On The Scent

This week we’re talking new London perfume destinations and prescribing scents that whisk you straight to the medina or wrap you in a sensuous tobacco haze.Suzy visited the brand-new @nishane.official boutique in London’s Mayfair, sharing why she’s so glad this Istanbul-born house has a home on Maddox Street.Just across town, Suzy explored the new @matierepremiereparfums store in Covent Garden, and why their single-ingredient focus feels so perfect to explore in person. Suzy was wrapped in @matierepremiereparfums Encens Suave Extrait, a smoky-syrupy incense that feels like velvet in candlelight.Then it’s on to your Perfume Prescriptions…Listener prescriptions!Katy Rosenbaum – “the good parts of a Moroccan souk”Katy asks for a fragrance that smells like the dreamy side of a Moroccan souk – oud, bakhoor, amber, saffron, orange blossom, incense and mint – but with no animalic growl or sweaty cumin.Suggested for Katy:@kayali Marrakesh in a Bottle Orange Blossom | 24 – sunlit orange blossom, shimmering spice, soft woods.@kayali Oudgasm Tobacco Oud – honeyed oud, spiced tobacco, praline-smoked warmth.Layering ideas:@emiratesprideperfumes Future Oud – inky-modern oud glow.@emiratesprideperfumes Future Bakhoor – smouldering bakhoor embers in perfume form.@27_87 Wandervogel – Moroccan mint, cool spice, wandering-soul musk.@sergelutens Fleur d’Oranger – narcotic orange blossom, honeyed white petals, shadowy spice.Scott / @blublazerguy’s picks:@contesdeparfums Marrakesh – sun-baked spices, warm skin, a whisper of cumin.@aesop Marrakech Intense – vivid souk spices, dust, dry woods.@marrakechimperial discovery set – a wardrobe of Marrakesh-inspired scents to mix and match your own souk.Layering @jomalonelondon White Jasmine & Mint with Amber Labdanum – cool garden mint over golden, incense-warmed amber.Memoirs of a Perfumer Collector – A Night in Marrakesh – inky sky, spiced markets, flickering lantern smoke.Question from Cardamomefille – sensual, feminine tobacco (pipe, not cigarette)Cardamomefille is seeking a sensual scent built around warm pipe tobacco, with a clearly feminine side rather than ashtray smoke…Suggested for Cardamomefille:@sergelutens Chergui – honeyed pipe tobacco, sun-baked hay, incense-swirled amber.@guerlain Tobacco Honey – golden honeyed tobacco, plush woods, cozy purr of warmth.@guerlain Absolus Allegoria Tabac Sahara – smoky desert tobacco, tart raspberry shimmer, ambergris glow.Sonoma Scent Studio Tabac Aurea – boozy cherry pipe tobacco, dry amber, leather and spice wrapped in vanilla.

Dipping deep into the postbag for this week’s episode, we’re celebrating the strength of one of our listeners, Amy, and rejoicing in the perfect perfume found for @amtstevens for her anniversary trip to Bruges. Aaron’s moved to Mexico City and is seeking scents to stand up to the heat, and Louise is looking for bone-dry forest smells to remind her of home in the peak of summer. Suzanne, meanwhile, is craving watercolour spring florals for a sense of hopefulness we could all do with right now...We reccommed:House of Bō AGUA DE SANTOSArquiste L’etrog AcquaLe Labo Bergamot 23Czech & Speake AusoniaDiptyque Tam DaoDS&DURGA Cowboy Grass:DS&DURGA Brown FlowersByredo Mojave Ghost Xerjoff NaxosLords Fragrance House Pengelli Forest Ltd Edition 3 Wick CandleFloris Bluebell & Hyacinth DiffuserFloris Cherry Blossom eau de parfumConnock VerdantTo the Fairest Élan Vital Nancy Meiland Lupin Meadow

In this week's episode we are prescribing some wonderful fragrances for you our On The Scent Family.From cuddly cashmeran to scents to conjure up warmer climates, there's something for everyone!

In this week’s episode of the podcast, we’re picking perfect perfumes for the cast of Emily in Paris (well, Rome when season 5 begins). As the show progresses we see all manner of complicated liaisons, along with a general theme of growth, glamour, ambition, & escapism. Here’s how we’d scent it!Suzy suspects the fictional house of Muratorio in the show takes inspiration from Brunello Cucinelli. The designer set out to reinvent Italian luxury, marrying craft with conscience. Based in Solomeo, the restored Umbrian village now stands as the heart of his brand — a symbol of beauty, ethics, & enduring craftsmanship.To properly scent the cashmere house of Muratori, Suzy chose: @brunellocucinelli_brand Pour FemmeA crisp Umbrian morning, bottled: citrus & spice over creamy chestnut, woods & musk atop a chicly paired-back but supremely soft cashmere embrace.Marcello MuratoriSuzy: @brunellocucinelli_brand Pour HommeBright spiced citrus evokes Umbrian countryside air, warming into woody, resinous, balsamic notes & a handsomely smooth, amber-y dry down.Nicola: @acquadiparma Colonia EssenzaSparkling lemon, orange, bergamot and grapefruit over polished-wood woods; a vibrant, woody-citrus twist on the iconic Colonia – effortlessly elegant.EmilySuzy: @ormondejayne Gelsomino A Freddo Ambrosia ExtraitAn iconic Italian house showing its elegantly addictive side via cardamom & lemon over jasmine enfleurage, black tea & myrrh melting into sweet, creamy woods.Nicola: @cartier La Panthére eau de parfumUtterly confident & chic: luminous gardenia wrapped in velvety musks & chypre notes, a feline-floral aura with unmistakable poise.MindySuzy: @grittifragrances DuchessaDark cherry, bitter orange and saffron swirl with chocolate, jasmine & brown sugar for a fun, more-ish gourmand radiating plush hedonism.Nicola: @thameen.london Centre StageA spotlit cabaret fantasy of orange blossom, lavender and cardamom, grounded by leather & animalic nuances for a provocative trail.@ormondejayne SybariteFor the life & soul of the party, pink and Timur peppers, hazelnut & jasmine sashay over vanilla, labdanum, smoked woods & musk, pulsing sensorially.AlfieSuzy: @gallivant.stories LondonUrbanite spring floral leather: rose, cucumber & violet leaf over sandalwood, patchouli, cedar & worn-leather nuances with a twinkle in its eye.Nicola: @experimentalperfumeclub Cardamom MossCool & sizzling spices collide: ginger, turmeric, cardamom & cinnamon on an Ambroxan/moss base, with salty woods, tobacco & powdery musks.SylvieNicola: @maisonfranciskurkdjian Grand SoirAn amber evening glow: labdanum, lavandin & cinnamon leaf melting into sumptuous amber-vanilla & benzoin, dressed-up & impeccably sensual.Suzy: @goutalparis Ninfeo Mio eau de toiletteA proudly Parisian take on Italy: juicy citrus & green fig conjuring a lush, sunlit garden near Rome - leafy, sparkling & transportive.

