An expert breaks down the ins and outs of the art of fragrance layering for us
Want the lowdown on how to master one of the biggest beauty trends of the moment? Whether you prefer a light, floral fragrance that oozes romance, or an opulent amber number that turns heads when you walk into the room, you can get more out of your favourite perfumes and aftershaves when they’re expertly layered with complementary body lotions.
We’ve nabbed some time with William Andrews, Head of Education, luxury division at Coty and an industry-recognised fragrance expert, to learn how we can layer lotion and perfume scents like a pro.
What is perfume layering?
Perfume layering is having a moment right now and, according to William, it’s as straightforward as the name suggests. "It’s the idea of 'layering' one scent on top of another, to create an intensified fragrance," he explains. As well as perfumes, you can do this with shower gels and body lotions to make your scent last longer, too.
What are the benefits of perfume layering?
We all want to make a lasting impression when we enter a room and turns out, layering could be the secret.
"Most perfumes have been lovingly crafted, so when used correctly, the idea of 'layering' scent can work well," says William. "I’d suggest using products in the same range. Some fragrances are available in body lotion and shower gel formats, and are often in gift sets.
"By using them together, it builds up a layer of perfume on your skin before you finish off with the actual fragrance. The concoction ultimately creates a long-lasting, intensified cloud of scent."
How can you layer scents properly?
It starts with the shower gel and then the body lotion once you’ve dried, then it’s onto the application of the fragrance itself.
"When it comes to layering, my top piece of advice is always finishing with the actual fragrance, as this is the purest form of the scent," says William. "There’s 'The Precision Technique' where the wearer applies it carefully on targeted areas of the body, such as pulse points. There’s also 'The Dramatic Technique', which is as dramatic as the name suggests! A giant cloud is spritzed into the air, followed by an exuberant swoon into the scented haze, providing the perfect finishing all-over coverage."
The takeaway? There's no hard and fast rule of thumb when it comes to how to layer scents on your body. "Just go with your mood and enjoy the daily application scent ritual you create," adds William.
Which scents work well with each other?
The most important thing is to try to stick to the same brand, according to William.
"Some people are obsessed with layering one perfume on top of another," says William. "I like to keep in mind the fact that most fragrances have been expertly created exactly the way the perfumer intended. By layering different brands, the individual distinctivity of the fragrances is lost. I prefer to celebrate the perfumer’s idea and enjoy a fragrance for what it is. Instead, stick to the same brands for the best complementing scent."
Any tips for creating a signature scent?
When it comes to choosing the fragrance for you, it mightn’t be as tricky as we’d thought.
"Although you can’t smell yourself, we all have a unique base skin odour, which is defined by our genetics," says William. "I’d suggest trying a few and trusting your own instinct here. If you like it, then it’s likely to complement your own natural scent and could be a great option for you."
10 of the best luxury body lotions
Whether you’re looking for some gift inspiration for a loved one or just want to treat yourself, here are 10 of Team H&B’s favourites to layer or rock solo.
Shop more beautifully scented body lotions in our full range.
Try: Estee Lauder Youth Dew Perfumed Body Creme
• Size: 200ml
• Fragrance family: amber, spicy
Composed of a harmonious blend of opulent flowers, delicious spices and precious woods, this scent is perfect for those who love to feel fresh and clean. Consider this luxurious, richly moisturising creme the ultimate post-shower treat that beautifies your skin, leaving behind a silky-smooth finish. As for the pot? It’s sure to take pride of place on anyone’s dressing table.
Try: Ted Baker Violet and Bergamot Body Lotion
• Size: 250ml
• Fragrance family: floral
If you love a fresh, floral fragrance with a hint of citrus, then this dreamy, indulgent body lotion could be right up your street. Just a smell of zesty bergamot and delicate violet will wrap you in feelings of joy, while sweet coconut oil deeply nourishes and moisturises for sumptuously soft skin – count us in.
Try: Estée Lauder Beautiful Body Lotion
• Size: 200ml
• Fragrance family: floral
A feminine, romantic scent, bottled – this body lotion isn’t only beautiful by name as it’s a timeless classic, but its brimming with a rich blend of rose, lily, tuberose and orange flower. It’s a truly all-encompassing fragrance and the perfect accompaniment to a special occasion.
Try: Laura Mercier Souffle Body Crème – Ambre Vanille
• Size: 300g
Consider this warming scent the ultimate ode to the colder months. Comforting vanilla and amber combine for a rich, luxurious concoction that lasts all day. Plus, it earns bonus points as it contains sweet almond and honey, both of which can help soothe and nourish.
Try: Ren Clean Skincare Moroccan Rose Otto Body Lotion
• Size: 200ml
Bursting with damask rose petals, this floral body lotion is nothing short of pure bliss. Just a small amount massaged onto cleansed skin will uplift and revitalise the senses, while the infusion of shea butter will help hydrate and smooth any dry areas. The results? Velvety soft skin that smells as good as it looks.
Try: Clinique Aromatics Elixir Body Smoother
• Size: 200ml
Clinique's gorgeous body smoothing lotion makes for the perfect gift. The sensuous blend contains rose essence, sandalwood, chamomile, oakmoss and ylang ylang, making it a cocooning, cold-weather classic that we return to time and time again. Apply to pulse points for a more subtle finish.
Try: Elemis Exotic Frangipani Monoi Body Cream
• Size: 200ml
If you’re looking to treat someone special to a spa-like indulgence from home, then consider Elemis your answer. A cult favourite, this nourishing body cream is the perfect excuse to enjoy a quiet moment of peace. Fragranced with frangipani flowers, it’ll leave limbs feeling soft, supple and beautifully scented.
Try: Rituals The Ritual of Samurai After Shave Refresh Gel
• Size: 100ml
One for him, The Ritual of Samurai is the perfect post-shave gel. The addition of aloe vera is a dream for minimising redness and irritation, while the refreshing scent of basil and tiger grass are both refreshing and invigorating. A total treat.
Try: Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Cream
• Size: 150ml
Trust us when we say this body cream is addictive. Notes of salted caramel and sweet pistachio combine to create a showstopping finish that’s sure to last from dawn until dusk. Not just a pretty scent, this fast-absorbing body cream also contains cacay oil to help deliver valuable moisture, improving the appearance and softness of skin.
Try: Elizabeth Arden White Tea Pure Indulgence Body Cream
• Size: 400ml
• Fragrance family: floral, musk
Indulge your skin all over with this nourishing body cream from Elizabeth Arden. A lesson in luxury, this lightly scented cream delightfully blends fragrant notes of calming white tea and Italian mandarin with a trio of tranquil musks and shea butter to soften, moisturise and pamper the skin.
For more gorgeous body lotions, perfect for layering or wearing on its own, check out our full range.
