In this episode we’re partnering with Estée Lauder for the first in a new series: Fragrant Focus. This is where we take our time exploring a single scent - smelling it together and sharing our thoughts. And we have an exciting GIVEAWAY for you to enter! Listen and read on to find out how to enter, hear our reviews of Glimmer, and the beautiful inspiration behind its launch.We have a plethora of exciting new launches to tell you about, from niche names, designer and heritage houses alike. But we begin with an emotional journey to capture the scent of something very special to Suzy…MANE Dad’s RoseSuzy got very emotional about this olfactory delivery, as MANE - a fragrance creation house in the U.K. who’ve made scents for some of the biggest brands out there - managed to capture the scent of a rise her father planted for her when she was a little girl. One of MANE’s standout innovations is their ‘Jungle Essence™’ technology. In some ways similar to ‘headspace’ captures of previously unusable materials in perfumery, these essences are utterly unique and exclusive to MANE. And to see it in action is just MIND BLOWING!Jungle Essence™ is a patented, eco-friendly scent and flavor extraction technology created by the fragrance house MANE. It uses supercritical carbon dioxide (CO₂) to capture the exact, true-to-life aroma of a raw material—whether it is a spice used in men's cologne, a flower, or wood—without using harsh chemical solvents or high heat. You can hear all about the process in a special Patron only extra episode on patreon.com (search for ‘On the Scent podcast’ to find us)Penhaligon’s The Manoeuvres of The BaronessSuzy and Nicola got very excited about this latest character in the Portraits collection (and it’s an orange blossom - one of the notes they regularly swoon over!) Key notesOrange Blossom, Chantilly, Sandalwood‘Collector of secrets and quiet conspiracies, the Baroness has always ruled from the shadows. Orange blossom sparkles with influence next to Chantilly. A whispered order of sandalwood. She doesn’t outrun danger; she outsmarts it.’Jil Sander collectionBoth Suzy & Nicola were hugely impressed by the latest Jil Sander fragrances, and these were Suzy’s two favourites:Lily‘Caught by surprise by an enchanting perfume on a warm Florentine night.Lilies are white, sensual flowers that primarily release their fragrance after sunset.In Jil Sander Lily the aldehydes bring the flower's metallic, blooming facets to life, while the floral power of the CO₂ extracted Jasmine Sambac, the warmth of Benzoin from Vietnam, and the verticality of the upcycled Cypress structure and balance this luscious, radiant fragrance.This new majestic Floral White Flower fragrance magnifies the ephemeral into a lasting form.’Mahogony:‘The supreme energy of a tropical forest captured into a scent.For the depths of its hues where red turns to black, mahogany is one of the most fascinating trees.Jil Sander Mahogany pays homage to this exceptional expression of nature in a fragrance that fuses upcycled Cedarwood with the profound leathery facets of Cypriol from India, the fizzy, spicy notes of CO₂ extracted Ginger, and the aldehydes.A rich and sophisticated Woody Leathery fragrance that raises mahogany to new heights.’Nicola was so impressed by how realistic the Jil Sander Sesame was (though admits she may not be brave enough to wear it yet), while Suzy thought it was cosy and comforting.French Cowboy Mezcal Chocolate (available at Wild Iris)Suzy continues to be wowed by this exciting new niche house, and cannot wait for cooler weather in which to indulge in this one.‘Mezcal Chocolat is fueled by extraordinary raw materials. It hits like a shot of mezcal: it opens with a sparkling Lime Oil, sharpened by Olibanum from Somalia for smoky depth. To push it further, our perfumer added an ultra-rare Rhum extract (as costly as some of perfumery’s finest Iris!).Instead of just a synthetic cacao accord, Mezcal Chocolat goes all in on Cacao Absolute: the most precious form of cocoa, used here in unprecedented amounts. Its creaminess melts into a bed of woods: Virginia Cedarwood, prized for its soft smoky creaminess, and Cypriol Oil from India, adding shadow, depth, and a dark, earthy glow.’Byredo Future MemoriesAnother fascinating take on vanilla, and our hosts both adored the juicy blackcurrant note balance g the sweetness here. ‘Byredo captures the tension between now and next: an invitation to live fully, to choose deliberately, to imprint the present with intention. Held like a quiet mantra at the back of the mind, one question remains: What do you choose today, to remember tomorrow?A scent crafted like a memory in motion. The fragrance opens with the vivid green freshness of galbanum, illuminated by the juicy brightness of blackcurrant and a veil of aldehydes that diffuse light through the composition. At its heart, powdery iris unfolds alongside warm, resinous labdanum, creating a textured impression that settles gently onto the skin. In the base, vanilla emerges in full, enriched by Ambrofix and an intimate veil of musks lingering on the skin as a subtle trace of what remains.Top Notes: Galbanum essence, blackcurrant accord, and fresh aldehydes for a bright, sparkling, and green start.Heart Notes: Iris butter, labdanum resinoid, orange blossom, and white vanilla accord providing powdery floral warmth.Base Notes: Madagascar vanilla CO2, vanilla liqueur accord, Ambrofix, and sensual musks.’Nishane Thorns Become RosesWhen a rose is velvety and gorgeous but still displays its sharpness… This is by Julien Rasquinet, and inspired by the Rumi quote "With love, thorns become roses"‘Thorns Become Roses is a contemporary, contrast-driven rose that embodies transformation, evolving from a vivid, luminous opening into an intense floral heart, and settling into a deep, enveloping