In this episode we're talking about the fragrances that are giving us joy at the moment.We also have some new brands to introduce you to, an amazing listener prescription and lots more.Here's what we mention:Ode Ona Carte BlancheChloe Atelier des Fleurs- Les PinsThis Works Own TimeSaville Row Private Collection:Bucula and TelaGuerlain Absolus Allegoria Tabac SaharaSabrina Carpenter Sweet Tooth Caramel DreamBeaufort London Vie et ArmisFantôme VassagoRubini Nuvolari

In this week's episode we're talking about a wonderful experience at Maison de Diptyque in celebration of their jazz club inspired fragrance Orpheon.We're also updating you on some fabulous new fragrance launches and we're answering a perfume prescription that gets Suzy thinking about bracing seaside walks in Cornwall.Finally we have the most powerful message to read out from a listener who is using Shalimar to empower her on protests.Here's what we mention during the episode:Diptyque OrphéonJo Malone Labdanum Amber Cologne IntenseFine Scents Joie de SannesAmouage RemainSarah Baker AtlanteRuth Mastenbroek MarlinPerfumer H SaltCoach Blueand of course Shalimar

In this week's episode we're leaning into the our nostalgia needs and exploring the wonderful world of vintage inspired fragrances.Here's what we discuss:@guerlain Shalimar L’Essence Eau de Parfum Intense“Shalimar celebrates its 100th anniversary. To mark this exceptional event, the Maison is revealing Shalimar L’Essence, a new intense variation which concentrates Shalimar’s distinctive codes: its quintessence. A homage to the timeless modernity, daring and seduction of Guerlain’s most famous scent for women.Delphine Jelk has added the precious Madagascan vanilla tincture stemming from Guerlain's ancestral know-how to the ethylvanillin found in Jacques Guerlain’s original formula, giving Shalimar a new intensity.Discreet and subtle, bergamot illuminates the floral heart which blends rose absolute with the powdery elegance of iris. Little by little, Shalimar’s amber note unfolds. Used in abundance, vanilla infuses it with new facets – smooth and woody with a hint of leather.”“To wear Shalimar is to let your senses take over.” - Jacques Guerlain@bienaime_1935 Vermeil @gather.fragrance & @fioleukWe’ve previously talked about this one quite a lot, but you must also check out their gloriously evocative new fragrance…Bienaimé Vesprée @gather.fragrance & @fioleuk“Vesprée captures the quiet, luminous moment between day and night. As the sun dips and the air cools, an elegant breeze of cardamom, bergamot and lavender unfurls - soft, serene, and full of anticipation.TOP NOTES Cardamom, Bergamot, Lavender, Carrot Seed, Celery SeedHEART NOTES Peru Balsam, Rose, Geranium, IrisBASE NOTES Vetiver, Benzoin, Vanilla, Cedarwood, Labdanum, Tonka Bean, SandalwoodThe fragrance opens with fresh spice and aromatic brightness before revealing a warm, resinous heart wrapped in iris and rose. As it settles, Vesprée becomes deeper and more textural, grounded in vetiver, benzoin and smooth woods. The result is a softly glowing, gender-fluid composition - equally comforting and refined, evoking the stillness and mystery of twilight.@jouissanceparfums La Bague d’O(1954 inspired) “Beguiling, intoxicating, romantic. A bruise-coloured bouquet.TOP:Steel Chains, Pink Pepper, Orange FleshMID: Geranium, Jasmine, Rose, VioletBASE: Amber, Animalic, Musk, Patchouli@discothequefragrances Baise Moi on the Dancefloor“Silky waters, crystal goblets and champagne bottles, iris sprigs, wild vines of jasmine, intertwined limbs and steamy handprints, a timeless ruse, a poet and a muse, an ocean of violets in bloom, “love is a reciprocal torture,” breathed through a cloud of powder.1979, PARISTOP — Violet Leaf, Cassis HEART — Orris, Jasmine BASE — Cashmere, Sandalwood.”@officine_universelle_buly Héliotrope du PérouThe “unique water-based fragrance, reveals a bouquet of white flowers stung with tonka beans and violet. Charismatic, she rolls like velvet on the skin, without ever imposing herself to excess.Heliotrope, leather, sandalwood, tonka, violet and ebony.”@naomigoodsir Iris Cendre @soliflore_store“fresh floral tone, led by bergamot, tangerine & spices. A rich & powdery heart of incense & purple iris. Sensuality is enhanced by cistus, tobacco & amber.” Lipstick, leather & smoke.@jeroboamperfumes OriginoTop notes are Bergamot and Pink Pepper; middle notes are Juniper and Nutmeg; base notes are Sandalwood and White Musk.“Worn on bare skin, Origino speaks for itself. The Esperanto word for beginnings, Origino was invented by perfumer Vanina Muracciole and marks nothing less than a new beginning; the genesis of a completely new brand and the creation of a new olfactory universe. Whilst every Jeroboam perfume is based around a musky cocktail, each one is distinct, enticing and seductive and given that the great majority of modern perfumes have a musky base, the Jeroboam stable of unisex perfume extracts are all designed to have universal appeal. Origino has top notes of bergamot and pink peppercorn that give way to a heart of juniper and nutmeg which, in turn, gives way to a base composed of sandalwood and a blend of enigmatic musks.”@andreamaack Craft“Purifying aldehydes and smouldering incense recall the crystal-clear mystery of a frozen lake at nightfall. Glittering metallic notes promise salvation, grounded in the holy sacrament of ancient resin.Top notes: Aldehydes, IceHeart notes: Cold metal, Cedar Wood Base notes: Elemi, Patchouli.”@erisparfums Ma Bête @wild_iris_perfumerie“MA BÊTE (My Beast) caresses you with the suggestiveness of perfumed fur. A collision of the floral and the animal, MA BÊTE combines a regal Tunisian Neroli with spices and a 50 percent overdose of Antoine Lie's own animalic cocktail."Ma Bête is a fierce beast with raunchy elegance." – Antoine Lie (Perfumer)Available in 50 ml / 1.7 fl. oz. atomizer bottles at eau de parfum concentration.FRAGRANCE NOTESAldehydes, Tunisian Neroli, Indian NutmegIndian Cypriol, Honduran Styrax, Indian Jasmine SambacVirginia Cedarwood, Indonesian Patchouli, Synthetic Animalic Accord.”

