Now we are in full swing of the summer, it’s time to look forward to what we can expect to trend over the warmer months of the year.
Our editors over the last six months have been busy reviewing the latest offerings that fall perfectly into the trending categories of 2024. We have selected ground-breaking scent compositions for the resurgence of classic notes, including unique scents that we know have stellar influence and will be shaping the world's fragrance choices this summer.
The Clean Girl Aesthetic Takeover:
Bid adieu to conventional trends and #PerfumeTok sensations; we're immersing ourselves in the captivating realm of the "Clean Girl" aesthetic. With a staggering 7.3 billion hashtag views on TikTok, this trend transcends skincare routines, becoming a fragrance phenomenon that will intricately mould our scent preferences this summer. These scents embody an ode to simplicity, authenticity, and a profound connection with nature.
Expect invigorating zings of citrus, the delicacy of white florals, the crispness of green notes, and the refreshing essence of aquatic notes. You can lift this sensory experience to greater heights by indulging in fragrances adorned with light musk or clean woods, leaving a lingering touch of cleanliness resonating with modern sensibilities.
Citrus Notes: Lemon, bergamot, or grapefruit can offer a refreshing and clean aroma.
White Florals: Scents like jasmine, lily of the valley, or neroli can contribute to a delicate, clean fragrance profile.
Green Notes: Fresh-cut grass, green tea, or bamboo can add a crisp and natural scent.
Aquatic Notes: These might include sea breeze or watery elements that evoke a sense of cleanliness.
Light Musk or Clean Woods: These subtle base notes can provide a soft, lingering clean scent without being overpowering.
Fragrance recommendation:
Ostens Patchouli Heart II is a perfect match, offering a fragrant journey where the subtle dance of Iris resin and Violet leaf whispers a tale of soft elegance.
This delicate interplay unveils a powdery, vintage-like aroma, reminiscent of bygone eras seen in iconic films such as Breakfast at Tiffany's. As the fragrance unfolds, the luminosity of Ambroxan (similar to musk) and the heartiness of Patchouli harmonise to compose an olfactory masterpiece—a clean, aromatic symphony that resonates with the 50s and 60s timeless Hollywood allure.
2. Rose Renaissance from the Catwalks:
In the aromatic landscape of 2024, it's not just about appreciating the scent of roses; it's about adorning ourselves with their fragrant essence. The runways of the S/S ’24 Fashion Weeks saw a spectacular resurgence of long-stem rose motifs, stealing the spotlight from New York to Paris.
Esteemed designers such as Balmain, Grace Ling, and Carolina Herrera embraced the blooming trend, weaving the everlasting charm of roses into their collections. What sparks the magic behind this rose revival? Versatility—ranging from soft and powdery to bold and intense, roses offer a diverse spectrum of scents and colours that captivate the senses. Paired with the Pantone colour of the year "Peach Fuzz", this marks a retro-themed, comforting fragrance revolution. And here's an intriguing bonus: Scientific studies suggest that the aroma of roses possesses the magical ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation, an enticing proposition in the face of today's fast-paced culture.
Recommendation
TOM FORD Rose De Chine Eau De Parfum is an allure of the captivating yet delicate charm of Chinese golden peony which entwines with a luxurious "rose-on-rose" essence, crafting an olfactory tapestry alive with vivid blooms. But this fragrance is more than just petals and perfume; it's an intoxicating journey into decadence. As the scent unfurls, the sultry notes of cistus absolute and myrrh emerge, casting a spell of smoky sensuality that entrances the senses.
Tom Ford is no stranger to popular and luxury scent combinations, however, Rose de Chine is a symphony of contrasts; the vibrant energy of peony dances effortlessly with the dark appeal of cistus absolute and myrrh. It's a fragrance that truly defies expectations, daring to be both bold and timeless. From the first spritz to the final lingering embrace, it's an experience that transcends mere perfume; it's a masterpiece in a bottle, igniting passion and leaving an indelible impression on all who encounter its spellbinding scent. Whether it's the light of day or the depths of night, Rose de Chine is the epitome of elegance, ready to adorn those who dare to wear it with an aura of undeniable sophistication.
