The Secret Ingredient …
… Of Personal Style: Fragrance
Personal style is often thought of as a visual expression - outfits, shoes, handbags, hair, makeup, sunglasses, and jewellery all coming together in a harmonious ensemble. However, true personal style extends beyond what meets the eye. It engages another powerful sense: smell. Fragrance is the invisible accessory that lingers in a room long after you've left, adding depth, mystery, and personality to your presence. It is, in many ways, the final touch that completes the story of YOU.
A Timeless Tradition: The History of Fragrance
The art of perfumery has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians were among the first to use perfumes in religious rituals and daily life, believing that scents could connect them to the divine. Frankincense, myrrh, and aromatic oils were highly prized and used to anoint the body, purify temples, and even accompany the dead into the afterlife.
As civilisations evolved, so did the world of fragrance. The Greeks and Romans refined the craft, incorporating floral and herbal essences into their baths and beauty routines. By the Middle Ages, perfume had spread across Europe, where it became a symbol of luxury among royalty and aristocrats. The French, in particular, mastered the art, and by the 17th century, the town of Grasse became the epicentre of perfume production - a reputation it still holds today. In a previous role, I was actively involved in developing and creating fragrances for both toiletries and perfumes within a major own-brand department store. This invaluable experience granted me the opportunity to visit some of the most renowned perfume houses in Grasse - an unforgettable privilege that profoundly influenced my appreciation of fragrance and its role in everyday life.
Fragrance as a Global Industry
What was once a sacred and rare commodity has grown into a multi-billion-dollar global industry. Today, fragrances range from affordable body sprays priced under £10 to ultra-exclusive, bespoke creations in designer flacons, that can cost over £500,000. The world’s most renowned fragrance houses, such as Chanel, Guerlain, and Creed, continue to craft signature scents that captivate and inspire, while niche perfumers experiment with rare and unexpected ingredients to create olfactory masterpieces.
One of my all-time favourite fragrances is Yves Saint Laurent’s “In Love Again”, launched in 1998. This floral-fruity perfume is truly unique, featuring unexpected base notes of tomato leaf and blackberry - an intriguing and modern combination that adds depth and character. Unfortunately, the fragrance has been reformulated, losing the unique charm that I’ve cherished over the years. Though rare, vintage bottles can still be found from time to time.
The Individual Nature of Fragrance
Fragrance is an intensely personal choice - what smells divine on one person might not work the same way on another. This is due to individual body chemistry, skin type, and even diet, which can alter how a perfume develops and lingers. The same product can smell sweet and floral on one person but musky and earthy on another. This uniqueness makes fragrance selection an exciting and deeply personal journey, but that’s a story for another blog.
The Importance of Engaging More Senses
Just as you curate your wardrobe to reflect your personality, your choice of fragrance speaks volumes about your individuality. A floral, powdery perfume may evoke elegance and grace, while a rich, woody aroma exudes confidence and warmth. The same way a well-chosen handbag or a statement necklace can transform an outfit, a signature fragrance enhances your presence, leaving a lasting impression on those around you.
True style isn’t just what people see - it’s also what they sense. By incorporating fragrance into your overall aesthetic, you create a multidimensional expression of who you are. But the world of fragrance is vast and complex, with endless possibilities. I’ll explore this captivating world in future blogs, as I believe it plays a vital role in enhancing personal style.
An Invitation to Experience Joy
In Love Again is a floral-fruity fragrance, launched in 1998 and crafted by renowned perfumer Jean-Claude Ellena. This vibrant fragrance opens with a lively blend of grapefruit, black currant, cassia, blueberry, vodka, and apple, creating a fresh and playful introduction. The heart unfolds with delicate notes of grapefruit, rose, and water lily, adding a soft floral touch. As it settles, the unique base of tomato leaf, blackberry, musk, and sandalwood leaves a distinctive, warm, and slightly unexpected finish.