We're back with more of your brilliant prescriptions.Here are the fragrances we recommend:Roos & Roos GlobulusDS & Durga Big Sur EucalyptusGrossmith’s Shem-el-NessimlwoodMolinard HabanitaLanvin ArpègeCoty L’aimantBienaimé Vermeil:@sergeslutens Fleurs d’Oranger@mizensir Solar Blossom@granadobrazil Citrus Brasilis

Happy New Year one and all.We wanted to start 2026 with a chat about our favourite and most worn fragrances of 2025 (the ones we didn't have space to talk about during On The Scent Live!)We hope you enjoy this first episode of the year.Loads of loveNicola and Suzy (both wearing Marc Antoine Barrois Tilia today naturally)

In this, the second part of our look back at On The Scent Live, we're reading out (and playing live) some of your AMAZING perfume prescriptions from the two events. As ever they were fantastically creative, emotional and in some cases utterly bonkers (which is what we love!)Here are the fragrances that we mention:@beaufortlondon Terror & Magnificence@sergeslutens L’orpheline@tombstone_fragrances Sweet Coffin@nealsyardremedies Remedies to Roll Relaxation fragrance oilLavender & frankincenseLayered with either…@rubini_profumi Nuvolari@mschf MSCHF Smells Like WD-40@fischersund ÚtilyktNo. 101 FragranceNo. 8 Fragrance(All 3 found in their Langdegi (Light) Discovery Set@bdkparfumsparis Rouge SmokingOrmonde Jayne Sybarite@thameen Centre Stage@jorumstudio Firewater@kajalperfumes Lamar Noir@jorumstudio Unspoken Gesture@vallense Source@ellakparfumsparis Rose de Pushkar@infiniment Coty Ambre Antique@millerharris L’Air de Rien@hunq_amsterdam 006 Boxer@andy_tauer L'Air du Desert Marocain@jouissanceparfums Les Cahiers Secrets@dsanddurga Portable Xmas Tree Candle@trudon Enchanted Night Holiday Collection 2025 - Fir 'Christmas Tree' Luxury Scented Candle.@edeniste Wellbeing layered with their Energy fragrance:@juliettehasagun Powder Love@adscenture Turkish DelightGri Gri Moko Mauri (available / sample @shymimosa)@fischersund 101@ostens Rose Oil Isparta@fredericmalles Portrait of a Lady@matierepremiere Radical Rose eau de parfum@officine_universelle_buly Eau Triple Damask Rose@xerjoff Rose Gold & Amber Gold layering duo

