicy Florals : Carnation, immortelle : Carnation, immortelle Powdery Florals : Violet, heliotrope, mimosa, iris : Violet, heliotrope, mimosa, iris White Florals: Jasmine, tuberose, gardenia, magnolia Meet the Experts AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron Linda G. Levy is president of The Fragrance Foundation. Eudora Nwasike is a certified fragrance specialist by The Fragrance Foundation UK and featured in Forbes, The Business of Fashion, Mr. Porter, and more. Autumne West is the beauty director at Nordstrom. Article originally published on Vogue US
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.
Vogue
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue
The Wedding Day Fragrances Cool People (Lena! Ayesha! Ben! Paris!) Wore
Should you wear a scent on your wedding day? If you want to remember the day vividly for years to come, consider it. For Lena Dunham, writer, actor, director, producer, and 'nauseous girl' who doesn't 'usually wear perfume,' it was a fragrance oil her friend and makeup artist Amanda Grossman mixed up (interestingly, fashion designer Jackson Wiederhoft suggests a couple of drops of peppermint oil on the neck to stay cool during a summer wedding with a 'lovely' scent as a bonus for those that run hot). And for those that need some comfort, consider your everyday pick: So that he could 'feel as much normalcy as possible so I wouldn't get overwhelmed,' the actor, singer, and songwriter Ben Platt chose his go-to Tom Ford Grey Vetiver eau de parfum. Forever the entrepreneur of our generation, Paris Hilton made her own Love Rush scent for her wedding day, and now she tells Vogue that 'every time I wear it, I'm reminded of the pure bliss I felt.' Paris really has a point! Science says it's true since the regions of the brain that process smells and emotional memories are closely linked. While I write this on my own wedding anniversary, I wish I could pick up a bottle and be wafted back in time. As my sister-in-law texted, 'I think smell is the strongest memory-catcher and can conjure up thoughts so quickly.' Perhaps Guerlain perfumer Delphine Jelk could have bottled the bluebonnets that surrounded us: For her own wedding two decades ago, she designed a fragrance to mirror the 'massive bush of jasmine' she carried down the aisle. 'We had a party until five in the morning,' she remembers smelling the jasmine, sea salt, and musky notes as she danced with her husband all night. 'I wanted this fragrance to last.' Below, artists, entrepreneurs, musicians, and all-around stars share the scents they (and, sometimes, their partners!) really wore—and will never forget. Ayesha Curry, founder of Sweet July, married to Steph Curry 'When I picked Cartier's Baiser Volé for my wedding day, I loved the way the bottle looked, but back then it was my way of feeling luxurious without the Love bracelet price tag! All jokes aside, at that time I wanted to feel super feminine that day and embrace the girly girl side of me that never pops out. This has notes of lilies and orchids, which are uber feminine in nature.' Cartier Baiser Volé Eau de Parfum $188 NORDSTROM Lena Dunham, writer, actor, director, producer, and Vogue contributor, married to Luis Felber 'I don't usually wear perfume—other naturally nauseous girls will get it. Soap, shampoo, laundry detergent, moisturizer, SPF, night cream, texturizing spray—how many smells can one body hold? Plus, everyone else's smells??? But on my wedding day, I was with my longtime makeup artist and friend Amanda Grossman, who was at that point creating her own essential oil mix at home. She smells like heaven–a mix between a really airy spa and a cedar chest, two of my favorite vibes—and as I was hyperventilating (not with fear of marriage, but concern that people wouldn't enjoy the party!) she rolled her magical potion on all my pulse points. It's the only fragrance that grounds me and makes me feel more alert and less anxious (even my mom's longtime perfume, magic on her, somehow is all wrong when I spray it on me.) I was doing a lot of sweating and hugging and even outfit changing, and every single guest commented on the scent—which lasted until the wee hours. Lucky for us, she's finally bottled it: e11even Fragrance.' Ben Platt actor, singer, and songwriter, married to Noah Galvin 'I wore Tom Ford Grey Vetiver, like I do every day! I wanted to feel as much normalcy as possible, so I wouldn't get overwhelmed, so it was comforting to spritz