There is something undeniably romantic about having a signature scent. Something touching about the idea that it instantly conjures happy memories – or sends your loved ones into a tearful reverie once you’ve slipped off this mortal coil. It’s a nice thought. But really, when you think about it, committing to just one fragrance does seem quite limiting. No one would expect you to eat the same meal every day, or wear the same outfit day in and day out, regardless of your mood, the weather or the occasion. And you certainly wouldn’t don the same outfit for a date as you would to a meeting. So why not embrace the idea of a ‘scent wardrobe’ – a multifaceted collection of fragrances? An interesting thing to note is that layering is having a major moment. Perfume houses are launching collections aimed at your inner mixologist, specifically designed to be mixed and matched. Clinique recommends layering scents from its new My Happy range ‘to mix your own scent memories’; Chloé’s Atelier des Fleurs line is ‘designed to work in harmony in endless combinations’; and Kayali even includes combo suggestions on its packaging. Chanel, meanwhile, has taken the more traditional route in terms of layering, introducing new ways to ensure your one chosen fragrance lingers, with oils, body lotions and even hair perfumes to lend staying power. ‘The year 2025 will be defined by a deeper connection to fragrance – an era of experiential slow perfumery,’ says Bernardo Möller, co-founder of House of Bō. ‘This philosophy invites us to see fragrance not as a fleeting accessory but as a profound act of reflection and storytelling. ’Still not convinced? Here’s why we think you need a scent wardrobe:
1. SCENT IS LINKED TO MEMORY
Ever get a faint whiff of something and find yourself transported back to a different time? In the same way that the smell of cinnamon might make you think of your gran flipping pancakes, you can purposefully use fragrance to instil scent memories. Because your sense of smell is tied to the limbic system, the part of the brain that governs emotion and memory, it is particularly powerful when it comes to evoking those memories. In a recent interview, our cover star Emma Stone said that she wears a different scent for each movie role; afterwards, that fragrance is forever linked to that character in her mind. In the same way, a fragrance can bring back memories of travel to a place you never wanted to leave, a loved one with a particular affinity for a certain scent, or even just a feeling of cosiness or contentment. Take something fresh and summery along on your next beach trip and it will forever remind you of carefree days in the sun.
2. SCENT IS LINKED TO MOOD
Fragrance can influence your mindset. It can sharpen your focus or brighten your mood. In need of some energy? Try bright citruses or green botanicals. ‘Citrus will take centre stage with a modern twist [in 2025],’ says Rosie Johnston, CEO and founder of By/Rosie Jane. ‘Bright, uplifting notes like bergamot and lemon will be blended with unexpected elements like herbs or florals to create fragrances that are both invigorating and complex. When you’re feeling unsettled, try soothing woods, skin-like musks and creamy florals. Stressed out? Sandalwood is used in aromatherapy to help calm the body and mind. Off on an adventure? Bold, expressive scents such as patchouli, leather and amber can add some intrigue.
3. SCENT SHAPES PERCEPTION
Scent tells a story about you. It’s also often the first – or last – thing people notice about you. So what kind of impression are you leaving? Tailoring your scent to the occasion will help to shape how you are remembered. Light, crisp fragrances are good in a professional setting; unusual notes can denote creativity or artistic flair; and musky or ambery scents are good for date night.
4. SEASONS SHIFT
It makes sense to use light, fresh scents for summer, and keep moody ouds for winter. But a spritz of something clean and zesty might be just the ticket on a dreary winter’s day, whereas a warm, sensual scent could conjure up the atmosphere of a balmy summer’s night.
5. IT LOSES IMPACT
Ever noticed that your favourite perfume has lost its sensory impact? ‘After a while your brain starts to cancel out smells if you’re surrounded by them all the time,’ says Lyn Harris, perfumer and founder of scent house Perfumer H. If you switch it up periodically, you will appreciate that favourite scent even more.
6. THINGS CHANGE
‘Our skin’s acid mantle changes over time, as do hormone levels,’ Harris says. This shift in your body chemistry means that the leathery oud or sweet fruity scent you loved so much might not smell the same on you as it did in the past. Or perhaps you’ve just outgrown it?