Come and join us one and all for On The Scent Live. Whether you were there and want to relive the fun or you didn't manage to get a ticket and want to be part of it, we really hope you enjoy this bumper episode. You'll hear a combination of live recordings from both events and us reflecting on the scents we chose.Onto the events:Our wonderful helpers over both daysOn the Scent-ers Little Helpers:(Friday)William Borrell @vallensefragrancesAmanda Carr @wewearperfumeSharon Whiting @scentinelcomms(Saturday)Thomas @makingscentsmakesenseHester @peacock.vintageFRIDAY:****Nicola’s fragrances:1. Clive Christian E Cashmere MuskTop notes: Baies Rose, Sichuan Pepper, and Fresh Ginger. Heart notes: Fleuriste Fusion, Egyptian Jasmin, and Cashmeran. Base: Guaiacwood, Ambroxan, and Musks.2. Perfumer H Flower No.1A bouquet of white flowers to turn heads and capture the imagination. Tuberose (India), jasmine (Egypt), orange flower (Tunisia) and rose oil (Turkey) rest on a silken base of sandalwood, vanilla bourbon and white musk.3. Nest Hypnotic Ambergolden amber, Indian cardamom, dark woods, patchouli, incense, vanilla, and rose, Mirabelle plum oil.4. Frederic Malle Acne StudiosAldehydes, Rose, Peach, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Musk.5. Ormonde Jayne SybariteTop: Hazelnut, Timur, Pink Pepper and Pepper; middle notes are Vanilla, Butter, Orris, Jasmine and Rose; base notes are Vanilla Absolute, Woody Notes, Labdanum and Musk.****Suzy’s fragrances:1.Acqua di Parma BuongiornoTop notes: Lemon Essence, Spearmint Essence , Rosemary Essence , Codistillation Basil & Petitgrain essencesHeart notes: Lavandin Essence , Mandarin Leaves Accord. Base notes: Cedarwood Leaves Essence, Amber Accord, White Musks2.ANFORH KistTop: Sandalwood, Blonde Woods, Havanalite (pressed-linen polish)Heart: Sandalwood, Laotian Benzoin Resinoid (aged 24 months; smoky and resinous), Vintage Paperback AccordBase: Texan Cedarwood (fresh-sawn timber warmth), Cypriol, Cashmeran3.Amouage LustreTop Notes: Cardamom, OrrisHeart Notes: Patchouli, Sandalwood, CedarwoodBase Notes: Benzoin, Labdanum, Vanilla, Cypriol, Styrax, Tonka Bean, Myrrh4.Guerlain Shalimar L’Essence“Delphine Jelk has added the precious Madagascan vanilla tincture stemming from Guerlain's ancestral know-how to the ethylvanillin found in Jacques Guerlain’s original formula, giving Shalimar a new intensity.Discreet and subtle, bergamot illuminates the floral heart which blends rose absolute with the powdery elegance of iris. Little by little, Shalimar’s amber note unfolds. Used in abundance, vanilla infuses it with new facets – smooth and woody with a hint of leather.”5.Jeroboam Kun AmoEsperanto to English - kun amo. with love.A luminous and sensual perfume extract in which pear reigns supreme. Sun-drenched, luscious and seductive, the fruit mingles with a generous dose of sweetness and captivating aromas, underpinned by modern, ambery woods and the house’s emblematic musks.SATURDAY:****Nicola’s fragrances:1. Ormonde Jayne X’ian‘Nutmeg, rhubarb, musk and sandalwoodHEAD Black Pepper, NutmegHEART Cedarwood, RhubarbSOUL Musk, Indian Sandalwood2. M.Micallef Hypnotic Musk‘Top notes: Iris, Bergamot, RaspberryHeart notes: Ginger, Lychee, Violet, Caramel Base notes: Musk, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Ambergris’3. The Harmonist Sun ForceTop Notes: Pomelo, Bulgarian Rose Oil, Saffron Heart Notes: Cardamom, Incense, Organic Honey Base Notes: Sandalwood, Organic Benzoin, Musk4. The Virtue Holy SmokeTop: Cinnamon Bark, Clove, Tonka Bean Middle: Patchouli, Guaiac Wood Base: Frankincense, Oakmoss, Amber5. Eris Parfums Green SpellItalian Mandarin, French Black Currant Bud absolute (Bourgeons Cassis), Iranian Galbanum (oil and resinoid), Egyptian Violet Leaf absolute, French Narcissus absolute, Tomato leaf accord, Fig leaf accord, Haitian Vetiver, Ambroxan, Musk (synthetic)****Suzy’s fragrances:1.NOSU Been Trying to Meet YouTop: Elderflower, Dried Grasses, Pink & Black PepperMiddle: Immortelle, Honey, BranBase: Hay, Ambrette, Amyris2.Vivienne Westwood Boudoir (New)(OG 1998, Martin Gras) to its 2025 relaunch by Cristian Calabro. The original mixed aldehydes, orange blossom, rose, carnation, vanilla & tobacco leaf — a daring, divisive scent.
The new version? Added CO₂-extracted vanilla, solar-powered ylang-ylang & no animal-derived ingredients. Now available at Vivienne Westwood boutiques in the UK, Paris & Milan — rolling out globally through 2026.3.DS & DURGA Cognac Reign‘Get out on the danse parquet and let your powdered wig down to vivacious viola de gamba grooves. It’s baroque, baby!’TOP NOTES caramelized bergamot, antique wood HEART NOTES cognac essence, concrete of orris BASE NOTES tonka, limousine oak4.Zadig & Voltaire ZADIGTop notes are Sesame, Ginger, White Pepper and Black Pepper; middle notes are Orange Blossom and Neroli Essence; base notes are Chantilly Cream, Vanilla and Sandalwood.5.Goldfield & Banks Tales of AmberNew Zealand Ambergris, De Laire Amber 83 (Labdanum & Vanillin), Australian Agarwood, Orange Blossom, Iris, Cinnamon, OudHuge thanks to the amazing brands that helped fill our legendary goody bags:@profilepr@uppublicrelations@kga_beauty_pr@aspectsbeauty@phoenixbeauty@agencedeparfumerie PRParfum Gres (@parfumsgres) - Available at:SuperdrugJaguar (@jaguar) - Available at: SuperdrugLaura Biagiotti (@laurabiagiottiparfums) - Available at: Superdrug > Roma Uomo / Roma DonnaNissaba (@nissaba.fragrances) - Available at: Fortnum & Mason (in-store only), Jovoy Mayfair, and Wild IrisHugh Parsons (@hughparsonslondon) - Available at: Fortnum & Mason, The Perfume Shop Boutique and DebenhamsSanta Eulalia (@santaeulaliaperfumes) - Available at: Liberty, Debenhams and Wild Iris@ataratmalondon@boucheron@graff@etro@furla@akrofragrances@goutalparis@robertgrahamnyc@hollister@coach@roosandroos@moresque_parfum@themerchantofvenice@granadobrazil@narciso_rodriguez@tropicskincare@homework.store@the_virtue@orebella by @bellahadid@bdkparfumsparis@goldfield_and_banks_australia@marcantoinebarrois@weledauk@jeroboamperfumes@rndl.ltd@millerharris@parfum_muse (gift card)@gather.fragrance (voucher)@nosuparfum (voucher)

