There’s something about fragrances that feels deeply personal—like a signature accessory that completes any outfit. Over the years, I’ve curated a collection that reflects my moods, seasons, and even certain memories. Right now, I have a few favorites in heavy rotation (with some recent exits from the lineup too).

My Go-To: Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s Baccarat Rouge 540

If I had to choose just one fragrance to live in forever, it would be Baccarat Rouge 540. I’m completely obsessed—not just with the scent itself, but with the whole experience. I don’t stop at the perfume; I layer with the body oil, lotion, and even the hair mist. The result is a lasting, luminous trail that feels sophisticated and addictive. It’s my everyday signature, and I can’t imagine my collection without it. I do go nose blind to this scent, and often feel like it doesn’t stick to me, but people are always complimenting me on it.

Fragrance Notes: Jasmine, saffron, ambergris, and cedarwood. A warm, radiant blend that’s airy yet powerful.

2nd runner up: Parfums de Marly: Delina & Valaya

When I want something more romantic, I reach for Parfums de Marly Delina. It’s such a beautifully feminine fragrance—soft, floral, and instantly mood-boosting. Sometimes I layer it with Valaya, which adds this creamy almond note that I absolutely adore. The almond isn’t overly sweet; it’s smooth and comforting, giving Delina a whole new depth. Together, they create a stunning blend that feels both playful and elegant. Both stay on me all day and on my clothes. If you want a fragrance that lasts, this is definitely the brand to go to.

Delina Notes: Turkish rose, peony, lychee, rhubarb, vanilla, and cashmeran. A lush, sensual floral with a fruity twist.
Valaya Notes: Bergamot, mandarin, white flowers, vetiver, musk, and that subtle almond accord. A sheer, musky floral with a comforting warmth.

Retired from my Rotation: Byredo Bal d’Afrique & Mojave Ghost

As much as I loved them, two Byredo favorites have recently left my collection. Bal d’Afrique is truly unique—vibrant and full of personality—but over time, it started to feel overpowering on me.

Bal d’Afrique Notes: African marigold, neroli, violet, jasmine, black amber, cedarwood, and vetiver. A woody-floral with a bold, sunny personality.

Mojave Ghost, on the other hand, was a crowd-pleaser. I always received compliments when I wore it, but once someone mentioned that it reminded them of an expensive version of Marc Jacobs Daisy, I couldn’t shake the comparison. And just like that, I lost the magic I once felt with it.

Mojave Ghost Notes: Ambrette, sapodilla, violet, sandalwood, magnolia, musk, and ambergris. A soft, musky floral that’s airy and wearable.

I do have to say this brand isn’t worth the price in my opinion. The fragrance doesn’t stay long. I fell for the aesthetic pictures found on Pinterest.

How to Apply Fragrance So It Lasts Longer

Wearing a beautiful scent is one thing—making it last all day is another. Over time, I’ve picked up a few tricks that really help extend the life of my fragrances:

1. Moisturize first: Apply fragrance on hydrated skin. Using an unscented lotion or a matching body cream (like with Baccarat Rouge 540) helps the perfume cling better.
2. Target pulse points: Spray on areas where your body emits heat—wrists, inner elbows, behind the ears, and the base of your throat. This helps the fragrance develop throughout the day.
3. Don’t rub: Spraying on your wrists and then rubbing them together can actually crush the top notes and shorten the life of the scent. Let it air-dry naturally.
4. Spray hair and clothes (lightly): A mist in your hair or on fabric holds scent for hours—but be cautious with delicate fabrics, since some perfumes can stain.
5. Layer when possible: Using the body lotion, oil, or hair mist from the same fragrance line creates a stronger, longer-lasting base.
6. Store properly: Keep bottles away from direct sunlight and humidity. A cool, dry spot helps preserve the fragrance.

Fragrance is ever-evolving—what feels like “you” today might not resonate tomorrow. For now, Baccarat Rouge 540, Delina, and Valaya are holding strong as my current obsessions, but I know my lineup will shift again with time (and probably sooner rather than later). That’s the beauty of scent—it’s a journey, and each fragrance is just a chapter in the story.