How to use perfume to complement your spring wardrobe

We’ve always maintained that perfume is the ultimate accessory and finishing point to a well-constructed outfit. With sunnier days ahead in the southern hemisphere, we asked Nardine Ataera – the co-creator and director of renowned New Zealand boutique Bazaar The Empire – to share her best advice for pairing perfume with prêt-à-porter.

Bazaar The Empire is one of New Zealand’s finest boutiques, with physical locations in Hastings and Napier, and Nardine is known for embracing the looks of the season while always retaining her chic sense of personal style.

Nardine, which colours and fabrics are you gravitating towards for the warmer weather this year?

Black will always hold the majority of my wardrobe but I’m currently loving peach tones and vibrant green for a punch of colour. Linen is my go-to, especially in the Hawke’s Bay heat.

How do you use fragrance to complement your clothing or build an outfit?

I tailor my perfume to the look I’m wearing. For a more relaxed, tomboy-ish look, I’ll wear something stronger and more masculine like Cuban Tobacco or No.352 Leather & Cedar. I adore Arabian Oud for a feminine outfit that makes me feel pretty, and Balinese Ylang Ylang evokes all the summer feels!

Are there any specific fragrances that you enjoy in the warm weather?

I tend to enjoy my favourite LUMIRA scents all year round, especially Cuban Tobacco. It’s my favourite  – I love the depth to it, the heady scent and the way it appeals to everyone, male or female. Lately, however, I’ve found I’m reaching more for Arabian Oud as the sun shines brighter and temperature heats up. I love the continuity of fragrance when I’m wearing the matching perfume to the candle I am burning.

Speaking of candles, have you changed the way you scent your space, since spending more time at home?

Absolutely! Rather than savouring my candles for the indulgent moments, I find I’m lighting them daily and enjoying the luxurious atmosphere they create when I’m at home.

Do you have any fragrance rituals?

I apply personal fragrance daily and always before I leave home – even if it’s just for school drop off. I love the way it finishes an outfit and will usually reapply it multiple times a day, so I love to have a rollerball scent in my handbag. At home, I love to have a clean, minimal space and set the tone for the day by lighting a candle to enhance my surroundings.

And finally, which five fashion essentials do you recommend investing in for spring?

1. An oversized shirt.
2. A matching set.
3. Statement sandals.
4. A ‘go anywhere’ black dress.
5. Pearl jewellery.

Written by Michelle Bateman