It can be tricky knowing where to begin when choosing a new fragrance, so I thought I'd share some inspo for that last minute gift or self-treat to wear over the party season. A good starting point place is to think when the perfume will be worn... everyday, special occasion or a head turning signature scent. I've divided these four scents up a little to give you a bit of a steer, though personally I mostly choose by mood, for which there are no strict rules. If I'm feeling a little flat I'll go for something invigorating; if stressed, something soft and soothing... again each of these will be personal tastes and your choices may differ from mine.
EVENING: YSL Black Opium EDT
The YSL Black Opium Collection includes 3 fragrances: the fruity green Eau de Toilette, gourmand floral Eau de Parfum and white floral Nuit Blanche. While I do like all three, I'm most drawn to the Eau de Toilette in its glittering black and rose gold bottle, pictured above. While slightly lighter than the others thanks to a luminous green coffee and jasmine tea, this sits firmly in the evening category for me, perched on a base of patchouli, white woods and musk. While perhaps not for the faint hearted, this is not cloying, but extremely wearable and sophisticated.
SENSUAL: Michael Kors Wonderlust
This is one of those perfumes that has grown on me the more I've worn it and definitely come into its own in colder weather. On me it sits quite close to the skin, is warm, sensual and very feminine, suitable for both day and evening wear. Bergamot, almond milk and cashmere wood are the stand out notes to me... I've previously done a full review here if you'd like to find out more about this one.
EVERYDAY: Clean Reserve Blonde Rose
This is one of the more intriguing scents I've tried and it seems to smell different on everyone. Initially very soft and feminine, the clean notes come through as it settles on the skin. With notes of rose, peony, jasmine, musk and sandalwood, the brand describe this as 'feminine with an edge', which I'd say is spot on. The branding, packaging and presentation box are stunning and together imake this the perfect choice for a gift.
UNISEX: Escentric Molecules Escentric 03
Woody, green and aromatic, the invigorating Escentric 03 is a definite feel-good fragrance. It opens with ginger root, green peppercorn and lime, with orris, jasmine and tea at the heart and a base of vetiver, woods, leather and musk. Much as I enjoy wearing this unisex scent, I think it leans slightly more masculine and hasn't managed to lure me from my old favourite, Escentric 02. A great choice if you fancy sharing!