Like your makeup, there are endless ways to play around with scents, and Allure editors know a thing or two about how to layer fragrances. While the practice of concocting a unique scent has become a major TikTok trend, the core concept is far from new.
Mona Kattan, the face and founder of viral fragrance brand Kayali (an Arabic word that translates literally to ‘my imagination’), says she’s been combining spritzes of her favorite perfumes since her early teens, and now wears up to five different scents at one time. “In the Middle East, fragrance layering is an important part of self-expression and I’ve fully embraced it over the last 23 years,” says Kattan.
And now, it’s your turn to explore all the scentual possibilities. As inspiration, Allure editors are spilling the (fragrant) tea on their tried-and-true fragrance combos that’ll have you smelling like a scrumptious snack.
Sarah Kinonen, associate beauty director
“I’ve done it. I’ve finally perfected my signature scent. After years of trial and error and many, many mists gone awry, I’ve found the perfect combo of freshness and warmth with these two eau de parfums: The Harmonist Sacred Water and Dedcool Xtra Milk,” says Sarah Kinonen, Allure’s associate beauty director.
Kinonen says Sacred Water brings “light, refreshing notes” of zesty ginger and orange blossom, while Xtra Milk provides depth with amber and white musk. “When I say this elite pairing elicits compliments, I’m not kidding—I’ve had Trader Joe’s employees stop me in the middle of checkout to ask about my perfume, and have had company colleagues chase me down in the office to find out what scent I was wearing,” she explains. “This layered combo is lethal in the most non-lethal and incredibly delightful way.”
Talia Gutierrez, associate manager of special projects
