In the world of fragrance there’s a renewed optimism in the air.
“[This year] marks a change in direction,” says Rohan Widdison, CEO of cosmetic manufacturing firm New Laboratories, which works with many well-known beauty brands.
“People are looking for a fresh start. We know that scent has the power to uplift our moods and create a positive frame of mind, so the summer and spring fresh theme is a big vibe shift.”
Clayton Ilolahia, who works at the Fragrances of the World database says, “Scent is closely connected to memory, so fragrances can remind us of special moments, holidays and locations.” Here, we look at 2023’s big trends and the fragrances to put on high rotation.
Finding Your Match
“Fragrance is a personal experience; they’re connected to memory and emotions. To find your signature, wear one for the day: think about how it makes you feel and blends into your body’s natural scent.” —Rohan Widdison, New Laboratories
Sultry Amber
Warm and inviting, amber scents are fit for any occasion where you seek a bit of grounding—from the office to lunch on the weekend. “Tonka bean and tobacco are trending notes,” says Clayton Ilolahia, of Fragrances of the World.
BOSS The Scent Magnetic for Her EDP, $152 at Sephora
Amouage Guidance EDP, $499 at Adore Beauty
BDK Parfums Tabac Rose EDP, 100ml, $385 at Adore Beauty
Exotic Florals
“Expect to see fragrances showcasing exotic floral notes with fruity accents like magnolia and osmanthus,” says Ilolahia. “These floral scents smell luminous and are perfect for wearing outdoors and by the beach.”
Issey Miyake L’Eau d’Issey Eau & Magnolia EDT Intense, 100ml, $202 at Myer
Flower By Kenzo L’Absolue EDP, 100ml, $232 at Myer
Paco Rabanne Fame EDP, 80ml, $215 at Sephora
Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb EDP, 100ml, $257 at Myer
Beachy Notes
“Fragrance can help you maintain your post-holiday glow. There are no rules when it comes to holiday scent pairing,” says Ilolahia. “Simply wear fragrances that make you feel relaxed and bring you joy. Zesty citrus or marine notes pair nicely with coastal holidays.”
Goldfield & Banks Pacific Rock Moss perfume extract, 100ml, $235 at Sephora
Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Italian Love EDT, 100ml, $112 at David Jones
Dior J’Adore Parfum D’Eau, 100ml, $275 at Dior
Acqua di Parma Colonia EDC, $249 at Myer
D.S. & DURGA Plumes EDP, 50ml, $291 at Mecca
Delightful Gourmand
Gourmand notes such as vanilla, caramel, chocolate, coffee and cognac make for a magnetic personal scent. “They can be paired with almost every fragrance family,” says Ilolahia. “If floral gourmand is your go-to, why not try an amber gourmand or woody gourmand scent for a change?”
Jimmy Choo I Want Choo Forever EDP, 100ml, $203 at Adore Beauty
GRAFF Lesedi La Rona VI EDP, $511 at Libertine Parfumerie
Lancôme Idôle EDP, 50ml, $161 at Adore Beauty
YSL Libre Le Parfum EDP, 50ml, $215 at YSL Beauty
Serge Lutens Un Bois Vanille EDP, $217 at Myer
Fruits & Citrus
“Popular key notes include citrus, fresh fruit, coconut and light floral tones echoing summer and spring,” says Widdison. These flattering fruity notes also pair well with other notes on the fragrance wheel.
ROCHAS Girl Blooming Edition EDT, 100ml, $155 at David Jones
Juliette Has A Gun Ego Stratis EDP, 100ml, $209 at Libertine Parfumerie
Burberry Her Elixir EDP, 100ml, $233 at Burberry
“An alternative way to wear fragrance is to use a perfumed hair mist or apply your fragrance to clothes instead of skin” – Clayton Ilolahia, Fragrances of the World
CHANEL Coco Mademoiselle Fresh Hair Mist, $85 at Myer
Feminine Floral
If you’re a die-hard floral fan, change up your signature with the addition of fresh notes. “A fan of white florals might stay close to what they love but look for fresher or crisper interpretations of the theme,” says Ilolahia.
Matiere Premiere French Flower EDP, 100ml, $349 at Libertine Parfumerie
Marc Jacobs Perfect EDP, 100ml, $225 at Sephora
BVLGARI Rose Goldea Blossom Delight EDP, 75ml, $220 at Myer
LE LABO Lys 41 EDP, 50ml, $320 at LE LABO