woody amber trail. Crafted as an extrait de parfum, it redefines the rose through a balance of tension and softness, offering a structured yet sensual and evolving olfactive experience.Lychee and raspberry, luminous and vibrant, meet the metallic sharpness of saffron and cardamom, evoking the harsh brilliance of noon light on Petra’s cliffs.At its heart, Turkish rose unfolds with dense, velvety depth, held in contrast by the green-leathery facets of violet leaf and the powdery softness of mimosa. A rose both thorned and tender, asserting its beauty through contrast.The base settles into a mineral, enduring trail of amberwood and patchouli, softened by creamy sandalwood. Here, tension gives way to a quiet radiance, neither sweet nor austere, but balanced, tactile, and lasting.Top Notes: lychee, raspberry, saffronHeart Notes: rose, mimosa, blackcurrantBase Notes: patchouli, amberwood, aetoxylon’FRAGRANT FOCUS:AD: Estée Lauder GlimmerExtraordinarily, this is the first new main line fragrance for 12 years, and the first ever gourmand style fragrance for the house! But Suzy and Nicola think that unmistakable Lauder DNA shines through. Indeed, this a scent that celebrates shining - finding your own light and the things that lift you every single day.Dominique Ropion, Anne Flipo and Jean-Marc Chaillan are the incredible perfumers.Top Notes: raspberry, orange blossom, milk mousse and mandarinHeart Notes: Cashmeran, macarons, vanilla and roseBase Notes: amber, tonka bean, sandalwood, patchouli and cedarwood.Bright, sparkling and mouthwatering. Fruity-rosy raspberry, a fresh lift of mandarin, and a soft orange flower glow.Warmer and more enveloping. Macaron Rose Accord comes forward with its gourmand impression, wrapped in the radiant depth of Amber Embrace Accord and Shimmering Patchouli, with a smooth, skin-warmed softness.The fragrance settles into a lingering, addictive trail, a glowing blend of Amber, Patchouli, Woods and Tonka Bean notes. Still warmed by a whisper of sweetness that stays close and feels unforgettable.Estée Lauder says:This is the fragrance for life’s most extraordinary moments. It’s a scent not just to be worn, but to be felt, remembered, and shared. Because when you find what makes you glimmer, it lights up everyone around you.For the full sizes, a beautiful rectangular bottle embodies femininity and strength. Sculpted semi-circles catch and reflect each ray of light. A circular gold-tone cap adds a luminous finish.Travel Size:The Travel Size is a deluxe mini fragrance spray. Perfect for on the go, to gift to a friend, or to try for the first time. 10ml travel size £25Also comes in 30ml, 50ml & 100mlGIVEAWAY:We have a full size bottle of Glimmer to giveaway - see the post on our Instagram to enter!How to enter: Follow both @onthescentpodcast and @esteelauderuk on Instagram, then like and comment on the giveaway post on our Instagram account. That’s it!Entries must be made before 8.00 pm BST on Thursday, 3 September 2026. Because of delivery restrictions we can only accept entries from U.K. residents.Terms...

We’re hanging on to summer with the fragrance launches discussed, and in what we’re wearing this week, but there is a noticeable change in the weather here in the U.K. There have even been sightings of socks, jackets, cardigans and knee-high boots on the streets! A week ago, such items were unthinkable, but now we’re almost looking forward to the seasons changing again. ALMOST, but not quite yet. Not when there’s a plethora of new perfume discoveries to delve in to (many of which will prove incredibly versatile in cooler weather anyway, we feel). Quite apart from some exquisite new fragrant finds to welcome Nicola back from holiday with, we’ve two more of your utterly brilliant Listener Prescriptions to answer, and an exciting update from Madeline – the musician / vineyard worker / medal-winning fighter we helped find new fragrances for last week! In this week’s episode we discuss: Jo Malone London Sea Salt & Bergamot‘Plunge into the exhilarating surf of the Celtic Sea. Immersed in the wild waters, every wave carries a fresh minerality. Joining a burst of bergamot, driftwood anchors this sea-salt fresh scent. Experience the untamed beauty of the British coast. Top Note: bergamot(Brightens with its sparkling, citrus freshness) Heart Note: sea salt(The crunchy nature of sea salt accord brings both texture and a sense of freshness and purity to the heart of the fragrance) Base Note: driftwood(Suffused with the saltiness of the sea, this accord brings a light woodiness to the fragrance)’ Jo Malone London Iris & White Musk Cologne Intense (recommend to listener in last week’s episode seeking clean / soapy iris fragrances!) Harrods ‘The Iris and White Musk Cologne Intense from Jo Malone London is a light and airy scent that’s perfect for everyday use. It marries powdery iris with creamy white musk, resulting in a distinctive aroma that’s ideal for layering with other fragrances but can also be worn alone.’ Ex Nihilo Demon Dancer (Harrods)‘Ex Nihilo recreates the defiant freedom of dance in motion.Inviting you to move to your own rhythm, Ex Nihilo’s Demon Dancer is a call for ‘unapologetic self-expression’. Inspired by contemporary dance performance, the fragrance ignites an inner fire through energetic fruity notes that flow with freeing freshness and grounded intensity. Top Notes: rhubarb, bergamot, peppermint, blood orangeHeart Notes: orange blossom, blackcurrantBase Notes: georgywood, akigalawood, ambrofix, musks, tonka bean.’ Une Nuit Nomade Sun Bleached ‘Clean Linen Accord • White Flowers • Bergamot •Ambrette AbsoluteMuscat, the capital of the Sultanate of Oman, also known as the White City. The sun drowns the immaculate walls with its rays. It is a bright light that makes eyes squint. Omanis wander the streets, elegantly wearing their dishdashas, a long white tunic decorated with a pom-pom that is delicately dipped in perfume. 