On The Scent
On The Scent
Nicola Bonn & Suzy Nightingale
On The Scent is the podcast destination for anyone fascinated by fragrance (or keen to learn more) – a place where perfume snobbery is stripped away, and fragrance is accessible to all. What began as a monthly sniff-in on the Outspoken Beauty Podcast soon became so popular in its own right (and with so many listeners sending in questions and asking for more) that On the Scent just had to go weekly - this time on its own perfumed platform! Encompassing everything from icons and all-time classics to what’s new on the high street to the more ‘niche’ indie brands; Beauty broadcaster and columnist Nicola Bonn and award-winning fragrance journalist and expert Suzy Nightingale give personalised perfume prescriptions, describe fragrances in such an intoxicating way you can almost smell them and help navigate the thousands of scents out there to find the truly incredible ones. Also expect interviews with well-known figures, delving into their favourite scents of all time and opportunities to get to know some of the most exciting perfumers in the world. Whether you’ve a collection of 500+ or are just starting on your scent journey, olfactory obsessives Nicola & Suzy are on a mission to find you fragrances that don’t simply smell good, but will re-connect you to long forgotten memories, engage your emotions and very likely blow your mind.
Season 8, Episode 3: Posh bananas, burning roses & perfume blending!
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-magazineNow, 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, cucumberHeart Notes: red rose, magnolia, peonyBase Notes: incense, birch, opoponax, patchouli, vetiver, caramelMoschino 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 notessaffron accord, nutmeg Indonesia, fresh gingerHeart notescoffee extract, cedarwood, akigalawoodBase notescistus concrete, vetiver oul, myrrh resinoidLiz 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 • MuskFrom £40 for 7.5ml8.7°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 parfumNadira 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 parfumDiscovery Set: £25 for x3 samplesPurchase the collection for £25 — this is fully redeemable against a future purchase of any 75ml fragrance once you’ve chosen your favourite.https://lizastor.comElix 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 Kithttps://www.elixfragrance.comListener 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 ParisComposed 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 adornedwith violet and incense. Musk and white cedar form its base.’Top Notes: neroli, pear and green mandarin;Heart Notes: iris, violet and incenseBase Notes: musk and white cedar extract.€42 for 100ml eau de toilette4160 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
Jul 2
46 min
Season 8, Episode 2: Some of THE best affordable fragrances we’ve ever smelled + a Listener Prescription
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&amp;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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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&amp;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&amp;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&amp;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&amp;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: AmberSheer Musk This Sheer Musk eau de parfum from M&amp;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: MuskThey really are knocking it out of the park at M&amp;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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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 &amp; arm massage at selected stores (Cambridge, Southwold, Lambs Conduit St London, Woodbridge, Aldeburgh &amp; Holt] by booking online, here:https://tinyurl.com/Norfolk-Natural-Living-MassageListener 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 MagazineTo purchase a print issue of the first issue of On The Scent Magazine follow this link to order yours (delivery worldwide):<a...
Jun 25
56 min
Bonus Subscriber Episode - Scents For Sleeping In A Heatwave
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 BasilHeart Notes: Lavender and RosemaryBase Notes: Neroli (orange blossom) and Petitgrain+ Eau de Cologne Tissues+ Eau de Cologne Cool StickGuerlain 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, PASSIONFRUITMIDDLE: COASTAL LAVENDER, OCEAN AIR, MARINE SALTBOTTOM: AMBER MILK, VIRGINIA CEDAR,AUSTRALIAN SANDALWOOD.’Roos &amp; 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 &amp; 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 doesHelps 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 &amp; restless legs Ideal after workouts, desk days, or long flights.Soothes migraines &amp; 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 itMagnesium 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 itFor 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.’
