Scenting for Identity: Navigating the Fragrance Trends of 2024

For a minute there, it felt like fragrance was falling out of fashion. But it’s back in a major way - and its resurgence is being driven by Zoomers.

The trend began during lockdown, when some of us would wear scent for our own enjoyment, rather than to connect with others. It felt like a way to ‘keep up standards’ when the rest of the world was falling apart.

That evolved into a fashion for scent layering, and discovering unusual, contemporary notes to more fully express a sense of individuality.

Gen Z is now increasingly seeing scent as a way to express their emotions, individual style, values and culture.

And, with over 11 billion views, #PerfumeTok is the place they go to discover the latest brands, culture-led ingredients, and trends such as ‘scent hacking’ that is said to reduce stress and boost mood.

So the concept of a signature scent is taking on new meaning as fragrance choices become more personalized, and neuroscience provides a guide based on individual mood and emotional responses.

Scenting for identity has been identified as a key beauty trend for 2024. No longer bound by conventional fragrance categories, we are embracing the opportunity to craft our signature scents. 

Perfume houses and niche brands are offering bespoke fragrance experiences, allowing us to choose specific notes that resonate with our personality, memories, and aspirations. The result? A scent that is uniquely ours, telling a story only we can narrate.

Gender-inclusive fragrances break boundaries

Gone are the days of rigid gender norms in the fragrance world. 2024 sees a rise in gender-inclusive scents that transcend traditional classifications. Perfume brands are recognizing the diversity of personal preferences, offering fragrances that appeal to a wide range of individuals regardless of gender. Expect to find captivating blends that defy stereotypes and celebrate the essence of the individual.

Cultural fusion

Cultural influences play a significant role, as fragrances blend traditional notes from various regions to create unique olfactory experiences. Explore scents that resonate with your heritage or those that celebrate the beauty of global diversity, allowing fragrance to serve as a bridge between cultures.

Mood-boosting aromatherapy: Wellness meets identity

As we continue to prioritize mental health and wellness, fragrances are evolving to become mood-boosting allies. Aromatherapy-infused scents are gaining popularity, as are those containing gemstones with healing properties. Whether you seek relaxation, focus, or invigoration, there's a fragrance designed to complement your mood and enhance your sense of self.

Eco-friendly and sustainable scents

We already know that environmental consciousness is at the forefront of beauty trends for 2024, and that includes fragrance. Sustainable and eco-friendly scents are making waves, featuring responsibly sourced ingredients and eco-conscious packaging. By choosing these scents, you not only express your identity but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

Here, we've journeyed through the personal and cultural significance of fragrances, understanding how they're much more than just a scent—they're an extension of our identity. As you've discovered on our blog, scenting for identity is shaping the future of fragrance. We invite you to continue this aromatic exploration by subscribing to our BeautyQurated newsletter, where we further unravel the world of fragrances and how they interlace with our life's unique tapestry. Click here.