Cold air makes fragrances develop more slowly and often project less than they do in summer. Rich, enveloping compositions built on a lasting base therefore work especially well in winter. They can create a pleasant contrast with low temperatures.
Popular winter notes include amber, vanilla, tonka bean, cocoa, coffee and spices such as cinnamon, cardamom and clove. In woody perfumes, look for sandalwood, cedar, patchouli and oud. Resins and incense add depth, while leather gives a composition a distinctive character.
A winter fragrance does not have to be heavy or extremely sweet. Dry woods, aromatic herbs or citrus set against a warm base can also be excellent choices. Match the intensity to the setting, because powerful perfumes can become dominant inside heated rooms.
Test perfume outdoors and again after entering a warm interior. This shows how projection changes and whether the scent remains comfortable for many hours. A few carefully chosen sprays are usually enough to make a winter composition noticeable.