Jun 25
32 min
Season 8, Episode 1: Bespoke Floris fragrance, Chanel’s symbolism & what we’re wearing
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/u84518038Meanwhile, 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/florisbespokeBDK 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 MicrodelirioAll 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 &amp; 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
Jun 19
1 hr 14 min
Season 7, Episode 41: On The Scent Revisits Alice du Parcq Part 2
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
Jun 11
56 min
Season 7 Ep 40 - On The Scent Revisits Alice du Parcq (Part 1)
In this episode we’re thrilled to welcome our first guest & who better than 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)
Jun 4
1 hr
Season 7 Ep 39 -On The Scent Revisits: Sali Hughes
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 (https://www.beautybanks.org.uk) Read Sali’s books: Pretty Honest https://tinyurl.com/PrettyHonest (https://tinyurl.com/PrettyHonest) Pretty Iconic https://tinyurl.com/PrettyIconic (https://tinyurl.com/PrettyIconic)
May 28
56 min
Season 7, Episode 38: Barnes Fragrance Fair Recap and What We Can’t Stop Sniffing
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 HeartBased in Tunbridge Wells, founder Jay says “Moving from India to the UK in mytwenties, I do miss the immersive sensory joys found in everyday Indian culture.Sourcing and working with traditional Indian materials connects me to mychildhood—scented trips down memory lane!”Opening notes - red mandarin and grapefruitHeart notes - jasmine, ylang ylang, green grass and saffronBase notes – sandalwood, fruity musk, oudh“You slip on your fine silk robe, gorgeously patterned with tropical birds, andquietly pad along the hallway to the bathroom. Closing the heavy wooden doorwith a sigh of relief, you lean over the sparkling slipper bath, slide the plug inand 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 theroar 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 oftenwhat you crave.Your eyes glance along the rich turquoise tiled shelf as you ponder how to scentyour watery sanctuary. Antique crystal jars hold delicately fragrant floralsalts—you carefully lift their lids- one by one - and their enchanting perfumesmingle with the steam. But they’re perhaps not exactly what you’re in the moodfor.A waxed paper tablet of old-fashioned, handmade soap sits demurely at theend of the shelf. Fresh, brand new and unopened. Your fingertips softly caressthe crackling paper as you carefully unwrap it and the dense, creamy pebbledrops into your silken lap.You dip your hands briefly in the warm bath water and rotate the smooth soap inyour 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 Scottishperfumer Euan McCall. Jorum creates modern, poetic fragrances that capture thebeauty of nature with an unconventional spirit. Designing and manufacturing allproducts in-house, Jorum Studio celebrates the craft of perfumery using only thepurest quality materials in truly unique and creative ways.’ (Based in Edinburgh,now with a store in London, too.)‘ImpressionDouglas fir, Pear, Cypress, Mastic, Petitgrain, Bigarade, Carrot, Angelica seed.FadeNerium Oleander, Pearwood, Olive, Neroli, Orange Flower absolute, Ambretteseed.‘Sculptural sunbeams filter through the breaks in gauzy linen, air is cool,carrying the bittersweet embrace of seasonal citrus and the brightness of soapon fabric and skin. Crisp, clean and radiant. Risso awakens with the coolambience of majestic Douglas Fir and bracing Cypress oils, evoking the hush ofdawn. Pear and Bigarade bring bright clarity, where expressive citrus meetsdelicious soft-fruit sweetness. The centrepiece: a gilded rush of vibrant Neroliand delicate Orange Flower Absolute, bringing a fusion of enduring luminosity.’NEUNÉRE When All Things Were DivineFounded in London 2025 by Alina Rosu. Her path led her from the foundationaldiscipline of the Grasse Institute of Perfumery to a Master&amp;#39;s degree in FragranceFormulation. Alina says: “We live in the moment, just not this one. This perfumeis about the bittersweet nature of nostalgia.”‘It opens with crisp notes of cut grass and green tea, followed by the bitternessof Galbanum Oil. The heart is a soft infusion of Orris Butter and Orange BlossomAbsolute. It settles into a dry-down of honey and Benzoin from Laos, contrastedby mossy notes.Featuring: cut grass, watery notes, green tea, galbanum resinoid, orange flowerabsolute, orris root butter, philadelphus/mock orange, honey, benzoin siamresinoid, moss, Ambrofix™’To the Fairest CécileCécile, entwines luminous bergamot and mandarin with powdery softness atopthe warmth of amber and a tingle of clove bud, the rose rippled through with anairy creaminess that wafts beguilingly.Top Notes: bergamot, mandarinHeart Notes: rose absoluteBase Notes: amber, clove budSuzy 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 couldeasily wear any of them instead of a fragrance! Made using organic argan oilextract, this quick-drying formula leaves skin luminous and delicately scented.Beaufort London Fathom V Director’s CutTo commemorate a decade of Fathom V we have produced a limited edition‘Directors Cut’ EXTRAIT version of the scent: the ‘big green beast’ reimagined inan ultra-strong variant at a 150% higher oil inclusion. This ‘extended’ versionbrings to life the more muted aspects of the original and is incredibly powerfuland extremely long-lasting.Each all-black bottle is individually numbered, with the edition