Scented Layers

Winter marks the season of layering—vest over turtleneck, coat and scarf over that—but what about the most important layering of all, fragrance? From classic perfumes that have stood the test of time to hidden gems that deserve a second chance, a signature scent meant for layering will have people's heads undoubtedly turning.

Somebody Wood by PHLUR 50ml, Photo courtesy of PHLUR.com © All rights belong to their respective owners. No copyright infringement intended.

We all remember the first person who took our breath away with their aroma. Our heads turned, mesmerized as they passed by, the complexity of their fragrance enchanting, a true form of magic. For me, it was my high school principal, Mrs. Chansky. Her scent preceded her, entering the room first, announcing that a boss was soon arriving. A strategically masculine yet sweet smell, Mrs. Chansky’s scent was legendary, the mark of a true icon. When I asked my principal at graduation what she wore, her response was exactly what I needed and yet the biggest of letdowns. She simply said, “I won’t reveal the brands, but it's all in the layering.”

While Mrs. Chansky gatekept, and perhaps for good reason, Raandoom abides by no such law. From spicy to fruity, here are the five best fragrances for layering in the winter months, starting with the viral woody oud to end all others. Pictured above, Somebody Wood by Phlur embodies the season with the subtle spiciness of cinnamon and the sentiment all people in during the cuffing season need to hear. Perfect for layering with other darker more intense eau de parfum.

Another worthwhile scent that utilizes more edible notes, constructing a signature scent everyone will remember. Boccanero by Orto Parisi features chocolate as a base which gives this perfume a sweet yet dark aroma. The word Boccanero (meaning ‘dark mouth’ in Italian) is meant to evoke both a scent and flavour, a mouth feel. The creators describe it as “taking the smell into an infinite gourmand limbo and striking a confusing balance between the scent and the flavor, between the love and the fear.”

BOCCANERO by Orto Parisi 50ml, Photo courtesy of Ministry of Scent © All rights belong to their respective owners. No copyright infringement intended.

The third scent on this list, La Musique De Christie by Eight & Bob incorporates the familiar spices saffron and nutmeg. They are also two of the most layerable and nostalgic scent notes sure to pair nicely with other vanilla-based scents. The fragrance is full-bodied due to its use of leather as a top note and smells slightly different on every wearer.

LA Musique De Christie by Eight & Bob 50ml, Photo courtesy of Ministry of Scent © All rights belong to their respective owners. No copyright infringement intended.

Fourth is a new release and immediate fan favorite by 21st century supermodel Bella Hadid’s brand Orebella. The fragrance is called Nightcap and alcohol-free formula and notes of ginger and cardamom make this an instant winter classic. The name could not be more accurate as this rich scent is perfect for a cold night on the town, equal parts nourishing and intense.

Bella Hadid in the promo for Nightcap by Orebella 50ml, Photo courtesy of Orebella © All rights belong to their respective owners. 

Finally, perfecting your winter scent combo relies heavily on using uncommon fragrances with complex notes. Female Christ by 19-69 does just that utilizing notes of patchouli and the ever rare influence of rhubarb. The name is a reference to a performance art event in which a naked Danish woman carried a cross through the Copenhagen Stock Exchange. The boldness of this act is reflected in the scent itself which can stand alone or be beautifully paired with something lighter.

Female Christ by 19-69 50ml, Photo courtesy of Ministry of Scent © All rights belong to their respective owners. No copyright infringement intended.

Whichever notes are your favorites, stacking and layering them makes for the most complex memorable fragrance. So find your favorites and make the most of the winter season!

Henry Dansicker

A true New Yorker, Henry Dansicker lives in the East Village and attends NYU as an English and Journalism student. He has written for The Cusp Magazine and LOfficiel Magazine and hopes to one day have his writing featured in Vogue. Henry loves writing short fiction, watching horror movies, and collecting archival Dior. 

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