DESTINATION FRAGRANCE: WHAT TOI WEAR, WHERE
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From the Amalfi Coast to the French Riviera – fragrance experts reveal the perfect perfume pairing for five dream destinations
We spend weeks planning our holiday wardrobe; crisp white linen for Italy, glitzy swimwear for Ibiza and elegant dresses for evenings on the Riviera. Perfume Direct’s fragrance expert Jonny Webber explains why choosing fragrances that complement the distinctive aromas of different destinations has become an integral part of creating a more memorable holiday experience.
“Different destinations naturally lend themselves to different scent families”, says Jonny Webber, fragrance expert at PerfumeDirect.com. “By choosing a perfume that complements the climate, atmosphere and natural scents of where you’re travelling to, you can make the whole experience feel even more immersive.
“Our sense of smell is closely linked to memory, so wearing a scent inspired by the place you’re visiting means you’ll often associate that fragrance with the trip long after you’ve returned home.”
Whether you’re heading to the citrus groves of the Amalfi Coast or the spice souks of Marrakech this summer – here’s Jonny’s guide to destination dressing, fragrance style.
Amalfi Coast & Italian Lakes
Signature scents: Sicilian lemon, bergamot, cypress, olive wood, neroli, jasmine, fig leaf, fresh linen, white musk, aromatic Mediterranean herbs
The Amalfi Coast is synonymous with enormous lemons, citrus groves and flowering terraces, while the Italian lakes have the natural aroma delivered by cypress-lined villas and fresh water mixed with jasmine and wisteria. These destinations call for fragrances that feel bright, sparkling and luxurious.
“Perfumes like D&G Light Blue Summer Vibes and Tom Ford Neroli Portofino capture Italy’s vibe beautifully,” says Jonny. “They feel clean and uplifting in the heat, with similar notes that will subtly complement your surroundings rather than compete with them.”
Ibiza & the Balearic Islands
Signature scents: sea salt, pine forests, fig trees, juniper, rosemary, thyme, amber, warm driftwood
While Ibiza is famous for its beach clubs and sunsets, much of the island is covered in fragrant pine woodland. Your sense of smell is enveloped with scents of rosemary and thyme baking in the Mediterranean sun, before reaching beaches filled with the salty tang of sea air and coconut sunscreen.
“Ibiza is all about freedom and fragrances that capture the feeling of sunshine of warm skin,” says Jonny. “Look for creamy coconut, solar florals and warm amber, balanced with pistachio, aromatic herbs or soft woody notes that complement the islands pine forests and Mediterranean botanicals. Our top pick is Tom Ford’s Soleil Blanc that instantly evokes that gorgeous just-back-from-the-beach vibe.”
Greek Islands
Signature scents: fig leaf, wild oregano, thyme, sage, basil, lemon peel, bougainvillea, orange blossom, white florals, mineral musk
The Greek Islands are defined by their dry, mediterranean climate, crisp salty sea air, whitewashed villages and endless blue skies. Go for a stroll through winding village streets and you’ll be able to smell the citrus trees, alongside wild oregano, sage and basil and the fresh breeze of the Aegean.
“Marine perfumes work brilliantly in Greece because they echo the freshness of the sea,” says Jonny. “Opt for sea salt, green fig leaf and aromatic herbs blended with delicate jasmine or orange blossom for a distinctive Mediterranean character that’s instantly transportive. Fragrances like Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt and Issey Miyake L’Eau d’Issey really do capture that relaxed, sun-drenched Greek island lifestyle.”
French Riviera
Signature scents: mimosa, lavender, jasmine, orange blossom, iris, soft musk, cedarwood
The French Riviera has a quiet luxury ambiance and offers an aroma-filled experience from the luxury hotels of Cannes to the secluded coves of Saint-Tropez. The perfume capital of the world, Grasse, lies in the picturesque hills north of Cannes – with its rolling fields of jasmine, rose and lavender and heady floral fragrances.
“Choose fragrances with elegant floral base notes, lifted with citrus and softened by musk or delicate woods. Scents should feel beautifully balanced and quietly luxurious rather than overpowering or shouty. Chloé Signature has just that kind of smooth French sophistication that never goes out of style.”
Marrakech
Signature scents: orange blossom, Moroccan rose, mint, cedarwood, leather, cinnamon, saffron, patchouli, incense
The winding streets of Marrakech’s medina are an intoxicating bouquet of scent – from the stalls piled high with spices to the aroma of fresh mint tea and the orange trees in the courtyards to the rich smell of leather from the traditional artisan workshops.
“Marrakech is a destination that fully engages the senses,” says Jonny. “Perfumes and aftershaves with depth and warmth that balance heady florals like jasmine with spices and smoky accords will make the experience even more memorable. Chloé Nomade Jasmin Naturel Intense feels sun-drenched and adventurous, while Givenchy’s L’Interdit Rouge brings richer notes of orange blossom, spice and sandalwood – it’s bold and unmistakably Moroccan in spirit.”
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