The beauty industry claims that perfume can have a powerful effect on our energy levels and moods. With this in mind, Idecided to test five fragrances to see whether they really could transform her mood.
Versace Eros Pour Femme
Mood: desire
Verdict: the middle top notes of citrus have featured in much of the research on aromatherapy, and they do lift my mood. There’s something very rigorous to the scent, echoed in the medusa head embossed on the packaging. The musk and woody notes add a veil of something more mysterious. My mood is slightly sultry, yet I feel energised – enough to wink at a stranger perhaps, or at least pull my partner close for a kiss.
Library of Fragrance Coconut spray (available at Boots)
Mood: feeling free
Verdict: as the cheapest of the fragrances I tried and tested, I now use this as an air freshener for the reason that it creates a tropical backdrop to my terrace house interior in Stoke-on-Trent! Coconut in general is enjoying a renaissance right now, as a superfood, and I was drawn to it simply because it’s fashionable. But found it also gave me a sense of freedom when sprayed liberally around the house.
Leighton Denny Light & Dark perfume, (www.leightondenny.com)
Mood: confidence
Verdict: absolute oils featured in this special mix include an uplifting mixture of pepper, myrrh and incense, for a warm welcoming unique fragrance, which can be worn day and night – as its name suggests. At its heart is gardenia, jasmine, lily and rose, merged with top notes of mandarin, grapefruit, peach and white pepper to “stimulate confidence”. While the packaging is a little bit dull for me, I do use this perfume as a “prep” for leaving the house. With such a mixture of exotic scents, it leaves me feeling dressed and my confidence is boosted a modicum.
Chanel Mademoiselle (available at Selfridges)
Mood: nostalgia
Verdict: I’ve used this perfume since my glory days, on the fashion desk of the Daily Telegraph. It was gifted to me at an event hosted by Chanel. The reason I’m including it is because it brings back powerful memories for me, evoking nostalgia. But if you’re too young to have your own perfume archive raid your Mother’s beauty cabinet – you’re sure to find something that brings back memories of a special time.
Lanvin Rumeur 2 Rose (available at TK Maxx)
Mood: generosity
Verdict: a new version of Lanvin Rumeur – and a new edition to my bathroom. Its main drawcord is rose, lending itself to a charming and romantic feel. It’s lighter, fruitier and sweeter than the original and aimed at younger audience. With orange, rose, magnolia, jasmine, patchouli, and musk base notes, it’s the perfect beginners perfume for students with memories in the making. Wear it on campus in the day – you might be in the mood to give your lecturer an apple!