How to Layer Fragrances like a Pro
Scent is deeply personal, a mood, a memory, an unspoken introduction before you say a single word. So why stop at wearing a single fragrance when you can learn to layer them and create something entirely your own? Layering fragrances is the art of blending perfumes, lotions, oils, and mists to build a multidimensional scent that’s as unique as you are. The right combination can last from morning coffee to late-night cocktails, subtly shifting as the hours pass. With a few key products and some thoughtful pairings, you’ll be able to layer scents like a master perfumer.
⚠️ Shipping Disclaimer: Perfumes may be considered a Dangerous Good, and when shipped internationally with DHL or FedEx, an 8% handling fee of the total perfume value applies (with a minimum fee of $29.99). In some cases, perfumes may need to be shipped separately from other items.
Before we dive in, here are the essentials: start by understanding fragrance notes (top, middle, and base), which determine how your scent develops over time. Use unscented moisturizers to create a base layer that helps hold fragrance longer. And most importantly, combine complementary scent families: think creamy vanilla with zesty citrus, smoky woods with soft florals, or musk with bright herbs.
Now, let’s see which perfumes are the absolute best for layering!
Glossier You Eau de Parfum
Modern, clean, and just a little bit addictive, Glossier You is one of the best perfumes to layer if you want something that plays well with both light florals and warm gourmand notes. Its creamy base of ambrette and musk melts into your skin, while soft iris and pink pepper add brightness. Layer it with a vanilla body cream for a cozy effect or a citrus body mist for a lively daytime scent.
Customer Review: “After using this product for a couple of years it’s been one of my favs!!!! Literally one of my favorites and I always get compliments on it! It also lasts all day and I like to pair it with the glossier body lotion that day came out with.” – stephaniealonzo
Buy It Now
Le Labo Santal 33 Body Lotion
This isn’t just body lotion, but a cult favorite scent in hydrating form. The smoky, leathery notes of Santal 33 bring depth and sophistication to anything layered on top. Use it under a floral perfume to add a sultry edge, or pair with a woody fragrance to create an intoxicating signature blend. The formula is rich but absorbs quickly, so it’s as practical as it is indulgent.
Customer Review: “It’s not a large bottle of lotion to be applied all over the body, or at least that’s not what I do. I love using it around my neck/shoulders and the scent lasts pretty much all day.” – LinaB89
Buy It Now
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Scented Body Oil
Baccarat Rouge 540 might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it is a fragrance that turns heads, and in body oil form, it clings beautifully to the skin while adding a luminous finish. The airy saffron and ambergris accord pairs effortlessly with vanilla, sandalwood, and even light citrus scents for a more approachable wear. Use it as your base layer to lock in moisture and create a rich foundation for any perfume. This is luxury layering at its finest.
Customer Review: “This is truly my favorite scent, I love it and am so happy with my purchase!” – P.E., Verified Purchaser
Buy It Now
Jo Malone London English Pear & Freesia Cologne
Fresh, juicy, and effortlessly elegant, English Pear & Freesia is a perfect top layer for both warm and cool weather blends. The crisp pear and soft white freesia make it uplifting, while its subtle patchouli base gives it staying power. Try layering it over a musky lotion for depth or pairing it with a vanilla base to create a gourmand-floral hybrid.
Customer review: “I just love this so much. The smell is uplifting, it puts me in a good mood. LOL Such a compliment getter, too.” – Diana
Buy It Now
Your Signature Scent, Your Rules
Layering fragrances is about more than just smelling good - it’s about expressing who you are in a way that lingers long after you’ve left the room. By experimenting with perfumes, body lotions, and oils, you can find combinations that evolve with you throughout the years… or go by the day.
When you shop through MyUS, you can access high-end fragrance products from US stores, shipped directly to you.
Reminder: Perfumes are classified as Dangerous Goods and incur an 8% handling fee with a minimum of $29.99 when shipped with DHL or FedEx. In some cases, they may need to ship separately from other items in your order.
Sign Up Now
We always aim to bring our members the best shopping options available, but some of the products featured in this post may have purchase restrictions. Please visit the merchant's terms of sale, shipping guidelines, and terms and conditions to find more information.