myself the exact same way I have every day for almost a decade.' Tom Ford Grey Vetiver Eau de Parfum $240 NORDSTROM Photo Courtesy of 11 Media Paris Hilton, entrepreneur, philanthropist, recording artist, and DJ, married to Carter Reum 'Love Rush is the most personal fragrance I've created—it was made for my wedding day and holds all the memories of that magical moment. Every time I wear it, I'm reminded of the pure bliss I felt, and being able to share it with the world makes it even more unforgettable.' Paris Hilton Love Rush Eau de Parfum $40 $28 AMAZON Dustin Payseur, founder of Beach Fossils, married to Katie Garcia, owner of Bayonet Records Dustin: 'I wore Incense Avignon by Comme des Garçons. I went to Catholic school as a kid, and the smell of church makes me incredibly nostalgic. With frankincense and myrrh, the smell is smoky and sweet, it's serious and quite romantic. We aren't religious, and we didn't get married in a church, but the smell still felt appropriate. It's timeless.' Katie: 'I wore what was my 'signature' scent at the time, the Marc Jacobs classic perfume, which is now sadly discontinued. I loved that the main note in the perfume was gardenia. It held a lot of sentimental meaning for me. My abuelo Alberto used to care for a huge gardenia bush in his backyard when I was a kid. It felt familiar, and that's probably why I gravitated towards the scent in the first place. My abuelo passed away when I was a kid, so wearing a scent that reminded me of him felt like a nice way to honor his memory on our wedding day.' Comme Des Garcons Parfums Incense Avignon Eau de Toilette $120 SSENSE Batsheva Hay, fashion designer for Batsheva, married to Alexei Hay 'Fragrance is my fave accessory. For my wedding, I wore Une Rose by Frederic Malle [now called Rose Tonnerre]. It's a sexy, bold rose that felt really regal and sumptuous to me on that day. I wore my mother's wedding dress! It was a lace dress she bought in Mexico in the 70s. And I wore my grandmother's lace TABLECLOTH as a veil! Alexei wore Dior Eau Sauvage, which his father always wore. I love that scent so much!' Frédéric Malle Rose Tonnerre Parfum Spray $470 NORDSTROM Dior Eau Sauvage Eau de Toilette $130 DIOR Photo: Amy & Stuart Nina Westbrook, licensed marriage and family therapist, married to Russell Westbrook 'I chose a fragrance called Molecule 01. At the time, it was my first 'real adult' luxury fragrance. Every time I wore it, I got compliments, and I felt special knowing that the fragrance and I had created our own unique scent. It certainly made me feel like I was one of a kind on my special day. My husband and I at the time were obsessed with Barneys. We would spend a lot of our afternoons browsing, shopping, or dining there. Eventually, he went on to create a collaboration with Barneys, so I think it all paid off. One day, I was browsing the bottom level of the store, and a woman working one of the counters approached me and asked me to try this fragrance. It turned out to be Molecule 01. I remember the selling points being that it was a fragrance that was supposed to 'smell different on everyone,' and that it was (at the time) exclusively being sold there. I feel like they were at the forefront of the concept of fragrances that worked with your body's natural chemicals to produce your own unique scent. At least, that was the first time I'd heard of that. I was sold! From that day on, I can remember getting compliments and questions about what fragrance I was wearing, and that made me feel really special. 12 years later, I still wear the same fragrance, though I've added one extra to the rotation.' Molecule 01 Eau de Toilette $150 NORDSTROM Megan Louise, singer of Desire, married to Johnny Jewel 'You know this French girl always wears Chloe. I was wearing my Chloe on my wedding day (11 years ago!). We got married at a notary's office quickly during a 24-hour round trip to Montreal. Johnny had gotten a job in LA, and we had to move to the USA. I was a bit of a 90 Day Fiancé for a minute. I wore an emerald green Sando dress, and his wedding ring was Margela. Jackie was our maid of honor, probably wearing her favorite Gap dress. Johnny has always worn Terre D'Hermes, ever since I met him 17 years ago!' Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward, married to Cole Bucy 'I wore Issey Miyake l'eau d'issey to my wedding. I was initially attracted to it because of its fresh crispness. As I have returned to it many times over the years, the hints of peonies and white roses remind me of being surrounded by my loved ones and, yes, flowers at my wedding almost 20 years ago. I wear a range of scents and am always trying new things, but on difficult days, I still find myself spraying a bit of this scent to ground me in the good times.' Issey Miyake L'Eau d'Issey Eau de Parfum $132 NORDSTROM Maria McManus, founder of her eponymous fashion label, married to Mark Gibson 'I got married in 2007, years before Instagram and the pressure of performative, photo-perfect weddings. My friend made my dress, I did my own hair and makeup, made my own flower bouquet, and wore Chanel Chance, as that was my go-to fragrance at that time. Now I am a devout wearer of Frama's Beratan.' Lais Ribeiro, model, married to Joakim Noah 'I wore Costa Brazil Aroma. The scent reminds me so much of Brazil. When I wear it, I can just close my eyes and feel the fresh smells of Rio de Janeiro in the summer. Joakim wore Jean Paul Gaultier. Since I met him, he has never wanted to change cologne.' Costa Brazil Aroma Eau de Parfum $198 BLUE MERCURY Jean Paul Gaultier Le Male Eau de Toilette $98 SEPHORA Jonathan Simkhai, fashion designer for Simkhai, married to TJ Allers 'For our wedding, I layered Molecule 01 and Escentric 2, I love this brand because the scents are light and crisp, and Molecule 01 is said to be an aphrodisiac.' Lulu Prat, founder of Bodega Cakes, married to Ryan Naideau 'On the wedding day, I wore Diptyque's L'Ombre dans L'Eau. It's technically rose and blackcurrant, but to me it smells deeper and woodsier than that—like wildflowers in a forest. We got married upstate, on top of a hill, surrounded by trees, with the reception in an open-air pavilion. But going against the natural backdrop, the theme was full Vegas chapel fantasy: six-foot-tall rose sculptures, gold cupids, hearts everywhere. I loved that the perfume mirrored that mix—wild nature and big romantic drama. I didn't pick it to match the day—if anything, the day matched the perfume. Or really, it matched me: part bright pink and red Vegas fantasy, part laid back middle of nowhere woods. And our wedding was exactly that! My husband, Ryan, wore Mondo Mondo's Cowboy—another scent he wore a lot when we first started dating, and one that instantly takes me back to that time. It's earthy and warm, with notes like honeysuckle, leather, grass, and cedarwood—a mix that smells like sunbathing in the grass after a swim. It's playful and youthful, and to me, it captures the energy Ryan brings into our relationship. That was the feeling we wanted to create for the weekend, carefree, slightly chaotic, full of dancing and running around barefoot with our friend, and I love that his scent carried it into the day.' Azeeza Khan, designer of Azeeza, married to Rehan Khan 'I wore Ralph Lauren Romance… befitting for a Romance that has lasted 15 years, which is 100 years of marriage in this day and age. It was my 'college scent' and felt very nostalgic... I haven't actually smelled it in so long, I need to get a bottle! Rehan wore Dior Homme.' Victoria de La Fuente, co-founder of DOOMSCROLLR, married to Adam Ayers 'Fragrance-wise, I oscillate between two scent personalities: French Lover and Portrait of a Lady—it depends entirely on the mood du jour. If I'm feeling daring and need that extra lift, I'll layer a thin veil of Molecule 01, because a bit of pheromone magic never hurt anyone, right? For my wedding, I wore Portrait of a Lady layered with Molecule 01. It felt regal yet playful, sophisticated enough for vows but whimsical enough for a garden ceremony. The subtle addition of Molecule 01 added that perfect, quietly sexy touch. My husband, Adam, and I eloped at San Ysidro Ranch with just two of our closest friends. Adam went classic in Issey—clean, chic, timeless. His fragrance choice says everything about him: he's been loyal to that Issey perfume since his teenage years.' Frédéric Malle Portrait of a Lady Parfum Spray $295 NORDSTROM Molecule 01 Eau de Toilette $150 NORDSTROM Issey Miyake L'Eau d'Issey Eau de Toilette Spray $95 NORDSTROM Gia Kuan, founder of Gia Kuan Consulting, married to Anatoly Kirichenko 'I tend to mix and match my scents, but I think on my wedding, I was wearing a blend of an Aesop fragrance (Rozu) blended with a Comme des Garçons Hinoki one to lean into a floral woody scent. I want to say Anatoly was also wearing a CDG fragrance—he always wears it, it's the Comme 3 Eau de Toilette.'
