We love a good wardrobe refresh—especially at the start of a new year. But around here, our wardrobe doesn’t stop at sweaters and boots, it goes all the way to the perfumes we pair them with. Fragrances add sensory depth to your style, going beyond visual cues to scent-based signals that tell the world who you are.
Perfume becomes a part of you and your style the moment you spritz it on. It can enhance your outfit, boost your mood, or even make a lasting impression on someone you meet. (The link between scent and memory is strong. TLDR: It has the ability to stir up vivid memories, even from deep in the past.)
What is a Perfume Wardrobe?
The best part? You don’t have to start from scratch. You likely have a few go-to scents you already use regularly that can help set the tone and create a foundation for your collection.
Consider the role that scent families play in your preferences. Chances are that many of your favorite fragrances fall into the category. Want to venture outside of conventional florals (the main perfume category and our largest scent family), and don’t know where to start? As you’ll see, we’re currently loving warm and woody scents. So, we’re suggesting you spritz here. Let’s begin.
How to Build Your Perfume Wardrobe
Start with Staples
Begin with a few foundational scents your collection can revolve around. These fragrances should be the favorites you keep coming back to and wearing on their own. Aim for a diverse base that will speak to the different aspects of your style (i.e. don’t choose exclusively woody scents or gourmand scents). Variety is key. If you need some ideas of where to start, here are a few of our team’s favorites:
WOODY SANDALWOOD
Inspired by Chanel's
Bleu de Chanel
Minimal, yet comforting, this scent conveys a unique and captivating sensuality.
AROMATIC STAR ANISE
Inspired by Dior's
Sauvage
Fresh and outdoorsy, this scent expresses rugged strength with a touch of fantasy.
WINTER KISS
Dossier Originals:
The Seasons Collection
Smooth and mellow, this cozy scent smells like a cup of hot cocoa on a snowy day.
AMBERY OAKWOOD
Inspired by Killian's
Angel’s Share
Warm and boozy, this scent is an indulgent blend of edible notes and smoky, spicy bliss.
ORCHID & SANDALWOOD AT DUSK
Dossier Originals:
The Genderless Collection
Elegant and sensual, this scent tantalizes the senses with a balance of orchid, sandalwood, and amber.
Layer Up
Now that you have your staples, it’s time to put your signature spin on them. We like to think of layering perfumes like layering clothes—it adds depth and interest to your fragrance wardrobe. You don’t have to layer every day, but it can be fun to explore your senses and experiment with creative pairings.
If you’re new to layering scents, it might feel daunting to choose the right combination. We’re sharing a few of our go-to pairings, but don’t be afraid to think outside the box.
Complementary Combinations
Winter Kiss + Woody Rum
Why it Works: Both fragrances share common edible notes of rum and vanilla, wrapping your skin in cozy, comforting chocolate and candied fruit.
Unlikely Pairings
Ambery Oakwood + Woody
Tobacco
Why it Works: The warming combination of cognac and tobacco on a background of sophisticated woody notes plunges you straight into a speakeasy.
Orchid & Sandalwood at Dusk + Ambery Cedarwood
Why it Works: A mysterious blend that dances between Ambery Cedarwood’s radiance and the bewitching creaminess of Orchid & Sandalwood At Dusk.
Mutually-Elevating Mixes
Winter Kiss + Woody Chestnut
Why it Works: Warm and comfy with a sensual base, this pairing combines milky notes, chocolate, chestnuts, and spices to create a wonderland of winter delights.
Take Your Time
Building a well-rounded perfume wardrobe doesn’t happen overnight. It starts little by little, with just a few core scents. As your collection grows, be mindful about adding fragrances that are different from one another, but also have layering potential.
Building a well-rounded perfume wardrobe doesn’t happen overnight. It starts little by little, with just a few core scents. As your collection grows, be mindful about adding fragrances that are different from one another, but also have layering potential.
Your new favorite scent might only be one question away. Try AInée today.