Recommendation
Renowned for its exquisite glassware and captivating fragrances, Lalique stands as a beacon of sophistication and luxury. Among its illustrious collection, Amethyst Éclat Eau de Parfum shines as a radiant gem, where vibrant Peony flourishes amidst a lush garden of Red Berries, evoking an aura of opulence and allure.
Since its inception in 2007, AMETHYST has etched its place as an icon within Lalique's fragrance portfolio, drawing inspiration from the timeless elegance of René Lalique's 'Épines' bathroom accessories crafted in 1920. Amethyst Éclat, is a proud descendant of this legacy, where the team has elevated the Peony scent with a selection of exquisite ingredients.
Delve into the decadence of this fragrance, where top notes of sumptuous blackcurrant, Nashi Pear, and Raspberry tantalise the senses, leading to a heart adorned with the timeless elegance of Bulgarian rose and peony. The journey concludes with base notes of blackberry, violet wood, and musks, their harmonious blend accentuating the Peony's delicate essence, embraced by the faintly lemony accents of Magnolia and the tender caress of Rosebuds. A final flourish of Violet binds these joyous notes to the enigmatic sensuality of the Woody, Vanilla, and Musky base, leaving an indelible impression of sophistication and allure.
3. Unleashing Gender Neutral Scents:
2024 unfurls a liberation from the constraints of gender stereotypes, and fragrances are at the forefront of this revolutionary movement! The surging popularity of gender-neutral scents serves as a resounding testament to the collective yearning for self-expression beyond societal norms. Unisex fragrances, celebrated for their inherently versatile nature, transcend traditional gender categories, inviting everyone to revel in their aromatic embrace.
Wave goodbye to hyper-sexualised scents; this summer, it's all about embracing individuality and self-expression through fragrances. Immerse yourself in a symphony of aromatic notes—citrus for freshness, herbal or spicy for depth, woody for warmth, aromatic for a clean touch, and musk for a subtle, inclusive undertone.
Inhale the future of fragrance—where clean seamlessly meets chic, roses bloom anew, and scents liberate themselves from the constraints of gender.
Citrus: Notes like bergamot, lemon, or grapefruit offer a fresh and invigorating top note.
Herbal or Spicy: Ingredients like basil, coriander, or cardamom can add depth and a slightly spicy or herbal aspect.
Woody: Cedarwood, sandalwood, or vetiver provide a warm, earthy base to the fragrance.
Aromatic: Lavender, sage, or rosemary might be included for a clean, herbal element.
Ambroxan or Musk: These can lend a subtle, musky undertone without leaning too far toward traditionally masculine or feminine scents.
Amber: Often used in unisex fragrances for its warm and inviting nature without being overly gender-specific.
Recommendation
Embark on a fragrant journey with LilaNur Parfums, where the essence of India's rich cultural tapestry meets the mastery of French perfumery. Born in Madurai, the Maison's name itself reflects the celestial dance of creation, marrying Sanskrit's 'Lila' with Arabic/Persian's 'Nur'—a divine fusion of illusion and light.
Under the visionary leadership of Anita Lal, the creative force behind Good Earth, LilaNur Parfums celebrates India's iconic flora, redefining the essence of contemporary Indian fragrance.
Rajni Nocturne is an intoxicating yet sultry ode to the night-blooming tuberose, known as rajnigandha in Hindi—its allure reaching its zenith under the cloak of darkness. Capturing the essence of Indian summer evenings, this narcotic scent will seduce all with the voluptuous beauty of pure Indian tuberose, specifically harvested at dawn to capture its pure essence.
As the night unfolds, notes of jasmine, musk, and ylang-ylang weave a floral symphony, intensifying the fragrance's allure. Meanwhile, subtle undertones of peach and coconut bestow a creamy softness upon the skin, transforming every wearer into an embodiment of enchantment. Rajni Nocturne is a perfume that encapsulates the magic of India's enchanted evenings in just a single spritz.
