Christmas has an annoying habit of sneaking up on you. So there's no harm in making your wish list ahead of time or doing some purchasing ahead of time to avoid a last-minute rush. Perfume is a difficult present to get properly, but if you do, it may be a very considerate one. Aromas are highly subjective, but there are a few that are widely adored and have scents that will appeal to even the most discerning perfume connoisseur.
Currently, scents are at the top of our desire list.
It's starting to smell like Christmas... What could be more considerate than a present of a mood-boosting fragrance on the big day after a pretty unglamorous year for most of us?
'Nothing beats the power of smell to elevate your spirits, relax your mind, or transport you to a location you love,' says Lori Woodhouse, UK Director of Education for Tom Ford Beauty, Kilian, Frederic Malle, and Le Labo. 'Whether it's in a space in your house or for yourself, scent is a terrific method to truly modify the mood or impression you want to create.'
TOM FORD BLACK ORCHID
This luxurious smell is sensuous and attention-seeking, great if the receiver has been stuck at home all week. It's the kind of sophisticated drama that immediately comes to mind the screen sirens of Hollywood's Golden Age. Orchid, sandalwood, cocoa, and amber blend with top notes of jasmine and blackberry. It's like a slick of crimson lipstick in perfume form.
YVES SAINT LAURENT LIBRE
It's the French term for "free," and who hasn't yearned for a little more this year? Give the gift of freedom with a big floral scent that pays homage to YSL's preoccupation with independence, authenticity, and a fearless attitude. Consider orange flower, neroli, white musk, and lavender, which is normally used in masculine perfumery but is given a unique, feminine twist here.
CHANEL NO.5 L'EAU
Receiving a bottle of Chanel No.5, arguably the most recognizable scent on the planet, is like fast-tracking to the fictional section of our lives where we exclusively wear cashmere or silk and take lengthy, sensual baths in the middle of the day. In other terms, it's a symbol of opulence. It's a powdered flower with vibrant citrus top notes that transports you right away.
NARCISO RODRIGUEZ NARCISO POUDRÉE
NARCISO Poudrée's concept of femininity is powdery and lovely, with a reassuringly conventional feel that makes us want to put on a necklace of pearls. The heart is a powdery musk with base notes of vetiver combined with white and black cedars, with top notes of white jasmine petals and Bulgarian rose.
GIVENCHY L'INTERDIT
If you're looking for something a little different, look no further. You're not the only one who feels this way. 'So many individuals have told us that they don't want to link this year with a specific fragrance, so they're trying different perfumes they've never tried before,' says Nightingale. 'I believe we are missing "newness" more than anything else, and fragrance may provide that thrill at any time.' L'Interdit by Givenchy comes to mind. It's a white floral with black overtones that's stylish without being stuffy. Tuberose and orange blossom, as well as jasmine, patchouli, and vetiver, come to mind. This is the perfect present for someone on your list who is both classy and a lot of fun.