Best Winter Fragrances

Cold air dampens how a fragrance spreads, so heavier, sweeter and spicier scents that can feel cloying in summer often work well from November to February. Look for base notes such as vanilla, tonka bean, amber, tobacco, oud, patchouli and incense.

Vanilla and tobacco

Tobacco and vanilla scents are warm and dense, and suit evenings and wool coats. Apply lightly, as they tend to be strong.

Gourmand and sweet

Gourmands use edible-smelling notes such as praline, caramel, chocolate and cherry.

Dark woods and spice

For something less sweet, woody and spicy scents with patchouli, oud or incense are a good choice.