Incense is having a real moment and in this episode we're exploring why and also talking through some of our favourite incense scents.Why is incense so popular again? Incense has moved from temples and churches into living rooms,studios and perfume wardrobes; it’s become a chic, modern ritual asmuch as a smell.Trend reports link the boom to the hunger for spiritual and holisticpractices – incense is an easy way to pause, “set an intention” andcreate a little ceremony around everyday life.Incense vs frankincense “Incense” is the whole blend you burn – it might be on a stick, cone, coilor rope – and can contain resins, woods, herbs, spices and florals. “Frankincense” (also called olibanum) is one particular resin, tappedfrom Boswellia sacra trees in Oman, Yemen and parts of the Horn ofAfrica. Etymology you can play with: “frankincense” comes from Old French“franc encens” – high quality or “pure” incense – while “incense” itselfgoes back to Latin for “to burn.” When a perfume lists “incense” as a note, it may mean a full accord ofresins (frankincense, myrrh, opoponax, labdanum, elemi, woods,flowers) or a composition that highlights frankincense alone.What incense actually smells like Frankincense: resinous yet airy; earthy, piney, slightly smoky with asurprising citrus brightness. Myrrh: darker, spicier, slightly medicinal and very “churchy”, oftenassociated with ritual and antiquity. Opoponax: honeyed, vanillic, balsamic and comforting – it softens theharsher edges of smoke. Labdanum: rich, ambery, leathery and almost animalic; gives incenseperfumes that plush, warm body. Elemi: sharp, lemony, peppery resin that brings sparkle and lift to thesmoke. Woods (sandalwood, cedar etc.): add dryness, creaminess orpencilshaving smokiness and form the backbone of many incenseheavyfragrances.Quotes from perfumers: Francis Kurkdjian on why he loves Japanese incense at home: partlypracticality, because “it fills the room in five minutes, whereas candlestake ages.” Yasmin Sewell on the moodshift: “Where a candle may take twentyminutes to resonate in your space, when you light incense there is animmediate scent that fills the room.” Sewell again on why incense made more sense than candles for herbrand’s next step: “I felt that incense really connected with our values,since it’s been used in spiritual rituals for so long,” and “what I reallylove about incense is that it shifts the mood instantly.” Lyn Harris on her daily ritual: “It sets a spiritual tone to my day,” andincense is “an ethereal veil that lingers in the air.” She burns it in themorning to set her mood, sometimes midday to reinvigorate her senses,and even before bed so “there is a sensual haze passing over mynostrils before I sleep.” Chris Rusak on the psychology of burning it: incense is “a great vehiclefor empowerment or catharsis via controlled destruction” and “incenseuse is intentional. It requires fire or directed heat for full expression,which we must effect, contain, and control, in order to destroy it but notourselves.” How it’s harvested: frankincense resin oozes from cuts in theBoswellia sacra tree and dries into golden “tears”, sometimes called“frankincense tears” or “olibanum tears”. The jinn love story: a girl from the jinn falls in love with a human boy –forbidden, of course. As punishment she’s turned into a tree; her griefbecomes crystal tears that people burn on coal for healing smoke with abitter taste that mourns lost love. Ecology: frankincense forests in northern Ethiopia are under threat asthey’re cleared for agriculture, with scientists warning production couldhalve over the next 15 years. Mood altering science: frankincense contains a compound calledincensole acetate, which has been shown to have pain relieving andpsychoactive effects – helping with depression and anxiety andactivating a warmth perception channel in the skin. That might explain why those “sexy church smells” (as Alice du Parcqso memorably terms them) can feel both spiritually elevated andphysically comforting – sacred, nostalgic, a bit forbidden and strangelyswoony all at once.Suzy’s faves: @amouage Purpose 50@jeroboamperfumes Ambra extrait@eaudeboujee Gilded @vancleefarpels Perfume Extraordinaire Encens Précieux@ataratmalondon Aroha Absolute@nissaba.fragrances BerberaNicola's choices:@aromariamx giant incense sticks@the_virtue Holy Smoke@lartisanparfumeur Passage d'Enfer@matierepremiereparfums Crystal Saffron

