From hero brands to boutique houses, and floral fragrances to intense incense; contributing editor Cally Squires, beauty director Bandi Manzini and beauty writer Yasmin Salmon each pick their top three favourites from the amazing range of stunning new scents just launched at Harvey Nichols.
Cally Squires
I’m a big fan of masculine scents, the more OTT the better. Give me all the wood, tobacco, oud, patchouli and leather. When browsing the most recent fragrance launches at Harvey Nichols, I was instinctively drawn to Tom Ford’s Black Lacquer, Kilian’s Old Fashioned and Creed’s Delphinus scent.”
This is a multifaceted amber, woody scent with notes of leather and birch, over the top of a dark peony. It certainly hits the spot when it comes to my traditionally masculine fragrance energy. Historically I’m somewhat of a collector of Tom Ford eau de parfums, from Fucking Fabulous to Tobacco Oud, so Black Lacquer is a natural addition to my Mr Ford wardrobe. To me that classic Tom Ford bottle design is so instantly recognisable, not only would it look pretty iconic in all the ‘getting ready’ wedding photos, I feel like it’s pretty timeless and less trend-led. I would spritz this when getting ready, including lightly over my veil, and top-up throughout the day (especially if I was outdoors), before layering with a different scent for the evening party.
This would be my outfit change in a bottle, that I’d layer over the Tom Ford when changing gowns for the party portion of the wedding night, probably around the time the hard stuff like whiskey cocktails were being poured. I’d also spray it on my hairbrush if letting my hair down – literally – for the dance floor. Wearing this perfume gives me a comforting warmth, just like a nip of whiskey. I can see this faceted art deco bottle sitting on my bathroom shelf, begging to be worn to the most fabulous parties and evoking memories of a special day.
This is my wildcard, initially giving an intense sweetness on my skin which isn’t typically the direction I’d lean in, it gives way to a reassuringly leathery Bourbon and patchouli. This would get my vote for my husband to wear, who if anything is a little fruitier than me when it comes to cologne. I’d hope that he’d wear this again and again for many wedding anniversaries to come. The romantic in me also imagines spraying this on ceramic tiles to scent my honeymoon suitcase.
Bandi Manzini
When it comes to fragrance, more is definitely more with me. I’m looking for “main character energy” in a bottle. Gourmands will always have my heart and I’m a sucker for a floral bouquet that has a spicy blend to it. The more musky and mysterious the better and so the new Jo Loves Black Cashmeran and Tonka, Creed Centaurus and Loewe Earth Elixir were always going to take prominent positions in my fragrance wardrobe.
Jo Loves, Black Cashmeran and Tonka
I am enamoured with fragrances that make strangers stop you on the street, and Jo Loves Black Cashmeran and Tonka embodies that essence perfectly. I love how this scent envelops me in rich, earthy undertones and a creamy sweetness that exudes sultriness, sensuality, and a dark mystery. It lingers so beautifully on my skin and incorporates all the warm notes that I cherish – ginger, cinnamon, and tonka. This perfume whisks me away to my honeymoon daydream, where I elegantly drape myself in an elaborate kaftan at a luxurious retreat in Oman on a balmy, sultry night. If Lawrence of Arabia had a signature scent, this would undoubtedly be it
The more I experience the dry down of this fragrance, the more it captivates me. Although I gravitate towards sweet scents, I crave a touch of complexity and an edge, and Centaurus undoubtedly fulfils this desire. I have a particular fondness for the spicy undertones of cinnamon and cardamom, and I am equally captivated by the rich bursts of patchouli and sandalwood within this composition. Perhaps my affinity for such opulence suggests I was a French aristocrat in a past life. What truly delights me is the fragrance’s ability to be sweet without crossing into cloying territory, with the tobacco notes providing a grounding effect.
When seeking something ethereal and delicate, Loewe is my preferred choice. Let’s start with the bottle: I absolutely adore the mauve hue of the flask paired with its tactile wooden cap, which alone earns it a prominent spot on my dresser. While I typically gravitate towards bold fragrances, I have a particular fondness for the understated elegance of Loewe Earth Elixir. It’s the ideal companion for sunny destinations. The floriental profile is both airy and clean, with a delightful hint of musk that imparts a warmth that I constantly seek. This fragrance is my definite go-to for a sophisticated spritz.
Yasmin Salmon
When choosing a fragrance, I always gravitate toward feminine floral scents that evoke a sense of nostalgia and transport me to a memory. I think of each fragrance is like a portal. I often find myself selecting a fragrance based on my mood, the occasion ahead, or the memories it stirs within me.
Luce di Rosa evokes memories of sunny afternoons spent in my mum’s garden a stone’s throw from the Quantock Hills, where British roses bloom in every shade imaginable. The fragrance opens with a delicate burst of fruity notes, leading to a heart of soft, floral petals. I wear this scent on days when I want to feel light and feminine. This fragrance would tie in perfectly for a rehearsal dinner or next day garden party. There’s something about it that instantly lifts my spirits and makes me feel like I’m back home. The warm base notes linger on my skin, reminding me of the comforting moments spent among my mum’s flowerbeds.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris, APOM
APOM (A Piece of Me) is a fragrance that embodies sophistication. It’s blend of floral and woody notes feels like an enigmatic dance. I recall the first time I wore it to a formal event; the way it enveloped me made me feel empowered. Unlike my usual floral choices, APOM has a more unisex appeal that adds an unexpected twist. I wear it during evenings out or special occasions where I want to leave a lasting impression. This would be my ideal scent when walking down the aisle. It’s a scent that whispers confidence and mystery, contrasting with my more traditionally feminine picks.
“Le Point G captivates me with its rich notes of jasmine and sandalwood, creating a deeply intimate atmosphere, making it my go-to scent for romantic evenings. While it leans towards the floral side, its depth sets it apart from the others in my collection. Each spritz takes me back to a candlelit dinner at a fine-dining restaurant. Suited for a honeymooner, wearing Le Point G is like wrapping myself in a luxurious, fragrant shawl, making me feel both delicate and empowered—an exquisite contrast to the lighter, airier Luce di Rosa.”
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