'Sun Bleached' is adorned with freshness, in an accord of clean linen, white flowers and a zesty flight of citrus fruits as if biting into a piece of orange, with white musks and sandalwood rounding off its explosiveness.’ Connock London Pelago‘A sun-drenched Mediterranean fragrance with bright citrus and aromatic herbs, evoking the warmth of golden afternoons along sunlit shores. Top Notes: orange, bergamot, lemon, mandarin, grapefruit.Heart Notes: rosemary, neroli, petitgrain.Base Notes: amber, vetiver.’ Roger & Gallet Neroli Solid Perfume ‘Discover your Néroli Wellbeing Fragrant Water in a new solid format to put on the neck, the neckline and the wrists. An alcohol-free perfume merging soflty with the skin. A new way to boost and facet your trail all day long. Enriched with rose essential oil, known for its relaxing benefits, the solid fragrance is a real caress onto the skin. Its rich and unctuous texture with vegetal waxes encapsulates the olfactive notes and keep the trail longer. A small and nomad format with an addictive gesture, to bring everywhere, wherever you are.’ French Cowboy Pear Pavlova‘Almond, Ambrette Seeds, Jasmine, Meringue, Pear, Pink Pepper, Powdery Musk, Vanilla. Ashley Santiago is the youngest perfumer at Givaudan and the co-founder of French Cowboy. California-born with Mexican-Caribbean roots, she honed her craft in Paris, New York & Singapore: blending global flavour with French savoir-faire.’ PERFUME PRESCRIPTIONS: Update from Madeline (the musician / vineyard worker / medal-winning fighter from last week’s Correspondence Special episode): ‘OH MY GOODNESS GRACIOUS!!Suzy and Nicola thankyou so so sooooo much for my prescription!!When I saw that you had dropped a new episode WITH MY NAME IN THE NOTES I screamed!!!! It's perfect perfect PERFECT beyond words.I have already ordered a bottle of the Map Of Hearts Valour and I am currently hunting for samples of the others you both suggested!!I CANNOT wait to let you know how I go, l am so so sooooo excited to try them all!!’ (If we don’t have time this week: NEXT WEEK’S EPISODE, another Perfume Prescription special?) Jessi - aka @grotesquex_o‘hi suzy and nicola, the day that you answered my cave perfume prescription was one of the best days of my life. i was hiking around the forest on a break at the museum in san francisco where i work, squealing and reveling in our shared zeal! ill remember the feeling forever. although i havent gotten my nose on that perfect perfume you found just yet, my sister and boyfriend know exactly what to get me for Christmas… I’m writing to you humbly with the hope of another perfume prescription. i love cold incense perfumes, and found that my favorites (andrea maack craft and CDG avignon) have a chlorine note (to my nose at least, tho unlisted) that i crave. like the way your skin and hair smell after a swim in the pool, not the smell of sunscreen or tropical fruits that so often characterizes pool culture-inspired perfumes. are there any other cold, chlorinated, incense perfumes you love?’ Suzy’s Answer: Serge Lutens L’Eau Froide‘By Christopher Sheldrake. The fragrance features Sea water, Pepper, Mint, Musk, Incense, Olibanum, Ginger and Vetiver.’‘"The situation was too hot for me to handle.” or “A chill ran down my spine.” I simply applied a similar concept to an Eau. The hero of this story is a tree during the dog days of summer. If an incision is made in its trunk, "tears of glass" come out. Without air conditioning, the heat would kill it. Frankincense helps this scent preserve an icy cool." - a note from the brand.’ Bibbi Swimming Pool‘By Jérôme Epinette. Top notes are mint, basil and Ginger; middle notes are Eucalyptus and Geranium; base notes are Blonde Woods, Grass, White Wood, Ambroxan and Light Amber. You completely forget about time and space when you swim in the pool. The water forces you to go through all the darkest hours and brightest moments of your life. After swimming in the pool, you will be forever changed and have an intense basil-like scent stuck to your skin forever.’ Heretic Nosferatu‘SMELLS LIKE: An encounter with an apparition in the cold, damp caves of Count Orlok's castle.’‘In partnership with Nosferatu and Focus Features, Heretic is proud to present Nosferatu Eau de Macabre, a fragrance inspired by the iconic vampire. A chilling scent of wilting lilacs, velvety vegan ambergris and strikes of lightning that fill the air with petrichor and electricity—It's both delicate and hedonistic. Samples available.Top Notes: lilac, ambretteHeart Notes: petrichor, violet absolute, orris concrete, cypriolBASE: vegan ambergris, oudh, labdanum.’ Pip:‘Hi Suzie and Nicola. I’m looking for a perfume prescription. I’ve had a bit of a rollercoaster year, my partner and I were lucky enough to have a little boy together after IVF and it’s been a really incredible (though exhausting!) time. One of my oldest and dearest friends died a month before we had him and there’s not a day that goes by where I don’t think about her. I’m incredibly sad that we never got to share any of our boy mum moments together. She was always so positive though and down to earth, and I want to remember her with happiness, as well as have a comforting fragrance that will make me think of my little boy when he’s older and him of me. My memories of my friend when we were growing up together are scented with incense, books and the sticky floors of rock bars! I like vanilla, sandalwood and scents that have a bit of smoke. Thanks so much and thank you for keeping me company on my particularly sleep deprived days, I love listening to you both! Pip x’ Suzy’s answer: The Perfumer’s Story Old Books by Azzi ‘Character: intelligent, eccentric, rock &...

