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Fragrance layering guides

Layering means wearing two or more scents together to make something that is yours. These guides explain which notes complement each other, and why.

Five rules that make layering work

1. Pair by contrast or by shared character. Sweet with fresh balances. Creamy with creamy blends smoothly.
2. Put the stronger scent on first. The lighter one goes on top or on a different pulse point.
3. Use fewer sprays than you think. Two scents together project more than either alone.
4. Start from moisturised skin. Unscented lotion helps both fragrances last.
5. Judge after half an hour. Top notes fade and the blend settles.

Popular combinations

• Layering sweet vanilla with fresh floralSpring days, daytime events and anyone who finds vanilla too sweet on its own.
• Layering sweet vanilla with bright citrusWarm weather, casual wear and a first layering experiment.
• Layering rose with smoky oudEvenings, cooler weather and formal occasions.
• Layering jasmine with sandalwoodCalm, intimate wear, weddings and a sophisticated everyday signature.
• Layering warm amber with bright citrusTransitional seasons, office wear and anyone who wants warmth without weight.
• Layering clean musk with roseMinimal, everyday wear and quiet confidence.
• Layering lavender with sweet vanillaEvenings, cooler weather and a calming, comforting scent.
• Layering patchouli with roseAutumn, evenings and a more edgy take on a floral.
• Layering dry cedar with bright citrusWork, gym-to-office days and a clean, confident signature.
• Layering green fig with sandalwoodLate summer, relaxed wear and a gentle, slightly unusual signature.
• Layering powdery iris with clean muskQuiet luxury, office wear and a refined everyday scent.
• Layering leather with sweet vanillaAutumn and winter evenings, and a confident, warm signature.
• Layering sea salt and marine notes with dry cedarSummer, travel and a clean, outdoorsy signature.
• Layering creamy coconut with sandalwoodSummer, holidays and a comforting, warm-skin scent.