Fragrances for your inner tomboy

Not crazy about smelling like a bakery or a bouquet of spring flowers? If you’ve got the androgynous thing going on, or simply prefer to steer clear from the sweets, it can be tricky to navigate the world of women’s perfume.

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Borrowing from the boys isn’t easy, either - too musky or too woody, their scents can be a little too masculine. But tomboys of the world, don’t despair! These days, fragrance houses recognise that not all women love spritzing themselves with something ultra-feminine. So if the smell of vintage leather, whiskey, rich mahogany and smoldering campfires are more appealing than roses or sugar, read on...

JUST A DASH OF PEPPER...

Jo Malone London Rock The Ages

This limited edition cologne is inspired by the history of Great Britain, so you know the notes are going to be cool. Breathe in the black pepper, cardamom and smoky birch and magnetic ink juxtaposed with the smooth warmth of gurjum.

Molton Brown Re-charge Black Pepper Eau de Toilette

Fancy yourself a world traveller? You can’t go past this warm, deeply spiced scent. Full of Italian coriander, cumin from Egypt, Slovenian oakmoss, patchouli from Indonesia, French leaf violet, Italian bergamot and Nigerian ginger, a sense of adventure is a spray away.

LUSH Gorilla The Bug Perfume

With the first hit of galbanum and black pepper, you know you’re in for an unexpected treat. It’s a ‘protest perfume’, made up of unusual notes that somehow work brilliantly together. The packaging continues the imagery with illustrations of a surveillance camera and the all-seeing eye.

Blk Dnm Perfume 11

Are you a cool city girl? Because the rich undertones of warm spice and woody musk in this perfume are your new best accessory. Spicy black pepper with lingering undertones of golden amber and incense give depth to this smooth, unforgettable fragrance.

WHERE THERE’S SMOKE...

Tokyomilk Bulletproof

The slow burn of smoked tea is this perfume’s major calling card - but the hint of sweetness from coconut milk and ebony prevent it from falling into barbeque territory.

HOT AND SPICY...

Penhaligon LP no. 9 for Men

Early on, the perfume is fresh and citrusy thanks to mandarin orange, but wait for the drying down phase - it changes dramatically. Past the nutmeg, pepper, cinnamon and jasmine lies an intoxicating blend of amber and spices finished off with vanilla, musk and patchouli.

Aramis Gentleman EDP Natural Spray

Don’t be put off by the name, this scent is light and contemporary, and blends the rich warmth of woods and exotic spices. Show the world who’s boss thanks to the heartier notes of tobacco leaf and cedarwood. Guaranteed show-stopper. 

Do you prefer more floral fragrances, or are you a fan of heavier, spicier scents?