Fragrance has always been a big deal for me in that just like body wash and deodorant, it has felt like an essential, next logical step in getting oneself ready for the day. I infrequently have a scent that is my signature and rather prefer to switch it up with the change of the seasons or even on a daily basis and occasion at hand. If you’re also in the mood to switch things up, here’s a few of my favorites, both new and considered classics (in my book) that will refresh your scent collection and give the act of getting dressed a newborn zest.
Inspired by the designers’ travels, Proenza Schouler Arizona Eau de Parfum ($130 for the 3 oz bottle; Saks.com); a rich floral accord that includes notes of living white cactus flower and creamy orris accord. As if the scent wasn’t good enough, the gorgeous organic angles of the bottle make quite an artful statement on your vanity.
The thing about Le Labo Rose 31 ($80 for the .5 oz; LeLaboFragrances.com) is that you either love it or hate it; there’s not much middle ground there! For those of who love it (ahem, me), you will be thrilled to find it in bar soap, body wash, lotion, shampoo, conditioner, and even detergent form so that the scent lingers and lingers. A woodsy floral, notes include Centifolia rose, cumin, olbanum, cedar, and amber.
Call me biased because I have a new baby, but Demeter Fragrance Library New Baby is something special. Expect a touch of a powdery scent mixed with vanilla and rose, but overall it is a complex scent a bit difficult to describe. Of note: it is lighter and sweeter than most of the other fragrances on the list, so if you are looking for a less heavy fragrance, this may be the one for you! ($40 for the 3.4 oz spray; DemeterFragrance.com).
One of my favorite unisex, wintery notes is bergamot, and the Commodity Bergamot is one of the best I’ve ever sniffed! Part of Commodity’s Platinum Collection, this special blend includes sweet citrus and amber to balance out the heaviness that this particular Italian bergamot can embody. ($135 for the 3.4 oz bottle; Sephora.com)
The floral amber that is Tom Ford Soleil Blanc is sumptuous, luxurious, and a decadent, daily treat. Again, if you dig bergamot, you’ll find it, plus bergamot, cardamom oil Orpur, pistachio accord, among other distinctive notes tucked inside this special scent. ($148 for the 1 oz bottle; Nordstrom.com)
Everyone knows the blockbuster scent Flowerbomb, but how about Viktor & Rolf’s Bonbon? Notes include mandarin oil, orange, jasmine accord, and caramel. As a fun addition, the “Dress Up Your Bottle” option at Viktor & Rolf’s website is the next best thing to creating your own fragrance. You can change the color, add an accessory, or engrave your bottle as you see it (see my mockup, above!). Perfect for a gift, but also, for yourself (customization starts at the 1.7 oz bottle, at $98).
