Scent Mixing, a How-To Guide on Layering your Favorite Scents

Photograph via Scents and Senses

Have you and your bestie ever worn the same scent and noticed that it smells differently on their clothing or skin? Thank your hormones and pheromones for this. These chemical messengers combine with your personal scent and specific body chemistry. 

Photograph via Scents and Senses

For those looking for a fragrance with further distinction, I recommend layering one scent with another, known as scent mixing. People have been doing this for ages to make a signature smell which is only associated with them. It is essentially using your chemistry, plus two (or more) other scents, and here are some ways to help you approach creating your scent.

Scents, like wine, have notes, I encourage you to experiment and play with different combinations. The top note is what you smell right away when you apply it. The middle note is the heart of the fragrance, it can be warm and soft. The bottom note is what develops last and lingers the longest. Think of it like the friend who hangs around in your living room after the party. You’ll really want to like this one the best.  As a general rule, heavier scents should be applied first so they don’t overpower the lighter notes.

Photograph via Scents and Senses

Mixing can elevate qualities of a scent which speak to your palate. Try combining scents that share a particular note which you are drawn to. If you like our Jasmine Clary Sage solid perfume, try pairing it with another scent that also has Jasmine. But stay away from artificial Jasmine, as it ends up smelling soapy. You are the chemist and your body is the petri dish. I recommend mixing scents that utilize natural ingredients to keep your body free from synthetics that can hurt your hormonal system. 

Photograph via Scents and Senses

Mixing can be done with sprays or balms. It can be done all at once, or over the course of the day by starting with one scent in the morning and finishing with another scent at night. For example, I like to wear our Vetiver and Lemongrass during the day and apply our Cedarwood Myrrh and Clove when I change up my outfit for that evening's affairs. It’s a way for me to transition from day to night and separate them emotionally and physically.  It’s like waving a magic wand that denotes this is now party time!