running to only1000 pieces worldwide. Each box contains a hand-signed note of authenticity.Top Notes: Juniper, Blackcurrant, Green Leaves, AquaticCrisp green cut stem brightness open, darkened with earth.Heart Notes: Lily, Jasmine, CuminLush white flowers bloom at the heart.Base Notes: Vetiver, Moss, Salt, Atlas CedarSalted woods, moss and vetiver leave a deep mineral resonance.Perfumer: Julie MarloweRather greedily, Suzy really wanted to choose Maya Njie Aethi Opum becauseshe’s been utterly obsessed with it since smelling Jo’s bottle, but Alice hadchosen that. AND she wanted to choose Olfiction ICONIC, but Alice had chosenthat, 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’shad a chance to get her nose on them.)Nicola’s been falling in love with wearing Juliette Has a Gun Not a Perfume allover again, for its pleasing, easy-to-wear character when worn alone, and for itsability to coax beguiling intricacies from other scents while also boosting theirlongevity.Another new launch Suzy’s obsessed by is Essential Parfums Ambre Latteby Jordi Fernández“I envisioned Ambre Latte as a highly addictive overdose of my favourite amberwoods wrapped in a delicious swirl of almond milk. Infused with caramel, tonka,vanilla, and benzoin, this creamy haze lends the amber structure an irresistibleand unforgettable signature. A fragrance that draws you in… and keeps youclose.&amp;quot;‘With Ambre Latte, Jordi Fernandez offers a unique and exquisitely refined takeon indulgence.​ The fragrance unfolds in a vaporous cloud of almond milk,delicately infused with roasted tonka bean.​ Indulgence settles in — irresistibleyet perfectly controlled — as a luscious dulce de leche caramel melts into theenveloping softness of vanilla, benzoin and white musks.​Very soon, the fragrance reveals its duality. Beneath the milky caress emergesan intensely addictive woody-amber alchemy. Ambrofix, Georgywood,Akigalawood and white sandalwood structure the composition, infusing it withdepth, sophistication and modernity. They extend the trail with sensual richness,leaving an unforgettable imprint — the perfect balance between gourmandiseand addiction.’Escentric Molecules Cologne OneSuzy described this as feeling like a Cologne that’s been whizzed up in a SodaStream machine! The brand says: ‘Cologne One captures the freshness of a ginand 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, atouch of bergamot and mandarin, a whisper of ginger for a delicate spiciness,and a hint of cucumber’s neutrality to enhance the crispness without becomingliteral. It is freshness concentrated, transparent, and immediate.The heart remains understated: iris, rose, and hedione offer just enoughstructure 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 atrace of musk. Nothing competes, nothing distracts.“We have a very different approach to fragrance, so our first cologne capturesthe very unique and wonderful freshness of a gin and tonic. I think it&amp;#39;s quite newwith that sort of freshness. It&amp;#39;s the idea of the sparkling, effervescent gin andtonic first scent, this sort of your nose in the drink,” says perfumer Geza Schoen.Cologne One is a cologne reimagined by Escentric Molecules: 15% concentrationfor lasting freshness without leaving an overwhelmingly fragrant impression. It isrefreshing, refined, and gender-neutral....
May 21
42 min
Season 7, Episode 37 Hello Sunshine & Hope
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 pepperHeart notes: orris pallida concrete, gaiacwoodBase notes: musk, Virginian cedarwood, cashmere wood accordBuongiorno 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, aldehydesHeart notes: fresh cotton accord, orris pallida butter, hedioneBase notes: musk, ambrette butter, ambroxeBuongiorno 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, orangeHeart notes: lemon wood accord, fig wood accord, hedioneBase notes: musk, Virginian cedarwood, cistus absoluteBuongiorno 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 lemonHeart notes: bran wheat absolute, ginger, benzoin gumBase notes: musk, sandalwood, peru balsam resinoidBuongiorno 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, petitgrainHeart notes: orange flower water absolute, neroli, angelicaBase notes: musk, white wood accord, co-distillation Virginia cedarwood &amp; olibanum extractCoty 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 floralMain notes: orange blossom, neroli, vetiverFarina 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 WoodlandA 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 PrimroseDefinitely 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&amp;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.’
May 14
58 min
Season 7, Episode 36: Classic Scents Remixed & Reinvented
On The Scent Podcast Season 7, Episode 36: Classic Scents Remixed &amp; ReinventedChanel N°5 Eau de ToiletteHoused 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 ParfumThe 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 &amp; Durga Debaser In BloomReimagining 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. &amp; 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 &amp; 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. @manforhimselfPhill Tarling - 'The Image Coach', menswear stylist @philltarlingJimi Oketunji - 'Aromajayy' - fragrance &amp; fashion content creator @aromajayyAll remaining tickets for talks are available here:https://www.barnesfragrancefair.com/talks-workshops-26
May 7
42 min
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