Want to smell good? 6 big tips to ace the latest scent stacking trend

Want to smell good? 6 big tips to ace the latest scent stacking trend

Want to smell good? 6 big tips to ace the latest scent stacking trend ByAdrija Dey Jun 17, 2025 08:36 AM IST Share Via Copy Link Scent stacking is the art of layering fragrance and smelling good for a longer time. This is a more personalised approach to fragrances.

Ever caught a whiff of someone's perfume that made your head turn in awe and wonder, as the scent still lingers with you for a while? The secret behind the magnetic scent trail that stopped you in your tracks is scent stacking. It's not random from a single bottle, but is actually a combination, a multi-layered olfactory identity that is carefully crafted to be cohesive.

Scent stacking helps you smell good.(Shutterstock)

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Nitin Jain, founder, La Pink, unpacked the trend of scent stacking and how it is changing the way we wear fragrance, making it more customisable and personal.

He explained, “Scent stacking or fragrance layering refers to the technique of layering multiple fragrance products to create a bespoke scent. Instead of wearing one perfume or mist, you apply different ones in a specific order, starting with the lightest and building towards the deepest, to develop a multi-dimensional fragrance. It is an emerging trend that’s gaining popularity for its customisability. Much like mixing cocktails, it’s about blending different fragrance elements to create a scent that’s uniquely yours. While the practice isn’t new in the world of perfumery, it's now becoming more accessible through layering body mists, lotions, and sprays, especially among Gen Z and millennials who love personalisation.”

Nitin Jain shared a detailed breakdown on how to go about scent stacking, covering all the fundamentals, from the products needed to elaborating on the different scent notes:

To stack scents effectively, you can use:

Rule: When stacking, you want to build from light (top) to heavy (base), layering in harmony rather than overpowering each note.

i. Citrus body wash (top)

ii. Floral mist (middle)

iii. Vanilla perfume (base)

Here are a few well-balanced scent layering ideas you can try, based on mood, occasion, and fragrance profile:

Layering tip: Start with a citrus-vanilla mist, follow with a musky floral lotion, and finish with a light fruity fragrance. This combination gives a soft, sweet scent that’s expressive but not overwhelming.

Best for: Men or unisex, suited for outdoor activities, office commutes, or gym.

Layering tip: Begin with an aqua-citrus body spray, add a clean marine-infused body lotion, and finish with an amber-forward light perfume or mist for long-lasting freshness and energy.

Layering tip: Use a floral body mist, add a fruity-chypre scented cream or lotion, and top with a patchouli-amber light perfume for a dreamy, radiant profile that’s festive and sophisticated.

Layering tip: Start with an oud-leather mist, follow with a warm amber-rich body lotion, and finish with a hint of citrus-floral perfume to create a deeply intense and commanding evening scent.

Nitin shared the final tip, saying, “Before committing to a full body routine, test your stack on a small area to make sure it evolves well and doesn’t clash with your body chemistry. Keep notes of your favourite combinations to build your personal wardrobe.”