A good scent of what you like
A report from the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Protection on the toxicity of fragrance ingredients was published in July, signalling not only a PR disaster, but the possibility that some of the world’s most famous scents may almost cease to exist altogether if certain ingredients are banned. And if you think it’s all about a cocktail of chemicals, think again: one of the ingredients in the firing line for causing contact allergies is the naturally occurring tree moss, found in high-profile fragrances, including Chanel No 5.
“It is the death of perfume if this continues, Sylvie Jourdet of the French Perfumiers Society told Vogue. “The more you use natural ingredients, the more there is a risk of allergies. Lemon, jasmine and bergamot all contain allergenics.”
It’s definitely worth checking an ingredient list before you purchase your scent, especially if you are prone to eczema. And while natural ingredients are not a way of preventing allergies, the better the quality of the ingredients (natural essential oils), the better the fragrance, which is where under-the-radar perfume brands come in. They may be more expensive, but for me they’re worth it. And there are tons of places to find them online.
If you’re willing to take a risk there’s a phenomenal amount of scents you can buy on the internet. Great scents, fabulous scents, rich and decadent scents. Problem is they are scents that you can’t, well, scent. And therein lies an element of risk.
For me, this is a risk worth taking. Why? Because the internet opens up access to a whole world of fragrances that you can’t get in Ireland. These days, department stores are increasingly stocked with mainstream scents and smaller perfume houses seem to be edged out of the market. It’s hard to find something truly unique.
If you’re after a niche scent, with great ingredients and a more cult appeal, then look to brands such as Antonia’s Flowers, Malin+Goetz, Miller Harris, Laura Tonnato and Carthusia. If you’re after something more pure, turn to Liz Earle with its fragrance Botanical Essence No15, over 98% of which comes from natural ingredients or Florascent, with fragrances that take you from Cannes to Granada.
Perfect for Christmas escapism.
A great brand that celebrates the beautiful scents of flowers, this is a lovely one for anyone who misses fresh blooms. Freesia, jasmine, magnolia and freshly cut lily give this scent a burst of romance. If you want to push the boat out then opt for the eau de parfum — more expensive, but richer in notes.
The second fragrance from Liz Earle is a good one for winter with its rich oriental heart, shot through with a very clean, very crisp effect. It has been derived from sustainable sources and contains over 90% natural ingredients, with notes of Damask rose absolute, clove bud oil, vetiver, vanilla extracts and cinnamon leaf oil. It comes beautifully packaged.
Laura Tonatto is one of Italy's most famous ‘noses’. She creates scents of the highest quality. Her own line of fragrances is very simply and elegantly packaged and makes a wonderful and very thoughtful gift. I love the exoticism of Plaisir, a sensual combination of pink grapefruit, cinnamon and vanilla.
This scent is my personal favourite — a cherished fragrance that I have worn every day for the last five years. It’s meant to smell of books and dusty libraries and was inspired by Jane Birkin. To me, it’s a great, sexy perfume that works just as well in winter as it does in summer.
Terrible name — sounds like an air freshener, but this range of fragrances focuses on natural ingredients to keep it very pure indeed with only three ingredients: alcohol, water and perfume oil. Go for the Cannes version, for a touch of French glamour.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
