Ultimate festive fragrance guide

Perfume can make the perfect present, but how do you choose which one to buy? Hannah Britt asks the experts

WITH Christmas just a few weeks away, the race is on to find thoughtful presents for friends and family.

And top of many people’s wish lists this year will be a fragrance.

“It’s the perfect gift because it feels so special, and so personal. It’s an emotive gift that shows the gift-giver has put a lot of thought into it,” said Athina Macpherson from The Fragrance Shop.

And with thousands on the market, there is something to suit all tastes, budgets and recipients, from your best friend to your grandmother.

“From delicate florals, to vibrant fruity fragrances and bold, heady statement aromas, the choice is endless,” explained Karen Harris from The Perfume Shop.

“No matter what kind you’re a fan of, or what type of impact you want to make, there is undoubtedly a scent out there for everybody.”

So where should you begin?

MUM

“Florals are lovely, and universally popular – they are sweet and full of scent, which is great for mums who like a bouquet of flowers in their home or enjoy being in the great outdoors,” explained Athina. ■■Try: Marc Jacobs Daisy Dream Daze, £59, thefragranceshop.co.uk, a fresh and fruity scent perfect for everyday wear.

GRANDAD

“Powdery, woody scents are a great way forward for grandad,” said Athina. “They are timeless, and warm. Look for fragrances that blend tradition and modernity.” ■■Try: Yardley Elite, £19.99, Boots, which blends woody notes of pine and sandalwood with basil and grapefruit.

BEST FRIEND

“A best friend deserves sugar, spice and everything nice – so why not choose a gourmand feast of a fragrance for them?” said Athina. “Praline fragrance notes are soft, chocolatey, rich and nutty – which makes any fragrance smell good enough to eat.” ■■Try: Lancome La Vie Est Belle, £48, Superdrug. A mix of delicious sweetness and rich depth.

DAD

“Cinnamon and citrus notes are a winner for dads as they are a perfect combination of classic and modern,” said Athina. Look for spicy, autumnal scents as these are perfect for a dad on the go. ■■Try: Hugo Boss, Boss Bottled, £42.99, John Lewis, a contemporary fragrance with sweet and spiced notes.

MALE PARTNER

“Go bold, sophisticated and sexy,” said Karen. And make sure it’s something you love too. “Look for notes of bergamot, white and pink pepper, cedarwood and cocoa, as well as sensual vetiver and musk,” she added. ■■Try: Carolina Herrera Bad Boy, £47.99, theperfumeshop.com, a striking scent with bergamot and clary sage.

TEENAGER

Teenagers typically love sweet fragrances. “But stay away from saccharine scents and add a grown-up element with fruit notes,” said Athina. “It’s hard to go wrong with a scent by a celeb they love,” added Karen. ■■Try: Ariana Grande Cloud, £25, Superdrug, a tasteful yet sweet scent with lavender blossom, praline and musk.

GRANDMOTHER

“Lavender is a wonderful fragrance note as it relaxes the body and senses,” said Athina. “And the last two years have seen the classic scent get a modern update with an influx of new avender fragrances.” ■■Try: YSL Libre, £56, Boots, which combines French lavender and orange blossom to create a joyful scent.

FEMALE PARTNER

Again it’s important to choose a scent you can’t get enough of. “Coffee is an unexpected yet deliciously gourmand scent for a woman who likes a deep, complex fragrance,” said Athina. “Coffee notes are still underused, so she’ll be on the pulse of modern perfumery.” ■■Try: Dolce & Gabbana The Only One, £55, Boots, with violet, vanilla and coffee.

SECRET SANTA

If you don’t know them as well, stick to a universally popular note. “Vanilla has become one of the most sophisticated and wellloved fragrance notes in the world,” said Athina. “It’s everything you expect – sweet and comforting.” ■■Try: Rituals Reve di Hanami, £14.50, rituals.com, a fusion of vanilla, lychee and cherry blossom.