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On The Scent
On The Scent
Author: Nicola Bonn
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On The Scent is the podcast destination for anyone fascinated by fragrance (or keen to learn more) – a place where perfume snobbery is stripped away, and fragrance is accessible to all.
What began as a monthly sniff-in on the Outspoken Beauty Podcast soon became so popular in its own right (and with so many listeners sending in questions and asking for more) that On the Scent just had to go weekly - this time on its own perfumed platform!
Encompassing everything from icons and all-time classics to what’s new on the high street to the more ‘niche’ indie brands; Beauty broadcaster and columnist Nicola Bonn and award-winning fragrance journalist and expert Suzy Nightingale give personalised perfume prescriptions, describe fragrances in such an intoxicating way you can almost smell them and help navigate the thousands of scents out there to find the truly incredible ones. Also expect interviews with well-known figures, delving into their favourite scents of all time and opportunities to get to know some of the most exciting perfumers in the world.
Whether you’ve a collection of 500+ or are just starting on your scent journey, olfactory obsessives Nicola & Suzy are on a mission to find you fragrances that don’t simply smell good, but will re-connect you to long forgotten memories, engage your emotions and very likely blow your mind.
What began as a monthly sniff-in on the Outspoken Beauty Podcast soon became so popular in its own right (and with so many listeners sending in questions and asking for more) that On the Scent just had to go weekly - this time on its own perfumed platform!
Encompassing everything from icons and all-time classics to what’s new on the high street to the more ‘niche’ indie brands; Beauty broadcaster and columnist Nicola Bonn and award-winning fragrance journalist and expert Suzy Nightingale give personalised perfume prescriptions, describe fragrances in such an intoxicating way you can almost smell them and help navigate the thousands of scents out there to find the truly incredible ones. Also expect interviews with well-known figures, delving into their favourite scents of all time and opportunities to get to know some of the most exciting perfumers in the world.
Whether you’ve a collection of 500+ or are just starting on your scent journey, olfactory obsessives Nicola & Suzy are on a mission to find you fragrances that don’t simply smell good, but will re-connect you to long forgotten memories, engage your emotions and very likely blow your mind.
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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...
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...
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’
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.
Hello and welcome to this week’s episode of On the Scent, where Suzy and Nicola are diving deep into the world of oud (or Oudh – however you like to spell it!) today. Get ready for a fragrant journey through smoky woods, golden honey, contemporary twists and opulent blends — all celebrating the many faces of this legendary ingredient, in order of intensity.We discuss…@andotherstories Arabesque WoodLemon and ginger glimmer atop a heart of tangerine and watery notes, swirling through earthy moss and amber to reveal an oud embraced by sunlight and citrus, mysterious yet uplifting.@marksandspencer Smoked OudAn earthy impression of smoked woods and musk deepens within spicy sandalwood, conjuring a quietly powerful warmth that lingers on skin, wrapping you in a gentle cloak of incense.@neverfullydressed 001Spices gather atop a velvet cloud of coffee and rose, rum and plum. Oud sways through vanilla and tobacco, sweetened amber and Kashmir fusion flowing into a night-time dream of skin and bohemian outfits.@florislondon Honey OudGolden English honey melts with rich rose and deep oud, the sweetness alive with vanilla and velvet, a bouquet glowing softly, seducing and whispering close.