If you asked me, “Is it more important to dress well or to smell right?” I would answer without hesitation—smell right. Perfume is something far more intimate and enduring than clothes. It may not be visible, but it can subtly change how others perceive you and even define the tone of an interaction.
Walking through the streets of Europe, I often catch a whiff of a scent before I see the person. That trace of aroma—perhaps cedar’s depth, citrus’s energy, or tuberose’s softness—lingers in the air and leaves an unforgettable impression. It was in these moments I realized that perfume is another version of oneself.
In 2025, the world of fragrance is more diverse and personalized than ever. The reign of single-note floral or woody perfumes has ended, replaced by blends that reflect moods, identities, and occasions. Over the year, I tested more than 30 perfumes and finally narrowed it down to those that truly transform my presence with a single spray.
First Impressions Come From Scent, Not Clothes
At a fragrance studio on Rue Saint-Germain in Paris, I once heard a perfumer say, “Clothes are visual signals, but scent is emotional projection through smell.” That phrase stuck with me. Fashion can shape a look, but fragrance defines an aura—an invisible yet potent attraction.
Let me give you an example. Wearing a black suit paired with a vetiver and leather fragrance exudes strength and authority. Swap that for a fruity floral scent, and the entire vibe softens, exuding warmth and approachability. These effects may be subtle, but they’re undeniably real.
I’ve had moments when wearing the wrong scent at a date led to awkward vibes, and other times when a perfect fragrance at a job interview earned me unexpected compliments. Since then, I’ve committed to studying the art of fragrance pairing.
My Fragrance Logic: Perfume as a Wardrobe
I categorize my perfumes based on occasion, emotion, season, and outfit—creating a “fragrance wardrobe.”
- Work Scents: Clean and crisp, never overpowering. Think citrus, cedarwood, or green tea—perfect with tailored suits or blouses.
- Mood Scents: Based on how I feel. Lavender or bergamot for calm, spicy pink pepper or ginger to lift my energy.
- Event Scents: For dinners or exhibitions. These need signature character without being overwhelming—oriental blends, incense, vanilla, or iris root.
- Seasonal Scents: Light and breezy for spring/summer—like orange blossom or aquatic notes; deep and textured for fall/winter—leather, tobacco, or patchouli.
When you see fragrance as something you wear on your skin, it elevates your sensitivity to life and taste.
My 5 Favorite Perfumes in 2025
This year has been a journey of scent exploration. These five fragrances are my current essentials—versatile, expressive, and memorable. Each one holds a unique role in my daily life, whether I’m rushing to a meeting, reading in solitude, or stepping into a night out with full presence.
1. Maison Francis Kurkdjian – Aqua Media Cologne Forte
This is my spring/summer favorite of 2025. It opens with vibrant bergamot and sweet orange, followed by airy white florals and a gentle musk-woody base. Spraying it feels like strolling along the Seine at dawn—serene and refreshing. Light yet complex, it’s the perfect companion for linen shirts, silk blouses, and quiet mornings. Available at major department stores across Europe and on the Selfridges website.
2. Le Labo – Thé Matcha 26
This limited edition from Le Labo became my emotional stabilizer. Unlike sharp green tea scents, this one has milky softness and a wooden base. It’s perfect for reading or working, grounding me during long hours of writing or editing. I found a travel-sized bottle on Amazon—ideal for on-the-go calm and mindful moments in cafés or studios.
3. Dior – Oud Ispahan
A powerhouse scent for formal events or when I want to be unforgettable. It combines oud with rose in a rich oriental accord, layered with amber and incense. The warmth lingers for hours, enveloping me like a velvet cloak. It’s intense and addictive—best paired with deep-toned winter coats, statement boots, and bold red lips. Available on Dior’s website and select niche retailers.
4. Diptyque – Orphéon
I call this the “Parisian jazz bar at night” fragrance. It’s a dusty blend of juniper berries, vetiver, and balms. There’s something mysteriously elegant about it—it whispers rather than shouts. It evokes a moody charm—perfect with velvet tops, slit skirts, or an oversized blazer on a rainy evening. You can find it on Net-A-Porter and boutique perfumeries across Europe.
5. Byredo – Slow Dance
The name alone drew me in. Amber, incense, and vanilla weave a romantic, slightly melancholic tapestry. It feels like dancing alone in a vintage record store—hazy and intimate. The scent evolves beautifully on skin, warming over time and leaving behind a nostalgic softness. Available on Byredo’s website and Amazon’s flagship store, it’s my go-to for introspective nights and quiet celebrations.
More Than Scent—It’s a Personal Extension
Perfume is more than aroma. It’s your silent opening line, your understated statement, and a fragment of your story. People may forget your words or your outfit, but they remember a scent from a special moment.
Finding your signature fragrance is like an inward journey. It doesn’t require flashy packaging or external approval. If you spray it and feel, “This is me,” then it’s perfect.
Fragrance, to Me, Is a Ritual of Life
Each morning, I enjoy choosing my fragrance more than my outfit. It’s a personal ritual, a way to center myself before facing the world.
If you haven’t found the one perfume that “gets” you—take your time. Smell, sample, and sense. The world of fragrance never disappoints. It’s filled with infinite possibilities.
Compared to clothing, scent reaches closer to the soul. It speaks in quiet whispers, yet can powerfully reshape your entire day. Wearing the right perfume is sometimes more impactful than wearing the right outfit.