We cannot tell you how much we LOVE receiving your questions and requests for‘perfume prescriptions’ (something we’ve always specialised in at On the ScentPodcast – it brings us such joy being able to match people to perfumes they’dperhaps never tried or even heard of). And we get a LOT of DMs@onthescentpodcast on Instagram, and messages on our On the Scent privateFacebook group, so here we are dedicating an episode to do a deep dive on twofascinating fragrant conundrums...Sometimes the prescription requests we get are to help find a ‘replacement’ for abeloved signature scent that’s since been discontinued – to which we say, there’sprobably never going to be an exact match, but we can definitely guide you towardtrying some scents that match the vibe, the feeling that fragrance gave you whenyou wore it, and the way it slotted into your life like a puzzle piece. We also get alot of requests for very specific scenarios, sometimes quite abstract themes orintimate moments our listeners are seeking to scent! But when we think aboutthem more broadly, there’s ways of applying these scenarios (and the things thelistener needs to take from them: strength, motivation, comfort, energy...) toaspects of our own lives.In this correspondence special, we begin with some lovely feedback from a listenerwho made a new discovery via a previous prescription suggestion, then we dive intothe two new requests, which are equally intriguing, and really showcase the kindsof questions we get so many of and adore researching (often for hours!) to find theperfect perfumes for.Let’s begin!Joanna said:‘Dear Suzy and Nicola,I can’t thank you enough for your amazing affordable iris prescriptions! Both soundincredible and I will be definitely be hunting them down, especially Fragonard Bellede Paris!I especially want to thank you for your reviews of the new M&S perfumes. Thatepisode came out shortly before my trip to England from the States, and Iimmediately added M&S to the itinerary! And WOW…Sheer Musk and DarkestVanilla are incredible! M&S perfumes are unavailable in America, so had my tripbeen just a couple of weeks earlier I would have been completely out of luck, as Iwould never have considered exploring M&S as a perfume haven without yourexpert recommendation. I humbly beg you to do full reviews of the rest of theStudio lineup! I feel that the interests of promoting truly exquisite super-affordable,unique fragrances warrant such a podcast focus. Thank you for all you do for thefragrance community!!’Listener prescriptions:Netta asks:‘Hi! I recently discovered your podcast and I’m absolutely loving it. I’ve been bingelistening and enjoying every episode!!I’ve always been obsessed with fragrance and smelling good, so it feels like I’vefinally found my people.I was wondering if you could recommend a perfume that’s similar to thediscontinued Armani Privé Pierre de Lune. I absolutely loved it and have nevermanaged to find anything that captures the same feeling. It had such a clean, soft,almost soapy quality while still feeling fresh and elegant. I’d be so grateful for anyrecommendations! Many thanks in advance, Netta.’Daniela Andrier (well known for her love of iris) created Pierre de Lune, featuringviolet, iris, cassia & woody notes.Suzy suggests:Prada Infusion d’Iris‘This modern and elegant fragrance opens with notes of mandarin, galbanum,orange and orange blossom which lead to the heart composed of iris, cedar andvetiver. The base is composed of incense and benzoin.’Fragonard Belle de ParisAnother stunning iris scent by Daniela Andrier. And only £42 for 100ml eau detoilette! ‘Belle de paris is elegantly cloaked in iris, a symbol of chic, and wears itsincomparable scent. Its fruity head notes of green mandarin, neroli, and pearbrighten a generous heart of iris absolutely adorned with violet and incense. Muskand white cedar form its base.’27 87 Per sē‘Per sē is our scent identity and the olfactive translation of our core belief: There isNo Scent Like the Present. It combines the now. The achromatic, and the individualin a sensory experience.“In creating Per sē, we aimed to capture the very essence of the present moment.This fragrance is unparalleled; it ebbs and flows with the dynamism of change, yetits core remains strikingly constant. Just as time never stops, neither does ‘Per sē’.It serves as evidence of the enduring within the ever-changing.”Crafting a symphony of achromatic elegance, Per sē is composed of a floralbouquet, orris butter, and violet leaves. Juxtaposed with clean aldehydes, bamboo,and a pinch of spicy pepper, a subtle underscore of ambrette seeds, angelica roots,and gentle musk complete the incompletable experience of the sensory now.’Nicola suggested:Diptyque Fleur de Peau‘A tribute to the mythical love between Psyche and Eros, which led to the birth oftheir daughter, Hedone. One scent can convey this legend: musks. At the heart ofFleur de Peau, they are cottony, downy or soft. Highlighted with iris and ambretteseed, they reveal their full tactile dimension.Absolute ambrette seed extract comes from hibiscus flowers. Its notes areextraordinarily rich: sweet, slightly animal, fruity (like pear and plum).’Madeline @rocknrollgypsy_13 asks:‘Hello Suzy and Nicola! Fragrance goddesses!Long time listener of the pod, I work on a vineyard in the Hunter Valley NSWAustralia and listening to both of you have gotten me through some long, long daysworking by myself. My name is Madeleine and I was wondering if you could give mea perfume prescription to empower and ground me.Apart from being a musician, one of my other passions is Muay Thai. As a femalefighter I compete quite regularly, recently coming back from a life changing trip toBangkok where I competed at the WBC games winning a silver medal for Australia.It was a tough fight and I know I could’ve done more to win that gold, but my mindalways seems to stop me before I even step over the ropes. My mentality issomething I always battle with, self-doubt, self-confidence and self-belief is alwayswhat I struggle with. This is a weird kind of prescription, but I would like somethingto wear before my fights, something that is empowering, fires me up, grounds meand makes me feel like I am an unstoppable force going into the ring to face myopponent. Think a goddess of war, powerful, strong, unbreakable and fierce.Something to spray on before I warm up, or walk into the ring that grounds me,centres me and reminds me of who I am.I am open to anything, as my love for perfume has grown so much since listeningto you both. Much love always, thank you for all you do.Madeleine xx’Nicola’s answer:Olfactive O New Earth‘I am the host who cooks to the rhythm of the seasons, the one who pulls up anextra chair before you’ve even asked. I believe in the beauty of things made byhand - the thumbprint in the clay, the worn-in softness of a family heirloom. Thereis quiet joy in walking the same path every day and noticing the first green shootsof change. For me, luxury resides in the weight of a heavy linen shirt and thesimple, rhythmic task of chopping herbs from the windowsill pot. I am a life lived inthe present tense.NOTES:Luminous top: shiso, pink peppercorn, spearmint, elemi Present heart: deep-leafimmersion, armoise, geranium, chamomile blue, cardamom, clary sage Rootedbase: hay absolute, fir balsam, oakmoss, myrrhMOMENTS:Nurturing my sourdough starter Fantasising of a life in the wilderness Leaving thebookshop with just one more A cup of tea in the garden Seeking out the perfectsoulful escape’Amouage Meander‘The Amouage Meander eau de parfum explores the exhilarating feeling ofhappiness in a land covered by fog – think lush green mountains and runningwaterfalls covered in steamy clouds. Translating this surreal landscape using notesof frankincense and vetiver, the rich greenery with cypriol and jonquille, and thecaramel-hued earth with sandalwood, carrot heart and orris root, this uniquefragrance captivates the senses and doesn’t let go even hours after being spritzedon the pulses.’Suzy’s answer:Eris Parfums Ma Bête‘MA BÊTE (My Beast) caresses you with the suggestiveness of perfumed fur. Acollision of the floral and the animal, MA BÊTE combines a regal Tunisian Neroli withspices and a 50 percent overdose of Antoine Lie's own animalic cocktail.’‘Ma Bête is a fierce beast with raunchy elegance.’ – Antoine Lie (Perfumer)Aldehydes, Tunisian Neroli, Indian NutmegIndian Cypriol, Honduran Styrax, Indian Jasmine SambacVirginia Cedarwood, Indonesian Patchouli, Synthetic Animalic Accord‘After interviewing Master Perfumer Antoine Lie for Scent and Subversion, Barbaraasked him to help her create a collection of fragrances as bold as her favouritevintage perfumes but for a modern audience.Named after ERIS, the Greek goddess of troublemaking and disruption, ERISPARFUMS is inspired by muses — divine, human, and fragrant — that exemplifyunconventional beauty and...