@maisonfranciskurkdjian Oud Satin MoodDamascena rose and violet melt seamlessly into a shimmering oud, entwined with vanilla and amber. Like silk on skin, it envelops you in plush warmth and luxurious depth.@neelavermeire MohurSpiced cardamom pirouettes with moghul roses over subtle leather and almond milk, shadows of history blooming with Indian grandeur and British elegance, golden and ornate.@vallensefragrance SourceOpulent mandarin and black pepper lead to smokey heart notes of frankincense and cypriol, praline and amber glowing in warmth and mystery, conjuring anticipation and timelessness.@rpparfums Oud DeliceProvençal honey and caramelised amber blend in a confit of oud, patchouli and vetiver. A feast for the senses, luxurious and moreish—amber and oud swirled with a gourmand golden glow.@kajalperfumes Lamar NoirBergamot and green apple lend their brightness to tropical fruits and violet, rose and vanilla blooming in a luscious embrace. Leather and oud ripple throughout, sensual and balancing.SO many outs we love, in fact, that we couldn’t fit them all in one episode! Watch out for Part Two of our must-sniff list, coming soon…
In this week's episode we're telling you all about our upcoming Ormonde Jayne event. We also have a plethora of exciting new fragrances to tell you about, including the iris that has totally stolen our hearts.Here's what we talk about:Our @ormondejayne event:Brand NEW (boutique-exclusive) fragrance, Sybarite…Goodie bags and lots of fragrant joy guaranteed!Tickets: £15 http://tinyurl.com/ormonde-jayne-sybariteWednesday, October 8 · 6:30 - 8:30pmLocation: Ormonde Jayne, Royal Arcade (Albemarle Street side on the corner opposite Browns Hotel)28 Old Bond Street London W1S 4SR@pittifragranze highlights Part 2:@borntostandout.official Dirty Milk@rhizomescents @headspaceparfum Rose@hellenisteparfums les bras de Morphée@leaumaliz Church BellsSuzy attended @florislondon Honey Oud body products launch, with a mind-blowing honey tasting by @honeysommelierNow with matching shower gel & body moisturiser available#listenerprescription@amouage Epic Woman@januaryscentproject Selperniku
SO many scents sniffed the last few days we can barely draw breath, but buckle-up buttercups, because in this new episode we discuss…Fragrant feedback: Why listener Astrid treated herself to a bottle of @perfumerh Steam (& has now fallen madly for Lyn Harris’ style of perfumery) following our #listenerprescription in a previous episodeThe second half of Suzy’s highlights from the recent @nicheshow London, including…@fumparfum Hot Milk - steaming mug of comfort & blissful nostalgia@kajalperfumes Topaz - chewy, crystallised citrus peel with longevity@rndl.ltd Midnight - urban night-scapes, simmering spiced rum, twinkling stars@thegateparis Secret Encounter - A tingle of anticipation via pink pepper, ginger & tonka-smoothed amberNicola was thrilled meeting the founder of @lessoeursdenoe & went mad for the kumquat / eucalyptus vetiver smoked seduction of Bohemian AbsintheMeanwhile, Suzy’s reminiscences about her trip to Florence & @pittifragranze show Highlights (part 1)…@beaufortlondon Sirenides — the NEW release she’d been aching to try, and it floored me. Myth-wreathed in wild waters, selkies shedding their seal-skin, stolen power, then poisoning the thief to take it back. Bitter almond drips, briny rock pools gleam, sodden fur snarls as it dries. Menacing. Mesmerising. Completely unforgettable.@eaudebougie & @vallense - made Suzy so proud for the British niche scent scene@lorchestre Bouquet Encore Latte - frothy, milky, dreamy steam swirling on skin@reserve_en_afrique - Vanille Mafonja sophisticated & unsweetened; Rouge Karkade enchanted with smoky hibiscus & pomegranate. (Available @soliflore_store)@jorumstudio Unspoken Gesture was nurturing, milky, expansive & cocooning@shekorperfume unveiled a meeting of minds: @sultanpasha78 of @sultanpashaperfumes created Ashar, a monsoon-rickshaw memory where rain flows off cotton shirts with notes of petrichor, bamboo, soaked earth. & Antonio Gardoni @bogue_profumo with Sylhet — dense verdant air, humid, something furred & prowling in the undergrowth.
