What “amber” actually means
The name amber doesn’t refer to a specific ingredient but to an accord. This is when a combination of resins and balsams (Labdanum and Benzoin) are blended with a touch of vanilla and/or musk to give a warm, golden and cosy scent. This makes amber popular in Autumn/Winter fragrances.
Oud, without the mystery
Oud (or Agarwood) is a dark woody resin created when certain trees develop a reaction to mold. A rich, smoky and slightly sweet scent. It has become a staple in Middle Eastern perfumes for centuries. However, pure oud is very rare and expensive so is commonly used in a blend. Often you will find it blended with Rose, Saffron or Amber. If you’re new to oud, start with a blend. Pure oud is very strong.
Arabic Cologne & Arabian Perfume
Arabic cologne and Arabian Perfume (you’ll also see “arab perfume”) are based around oud, amber, musk, rose and vanilla. They are known for being very powerful so you won’t need to spray as much as you would a typical designer fragrance. Many are unisex. A classic example would be Al Haramains Amber Oud. Have a look at our range of Arabian fragrances.
Musk is the quiet cousin
Musk is a rich, skin-like scent. Classic Musk fragrances such as Jovan Musk are very simple and clean. If you find amber too much, musk is a great option.
How would we pick your first bottle?
If you like sweet scents we recommend an amber vanilla. If you like dry scents try an amber woody. If you like strong scents try an oud blend. We would recommend starting with a travel size as they are very strong.
How to wear them?
You want to spray 1-2 sprays. Spray onto clean skin and pat onto skin. In the summer we would recommend using less. Amber and oud are best in colder weather or when you are dressed up. They can be overpowering in a hot and busy room.
Mixing amber with other things
Amber can be layered well with Vanilla (warmer), Musk (softer) or Woods (drier). However, we would suggest only using two scents and testing on your skin. If you want a lighter scent, try looking at fresh scents. If you want a sweeter scent take a look at our Gourmand scents.
Amber across the seasons
Amber is perfect for winter. It gives off a cosy feeling. Amber works well in Autumn too with sweaters and going out. In Spring a lighter, more floral amber would be easier to wear. In summer it can be too overpowering so we would recommend just one spray or none at all. Take a look at our Fresh scents.
Why does it smell different to different people?
Amber is based around resins and vanilla which can interact with your skin. Some people will find it a sweet and powdery scent whereas others will find it a dryer, spicier scent. If you try an amber and it doesn’t smell like it does on your friends then it’s not a mistake. Everyone has different skin chemistry so it’s best to test on your skin.
Common mistakes with amber
- Over spraying - Amber is a rich scent so less is more.
- Wearing during a heatwave - You will find it overpowering.
- Judging by the first minute - The top notes can be quite sharp or sweet, and the warmth arrives later.
- Rubbing your wrists together - Patting onto your skin will keep the top notes clean.
Quick guide to amber, oud & musk
Amber is warm and sweet. Oud is smoky and rich. Musk is soft and clean. Most scents in this range will have a combination of at least 2 of these. Look at the notes to see which scent is the main note.
