For winter, I'm trading in rich, ambery scents for something cold and invigorating - think frosty mornings on a mountain slope or a refreshing dip in an outdoor pool.
Tom Ford Soleil Neige (£69) is my top pick. This scent is inspired by snow, with crisp notes of vanilla musk that counteract the misery of thick clothing and sunburn. It's airy, sexy, and perfect for a skiing holiday, even if I'm not adventurous enough to actually go.
Another winner is Penhaligon's Juniper Sling (£85), which filters out the boozy whiff of Gordon's and tonic while retaining its bracing botanical punch. This scent is refined and wearable on a cold day, sitting comfortably over casual knits and jeans or in more formal settings.
For those who love the British landscape, Lyn Harris's Perfumer H Rain Wood (£190 for 100ml) is a must-try. Combining notes of angelica, juniper, sappy woods, and patchouli leaves gives it a rich, almost peaty base that's perfectly balanced - like a delicate watercolour of a rugged setting.
However, at over £190 for just 100ml, it's not an affordable option for everyone. Sunspel's Sea Moss (£80 for 50ml) is another beautiful scent with an elemental spirit, while Bibbi's Swimming Pool (£120/£105 for 30ml) is tremendous fun - instantaneously cooling and enlivening in cold weather, with a fizzy, herbal, mentholated scent that's like a refreshing splash on a hot day.
Last but not least, there's Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Aqua Media Cologne Forte (£115 for 35ml), which is flat-out freezing. With sparkling citrus notes and a gentle musk, it's more intimate than clippy - perfect for those who want to feel invigorated without feeling like they're wearing a perfume that's too loud.
So, whether you prefer something light and airy or rich and intense, there's a winter scent out there for everyone.
Tom Ford Soleil Neige (£69) is my top pick. This scent is inspired by snow, with crisp notes of vanilla musk that counteract the misery of thick clothing and sunburn. It's airy, sexy, and perfect for a skiing holiday, even if I'm not adventurous enough to actually go.
Another winner is Penhaligon's Juniper Sling (£85), which filters out the boozy whiff of Gordon's and tonic while retaining its bracing botanical punch. This scent is refined and wearable on a cold day, sitting comfortably over casual knits and jeans or in more formal settings.
For those who love the British landscape, Lyn Harris's Perfumer H Rain Wood (£190 for 100ml) is a must-try. Combining notes of angelica, juniper, sappy woods, and patchouli leaves gives it a rich, almost peaty base that's perfectly balanced - like a delicate watercolour of a rugged setting.
However, at over £190 for just 100ml, it's not an affordable option for everyone. Sunspel's Sea Moss (£80 for 50ml) is another beautiful scent with an elemental spirit, while Bibbi's Swimming Pool (£120/£105 for 30ml) is tremendous fun - instantaneously cooling and enlivening in cold weather, with a fizzy, herbal, mentholated scent that's like a refreshing splash on a hot day.
Last but not least, there's Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Aqua Media Cologne Forte (£115 for 35ml), which is flat-out freezing. With sparkling citrus notes and a gentle musk, it's more intimate than clippy - perfect for those who want to feel invigorated without feeling like they're wearing a perfume that's too loud.
So, whether you prefer something light and airy or rich and intense, there's a winter scent out there for everyone.