Adam Reed On His Fragrance Obsession

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Photography: Emma Palmer

He might be the go-to hairstylist for Sophie Dahl, Ellie Goulding and countless beauty editors and directors, but Adam Reed has another passion away from hair and that is fragrance. “If I had to guess I would say that I own around 600 scents and 300 home fragrances,” admits Adam. “I have a cabinet for perfumes, one for candles and another for home fragrance. I also have a large collection of resins and woods and natural incense.” 

In his East London based salon there is a dedicated ‘Adam Curates’ area where you can explore and invest in some of his favourite scents. However, he’s given us a sneak peek into his personal collection and shared some of his top fragrance tips…

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Tip 1: Go With Your Mood

Be flexible and choose your fragrance depending on how you feel at that moment. Everything from my mood to the weather dictates which perfume I wear. Although, usually on a Sunday I’ll wear Byredo Sunday Cologne Eau de Parfum out of habit, but also because it is the perfect scent for the weekend. I recently discovered Jo Loves White Rose and Lemon Leaves and it has become my go-to holiday scent. For events I love Diptyque Tam Dao Eau de Toilette. The sandalwood and cypress blend as a place in my heart as it was also my wedding fragrance.

Tip 2: Layer Your Scents 

Layering two scents is not only a great trick if you’re feeling indecisive, but it also creates a unique aroma – and can ensure your scent lasts longer. I love Diptyque 34 Blvd St. Germain Eau de Toilette on its own, but it also doubles up as the perfect base layer if I want to wear something else on top. 

Tip 3: Draw Inspiration From Your Memories

For example, tuberose is my all-time favourite note, I love it. My grandmother had a bottle of Fracas when I was growing up and I thought it was the most incredible scent. When I moved to London and met my friend Isabella, she would douse herself in Fracas and L’Artisan Parfumeur Tuberose along with many of my favourite women. Whether it’s buying a fresh bunch of tuberose or investing in tuberose infused fragrances, I’ve been drawn to that particular scent ever since..

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Tip 4: How You Apply Fragrance Matters

For maximum coverage, I always spray into the air and walk into my fragrance. I always finish with a mist into the base of my hairline, so that I get a waft of what I’m wearing every now and again.

Tip 5: Maximise Your Scented Candles

There are few things I love more than scented candles. At home I tend to opt for warm, woody scents, while at work I always burn Diptyque Tubereuse Scented CandleRather than burning them for hours on end though, I tend to extinguish after about 30 minutes and let the perfume really release.

Tip 6: Don’t Be A Perfume Snob

When it comes to creating your own perfume wardrobe or finding a new signature scent, my biggest tip is to take your time. I really believe that scent is a great investment. Also, don’t be a snob as you will miss out on some incredible scents if you shop by the brand or price tag alone.