Okay, we all know vanilla has been trending for ages now, but WHY does it proveso popular? We think half the reason is the sheer diversity of vanillas available,and the incredibly high-quality materials perfumers are able to use these days.Plus the fact that vanilla continues to be one of the most universally adoredscents. Love them or loathe them, we feel sure there’s truly something for everytaste (and maybe some that will surprise or even shock you) in this week’sepisode...Now, obviously, we mean five favourites *each*, we couldn’t possibly containthem all to only five vanillas when there are SO many excellent varieties ofvanilla fragrances around these days. We have to say, though, f you’re a vanillanaysayer, please don’t shy away from this episode, as we’ve versions that seguefrom the just-launched and fabulously tobacco-filled, the sweetly tempting andaddictive you might expect, to the mind-blowingly modern and unlike any vanillayou’ve ever smelled.Encompassing hip-swivelling seduction, a stunning body butter, hugely powerfulfragrant talismans, and summery every-day wearability, there’s also a trulyaffordable modern classic vanilla – created by a Master Perfumer who trained atChanel, created scents for Frederic Malle, Guerlain, Gucci, Amouage andAtkinsons, but THIS one can be snapped up for under £30!While some of our top vanillas crossed over, we also surprised each other withsome of our choices. Now then, which have YOU tried or want to go and smellafter listening...?We discuss:D’Orsay Vanilla Affair ExtraitBy Nathalie Lorson‘Immerse yourself in the captivating mystique of D’ORSAY, with Vanilla Affairextrait de parfum transforming your everyday allure into one of intriguingelegance.Its scent – reminiscent of forbidden encounters and fierce passion – is infusedwith riveting notes of tobacco and tonka bean, deepened with a vanilla duo, andgrounded with a smoky base of white musks and patchouli. No matter theoccasion, its aromatic blend of exhilarating notes will elevate your essence withease.’The Body Shop Vanilla Body Butter‘This indulgent cream melts in beautifully, delivering up to 96 hours of hydrationwithout greasiness. Skin feels instantly softer, smoother and cared for. Thefragrance opens with juicy nashi pear and fresh coconut water, lifted by moodorchid. At its heart, rich Madagascar vanilla tincture blends with upcycled vanillinex rice, creamy milk and heliotrope for a smooth, enveloping warmth. It settlesinto a sensual base of vanilla absolute, sandalwood and second skin musk for along lasting, skin hugging finish. Every application is a warm, comforting routine.’Jovoy Fire at Will‘This perfume’s sweet promises echo around your like languorous kisses.Crafted by independent perfumer Vanina Murraciole, Fire at Will eau de parfumfrom JOVOY explores the duality of vanilla and mimosa – at once intense yetsubtle, seductive yet enchanting. The opening reveals an unexpected vanilla: airyand ethereal, lifted by honeyed, powdery mimosa. As it evolves, the vanillabecomes more gourmand and fruity, evoking the delicacy of real vanilla icecream while lingering with the allure of whispered promises.’Top Notes: Mimosa Absolut, Vanilla AbsolutMiddle Notes: Vanilla Sugar, Brown SugarBase Notes: White Musks, Amber VetiverMaison Louis Marie No.15 Vanille Infinie‘Vanille Infinie, a luxurious and sweet gourmand, is a celebration of hope andrenewal. No.15 Vanille Infinie unfolds as a warm, luminous composition, soft vanillalayered with citron, sugared amber and cashmere oud for gentle resinous warmth.The Eau de Parfum evolves naturally on skin, shifting with your body heat to reveala smooth, enveloping trail that feels both intimate and enduring.’Jeroboam Insulo‘For François Hénin, the founder of Jeroboam, vanilla has always been theabsolute weapon of seductive souls. The ingredient is recognized throughout theworld as an irresistible enticement to be devoured. Insulo (meaning ‘island’ inEsperanto) is used in this case as a code name for Madagascar, the island whichproduces perhaps the highest quality and most famous vanilla in the world.The olfactive pyramid of Insulo is incredibly simple with vanilla at the top, jasmineat the heart and the signature blend of enigmatic musks at the base. These fewnotes combine to produce a luxurious and irresistible.’AKRO Bake‘Bake is our addictive cupcake fragrance.Everyone has their own favourite sweet treat, and for Akro, it's the small, butperfectly delicious lemon cupcake—an item we just can’t resist any time we walkpast a good bakery. To honour our favourite cupcakes, we created BAKE, agourmand fragrance made up of Tart Lemon notes, followed by sweet Vanilla andrich, nutty Praline. BAKE is so good, you might not need that second cupcakeafter all.TOP: Lemon peelMIDDLE: Chantilly cream, PralineBASE: Brown sugar, Vanilla.’Matiere Premiere Vanilla Powder‘A sophisticated take on vanilla, diffusing like a bright, soft cloud. I contrasteddark vanilla absolute with an overdose of modern white perfumer powders — asif the vanilla bean had been painted white.Palo Santo Oil Ecuador brings structure and verticality. The addictive character ofVanilla is reinforced by Coconut powder. White Musks envelop the Vanilla andpowders for a contemporary, luminous perfume.’ - Aurélien GuichardRochas TocadeOne of THE best vanillas if you’re on a budget. Or even if you’re not, come tothat!‘Originally launched in 1994, and composed by Maurice Roucel, Rochas Tocadeopens with a vibrant burst of bergamot and green notes, setting the stage for aheart that blooms with the rich aromas of rose, geranium, and magnolia. Thesefloral elements are beautifully balanced by the warmth of vanilla and amber,creating a harmonious blend that is both sensual and inviting. The base notes ofmusk and cedarwood add depth and longevity, ensuring that this enchantingfragrance lingers on your skin throughout the day.’