The new @matierepremiereparfums Vanillas Powder extrait - Suzy is obsessed, Nicola has yet to try but is chomping at the bit. With the added guest note of tonka snd and an even greater concentration of vanilla, this is INCREDIBLE. @perfumerpia Pia Long’s book: Demo Accords A BOOK BY PERFUMER PIA LONGBOOK AND SAMPLE KIT NOW AVAILABLE TO PREORDER FOR ONE MONTH ONLY.Containing ten fully published perfume formulas, one piece of fiction and nine essays on political and personal topics, Demo Accords is a multidisciplinary collection of narratives where perfumery is part of the story and the stories are part of the perfumes.Pia says: “Completely self-published with the help of an indie press and some wonderful early supporters, we appreciate every pre-order as it will help us judge how many copies to print.”PRE-ORDER: https://demoaccords.comDemo Accords book pre-order price: £20Accords kit pre-order price: £55Book + accords kit pre-order price: £70@ifrauk Fragrance Forum: Suzy cannot WAIT to attend this facing full day of talks from world experts on our sense of smell…“IFRA UK’s annual Fragrance Forum is back this autumn and will be examining the role that the nasal microbiome and the micro-organisms found in our nose and throat play in our personal and collective health.Taking place on Thursday 16 October 2025, we would love you to join us for what is set to be another fascinating day of talks, insights and conversation, chaired by Professor Barry C Smith, Director of the Institute of Philosophy at the Centre for the Study of the Senses, and Professor Stuart Firestein from Columbia University.”Register at http://evenium.events/ff2025Tickets are £30 for a full day of fragrance talksAttending the @nicheshow in London was fascinating - some really interesting new brands there. SO many fragrances smelled, which Suzy will catch up with next time. But two of the standouts were… @ode.ona (gorgeous new brand available @gather.fragrance online niche store, & launching in 2 weeks @libertylondon & @wild_iris_perfumerie)Dawn Earth: Dawn Earth is a harmonious blend of moss and mastic, this earthy and refreshing fragrance is a bottled journey into the heart of the forest.Teapot Sonder: A toasted green tea fragrance that inspires appreciation. This woody blend of Hojicha and Guaiac Wood is your invitation to pause.Moonkissed Rhapsody: Moonkissed Rhapsody is a unisex fragrance of lavender and musk. This velvety and anchoring fragrance soothe all waves to reach calm waters within.And Suzy met the lively Nicole, founder of @galiarae - Now this is one of THE most glorious diffusers ever. First saw this featured on @blublazerguy’s Instagram, then got to see in-person at the Niche show. The artistry & attention to detail are second to none! It looks like an antique heirloom find, but the ceramic ‘matchbox’ (made in England) houses a terracotta stone you soak with their signature scented oil: an exquisite citrus-infused honeyed floral that smells of happiness. Suzy’s travelling to @pittifragranze in Florence (where she’s hoping - technology/ time notwithstanding - to record some snippets for our Patreon episode). She will return having had a thousand meetings and smelled a million new fragrances, bringing news of her faves next time we...
While we were on a between-seasons recording break [now back with Season SEVEN!] we've had so many more listeners writing in, looking to be united with their perfect perfume (often for extremely specific occasions, calling for suitably specific scents). So, in this week's episode we are playing catch-up - focusing on those #listenerprescriptions & finding THE ideal fragrances for situations encompassing......Celebrating a wedding anniversary in Portugal, overcoming imposter syndrome while attending lectures at Cambridge university, existentially scenting a flipped fairytale of a frog turned into a Queen, an emotional plea for the scent of hope, & a makeup artist's client seeking a bright, floral bouquet echoing a fancy plug-in. Blimey! We recommended...For Luci Tither’s Porto perfume suggestions:@clausporto Agua Clementina – shimmering citrus groves, orange sunlight, Douro river zest.@clausporto Agua Flores – white & gold petals at dawn, jasmine-laced Atlantic breezes, wild volcanic gardens.