As the air chills and mornings come wrapped in mist, there’s a certain magic to layering on a perfume that feels like a warm hug. Wearing fragrances in winter is an accessory that is invisibly more prominent than the ornaments you wear, especially when it comes to setting the agenda for your mind. Indian perfume houses often weave in spices, woods, attars (traditional perfume oils) and deep resinous warmth, making them especially lovely in winter. Here are seven exquisite fragrances from Indian brands that feel like winter, each with its own personality.
1. Satparni Natural Perfume Oil, Boond (Rs- 1,599)
A subtle yet impactful scent that evokes nostalgia and is a head turner for sure. Satparni is a winter flower, often found in the northern regions of India. If you’ve travelled across the highways of Delhi during its chilly winter, chances are that this floral note has graced you. Oils often bring a close-to-skin warmth and longevity. Given the natural/oil profile common to attars, this is a quiet, intimate scent, perfect if you like it to give a second skin feel rather than a fragrant announcement.
2. Saffron Infused in Musk & Amber, Naso (Rs- 4,675)
- Notes: Musk at the top, saffron attar at heart, and amber at the base.
Think of Kashmir’s saffron, warm woollen scarves and candlelight; this one feels rich, slightly smoky, and quietly regal. Imagine stepping into a room after a winter drizzle, the air warm with the scent of saffron-spiced chai and soft amber glow. The musk and amber base brings cosy warmth, and saffron (a traditional ‘warm’ note) adds depth and a subtle sense of familiarity.
3. Champa Muse, Raahi (Rs- 1,847)
- Notes: Frangipani or Champa
Remember those white flowers with a yellow tint that you often tuck behind your ear at the poolside? If you’ve ever happened to sniff those flowers, chances are that you have been pleasantly surprised by the scent. This attar is exactly that - a burst of sweetness and nostalgia for people who do not like heavy winter fragrances, but enjoy the mellow scent of this flower on a quiet and cool night. It’s a soft, slightly earthy floral and an instant mood lifter.
4. First Rain Attar, Isak (Rs- 490)
The name evokes memories of the damp-earth freshness of geeli mitti, the irresistible scent that some find fresh, and others find nostalgic. This attar is formulated only in the monsoons using the centuries-old degh-bhapka method, making it even more special. It is ideal for those who like soft, earthy, natural aromas rather than heavy spice. Crisp, fresh and green, it is apt for early winter mornings or a walk after the rain. Petrichor scents are gentle enough for daily wear, yet distinctive.
5. Colours Of Autumn Solid Perfume, The Bare Bar (Rs- 299)
- Notes- A soft floral scent with subtle woody or musky undertones
Imagine wrapping yourself in a soft shawl by the window, sipping ginger tea, the perfume close to skin, intimate and understated. This is an absolute treat when you want just a whisper of a scent rather than a perfume statement. The longevity of this fragrance outshines its pricier counterparts, making it perfect for winter.
6. Oud Imperial, Maison de Fouzdaar (Rs- 6,499)
Oud has this deep, almost smoky-wood warmth that naturally complements winter’s chill. Think of a cosy evening by the fireplace, wood crackling, heavy drapes, and a thick woollen coat. Oud Imperial feels luxurious, slightly moody, perfect for contemplative winter nights or intimate dinners. The fragrance is a special attribute, as it actually reveals the top, base and heart notes distinctly over time. It’s one of those fragrances that lingers on your skin until the day after.
7. Sulawesi, The Bombay Perfumery (Rs- 4,100)
- Notes: Bergamot, Cardamom, Custard-apple accord, Patchouli, Amber, Tobacco
Sulawesi feels like taking a small winter trek. You climb over a rock or two, jump across a mini stream, and maybe snack on juicy seasonal fruits along the way. It starts off fresh and zesty, then turns warm and slightly sweet with a hint of spice. As it settles, the deeper woody-tobacco notes kick in, giving a cosy winter vibe.
It’s perfect for someone who wants to smell interesting, not too floral, not too sweet, just like that effortlessly cool person who’s always ready for a spontaneous winter plan.