Season 8, Episode 7 Alice du Parcq & The Philosophy of Perfume (herNEW BOOK!)This week we welcome back dear perfume pal and friend of the pod (star of twoprevious episodes), the multi-award-winning fragrance writer, presenter, contentcreator and now AUTHOR, Alice du Parcq!Alice has always been ‘on a mission to decode perfume in a fun, relatable andobjective way.’ Now, added to her perfumed portfolio will be an incredibly gift-able (to self or scent-loving friends) book, created in collaboration with noneother than The British Library, called The Philosophy of Perfume. Out in October,we cannot WAIT to read it, and in this episode, Alice gives us a sneak peek atwhat you expect to find inside, plus the entire story of how the book came to be,and why she burst into tears in a library.We’ve even managed to wangle a must-sniff list of perfumes Alice has beenwowed by so far this year (not in the book, just a little scented extra to get youscurrying to smell them). We loved this warm, emotive, wide-rangingconversation and, as ever, could have talked to Alice for hours longer, and we sohope you enjoy this deep dive into one of the most hotly anticipated books forsome time...Some context about the British Library and this collection:‘The British Library has an in-house publishing division, and they have anestablished collection of around 18 books called "The Philosophy Of...". It's afamily of small giftable books that cover fun and whimsical lifestyle topics, suchThe Philosophy of Cheese, The Philosophy of Christmas of Gin, ofTattoos and of Houseplants, where an expert in that specific field dives into theorigins and evolution of that subject. In January, I was invited to do ThePhilosophy of Perfume and it will sit within this collection but as a slightlylonger and more standout format. It's out in October, in time for the giftingseason, and the RRP is £12.99.’About the book:‘The Philosophy of Perfume is a fun, warm, thoughtful and practical book allabout fragrance, which looks at its origins and how it's made, how we smell andhow best to shop for perfume. It is an adventure into the facts, folklore andfantasies surrounding perfume, delving into how it has evolved through the erasand decades as an artform, reflecting our cultural patterns through history. Inthe book, you'llmeet perfumers who share insights into their fascinating creativeprocess; you'll learn the science behind how we smell and the wild emotionalvoyage from smell to soul! There are tales of scented superstitions, and theliterary and historical figures who inspire perfume, plus the ways in which AI isimpacting the future of fragrance and a helpful guide on how to shop forperfume and find The One(s!). It was so important to me that this book was not for perfume experts, but forfragrance lovers of all ages who want a moment of enchantment laced withinteresting facts, a sprinkle of science and some practical guidance when on theirnext scent shopping safari.’Can’t wait until October? You can see Alice talking live, interviewed by thewonderful Amanda Carr (founder of Barnes Fragrance Fair @barnesfragrancefair)at the Barnes Bookfest sat 26 th September at 6pm, and get tickets and moreinfo here: https://barnesbookfest.org/Fragrances Alice has adored so far this year:Pia Long’s Olfiction Iconic (by name and nature! An utterly staggering vision of1980s department stores, expensive makeup and body creams – nostalgiapersonified)Botega Venetta’s new Ulta collection (especially Bare Morning which Alicefeels is the longest-lasting most comforting powdery scent she’s smelled foryears)Hellenist (all of them basically – a stunning house Suzy first saw at PittiFragranze, and which we all very much hope will be available in U.K. soon)Neal’s Yard Remedies Mood Awakening Collection (Alice loved how truethese felt to the brand’s ethos, and how they slotted so perfectly into their mostbeloved collections)Ode Ona (all of them, again – an exquisitely crafted and curated collection, allworth exploring)

This week is a truly madcap sniffathon HOPEFULLY encompassing [*takes adeep breath*] wild seascapes, fragrant ghosts and a notorious rake; a spicysummer scent to set your senses tingling; a fruity treat based on a perfumer’sfavourite breakfast; a splendiferous peacock strutting its scented stuff; a stunningsueded rose; perfumes pulled straight from the vegetable patch; Harrodsexclusives to swoon over; a seriously affordable new niche house; a mesmerisingmyrrh, and Alice du Parcq’s book pre-order discount code…AND if all that wasn’t enough, we’re also answering a #listenerprescription for ajasmine fragrance to remind her of a dance while wearing jasmine garlands.Phew!Can we possibly fit it all in without going off-topic? Listen along and find out!BeauFort London continued: Following on from last week’s fascinating interviewwith founder Leo Crabtree, Nicola tries a trio of intriguing scents:Cape Wrath‘Cape Wrath Eau De Parfum. Named after the rugged area of coastline on themost North Westerly tip of Britain, Cape Wrath pulls inspiration from this wild,treacherous seascape. The remote landmark - named after the old Norse wordfor ‘turning point’ has for centuries been used by sailors to safely navigate thecoast of Britain, yet its treacherous waters have claimed countless vessels.Character: Powerful; wild; windswept

 THE WEARING EXPERIENCETop Notes: Pink Pepper, Elemi, Galbanum, Angelica Root
Opens with a blast ofbracing ocean air.Heart Notes: Frankincense, Mastic, Geranium
Resinous smoke and geraniumadd both warmth and austerity.Base Notes: Ambergris, Vetiver, Ambrette, Seaweed, OakmossAbsolute
Mossy oceanic base which powerfully lingers.Perfumer: Euan McCallAbsent Presence‘‘O absent presence, Stella is not here’The fifth and final instalment of the Revenants collection draws inspiration fromthe Elizabethan poet Sir Philip Sidney. In his Sonnet sequence ‘Astrophel andStella’ Sidney develops and captures the essence of a haunting… the presenceof one that is always felt but never seen.‘Now I, wit-beaten long by hardest fate,So dull am, that I cannot look intoThe ground of this fierce love and lovely hate,Then some good body tell me how I do,Whose presence absence, absent presence is;Blesst in my curse, and cursed in my bliss.’Comprising the highest level of natural ingredients of any BeauFort fragrance,Absent Presence explores its themes with typically ‘overdosed’ concentrations ofviolet leaf absolute, vetiver bourbon oil, smoky leather and black pepper oil. Aswith all the Revenants family, Absent Presence is presented as 30% Eau DeParfum.Character: Dark; enveloping; waves.THE WEARING EXPERIENCETop Notes: Bergamot, Galbanum, Pepper
Fresh, green, and fleeting felt but outof reach.Heart Notes: Jasmine, Violet
 Jasmine and violet bloom with intensity.Base Notes: Leather, Sandalwood, Musk, Amber, Cedarwood 
Warm leather,woods, amber and musk linger like a ghost on the skin, the violet heart returningin waves.Perfumer: Julie Dunkley.’Rake & Ruin‘Rake & Ruin Eau De Parfum is inspired by the works of satirist William Hogarth,this fragrance summons his characters from a gin soaked 18th century London.This debauched Eau De Parfum incorporates the botanical ingredients of gin;dark woods, civet, musks and amber bringing to life 'all manner of Vice andWickedness.’

