HOW TO FIND your SIGNATURE SCENT
In the wide world of fragrance, finding a scent that feels simpatico to you is the objective—just ask Milena Hannan, store manager at Jo Malone London CityCenterDC. Here, we spoke to this scent pro about sourcing your next olfactory favorite.
Decide on Time & Place
With endless fragrance notes and families available, it can be a challenge to zero in on the right pick. Narrowing down where and when you’ll be wearing your new scent (“are you looking for an everyday scent, or special occasion?” asks Hannan) will help you to focus on a harmonious blend that always feels right.
TRY IT ON (& Really
Sit With It)
Sniffing is one thing, but the most important part of discovering your signature scent is actually trying it on. “Smelling helps you narrow it down, however getting it on your skin and seeing how it works with your body chemistry is key,” she says.
Mix & Match
Sometimes a straight-from-the-bottle scent doesn’t quite hit the mark. Luckily, well-considered brands like Jo Malone London create fragrances that are designed to be combined and effortlessly complement one another. “Layering your scents can help you find your own bespoke fragrance,” advises Hannan.
Still stuck on where to start? Take Hannan’s suggestion and look to Jo Malone’s most sought-after scents—Cypress & Grapevine, Scarlet Poppy and Wood Sage & Sea Salt among them—and as your starting point. “All three of these fragrances have a universal appeal and are unique, unexpected scents,” she says.
