When it comes to fragrance, I’m not particularly loyal. The latest luxe launch will land on my desk in all it’s pungent olfactory glory and I’ll happily use it for a few weeks before breezily moving on to the next exciting “must-have” spritz. Of course I have my go-to favourites (currently Estée Lauder Modern Muse), but variety breeds flippancy I guess. I also prefer to change my perfume according to the occasion or time of day. For our hot Dubai days, I feel that zesty citrus and crisp green notes work best, staying light and shower- fresh. At night, I like something with a kick; heady florals with a bit of spice to warm things up.
But recently, a new wave of perfumes have adjusted my views somewhat. They’re a different breed of warm florals that work equally well for day and night according to how much you use. A light application in the morning will keep things clean and unassuming throughout the day, but double up the dose before your evening out and you’ll have a sultry scent with head-turning va va voom. Here are three of my favourites that are definitely a must-try for fragrance buffs.
Dior J’Adore Touche de Parfum
Designed to be layered with the iconic spray, this oil-based perfume is infused with sandalwood for a long-lasting, addictive twist on the original J’Adore phenomenon. The application method is a perfume-lover’s dream, harking back to an age of classic perfumery. The dropper fills with the silky scent and then can be pulled off and dabbed on to pulse points one drop at a time, for a delicately perfumed halo or a bolder presence.
Clinique Aromatics in White
When you say “Clinique”, fragrance isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind; however the 1975 original, Aromatics Elixir was and still is a massive commercial success. Whilst this new version stays true to the classic chypre patchouli notes, it’s lifted with violet leaf and quickly settles in to a milky, powdery scent thanks to the Skin Musk accord. Perfect for building or layering on top of an Oriental oud-based oil.
Tom Ford Velvet Orchid
Not a recent release, but more than worthy of being included in this day-to-night lineup. This, in my opinion, is the more wearable, daytime-friendly sibling of Black Orchid. If Black Orchid roars with sex-appeal, Velvet Orchid purrs with sensuality. With gourmand notes of honey, toasted vanilla, mandarin, and rum, a floral heart of rose, jasmine and orchid on a base of balsam, sandalwood, myrrh and suede, this scent is both delectably creamy and softly addictive. Spritz in to the air and walk underneath for a soft morning perfume or spray directly on to the skin to step in to vamp territory.