THE WEARING EXPERIENCETop Notes: Angelica, Liquorice, Juniper, Coriander, Szechuan Pepper, PinkPepper, Orange, Lemon
Opens with a sharp, gin-like freshness, spiced andeffervescent.Heart Notes: Cypress, Pine Needles, Castoreum, Labdanum, Cade Oil, Costus,Violet Orris
Bowing to a heart of smoky woods, animalic tones and powderedflorals.Base Notes: Dark Woods, Ambrarome, Sandalwood, Musk
Dark woods, muskand animalic. Ambrarome complete the seductive yet slightly sinister finish.’Alice du Parcq’s book: The Philosophy of PerfumePre-order at Waterstones for £10 (25% off with code SUMMER26)https://tinyurl.com/AliceWaterstones‘The Philosophy of Perfume is a fun, warm, thoughtful and practical book allabout fragrance, which looks at its origins and how it's made, how we smell andhow best to shop for perfume. It is an adventure into the facts, folklore andfantasies surrounding perfume, delving into how it has evolved through the erasand decades as an artform, reflecting our cultural patterns through history. In thebook, you'll meet perfumers who share insights into their fascinating creativeprocess; you'll learn the science behind how we smell and the wild emotionalvoyage from smell to soul! There are tales of scented superstitions, and theliterary and historical figures who inspire perfume, plus the ways in which AI isimpacting the future of fragrance and a helpful guide on how to shop for perfumeand find The One(s!). It was so important to me that this book was not for perfume experts, but forfragrance lovers of all ages who want a moment of enchantment laced withinteresting facts, a sprinkle of science and some practical guidance when on theirnext scent shopping safari.’AKRO Heat‘HEAT is our addictive chili fragrance.Chili is not just a spice. It is a rush. A burn you think you can handle. The firsttime you smell it, it hits, it wakes you up. Then it warms you. Then you want itagain.The best chili doesn’t just flavour. It ignites. It makes your skin tingle. Yourtemperature rise. Your pulse quicken. Your senses sharpen.HEAT is that moment when warmth turns into craving. When your body asks formore. A vibrant indulgence. A dopamine shot you keep coming back to.HEAT is a scent that sets you on fire and makes you love the burn.TOP: CORIANDER SEED, LEMON, RED CHILIMIDDLE: CARDAMOM, GINGER, JUNIPERBASE: CEDARWOOD, AMBROX, MUSK.’Jeroboam Oud MorningBy Vanina Muracciole‘Oud Morning from Jeroboam is the perfect balance of brightness and depth.Opening with an unexpected burst of blueberry, saffron and resins, thecomposition moves into a heart of Indian oud, softened with leather and agedwoods. Sandalwood, ambroxan and white musk anchor it into a smooth, sensualbase, finishing the creation on an intimate note.Top Notes: Blueberry, Gurjum Balsam, SaffronMiddle Notes: Indian Oudh, Leather, Dry Wood, VioletBase Notes: Sugar, Sandalwood, Cedarwood, White Musks.’Alexandre J Royal Peacock (Harrods Exclusive)‘At the turn of the 20th century, Art Nouveau reshaped the decorative arts.Mucha, Gallé, Tiffany, Lalique, all drew on nature to invent a new grammar ofcurves, stylised plants and extraordinary birds. Among them,the peacock reigned supreme: its iridescent eyes and regal bearing embodiedthe movement's core belief in beauty for beauty's sake.The opening evokes an Italian espresso served with Viennese pastry. Roastedcoffee dialogues with hazelnut in a frankly gourmand accord, before maplesyrup brings its unmistakable amber roundness, sweet without cloying, almostwoody. Caramel amplifies the indulgence, while violet casts a powdery floral veilthat keeps the composition from tipping into excess. The vanilla-almond basesettles into a lasting, addictive warmth.’Ormonde Jayne Suede Silhouette‘Bathed in crimson and violet, Suede Silhouette reflects the warmth of saffron,the richness of raspberry and the quiet confidence of suede. Exclusively atSelfridges.’Jo Malone London Veggies collection:Celine Roux says: ‘We just loved that people, even in the middle of cities likeLondon, can grow their own carrots and herbs – the fact that everyone wants tohave a grasp on nature from wherever they are. This [collection] takes that ideaof something homegrown and unmanicured but gives it a fresh take’Velvety Butternut:‘The path ahead is smooth, just like a velvety butternut playfully plucked from theveggie patch. Notes of smooth butternut, warm tonka bean and patchouli createa woody gourmand scent.Top - GingerSpicy and fresh with a zingy lemon quality, it opens the fragrance with livelybrightness.Heart - ButternutSmooth and nutty, notes of butternut imbues the fragrance with a deliciouswarmth and creaminess.Base - PatchouliGrounded in patchouli, a sensuously deep woody note that enhances thelongevity of the fragrance.’Carrot Blossom:‘Life is sweet, just like carrot blossom gloriously gathered from the veggie patch.Notes of subtly sweet carrot, orange flower and white musk create a fresh floralscent.Top - FennelHerbaceous with hints of aniseed, it adds a dewy sweetness to the top notes.Heart - Carrot BlossomLightly floral and sweet, with an earthy accent, complementing the powdery notesof orris.Base - PatchouliGrounded in patchouli, a sensuously deep woody note that enhances thelongevity of the fragrance.’Suzy’s favourite: Scarlet Beetroot‘Colour is all around, just like a scarlet beetroot splendidly spied in the veggiepatch. Notes of beetroot, vibrant blackcurrant and a dash of...

