Perfumer shows a unique yet simple way to personalise your very own scent that lasts throughout the day.
Scents in Arab culture are heavily influenced by history. In Islam, for example, it is said that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was fond of wearing scents such as oud. Likewise, nomadic tribes used the bark of wood to keep unpleasant odours and insects at bay, heralding the use of bakhoor, a common scent in the Arab region.
“Oud and bakhoor have always been a part of our culture,” says Alia Adam Ali of Swiss Arabian, a leading luxury fragrance brand in the Middle East. “On Fridays or special occasions, the aroma of bakhoor can really elevate your scent.”
Bakhoor is also one of the fundamentals when applying the art of layering scents, a popular concept in the Middle East. “Layering combines different scents to make a unique and personalised fragrance,” says Alia. “Creativity is the most crucial aspect of layering. Try mixing a heavier scent like oud with a lighter one like rose which is perfect for all outings. You can take any scents that have similar notes and spray them on top of each other.”
Alia proposes base scents such as vanilla, amber, musk, patchouli and bergamot as the first step to layering scents. “These can be applied as a spray perfume or as a concentrated perfume oil on your pulse points,” she says. “You can even get a body lotion in those scents and layer it with a heavier perfume.”
Applying lotion before wearing a scent is one of the key factors of long-lasting fragrance. Next is to mix it with a scent based on your personal preference. Alia advises trying out different scents on top of your chosen base scent and continuing with what you like. However, a woody scent with vanilla is a fool-proof method when it comes to layering different fragrances.
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While two different aromas make up for a good combination when it comes to layering, you can also experiment with three or more perfumes to create your own unique and personalised scent.
“Pay attention to the notes and ingredients of the scent applied. Check how that scent evolves after a few hours on your skin,” says Alia. “Find which fragrance puts you in a happy mood – that’s your scent.”
The rule of thumb when it comes to wearing scents is to apply them to your pressure points. “Apply a moisturiser right after you step out of the shower. Then, apply your scents and wear bakhoor.”
To make sure that you smell fresh and fragrant throughout the day, Alia suggests reapplying your perfume every six hours but also advises against some common misconceptions. “Don’t spray your wrists and then rub them together. It’s a common mistake people make and this breaks the perfume notes, which do not allow the scent to last as long.”
Whichever way you choose to wear your scent, remember that like a perfect outfit, a good, long-lasting scent evokes the feeling that you are ready to conquer the world.
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