Recommendation
Maison Francis Kurkdjian 724 is the latest release from the popular fragrance house. The unisex scent boasts an array of notes that invite you to feel the rhythm of the city. It's the freshest addition to their collection and is bursting with personality. Imagine stepping into a vibrant tapestry of scents, where each note tells a story of its own. Spicy kicks mingle with delicate floral whispers, while powdery softness dances alongside the rich warmth of wood. This scent is like a symphony of contrasts, where every element plays its part to perfection.
But what sets 724 apart is its incredible versatility. It's the kind of fragrance that effortlessly transitions from day to night, adapting to the rhythm of your life with ease. Picture yourself wandering through the bustling streets of the city (be that London, New York or Dubai), the scent of Italian bergamot lingering in the air like a promise of adventure. As the sun sets, the fragrance evolves, revealing layers of Egyptian jasmine and sweet pea, each note more captivating than the last.
And let's not forget about the base notes – a blend of white musk and rare Indian sandalwood that adds depth and complexity to the composition. It's the kind of fragrance that leaves a lasting impression, lingering on your skin long after the day is done.
So whether you're exploring the urban jungle by day or making memories under the stars by night, 724 is the ultimate companion for your summer adventures. With its gender-neutral appeal and undeniable charm, it's sure to become a staple in your fragrance wardrobe.
4. Functional Fragrances
Functional fragrances are a trend we are excited about, where science meets scent to unlock a myriad of benefits for your mind and body. These fragrances aren't just about smelling good—they're formulated to trigger specific neurological pathways, offering a range of benefits from enhanced focus to improved sleep and beyond.
Our sense of smell is intricately linked to our emotions, and scientific research confirms the profound impact aromas can have on our mood and well-being. While aromatherapists have long understood this connection, the intentional use of raw materials to influence mood is a burgeoning trend in fine fragrance.
Whether you seek calm, clarity, energy, or inspiration, there's a scent tailored to your needs. Here are some notes you can expect to encounter, each offering unique benefits:
1. Bergamot: Known for its uplifting and mood-enhancing properties, bergamot can help alleviate stress and promote relaxation.
2. Pink Pepper: This spicy yet subtle note stimulates the senses, boosting energy levels and fostering alertness.
3. Vanilla: With its warm and comforting aroma, vanilla promotes feelings of relaxation and contentment, perfect for winding down after a long day.
4. Sandalwood: Revered for its grounding and meditative qualities, sandalwood instils a sense of calm and mental clarity.
5. Jasmine: The sweet floral scent of jasmine is renowned for its mood-lifting effects, promoting positivity and reducing anxiety.
6. White Musk: Clean and subtle, white musk creates an aura of tranquillity and serenity, ideal for moments of quiet contemplation.
7. Neroli: Extracted from orange blossoms, neroli offers a refreshing and uplifting fragrance, helping to alleviate tension and promote a sense of well-being.
8. Geranium: Floral yet invigorating, geranium balances emotions, soothes nerves, and enhances focus.
9. Ylang-Ylang: With its exotic and intoxicating aroma, ylang-ylang promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances mood.
As the world of fragrance continues to evolve, expect to see an array of scents crafted not just to tantalise the senses, but to enrich your life with moments of tranquillity, focus, and rejuvenation.
Recommendation
Lalique's Encre Indigo is a fragrance out of the ordinary from packaging to scent, inviting you into a world of sublime blue hues. This luminous yet intensely captivating scent is crafted for the man who thrives on the pulse of life, embodying movement and vitality in every step he takes.
Launched just last year, Encre Indigo bears the unmistakable touch of French perfumer Annick Menardo, ensuring a blend of sophistication and intrigue that captivates the senses from the very first inhalation.
What sets Encre Indigo apart as a perfect embodiment of the functional fragrance trend? In its aromatic symphony, top notes of juniper berry, pink pepper, and bergamot dance together to awaken the senses with a burst of invigorating energy. As the fragrance unfolds, a heart of black tea, saffron, and bay leaf unfolds, weaving an exotic tapestry of scents that evoke a sense of adventure and exploration.
Grounded in the depths of Madagascar vetiver, patchouli, and ambergris, the base notes further anchor the fragrance with their earthy warmth, instilling a sense of confidence and resilience that lasts throughout the day.
Words by Jheanelle Feanny