@clausporto Le Parfum – fig, watermelon & wooded mystery by the riverside. @bdkparfumsparis Nectar Oud – raspberry-leather with a sunset sparkle@kilianparis Moonlight in Heaven.For Astrid's confidence at Cambridge:@perfumerh Steam – crisp, morning-forest inspiration@diptyque L’Eau Papier – musky ink, rice-steamed pages@commesdesgarconsparfums 2 – clever ink shadows & noble woods.For Em’s primordial Queen:@storaskuggan Hexensalbe – enigmatic green magic@walesperfumery Forest – mossy, mulchy mystique@kingdomscotland Portal – botanical, pine-draped Scottish wonder@vyrao Mamajuju – spiced, clay-earth grounding@lartisanparfumeur Abyssae for magical, herbaceous roseFor Katie's fragrance of hope:@maisonfranciskurkdjian Kurky – spiced optimism@olfactiveo Skin – creamy, woody solace@ellisbrooklyn Vanilla Milk – comforting, velvety, vanilla dream@mabelleorama Lunar Dust – celestial, powdery woodsFor LauraSimonMakeup client’s 'Smell of Spring':@florislondon Edwardian Bouquet – green hyacinth, fresh florals, leafy light@alfredsung Sung – galbanum fresh, verdant florals & creamy vanilla
Season 7 of @onthescentpodcast is here, & for the very first time, we’re sharing a Patreon-exclusive deep-dive with ALL of you!This week we’re exploring salt in scent: how the mineral magic transforms a fragrance, adding texture, tempting the senses, & evoking everything from windswept cliffs to decadent desserts.We so enjoyed making this episode & couldn’t wait to share our thoughts on these briny beauties (lol!)The line-up:@jomalonelondon Wood Sage & Sea Salt: Imagine the bracing British coast, briny air, wild waves, & mineral cliffs, earthy sage grounding the sparkling saltiness.@shayandblue Salt Caramel: Gourmand temptation with caramel and vanilla, cut by a tang of sea salt, rich, indulgent, and impossible to resist.@penhaligons_london Changing Constance: Cardamom & pimento heat up salted butter caramel, finished with vanilla and tobacco for rebellious elegance.@nishane.istanbul Oudous Lux Solis: Honeyed pomelo & mandarin glisten over smoothly salty oud & patchouli - a golden radiance from sun to shadow (exclusive at Harrods).@sarahbakerperfumes Atlante: Sparkling yuzu & orris swirl through tidepools of seaweed & ambergris, as ancient & alluring as a siren’s song.@libertylondon LBTY Zephirine: Incense & green fig weave through velvet rose & suede in a palace garden by the sea.@isseymiyakeparfums Le Sel d’Issey: The freshness of the ocean meeting sun-warmed land, salt, incense & seaweed on a sun-bleached driftwood base.Our Patreon supporters get an EXTRA episode every single week (that’s 127 extra episodes so far ) among other perks. If you loved listening, tap the link in our Instagram bio @onthescentpodcast for all the extra episodes in the archive or go via this link
In this short and sweet episode, Nicola and Suzy talk about some of the affordable fragrances that they turn to when they need an instant pick-me-up.Suzy’s suggestions:Jean Couturier Coriandre £21.06 for 100ml edtPepe Jeans Bright for Her £26 for 80ml edpM&S Discover Intense Fresh Citrus & Moss £6.99 but currently 20% off all fragrance, so £4.80 for 10ml edtNicola's suggestions:Nivea Sun £21 or just normal niveaNuxe Sun Delicious Fragrant Water - £13.30Clarins Eau des jardins - £38Elizabeth Arden Sunflowers - £24
In this episode Suzy and Nicola chat about an amazing perfume launch, a low moment for Nicola involving onion rings, some of the wonderful fragrances that they have been trying and we answer your prescriptions.Nicola & Suzy discuss:@parfumsdemarly Valaya (and their new Covent Garden Boutique)@beautypie The Scent Edit Fragrance Discovery Set@thameenfragrance Cullinan Diamond @dsanddurga Pistachio Listener Perfume Prescription Questions:@matierepremiere French Flower @memo.paris Marfa@ruthmastenbroekperfume Signature @lush Cardamon Coffee @maisonmargiela Replica Coffee Break@dsanddurga Rose Atlantic@imaginaryauthors Every Storm a Seranade (available @bloomperfumery in the U.K.)@commodity Magnolia







On the Scent" often refers to the journey of discovering a fragrance that resonates with one’s personality or mood. Perfumes have this incredible ability to evoke emotions, memories, and even confidence. Whether it’s a floral blend for a romantic evening or a woody musk for a bold impression, choosing the right scent feels like finding a piece of yourself in a bottle. Perhaps the perfect fragrance https://www.toobas.pk/collections/perfumes is just around the corner, waiting to match your unique style. After all, isn’t life all about experimenting and exploring?
Hetty Winthrop is killing me 🤣 I love this episode for your utter joy.
Wonderful , always such a joy to listen to both of you. I spent hours in Frau Tonis and fell in love with several of the scents. Wusterwind is my favourite, this is the first time I've seen the brand mentioned in the UK. Any perfume nerds heading to Berlin should make time for a long visit. Thank you , I love your podcast