New scent collections capture the essence of today’s trends

To develop the 2021 fragrance forecast, expert perfumers of Fragrance Oils International drew their inspiration from nature, oceans, social media, environmental awareness, the gender fluidity movement etc. Spilt into four collections, the forecast features fragrances that capture the essence of each trend and showcases key notes set to influence new product development this year.

Fragrance Oils International, represented locally by Chemgrit Cosmetics, brings you four capsule collections in its latest forecast. These take into account the wider mega trends currently driving global changes, which include environmental awareness and sustainability. These two trends in particular are forcing the beauty and fragrance industries to become more transparent, to source ingredients in a more ethical way and to offer recyclable or more eco-friendly packaging solutions. These trends, and the influence of social media on our desire to continually capture and share moments, are expected to shape the beauty and fragrance industries for several years to come.

Modern fluidity

Capturing a sense of hope and optimism, modern fluidity focuses on a more open-minded view of the world around us where boundaries, such as gender, will become less important. It opens up a world of creativity in terms of fashion, beauty and fragrance.

Generation Z will continue to break down barriers and support the movement that gender alone is an outmoded construct. Translated into olfactory innovation, this will see more genderless fragrances entering the market which are non-binary and reflect the wearer’s mood or personality, not their gender. Modern fluidity aims to change boundaries and re-imagine fragrances that speak to the wearer as an individual.

Exploring scents inspired by this trend, Expression (836627) is a complex fragrance opening with citrus and fruity hints, revealing an expressive heart of intoxicating patchouli rounded by delicate floral nuances. The lingering base of vetiver, amber and woods is smoothed by a skin-like musk accord.

Fluid (836625) is an inviting fragrance opening with the sparkle of lime and grapefruit smoothed by a mellow heart of lotus flower and enticing spices. The harmonious base of vetiver, sandalwood and smooth vanilla brings this fragrance together.

Ocean tranquillity

The next concept is called ocean tranquillity. This draws inspiration from the desire to protect, treasure and immerse ourselves in the serenity of the sea.

The rising awareness and social consciousness of the ecological threats facing our oceans will drive the ‘reuse-reduce-recycle’ movement. This is already having an impact on our fashion and lifestyle choices and will continue to affect other areas of our lives.

As we look to protect our oceans, we will also turn to them for tranquillity, inner peace and much-need calm.

Fragrances of this trend will be immersed in an aquatic spectrum of marine notes including salty accents, fresh aromatic and marine accords. These invigorating and uplifting notes capture the essence of the ocean perfectly.

Coastal Kale & Surf (836626) is a vibrant scent opening with basil and sun-kissed orange, cooled and refreshed by ozonic notes and coastal kale. It lightens with a heart of rose, geranium, lavender and lily, while the full and complex base of warm woods, sweet vanilla, amber and hints of fresh, dry spice add depth to the fragrance.

Oceanic Rain and Cypress (836630) feels like salty ocean rain on the skin. You are immersed in an ozonic wave enhanced by a coastal breeze of cypress and lush green hints. The marine floral heart reveals delicate hints of water lily, rose and jasmine, resting on a bed of driftwood and amber.

Nature reawakening

Centred on reconnecting, the nature reawakening trend embraces the beauty and wellness provided by the outdoors. The idea is to continue working in harmony with nature as we once again turn to it, and all it has to offer, to enhance our lives.

As people look to ‘unplug’ from today’s technically-driven world, they are simplifying things and creating more meaningful connections with each other and with nature.

It is expected that fragrances will need to offer greater transparency in 2021 as consumers demand to know more about the stories and materials behind a fine fragrance and what makes it unique. A greater awareness of nature and natural materials will also result in fragrances that emphasise greener notes and which capture the beauty of nature.

Forgotten Ferns & Oak (836628) is a fragrance that takes you on a forgotten trail through lush green ferns and gives a sparkle of citrus hints. As the journey continues, light, nutty notes, translucent florals and cypress lead you to deeper woods of oak, cedarwood and patchouli smoothed by skin-like musks.

Geranium & Willow Moss (836629) evoke the essence of nature with this floral chypre fragrance blending zesty lemon and luscious green stems in the opening. The heart of geranium is further enhanced by wild violet and rose, wrapped in a warm and enveloping base of vetiver, musk and willow moss.

Positive vibes

Unapologetic and bold, the positive vibes trend features a rush of colours to excite the senses and draws its inspiration from millennials. It is about being fierce and sassy and is driven by social media and capturing every moment as it happens.

Juicy, fruity notes and exotic florals capture this trend and instantly transport us to sun-kissed beaches. Blackcurrant, raspberry, rhubarb and mandarin are key notes giving fragrances a fruity, zesty pop in the opening. Beautiful and exotic frangipani is also celebrated for its intoxicating and complex floral character.

Raspberry Granita & Frangipani (836631) is an uplifting and lush fragrance that pops with an overdose of juicy raspberries in the opening, while exotic frangipani and white jasmine transport you to sunnier shores. A sensuous close is created by a captivating blend of vanilla, silky musks, sandalwood and cedar.

Blackcurrant and Rhubarb Flower (836624) is a bold fusion of vibrant fresh pineapple and zesty orange, leading to a radiant heart of blackcurrant and rhubarb flower enhanced by a touch of violet. This is complemented by a sweet and creamy fond of ripe strawberry and juicy peach. •

Chemgrit Cosmetics – www.chemgritcosmetics.co.za

Fragrance Oils International – www.fragrance-oils.com