[AD: This episode is proud to be in partnership with BeauFort London - a house Suzy has championed from the start, spoken about passionately over the years, and continues to be excited by.] From a single, hand-poured moustache wax to one of the world’s most daringly distinctive fragrance houses, BeauFort London’s story is as elemental as the scents themselves. Founded in 2013 by musician Leo Crabtree, the brand was born from salt-spray memories, naval histories and a fascination with the poetry of smoke — quite literally “per fumum” (‘through smoke’).In this episode of On The Scent Podcast, Suzy Nightingale and Nicola Bonn sit down with Leo to trace that journey: from the formative fragrances he wore as a teenager to the moment he realised scent could become a storytelling medium for his fascinations with maritime might, Shakespearean drama, and the awe-inspiring power of nature. With the launch of Come Hell Or High Water in 2015 — featuring the now-iconic Tonnerre, Coeur de Noir and Vi et Armis — BeauFort London set out its stall with unapologetically bold compositions, rich in unusual materials and deliberately ‘overdosed’ in their intensity. As you listen, you will hear Suzy, Nicola and Leo smelling some of the creations together — Nicola encountering them properly for the first time, while Suzy revisits fragrances she has worn and championed for years, having known Leo since the brand’s earliest days and even helping to shape the direction of Fathom V. Together, we delve into the inspirations behind the scents, the emotions they stir, and the evolving landscape of perfumery that Leo reflects upon with candour. It is a conversation about transformation — personal, creative, and within the industry itself — and one that invites you to explore these boldly original fragrances for yourself…

Embracing the heat, and leaning into the ‘Sunscreen Scent’ perfume profile this week, we’re following on from the BONUS episode originally available to Patreon subscribers (which should soon be available here too - keep checking & scroll back in your podcast app to find it), in which we explored our favourite scented sunscreens. Flipping that fragrant theme on its head, this time we’re all about those solar, ‘holiday in a bottle’ type perfumes, and find ourselves particularly drawn to those with a vintage vibe.Later in the episode, Nicola answers a listener question from someone who had fallen head over heels for spicy tonka / vanilla fragrances way out of her budget, and seeks affordable scents to satiate this new obsession…We discuss;Nuxe Prodigieux Le ParfumThis first launched in 2012, and was created by Serge Majoullier (who also created Mugler Womanity Eau Pour Elle and Viktor&Rolf Bonbon).Top notes are Orange Blossom, Mandarin Orange, Orange and Bergamot; middle notes are Gardenia, Magnolia and Rose; base notes are Coconut Milk, Vanilla and Pebbles.DIOR La Collection Privé Eden-RocWe rather suspect that Dior’s resident perfumer, François Demachy, enjoyed even more than usual his ‘research’ for this fragrance, a hymn to one of the world’s most legendary hotels, on the rocky shore of the Côte d’Azur. Flooded with sunlight, it’s cooled and ruffled by a salty breeze, revealing an accord reminiscent of nothing so much as expensive suntan oil, suffused with jasmine and a touch of coconut. Truly the stuff of holiday dreams.Juliette Has a Gun Sunny Side UpOhhh allow yourself to dream of a scented destination somewhere more far flung. Close your eyes and imagine an impossibly perfect beach: warm sand, warm skin, an omnipresent hush of crystal waters massaging brightly coloured pebbles and your own deep, contented breaths. Sunny Side Up is all blissfully relaxed limbs glowing with the retro-smelling scent of suntan oil, the softness of the blanket beneath you and a waft of vanilla ice-cream on the breeze as the sun dips its toes in the ocean. Bliss in fragrant form!Elie Saab Le Parfum Lumière‘Like an haute couture dress, Elie Saab fragrances adorn the feminine form, with a radiant sensuality. Elie Saab Le Parfum Lumière captures the sensual sparkle of light. The Dawn. The time when night meets day, when a ray of light softly glides across the darkness and reveals the golden hues of daybreak. Inspired by Mediterranean sun rays, Elie Saab Le Parfum Lumière is an ode of warm light.’Top notesMandarin Essence, Ylang-YlangHeart notesJasmine Samac Absolut India, TuberoseBase notesPatchouli, Musky Woods & Soft amberTom Ford Soleil‘Soleil Brûlant captures the high-shine brilliance of the golden sun beaming on a private oasis. Sun-kissed citrus mingles with spices giving way to an ornate and regal floral heart—while orange flower absolute and black honey release a seductive vapor, melting into the burnished warmth of amber.Soleil Brûlant releases sun-kissed florals warmed by amber, conjuring a blazing encounter between gilded rays and naked skin. Your own private summer.’Jennifer Elizabeth:Hi Nicola and Suzy, I find myself turning to your podcast and fragrance in general to comfort and sweeten my day during the cold winter in Melbourne. I am really enjoying my perfume journey and recently discovered a Libertine Parfumerie near me! I got a sample of Amouge, guidance and Tonka Kumaru Atelier Materi. I didn’t think I would like the spicy saffron in Guidance but I have really warmed to it! And now expanding my tastes into spicy fragrances with a bit of heat. I absolutely love Tonka Kumaru it has become my favourite! Unfortunately both perfumes are way above my budget, and I was wondering if you have any recommendations for a similar fragrance with tonka, vanilla, almond and a spice. I find this fragrance very complex and addictive and its projection is amazing, so it would be may to find something under 100 pounds . I love this scent so much I’d also like to find a candle with similar almond and cardamon notes.I also like Vanilla Powder Matiere Premier.Ps I am so happy I can walk into Mecca or libertine and identity so many of the perfumes from your podcast! It brings me such joy!Nicola’s suggestions:Essential Parfums Divine VanillaGranado Tonka Eau de ToiletteL'Occitane Almond CandleMama Moon Prosperity and Courage CandleScents Journey - Masala Chai CandleJsala - Apothecary Candle

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

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...