The Power of Perfume and Fragrance Layering
Emotions Can Be Triggered by Smell
We all know that certain scents can evoke different emotions in each of us. A scent that sends you on a magic carpet trip down memory lane, is not only caused by a little bit of nostalgia, but also has a scientific reason behind it. Different scents can tap into different parts of your brain that access your moods, emotions, and memories. One company that knows this well is Taylor of London, with 45 years of experience and a passion for creating luxury fragrances that evoke an emotional connection.
In fact, 75% of all emotions created every day are due to smell. This is because our olfactory receptors (odours) are connected to the limbic system in the brain including the amygdala and hippocampus which are associated with emotions and memories.
Every type of scent can evoke a different feeling forming a unique emotional connection to them. For example, vanilla is proven to be a universal pleasant scent that invokes positive emotions and feelings towards a certain situation and memory.
However, because everyone is different, each scent can be pleasant for one person and unpleasant for another. A sweet and heavy rose scent can remind you of your favourite, kind and encouraging teacher, but it can also remind someone else of the day they were stung by a bee.
Create Your Own Signature Scent
Although commercially many bottles are produced of the same fragrance, each scent is tied to a different emotion and person, it is special and can even become part of one’s personality. It’s almost as if people have their own personalised scent attaching it to their identity.
But how do we create our signature scent without breaking the bank to manufacture your own perfume? This concept is not as hard to achieve as we think, with the art of fragrance layering.
What is Fragrance Layering?
Fragrance layering is the simple act of putting together two different fragrances to create a unique scent for you. Think of it as decorating your home. You can start with a simple base and add different layers of accessories to bring life and personality to the room. These layers bring something unique to the final outcome, allowing you to tell the story you want to, whether it be a bold and bright room (or scent) or something more neutral and subtle.
Fragrance layering originates from Arab culture and traditions. Scented oils like Bakhoor or essential oils, were used to enhance fragrances whilst holding on to strong base notes. This tradition has been transformed and introduced to the modern world. Designer brands like Parfums Christian Dior and Chanel are creating product lines, specifically made for embracing fragrance layering. In fact, other more affordable brands, like Milton-Lloyd, focus on perfume oils and layering tools. This is so that you can create your own luxury fragrances at affordable prices.
It’s important to note that fragrance layering doesn’t always mean spraying two perfumes on top of each other. It can also start with you applying a scented moisturiser in the morning or even putting different sprays of perfumes on different parts of your body.
When Should I Fragrance Layer?
Fragrance layering can be done anytime and can even become part of your everyday routine. Taylor of London has classic fragrances and body sprays like Panache, Tweed, White Satin, and Lace available all-year round. Many people use it as a creativity ritual that is part of their day, it can be quite a stimulating and relaxing exercise.
However, you may like to save specific fragrance layering for special days to create a special and unique scent to compliment the event. You can create a signature scent and save it for your anniversary party or perhaps for your daughter’s wedding day. You have the ability to tie a scent to a memory, helping you remember and relive the special moments in your life.
How Do I Start Fragrance Layering?
An important rule to remember is that there are no ‘set in stone’ rules when it comes to fragrance layering. This is a chance to have fun and get creative to figure out what combinations work for you.
To start with, you should know there are different layers to each individual fragrance. The top note is what you smell and sense straight away when you spray the perfume. The middle note is the core of the fragrance, it is warm and smoother. The bottom note develops last and remains on you for much longer even after the top notes have faded.
Top Tips:
- Keep in mind the different notes of the fragrance when combining them. Make sure they all complement each other.
- Heavier scents should be sprayed first so that they don’t overpower the lighter notes involved.
- Avoid a combination of two dark and heady scents, this may be too overwhelming and can turn unpleasant after some time.
Good Combinations:
- An easy combination is to use two fragrances with a common note. For instance, Tweed and White Satin from Taylor of London Fragrances both have Citrus, Floral, and Woody notes, making them easy to complement each other when layering.
- If you are feeling more adventurous you can combine two opposing notes like a spice and vanilla. Lace and White Satin from Taylor London would make a great pairing when sprayed on different areas of the body e.g. palms, neck
- A good way to dip your toes into the fragrance layering world is to use a body spray and a perfume together that come from the same brand. A lot of the time they are meant to be layered and carry a lot of the same notes.
- Floral top notes are most popularly layered with a more intense and sophisticated bottom note to create a more full-bodied scent.
At the end of the day, it’s up to you to experiment and play around with different scents to see what scent suits you the best. Use this as an opportunity for a bespoke experience, while using the easy and affordable tools you already have.
Fragrance layering allows you to become creative with the way that you want to present yourself and be remembered by your loved ones around you. Have fun!
Simran Pasricha
O50s
Australian Over 50s Living & Lifestyle Guide
A Breakthrough in Osteoarthritis Pain Relief
Millions of seniors face the daily challenge of living with...
Read MoreMenopausal Skincare Tips: Your Ultimate Guide
Menopause is often a time of significant hormonal and bodily...
Read More