The line between gendered fragrances has blurred. Here are the best unisex perfumes

The human nose can identify and remember an astonishing 10,000 odours and is pretty good at sniffing out what is good for us and what is bad. It’s the reason we are attracted to jasmine, tuberose, the scent of the sea or freshly cut grass and are repelled by the stench of smelly socks.

When it comes to fragrances, there are scents that we may think of as “male” and “female”, but that
line is increasingly blurred.

Traditionally seen as being on the male side of the fragrance spectrum, Guerlain Vetiver ($176) is a perfectly weighted combination of fresh citrus and Haitian vetiver root with a hint of spice. It’s loved by model Elle Macpherson.

On the female side of the spectrum, Sarah Jessica Parker’s Stash SJP Unspoken ($23) is a floral woody musk designed for women but loved by many men.

Unisex standouts include: Kiehl’s Original Musk EDT ($104), a perfect blend of bergamot, orange and musk; anything Diptyque; Kilian Vodka on the Rocks ($385) with its distinctive sandalwood and cedar notes; Amouage Journey Man EDP ($499); Hermès Eau de Hermès ($185) with its tobacco flavour; Gucci’s Intense Oud ($195); and citrusy Calvin Klein CK One ($105).

These fragrances are just the tip of the iceberg. If you want to try something outlandish, saddle up
and dare to wear the unexpected, like the smell of a breast-fed baby, with Demeter Fragrance Library New Baby ($33) that’s all creamy and soft and took 15 years to bring to market. Go seriously into orbit with Etat Libre d’Orange Secretions Magnifiques ($150), which is unconventional, subversive and challenging to say the least with references to blood, sweat, sperm and saliva. Yes, you read that right. And when it comes to the truly out-there, one of our favourites is Idaho Frites by the Idaho Potato Commission, with notes of distilled potatoes and containing essential oils with the scent of French fries. Only in America.

Finally, in the words of Helen Keller, “Smell is a potent wizard that transports us across thousands of miles and all the years we have lived”.

Ask Steph

What is slugging?
Slugging is a moisturising technique, slathering on an occlusive product – such as La Mer’s Crème de la Mer ($335) or Vaseline ($6) – to lock in active ingredients. The name is derived from the slug-like sheen it leaves on the face.

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