My understanding of layering started, as a child, with fruit trifle – cake, fruit, cream,
repeat. As I grew up it extended to layering of clothes for winter as layers keep you
warmer, and then onto skincare, where layering actives improved skin. However, I was
sold to layering with fruit trifle, the rest merely reaffirmed my faith in layering. So, it
came as no surprise when I discovered perfume layering – a fun way to create signature
scents and make them last longer. There are no rules for layering fragrances, the world
is your oyster. Still, a few tips never hurt anyone ☺
- Start with a light, unscented base
Perfumes last longer and smell stronger on moisturised skin. Therefore, begin by
applying an unscented oil in colder months or lightly scented lotion or moisturiser in warm weather. If your moisturiser is of the same fragrance as your perfume, feel free to use that. Additionally, mixing textures can create a multi-dimensional effect, as different fragrances release at varying paces, adding an aura of mystery. - Choose complementary notes
The right kind of pairing can elevate your perfume. Start with tried and tested
combinations like citrus with florals, musky with woody fragrances. Once you get the hang of it, experiment with contrasting notes and create as many unique combinations as you like.
- Light on top
Unlike skin care layering where you move from the lightest product to the heaviest,
apply stronger, heavier scents first, followed by lighter, fresh ones. This ensures the
lighter notes aren’t overpowered.
- Focus on Pulse Points
Focus on your pulse points (wrists, neck, behind the ears, and even the knees). These areas are warmer due to blood vessels being closer to the skin's surface, helping to gradually release the scent.
- Lesser the better
Less is always more - except with desserts. Ideally, layer two or at most three different scents to avoid overwhelming others’ olfactory senses. This also ensures each scent can stand out. Too many, and it is like rinsing too many paintbrushes in the same water – the result is indistinguishable.
- Go beyond
If your clothes are safe for perfume, apply some on them. Spray a light mist in your hair – this can be tricky, so it’s best to spray a cloud and let it settle gently. If you wear a fabric watch strap or a Nike sports strap for an Apple Watch, spritz some perfume on it. The fabric’s pores and the strap’s holes trap the scent, making it last well beyond 24 hours.
We are in the day and age where the harder we try to stand out, the more we seem to
blend in – cars in respective segments look identical and fashion trends ensure
everyone dresses alike. Perfume layering offers you that rare opportunity to stand a
notch above the crowd.