If you ask me, no outfit is complete without fragrance. In my eyes, fragrance might as well be an accessory—I would argue that it’s just as important (if not more) than your favorite belt or statement jewelry. Consider perfume the bow on a wrapped present: it adds a certain something, and it would feel undone without it.
Fall is not only my favorite season to dress for, but it’s also my favorite season to wear fragrance in. Fall fragrance is the absolute best—the perfect fall perfume feels like being enveloped in a cozy blanket by a fireplace. This season, there are so many incredible fall fragrance launches that I’ve been matching my fall outfits to, so I figured I’d show you some of my favorites. Keep reading for my ultimate fall fragrance and outfit guide, and why I think they work so well together.
A maxi skirt, tall boots, and a trench coat is one of my absolute favorite fall outfit combinations. It feels classic, streamlined, and very French girl. For a look like this, I’ll always opt for a scent that absolutely screams fall—think warm spices, patchouli, and unexpected depth.
Key Notes: Cardamom, cinnamon, carrot, ginger, orris butter, papyrus, patchouli
This fall, fringe is in. A fringe maxi skirt adds effortless flair to an otherwise understated look. That’s why I also decided to go for a scent that adds a certain je ne sais quoi. Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s newest scent fits the bill—it has a certain undefinable quality to it, like a charge in the air. A tiny bit fresh, slightly metallic, and completely airy, this perfume is the fragrance equivalent to tasteful fringe.
Key Notes: Aldehydes, bergamot oil from Italy, white floral accord, jasmine from Egypt, sandalwood accord, white musks
In case you haven’t caught on, my leather trench coat is a staple in my fall wardrobe. Paired with sky-high Mary Janes, a miniskirt, and a Parisian-inspired neck scarf, I always feel incredibly elevated. An outfit like this needs a luxe scent to match, which is why Aesop’s newest fragrance is this look’s perfect pair. It’s the ideal combination of woody notes and spices, with a hint of freshness thrown in.
Key Notes: Petitgrain, black pepper, frankincense, cumin, cedar, sandalwood, vetiver
Once the weather gets below 70 degrees, I wear oversize blazers on repeat. With a miniskirt and knee-high boots, this is the perfect outfit to wear to a cocktail bar on a Friday night. That’s why the perfect fragrance for this look is woodsy, warm, and a little mysterious.
Key Notes: Coconut water, fig leaves, sandalwood
An oversize blazer and ultra wide-leg pants are my ideal office attire. To keep the look unexpected, a leather corset top and Air Jordans add a little levity. For another unexpected twist, I opted for a light, warm floral scent. When I’m wearing a lot of menswear-inspired clothing, I think that mixing in a soft floral scent adds a touch of femininity.
Key Notes: Jasmine, neroli, magnolia
Next: FYI, This Sneaky Scent Note Is the #1 Reason Perfumes Smell Good
