My most worn fragrances of 2024
2024 was a year of upping my scent game. I’ve had a long-term love for fragrance, but I learned so much about the power of scent and olfactory nuances this past year that a casual hobby became a fixation. I explored some old favourites, and brought in a few newcomers. These fragrances covered me for every kind of day, from big occasions to lazy weekends, and even a few “I need all the help I can get” moments.
Here’s my round-up of the scents that dominated my rotation this year, with a few honorary mentions for some deodorants that helped me smell far more put-together than I sometimes felt.
1. Kilian: Angel’s Share
This one is an easy top spot, it’s my prime compliment getter. The boozy, cinnamon-laden warmth of Angel’s Share makes it feel like wrapping yourself in a soft blanket while sipping cognac by the fire. Its rich, inviting character makes it a staple for evenings out or cosy gatherings. It is unapologetically decadent, has great projection and is long lasting.
2. Le Labo: The Noir 29
Yup, I’m a Thé Noir Stan, I have a near decade long love for this fragrance, I have it in perfume, shower gel and lotion form, I can’t get enough. It still hits for those days when I want to feel chic. The blend of tea, fig, and soft woods keep it versatile, fresh, and always wearable. Admittedly, my office colleagues thought differently when a blocked nose caused an over spray that brought too much Thé Noir into their lives, but it is a scent that’s (generally) subtle yet memorable.
3. Malin & Goetz: Dark Rum
This rum-soaked beaut is another long-term fave. The interplay of sweetness, spice, and warmth makes it a great scent for cooler days. It is comforting and bold, and I love its unisex edge, it’s a fragrance that feels like an old friend.
4. Histoires de Parfums: 1969
1969 was a new addition to my collection this year. It is a fragrance that reveals its depths gradually, demanding time and attention to fully appreciate it. It opens with an earthy spice, but just as you begin to settle into its initial intensity, a lush peach note emerges, sweet yet refined, softening the edges without stealing the show. Then its rose and chocolate notes weave into the spice and florals. There’s a quiet melancholy to this fragrance, a sophistication that whispers rather than shouts. Subtly playful but still chic. Signature scent worthy.
5. Kilian: Love Don’t Be Shy
Ok, fine I’m “that girl.” Love Don’t Be Shy is still my go-to for an evening out. Its sweet, gooey, marshmallowy allure paired with orange blossom is irresistible to me. Playful yet sophisticated, and a year-round winner. I’ve had dreams that smell like this fragrance - I swear!
6. Maison Margiela Replica: By the Fireplace
There’s something magical about By the Fireplace. Its smoky chestnut and vanilla notes evoke the comfort of a winter evening by a crackling fire. It’s warm and nostalgic, making it a favourite for cold days when I need a little extra cosiness.
7. Bvlgari Allegra: Rock’n’Rome
This late-year purchase has been a revelation. After falling for it in Geneva Airport’s duty-free, it has become a favourite. The juicy apricot notes scream late summer, but when paired with Magnifying Myrrh from the same Allegra line, it transforms into a stunning autumnal fragrance. It’s versatile and fun with a strangely pleasant sour note, which keeps me grabbing it. For me this is a slept on member of Bvlgari’s Allegra line up and another that is signature scent worthy.
8. Lattafa: Khamara Qahwa
I know this Lattafa offering gets its fair share of online chatter, but Khamara Qahwa was a a go-to for me this year. Its rich, gourmand profile is perfect for autumn and winter, and though it has great longevity the initial notes of cinnamon and ginger dissipate quickly leaving a vanilla, coffee and praline mix, at this price point, I don’t hesitate to reapply to boost those top notes. It is indulgent, warm, and comforting.
9. Ffern: Autumn 24
I’ll admit, this one didn’t wow me on the first spray. But after some experimenting, it became a star for layering. Autumn 24 works beautifully with fragrances like Maison Margiela By the Fireplace, or Thé Noir, adding a touch of complexity to already rich compositions. It also works wonderfully with rose and musk-centric fragrances like Narciso Rodriguez Musc Noir Rose to bring some spiced freshness.
10. Penhaligon’s: Halfeti Leather
This is bold, unapologetic luxury. With its deep, leathery base and hints of spice, Halfeti Leather is the fragrance I reach for when I want to feel confident and put-together. It’s not for every day, but when the mood strikes, nothing compares. The original Halfeti is still a go-to of mine but I found myself reaching for its leather sibling far more in 2024.
11. Sol de Janeiro: Cheirosa 71
Sweet, decadent, overtly gourmand and utterly addictive, Cheirosa 71 has been my casual go-to. A working-from-home spray. Its caramelised vanilla nuttiness is comfort in a bottle. It’s light-hearted and fun, perfect for those days when I want something easy but still delightful.
12. Sol de Janeiro: Cheirosa 40
I know, another SdJ fragrance but this is an honest list and I’m fond of this line. Floral and creamy, Cheirosa 40 is another staple. It is polished, and I love wearing it during transitional seasons when I want something soft and lightly fruity.
13. Penhaligon’s: Vaara
My signature for spring and summer, Vaara is elegant and charming. The blend of rose, saffron, and quince is timeless, and although it seems to be discontinued, in fact I fear may have grabbed the last bottle available on the Penhaligon’s UK website, as long as it remains it will be a classic in my collection.
The Deodorants That Elevated My Routine
This year, I decided to step up my deodorant game, moving beyond simple, clean roll-ons to more sophisticated options that complement my fragrances. Here are the standout additions to my routine:
Sol de Janeiro: Rio Deo Pistachio and Salted Caramel
It’s SdJ again! This is a sweet choice that pairs perfectly with my winter favourites like Angel’s Share and Cheirosa 71. It is cosy, indulgent, and great for layering.Penhaligon’s Luna Deodorant
For fresher days, Luna is my go-to. Its bright and airy scent feels like a clean, elegant reset.Wild Natural Deodorant: Cotton and Sea Salt
Understated and versatile, this one’s my post-gym hero. It’s perfect for days when I want “clean girl vibes” without competing with my main fragrance.AKT: The Onsen Deodorant Balm
A balm with a spa-like aroma, The Onsen is fresh yet grounding, and its longevity is great, it can also cope with a solid gym session and that earns it a badge of honour.
Final Thoughts
2024 has been a year of exploration and indulgence, with old loves and new discoveries shaping my scent wardrobe. From bold statements to everyday comforts, these fragrances have elevated my everyday routine, boosting my confidence and offering more than a sprinkle of joy.
