By Red Dimaandal-Escamillas
We love the concept of creating a signature scent. Imagine being asked “What perfume are you wearing?” or someone thinking of you whenever they smell that special blend of vanilla, sandalwood, or floral scent–it is indeed a sweet compliment.
How you carry your scent is completely unique to how you wish to carry yourself about that day. The most traditional way of wearing perfume is by simply spritzing your fragrance on and calling it a day. However, for those who want to further personalize their scent for a unique combo, perfume layering comes into play.
The concept of perfume layering may be intimidating, but with a little guidance, it can yield exciting results. Read on for a simple guide.
Prepare your skin
Always start with a clean and hydrated skin. A scented body wash cleanses and preps your skin while creating the first layer of fragrance.
Moisturize strategically
After cleansing, apply your favorite lotion to hydrate your skin and lock in the scent. Pay attention to pulse points, where your body heat helps diffuse the fragrance.
Build your fragrance
When it comes to spraying perfumes, start with the strongest scent. Apply the bold, rich fragrance first. And then top up with lighter or complementary notes to avoid overpowering your base.
Add finishing touches
Spray perfume on pulse points like your wrists, neck, and behind your ears. For an extra touch, spritz the ends of your hair or if you have a scarf–these areas catch the air and carry the fragrance beautifully.
What scents go well together?
Understanding the different layers in fragrances is important to know how to best combine your scents. The top note is what you smell right away when you spray, the middle note is the heart of the fragrance and is usually warmer and softer. And finally, the bottom note is what develops last and what stays with you for hours–long after the top notes disappear.
Examples of classic combinations are vanilla, resins and bergamot, rose and patchouli, or herbs with citrus. Keep these notes in mind when you start to combine your scents.
If you’ve never layered fragrances before, try to combine two fragrances that have a common note–jasmine for instance, and go from there. Or if you’re adventurous, try combining two or more fragrances like a spice or vanilla for instance.
Creating a perfume is part of science, but it really is an art, the art of translating an emotion into a feeling.
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