Nicola:Penhaligon's Festive Mini Sethttps://www.penhaligons.com/uk/en/p/festive-mini-set-for-her-5x5-ml--000000000065224079Jo Malone London Festive Cologne Duohttps://www.jomalone.co.uk/product/26322/127599/gift-sets/festive-cologne-duoBamford Geranium Candlehttps://shop.claridges.co.uk/products/bamford-geranium-candle?srsltid=AfmBOopvh-fHP_E4r3friAxcOw4J40HInA0W1PQfVTCUGf2Ym_wb9mHMNeal's Yard Orange and Geranium Hand Soaphttps://www.nealsyardremedies.com/products/geranium-orange-hand-wash?_pos=2&_psq=orange+and+geranium&_ss=e&_v=1.0Granado Gift Setshttps://www.granado.uk/uk/amazonico-scented-suitcaseSuzy:Meadowfarm Smoked Honey & Orange 1 Wick Candle £25‘This stunning new candle is inspired by my love of bee keeping. It’s a unique blend of bergamot, orange flowers and ylang ylang, with added honey notes and just a hint of smokiness from the amber. It’s summery and bright, yet has an intricate depth to it. This is guaranteed to be one of your new favourites, it’s perfect for summer but will work equally well allyear round.’https://meadowfarmlifestyle.co.uk/shop/candles/smoked-honey-orange/Lords Fragrance House Cotswold Scented Hand Dipped Taper Candles £30‘Inspired by days spent with my best friend in the serene beauty of the English country side. This fragrance captures cottage gardens, surrounded by rolling hills, on sunny days spent laughing in the sunshine. A delicate blend of bergamot, lemon and orange, with heart notes of rosemary, lavender and mint, with a cedar and vetiver base. The perfect scent for those seeking a moment of calm.’https://lordsfragrancehouse.com/products/monteverde-scented-hand-dipped-tapered-candles-copyBoujee Bougies Candles (now 50% off RRP!) £30Tart: ‘What comes to mind when you think of tartness? We wanted to capture that delicious, mouth-watering, and life-affirming taste sensation. Tart is our vivid homage to fresh tarts and invigorating teas - a feel good tonic with irreverent and unexpected twists. Tart is lush with greenery – cool, refreshing herbal notes of mint and basil - and fizzing with fruitiness – the juicy flesh of green plum and blackcurrant. To make sure it’s zesty, we played with the crisp zing of lemon, rhubarb, and ginger, and served it all over ice with the sweet apricot facets of osmanthus. Tart is vibrant, fun, and uplifting AF.Scent impressionsMouthwatering, moreish, green-hued tartnessNotes listMint, Lemon, Blue Ginger, Cassis, Green Plum, Rhubarb, Basil, Osmanthus, Moss, Musk’https://eaudeboujee.com/collections/boujee-bougies/products/tart-candleVetiver items from RE:Found ObjectsVetiver Room Freshening Brush £7.50Vetiver Pan Scrubs £4.95Vetiver Soap Mat £7.50https://www.re-foundobjects.com/product/view/vetiver-soap-and-bath-matsMaison Louis Marie No.04 Bois de Balincourt Perfume Oil Mini Roller 3ml £17‘A Timeless,endlessly wearable, deeply personal Perfume Oil Bois de Balincourt is inspired by Marie's family home, nestled deep within an ancient forest. This signature scent layers creamy sandalwood and cedar with warming cinnamon and nutmeg, anchored by earthy vetiver — a romantic, comforting fragrance with effortless depth.’https://www.boots.com/maison-louis-marie-no-04-bois-de-balincourt-perfume-oil-mini-roller-3ml-10370280CRA-YON Vanilla CEO Eau de Parfum 10ml £26‘Vanilla CEO Eau de Parfum - A Gourmand, Vanilla, Amber, Woody Fragrance. Vanilla CEO Eau de Parfum is all about power, but refined and subtle. It serves as a reminder that power does not always equal strength and intensity.Power can be in softness, power can be in kindness and power can be in a knowing rather than a loud voice. The Vanilla and soft woods work beautifully together and linger well on the skin without ever overpowering.Vanilla CEO Perfume is a modern take on a classic Vanilla note, but here in good company with soft woods and fresh notes of orange blossom. The scent ignites the wearer with a sense of vigour, thanks to endorphin-boosting notes of orange blossom and juicy mandarin.’https://www.boots.com/cra-yon-vanilla-ceo-eau-de-parfum-10ml-10373524Eau de Boujee Gilded eau de parfum travel spray 7.5ml £30‘All that is gilded will be bold. A celestial temple of golden light transcends Earthly reality. The whispered mysteries of ancient spirits, covered in gold by awe and time. All life endeavours to ascend to a higher plane, a state attained through incense and devoted spirituality.Scent impressionsLight, space, serenity; incense resin dipped in gold Notes listTop Notes: Lemon, Saffron, Gold accord
Heart Notes: Frankincense oil, Frankincense resin, Carnation, Cedar Leaf, Beeswax absolute
Base Notes: Myrrh, Cedarwood, Labdanum, Leather, Civet, Musk’https://eaudeboujee.com/collections/travel-spray/products/gilded-eau-de-parfum-travel-sprayhttps://www.justmylook.com/products/dolce-gabbana-devotion-eau-de-parfum-30ml?&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=All%20Products%20-%20UK&utm_content=Dolce%20%26%20Gabbana%20Devotion%20Eau%20De%20Parfum%2030ml&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22637679829&gbraid=0AAAAADoybkpIyrNmwddpvf5BZNRJI0YzY&gclid=Cj0KCQiAxJXJBhD_ARIsAH_JGjiudBiY1dJakQ44xHskMnFzYh03ruVaBXvZWZg1LZ3AauhaebOPcBEaAhQ5EALw_wcBIris & Olive Scented Pencils £14‘A set of six cedarwood pencils. These pencils are lovingly made for us by a 100 year old pencil factory, the cedarwood they are made from is impregnated with different garden fragrances.’(Suzy’s favourite is the Orange Blossom, but they’re also do Gingerbread, Rose Geranium, Jasmine, and Lavender)https://irisandolive.co.uk/products/copy-of-scented-pencils-orange-blossom?_pos=1&_psq=pencils&_ss=e&_v=1.0Buly 1803 Scented Matches Sacre‘Scented matches exhaling an elating pine, honey, incense and cedar fragrance.’€16https://buly1803.com/fr-gb/products/allumettes-parfumees-sacrePapier d'Arménie - Rose Perfume Booklet £5.50 at The French Pharmacy‘This fragrance was imagined in 2009 by Francis Kurkdjian, renowned perfumer creator.Papier d’Arménie triple is the oldest room freshener in paper form, produced in France since 1885. It has been famous since the Antiquity for its antiseptic, healing and expectorant vertues; formerly, the benzoin balm was used externally to treat asthma, coughing and hoarseness. It has an efficient impact on the psyche and the emotions and the stressed persons appreciate it.

