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Boots opened the doors to its first luxury fragrance boutique at Shoreditch’s Broadgate Central towards the end of last week and, having enjoyed a sneak preview the day prior, I can confirm that it’s well worth a visit — whether you’re a fragrance buff or simply keen to expand your olfactory horizons. Featuring e 400 scents — each new to the brand — the boutique spans the full spectrum from niche to luxury, with brands such as Tom Ford, Prada and Maison Margiela, sitting alongside a host of cult and indie favourites. “We’re seeing a growing demand for unique fragrances from up-and-coming, artisan perfume houses” said Chelsey Saunders, Director of Fragrance, Skincare and Haircare at Boots. “With 20 brands that are joining the Boots line-up for the first time, there is a curated selection of niche perfumes from visionary British founders, independent perfume houses and international brands.” I quizzed Chelsey on her top ten need-to-know brands from the boutique’s edit, to help those on the hunt for a new signature. Here they are: “Founded in New York in 2016 by Barbara Herman, Eris Parfums is a provocative and daring perfume house that features bold, gender-neutral compositions inspired by vintage glamour. These are daring scents, with modern, sensual twists. Expect bold, complex layers and dark floral notes. I predict that Scorpio Rising - with its explosion of spices, woods, incense, smoke and leather - will be popular.” (£164 for 50ml) “This Hong Kong-based perfume house was founded by artist-turned-perfumer Jasper Li and Adrian Yu, offering captivating scents that blur the line between visual art and scent. Try Serendipity, inspired by a journey across the Silk Road, with exotic spices, patchouli, minerals, and leather. It’s perfect for those seeking something a little more unusual this winter.” (£130 for 50ml) “Gallivant is a unique UK-based perfume house whose unisex fragrances bottle the spirit of a global city, evoking memories of travel and adventure. Unexpected fragrance notes tell the story of each location - like a postcard in a spritz — from spicy, woody Tokyo to sultry, smoky Los Angeles.” (From £70 for 30ml) “Ostens focuses on the beauty of the world’s finest raw ingredients, presenting them in their purest form. Founded by Chrisopher Yu and Laurent Delafont and created by five of the world’s most celebrated master perfumers, the Osten brief is simple: dream big, no budget, no rules - just creativity. And the results, from Jasmine Absolute to Cashmeran Velvet, are exquisite.” (£95 each for 50ml) “This British, female-founded brand offers sophisticated and unique fragrances that pair classic elegance with contemporary flair. Inspired by nature’s wild landscapes, Nancy’s experiential, botanical blends feel fresh, modern and sophisticated. Try Lupin Meadow Eau de Parfum, an aromatic cologne that transports you to a meadow bathed in golden sunlight.” (£135 for 50ml) “Founded by musician Leo Crabtree, BeauFort London is a bold and evocative fragrance house inspired by British history and maritime folklore, with scents all handmade in the UK. “Try Terror & Magnificence, inspired by Georgian architect Nicholas Hawksmoor, featuring church incense, candle wax and papyrus, reminiscent of that first downpour after a hot London summer.” (£125 for 50ml) “Formulated to match your mood, aura and energy, Orebella uses an innovative bi-phase formula that activates when shaken, delivering long-lasting scent, and hydrated skin. With high-quality ingredients, and beautifully designed bottles reminiscent of gemstones, this collection adds understated glamour to every day.” Founded on the principles of clean luxury and doing good for the planet, Maison Louis Marie is renowned for its natural and botanical-inspired fragrances and candles that are subtle, balanced and refined. No.04 Bois de Balincourt is a cult favourite, offering a warm, comforting woody aroma with cinnamon and nutmeg.” (From £60 for 15ml) Founded in Sydney, Australia, by Almira Armstrong, Lumira’s artisanal scents and candles are inspired by global travels, transporting the wearer from sunlit coastlines to hidden gardens. For those missing balmy summer days, Lumira’s Sun Soaked is a must-try that will transport you back to the beach. (£250 for 50ml) “Olfactive O’s personality-led fragrances are designed to be tailored to the wearer’s own character and scent, like a second skin. Made in the UK, each one focuses on a singular scent profile, including Woody, Floral Smoke and Amber, for an expressive, deeply individual scent. Perfect for self-discovery, these scents allow their wearer to find which family of scents they prefer. For me, it’s Gourmand — nostalgic, indulgent and cosy choice for winter.” (£65 for 50ml)
