Sure, perfumes can perk up your mood when you’re feeling low or put you in the right headspace before you go out, but they’re also the perfect accessory to make your outfit pop, sparkle or shine. We spoke to Samantha Taylor, fragrance educator and specialist, about choosing the right scent to go with what you’re wearing.
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If You’re Wearing Denim
Denim jeans are certainly a staple in all wardrobes – they can be dressed down with just a white t-shirt and sneakers or dressed up with a pair of killer heels. To go with this essential, try a fragrance that’s within your comfort zone.
“A cool, casual and urban fragrance works perfectly with denim,” says Taylor. “Something that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and is fun, loving, with energetic green notes.”
Our picks
For something fresh and earthy, try Penhaligon’s version featuring clover, geranium, moss and wood. Penhaligon English Fern EDT, $189 (100ml)
The special notes of edamame, lily of the valley and cedarwood make it a weird yet wonderful choice to wear. Balenciaga B., from $100 (30ml)
A botanical blend of ivy leaves, geranium and green pepper allows this crisp fragrance stand out from the rest. Diptyque Eau de Lierre EDT, from $120 (50ml)
This all-time favourite features neroli and geranium, with a twist of orange blossom for sweetness. Lancome Balafre EDP, $220 (75ml)
The vivid notes of green leaves and citrus are carefully balanced with incense. Martin Margiela Untitled EDP, from $95 (30ml)
If You’re Wearing Cotton
It’s safe to say that cotton is the most versatile fashion textile of them all. It’s natural, breathable, and most importantly super comfortable, so you never get sick of wearing it. The same should go for a fragrance – it should be versatile and suitable for all year round.
“A perfume that’s light and fresh will compliment a cotton dress, so look for a fruity floral with sparkling top notes,” says Taylor. “Grapefruit, soft floral notes and sheer musks are good notes to look for.”
Our picks
It smells just like a peach iced tea – think vine leaves, orange flower and amber muddled and served together. Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Sunset in Salina EDT, $85 (50ml).
It’s berry delicious, with a slight twang of citrus and lots of sweet pea and rose for good measure. Jimmy Choo Blossom EDP, from $45 (40ml)
This sparkling scent opens with Sicilian lemon, mandarin and white tea, and finishes with gentle soft musk. Elizabeth Arden Untold Eau Fraiche EDT, $95 (100ml). Available April 6.
Forget Messina, this mix of coconut water, blackcurrant and pistachio sorbet will satisfy your sweet tooth. DKNY Delicious Delights Cool Swirl EDT, $65 (50ml)
We’re not sure what we love more – the big, flashy bottle or the fruity blend of candied apple, pomelo and vanilla. Juicy Couture Hollywood Royal EDT, $85 (85ml)
If you’re looking for something lighter, then this pink peppercorn and citrus buy is for you. Issey Miyake L’eau d’Issey City Blossom EDT, from $99 (50ml)
If You’re Wearing Silk
There’s nothing more sensual than a piece of silk draped across your body, whether it’s a chiffon blouse for work or a sexy little black slip for dinner and drinks. Something so delicate should be paired with a fragrance that’s equally as gentle.
“Choose a fragrance that’s sophisticatedly classic – something that’s lush and leaves a captivating sillage when you exit a room,” says Taylor. “Tuberose, jasmine and iris are some of the most costly ingredients in perfume, and make elegant fragrances.”
Our picks
The bold jasmine and tuberose notes in this fragrance are balanced with alluring wood and patchouli. Estee Lauder Modern Muse Chic EDP, from $85 (30ml)
This citrus delight starts off loud and bright but settles into an enticing floral scent after a few hours. Roberto Cavalli Paradiso EDP, from $80 (30ml)
The white jasmine and frangipani notes make it a delicate pick to wear for day or night. Elie Saab Resort Collection EDT, from $107 (50ml)
Looking for a strictly iris scent? This one’s a combination of blue and white blooms from Grasse and the Mediterranean. L’Occitane Iris Bleu & Iris Blanc, $82 (75ml). Available April 15.
If You’re Wearing Wool Or Cashmere
The colder seasons are all about chunky knits and big wrap-around scarves to keep the winter chill at bay. A fragrance should echo what a warm jumper does for you – keep you nice and snug.
“Cocoon yourself with a warm and enveloping fragrance when wearing wool and cashmere, something that wraps around you like your cashmere scarf,” says Taylor. “Look for autumnal notes like vetiver, eucalyptus and sandalwood when choosing a scent.”
Our picks
Featuring clearwood, rosemary and violet wood, this new edition to the Tom Ford stable is dark and bitter, yet surprisingly wearable. Tom Ford Patchouli Absolu EDP, $295 (50ml)
Heat up your senses with this pink pepper, cardamom and amber fusion. Gucci Guilty Diamond EDT, $92 (50ml)
Lovely and light, this lingonberry, wild orchid and accord buy is most definitely a crowdpleaser. Benefit Under My Spell Noelle EDT, $59
Creamy and a total classic – you’ll love the Damask rose, sandalwood and patchouli notes in this spritz. Valeur Absolue Serenitude Parfum Elixir, from $105 (45ml)
If You’re Wearing Leather
It’s said that a good leather jacket looks better with age, and will last you several years with proper care. And whether you’re layering this season with a teensy leather bralet or long leather pants, a fragrance should smell increasingly more pleasing as you wear it too.
“Leather calls for an edgy and interesting perfume, something that challenges the senses with unusual ingredients,” says Taylor. “Something with dark, smoky notes can perfectly complement a black leather outfit, however it takes a brave individual to wear it.”
Our picks
Absinthe, rosemary, lavender and leather makes this an incredibly mysterious fragrance to own – you won’t want to stop at one spray. Creed Acqua Originale Aberdeen Lavender EDP, $385 (100ml)
This bitey black pepper and cardamom scent is just the thing to rock with a leather number. Jo Malone Cologne in Birch & Black Pepper, $90 (30ml)
The latest rendition of the stunning Pour Femme scent is updated with leatherwood, patchouli and saffron. Versace Pour Femme Oud Oriental EDP, $195 (100ml).
It’s an interesting fusion of bergamot, plum, rum and amber, which makes this a must-have this winter. Malin + Goetz Dark Rum EDT, $198 (100ml)
What’s your favourite fragrance, and why? Tell us in the comments below.