In the podcast this week, Suzy & Nicola talk fragrances they’ve been obsessed with wearing lately (& some are quite unexpected…) Plus, there’s an absolutely BRILLIANT #listenerprescription from ballet costume designer Isabelle, who asked for recommendations to scent her way through working on costumes for a 2026 tour of Don Quixote - dreaming of Spanish sunshine in the depths of a chilly English winter!Fragrances we can’t stop wearing…Nicola:@nosuparfum Been Trying to Meet You - wistful, hay & meadow-infused memories@nosuparfum Sain No More - Smoked herbaceous rituals welcome a fresh start@merit Retrospect - Nostalgia meets newness via juicy sparkles & second-skin@floraiku Sand & Skin - Amber-glazed skin, vanilla horizons & gilded dreams@bamford Geranium Candle – Instantly-uplifting botanical blissSuzy:@angelaflanders Rose Sauvage – Dew-bright, berried wild rose bursts with sheer joy@headspaceparfum Rose - A rose frozen in glass, awoken by a silver bullet@bdkparfumsparis 312 Saint-Honoré - Couture chalky floral drifts chic clouds of comfort@memoizeperfume Imber - Succulent cherry, cassis & rhubarb spiced to a musky trail@juliettehasagun Powder Love - Marshmallow, sugared almond & a gentle hug#listenerprescription for Isabelle / Don Quixote ballet:Principal Lady@monegalperfumes Flamenco extrait – Raspberries, roses & sizzling saffron woodiness. Passion personified@lartisanparfumeur Histoire d’Oranger – Orange trees, dappled sunlight & tendrils of incense@parfumsmicallef Ylang in Gold – A solar shimmer of ylang-ylang, orange, fluffy vanilla & coconut for a glimmering finaléThe Rascals@jusboxperfumes Studio 54 – Cocktails, cardamom-studded vanilla & naughty patchouli – for hedonists: flamboyant & ready for anything@rndl.ltd Together – Bergamot & mandarin, irresistible vanilla praline & a spicy trail of suede – the scent of friendship & assurance for scene-stealersThe scent of Spain@lamontagnacandles Winter Oranges – The scent of a Valencian orange harvest, warmly spiced, evoking citrus-soaked sunsets & festive cheer@alvarez_gomez_perfumes Agua de Colonia Concentrada – Mediterranean lemons & aromatic herbs, bottled Spanish sunshine with historic soul

Listener @somestarrynight messaged us from Paris about the @maisonfranciskurkdjian installation at @palaisdetokyo (on until 23 November - so hurry if you want to see it!)As it happens, Laurent from @ostens_official shared smelling strips from the expo at a recent dinner, a reminder of scent’s communal, artful side. So although we can’t get to see it, we *have* smelled the scents created for it)Perfume: Sculpture of the Invisible (celebrating 20 years of MFK & @franciskurkdjian_official’s olfactive artistry - scenting galleries, theatrical performances, music, & places) “has opened up perfume to new forms and destinations, taking it out of the bottle.” - Jérôme Neutres, Exhibition Curator#perfumeprescriptions17-year old listener Sadbh asks for starting points in perfume shopping, balancing jasmine, fresh ginger, roses, amber, and not-too-sweet vanillaOur guidance:@marksandspencerstyle Spiced Amber EDT: powdery depths, amber heart, cedar and geranium@marksandspencerstyle Apothecary Warmth EDP: cardamom, cinnamon, cedarwood, sandalwood for warming comfortNicola notes that niche shop @bloomperfumery’s site suggests related scents when you search a name, and well-trained staff at perfume departments can be invaluable - don’t be afraid to ask them for help.@tocca Wonders Collection (stocked @theperfumeshop) – £55 for 6 x 5ml EDP:Florence Eau de Parfum: green garden bouquet of gardenia, tuberose, iris; Parisian romance.Cleopatra EDP: grapefruit, jasmine, patchouli—seductive and regal.Stella EDP: citrus and florals with Italian sunshine; breezy, radiant.Lucia EDP: sunlit lemon, vetiver, fig; slow living, luminous.Laila EDP: luxurious indulgence, confident sensuality.Colette EDP: citrus, floral, woods; Parisian literary spirit with daring edge.New fragrances @oliverbonasFig & Tonka, Pomelo & Basil EDPs (£12.50 each)Mandarin & Jasmine, Warm Oud & Saffron EDTs (£20 full size, £9.50 rollers)Also at Oliver Bonas:@floralstreet_: Wild Vanilla Orchid (£28/10ml); vanilla, jasmine, cassis with bamboo and sandalwood.@ghostfragrances Orb of Night (£24/30ml EDP): Dark fruit, jasmine, roasted tonka—sundown to sunrise.We’re plotting a full episode on this topic of helping those who feel overwhelmed by choice / want affordable starting points, & will also crowd-source tips from friends of the pod!Nicola talks about the new scent from @granadobrazil AmazonicaThe wonderful Claire @paperbackperfumes asks for a green / woodland-like, non-powdery violet scent…Our picks:@murphyanddaughters Violet Perfume Oil (Melbourne): violet leaf heart, violet flower high note; green and sparkling@orizalegrand Violettes du Czar: violet-forward with green citrus undertones, smoky woods, iris in the background@molinardparfums Violette: violet with black currant, bergamot, lemon; layered floral notes@olfactivestudio Violet Shot: green grass, violet leaf, leather, patchouli; violet with edge

In this week’s episode we’re talking about atmospheric fragrances we love, which helped set the scene for our Halloween Scented Story. Because we believe just as reading a book can be an escape route; so too can perfume be a portal… You can watch the whole story from the start by clicking on the Halloween highlight circle beneath our Instagram bio @onthescentpodcastUsing those fragrances and describing them as part of our Scented Story, we infused the spooky tale with scents you can go and smell for yourselves (or perhaps have already experienced). We so hope you enjoy this deep-dive into fragrance, mood, memory and scented scene-setting. Meanwhile, we’d LOVE it if you were inspired to smell along with us by either collecting samples of the following scents or (as we’ know it’s not always possible), to imagine which fragrances you’d have used for each section. We chose: Chapter 1: Suzy@marcantoinebarrois - Ganymede Extrait@thesocietyofalchemists - Familiars2: Nicola@erisparfums - Green Spell@pinewardperfume - Funerie3: Suzy@millerharris - WANDER through the parks@headspaceparfums - Styrax@diptyque - L’Eau Papier4: Nicola@perfumerhlondon- Dust @naomigoodsir - Bois d’Ascèse@sergeslutens - Lait du Dent 5: Suzy@diptyque - Feu du Bois candle @lorenzovilloresi - Teint de Neige 6: Nicola @bienaime_1935 - Vermeil@the_virtue - Holy Smoke7: Suzy@beaufortlondon - Sirenide@thesocietyofalchemists - ’Til Death@shopforas - Mushroom Forest@soulnotes.co - Soul Notes@marksandspencerstyle - Apothecary Reassure

