Start with a soft, familiar base
"One easy way to start layering fragrances is to start with a soft, familiar base (like vanilla, musk or powder) as your first scent," says Shumate. She likens this concept to the classic white t-shirt — aka the perfect base for accessorizing. Feel free to add a statement necklace (a fruit forward scent) or a headband (a floral-based scent) to give your outfit a pop of personality, she adds.
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Do your research
"Do some research on your fragrances beforehand and try layering perfumes made by the same master perfumer," Shumate says. She explains that they may have complementary constructions that might help your layering.
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Start small
"Always start with a small amount of each fragrance (one spritz will do)," Shumate suggests. She says you can build from there, if you need to.
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Make sure to road test
"Test your layering blend for the first time before getting in the shower," advises Shumate. (This way, in the event of any accidentally noxious combinations, you can wash them away, stat).
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Avoid Layering Fragrances With Big Silage
"Try to avoid layering fragrances with big silage (those that clear a room)," says Shumate. As she explains, these types of scents can quickly get overpowering, especially when layered.
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