Single Note Fragrances are the Easiest to Blend
If you are new to layering your scents, start with your perfumes that have predominately one note in them. For instance, a fragrance with a single note of vanilla is going to layer very well on top of a fragrance with a single note of gardenia. For those of you that like woodsy scents try layering a fragrance with a single note of oud wood on top of a fragrance with a single note of Turkish rose.
Order Matters
Did you notice in the examples above that I listed the fragrances with the heavier notes first? When you are layering your scents spray the stronger fragrance first so that it doesn’t overpower the lighter fragrance.
Number of Sprays
This one is a bit tricky because everyone’s body chemistry is different. Personally, when layering, I don’t exceed the amount of sprays that I would apply if I was only wearing one fragrance. An easy equation to remember as you practice layering is 1 spray of the heavier scent and 2 sprays of the lighter scent.
Stay in the Same Family
The general rule for layering your scents is to stay in the same family. In other words, layer your fresh citrus scents with other perfumes/colognes that are fresh and citrusy. Here’s a fragrance hack for those of you that want to be a bit more adventurous with your scents. There are notes in your fragrance that you can layer with almost anything regardless of the family they’re in and you’ll still smell come out with an awesome exotic scent. Vanilla, musk, and the vast majority of citrus/orange scents can be layered with notes outside of their respective families.
Layering Starts in the Shower
I alluded to this earlier in the intro, but I want to discuss it a little further. Layering consists of more than applying two-three different perfumes. It also consists of the scented lotion, shower gel, aftershave and even deodorants you use beforehand. (When you use these other scented products it actually helps make the perfume you apply last longer.)
Scents that Clash
In studying how to make my own fragrance the goal was never to create scents that clashed, but in experimenting and trying out different scents it happens, I haven’t fiqured out all of the combinations that clash, but here are a few no-no’s that personally did not work for my nose.
Layering Can be Subtle
Many people fall into the trap of thinking that layering their scents is only good for intensifying their overall aroma. This isn’t true you can also layer your fragrances to create a very nice, soft and subtle impression for when you’re going on an interview or on the job. To create a subtle impression with your scent, stick to using scented body wash, aftershave and lotion or a scented body balm. Personally, I would skip spraying the fragrance if the occasion is an interview or an important meeting. But if you’re up for spraying a fragrance the last layer should be an eau de toilette scent.