In this week’s On the Scent Podcast we’re back with your #perfumeprescription postbag – finding perfect matches for every mood & memory. You write in with such gorgeous questions & we love nothing more than playing fragrant matchmakers!Sharon asked for a bright, zesty replacement for her mum’s beloved Bahoma Pomelo Grapefruit. We suggested  these citrus stunners:@boadicea_the_victorious Energizer – glowing grapefruit, vetiver & soft musks.@sana_jardin Air of Aquarius – lemon & rosemary serenity.@jamesheeley Pomelo Crush – crisp grapefruit & white florals.@hermeticaofficial Pomeloflow – radiant pomelo, rhubarb & jasmine.@ruthmastenbroek Signature – sparkling mandarin & soft woods.Susan asked about wellbeing fragrances following our discussion of the @ifra Fragrance Forum. Curious about how scent truly lifts our mood? Brands like @edenisteofficial, @esteelauder, @yslbeauty, @native, @pacorabanne & many more are exploring neuro-perfume science – using aroma to boost happiness, calm & focus.Finally, Robyn’s craving a sexy, cool yet cosy leather perfume. Try:@chanelofficial Cuir de Russie – smoky jasmine & birch.@tomford Tuscan Leather – supple leather & amberwood.@marcantoinebarrois B683 – saffron & soft woods.@millerharris Soufflot – hazelnut-tobacco leather cocoon.@beaufortlondon Coeur de Noir – inky leather, rum & pipe smoke.@headspaceperfums Styrax – amber, labdanum & animalic skin warmth.Listen to the full questions then let us know which scents would YOU pick for their prescriptions?  #OnTheScentPodcast

In this week's episode we're joined by the amazing @makingscentsmakesense Thomas Dunckley.Following Thomas and Suzy's hugely popular reel about the reformulation of Vivienne Westwood's Boudoir, we're chatting not only about that but about reformulations in general.It's a fascinating chat where the three of us delve into scent memory and how it can shift over time plus some of the reformulations that we've experienced over the years and what we think of them.

Tasha Marks @avmcuriousities is an award-winning scent artist and historian who recreated the smells of Marie Antoinette’s life at the current @vamuseum exhibition Marie Antoinette: Style. In this fascinating interview, she tells us how she constructed the aromas this doomed Queen would have known - from powdered wigs and courtly balls at Versailles, the wildflower meadows of Petit Trianon, to her eventual damp-filled prison cell. We’re also following up our previous Patreon episode of ‘Would Marie Antoinette Wear Now (on a budget), by asking which niche perfumes she’d plump for in modern day (if money were no object). We discuss…@maisonfranciskurkdjian á La RoseÀ la rose eau de parfum is a tribute to femininity, a declaration of love translated into a fragrance. A light and sensual fragrance showcasing two exceptional roses: Damascena rose and Centifolia rose. They build on one another to bring you a musky floral perfume which is in turn subtle and exuberant. @parfumsdemarly DelinaFrivolously pretty peony & lily of the valley swoon to damascena rose, brightened by lychee & rhubarb@officine_universelle_buly Rose de Damas Opulent rose bathes in milk spiced with hints of ginger, vetiver, cedar & musk for decadent beauty@leseauxprimordiales Iris PalladiumSilkily powdered, yet threaded with a silvery backbone, this shimmers with cardamom & violet atop the warmly woody base@byredo Blanche "Blanche explores the dynamic nature of the senses with an edge of floral freshness. Inspired by the delicacy of bodies slipping between fresh sheets, the crisp comfort of clean laundry, and the romantic whisper of heady florals. The scent opens with top notes of aldehydes and intoxicating rose centifolia. It then softens into vibrant peony and violet before settling into a base of soft musk accented with earthy sandalwood. A veil of scintillating scent awaits."@akrofragrances Bake"A gourmand fragrance made up of Tart Lemon notes, followed by sweet Vanilla and rich, nutty Praline."@dsanddurga Cognac ReignBaroque ‘n Roll via rouged cheeks, clouds of powder, ribbons of caramel, bergamot & toasty oak over rivers of fine French spiritSuzy also mentions some incredible historical costume accounts to follow, if you’re interested in seeing more of Marie Antoinette’s fashion influence: @asta.darling - who recreates the most exquisite gowns and attends lavish 18th Century balls in them at Versailles @americanduchess - who make period accurate shoes and accessories, plus post videos on everything from wig-dressing techniques to how women wore those corsets and ultra-wide skirts in everyday life.  

*This episode is in partnership with Ormonde Jayne*In this fabulous episode, recorded before our lovely live event in the Royal Arcade, we're getting to know the utterly incredible Linda Pilkington.Prepare to hear about the scents (and bottles) that helped shape Linda's passion for fragrance, the incredible travels that Linda went on that have shaped so much of what she does today and how making a candle for a Chanel boutique was the start of her spectacular brand and career.We'll also be sniffing and celebrating the brand new Ormonde Jayne fragrance Sybarite (which is available exclusively at their glorious boutique in the Royal Arcade)and exploring the Reimagined Four Corners Collection which totally took our breath away.Enjoy getting to know this truly brilliant woman.