The 'clean girl' aesthetic is evolving into a more playful, contemporary rendition of itself. And if you ask me, the same goes for clean fragrances, too. Yes, there's an allure to being greeted by a pristine scent before you set foot into a space. But this isn't the best scentscaping theme for all your spaces.
Personally, I find that there are some rooms that deserve a more expensive air. So while you make your home smell good, I recommend experimenting with different scents for varying ambiance. And when it comes to rich perfuming, woody notes are the ultimate choice.
These moodier, more mature scents are the best home fragrances for injecting personality into your space. The blend has also manifested itself in so many stylish formats to shop — here's what to know and what to buy for an expensive-smelling home.
Woody Amber Notes for an Opulent Scentscape
Franky Rousell, founder of Jolie, tells me that a truly expensive home fragrance is rarely loud or overly sweet. "Instead, a luxurious blend carries a quiet depth. Something that unfolds slowly as you move through a space. Woody notes like black tea or amber naturally create this effect," she notes.
"Both evoke a sense of prestige, rooted in ritual and ceremony. Black tea brings a refined, tannic warmth reminiscent of steeping leaves, while amber offers a deeper glow that comes across as resinous and enveloping."
She explains that these are timeless scents whose warmth feels grounding, embodying, and luxurious. Rather than winter woods, these notes are more versatile and can be used year-round.
And if you're wondering where to let these fragrances shine, Franky tells me that hallways or corridors are ideal to weave in the impression of investment and elegance.
Sarah Bell, founder of Evermore, also tells me that woody, resinous scents are a beautiful way to make your home smell expensive. "Notes like sandalwood, saffron, oud, leather, and soft amber all fall into this genre of scent," she says.
"What elevates them further is layering in lighter, unexpected elements like rose, jasmine, or a hint of spice. This contrast creates a more nuanced fragrance, which is what we tend to associate with luxury."
Although scentscaping is subjective, Sarah tells me that blends that lean overly sweet and overpowering are scents to avoid in your home. "Instead, replace them with deep, mysterious scents that unfold slowly and linger beautifully in the background," she advises.
"These richer, more refined scents work best in spaces where you want to create a sense of comfort. For example, it's a great way to make your living room smell nice. It'll add depth and atmosphere without overstimulating the space, making the room feel considered and inviting."
Expensive-Smelling Fragrances to Shop
Base Notes: Sandalwood, Amber, Clove
This collaboration candle from Evermore, as well as the brand's North Scented Candle, offer sleek formats to make your home smell expensive.
Burn Time: 70 Hours
Jo Malone is a brilliant go-to for fragrances that smell luxe, and this particular blend is one of my favorites to make a home smell like spring.
Base Notes: Vetiver, Amber, Musk, Smoke
Discothèque candles are famous for feeling intricately layered, and this Paradise Garage scent is best lit by dusk.
Burn Time: 55 Hours
This Saffron & Cedar Scented Candle from Salt & Stone smells like an opulent morning at the spa.
Base Notes: Tonka Bean, Patchouli, Cashmeran, Sandalwood
As far as tea-led fragrances go, this Chai Milk candle from Nette NYC is just balanced enough to make the cut.
Burn Time: 60 Hours
As one of the best candles for this assignment, Diptyque's Oud is an unfailing choice for compliments on your indoor scentscape.
Notes: Wood, Leather, Styrax Resin
If you want a rich-smelling home without the open flames, this Alessi Rocc diffuser should be on your radar.
Notes: Ambrette, Myrrh, Neroli, Patchouli, Geranium
Another brand that's iconically expensive-smelling is Aesop. And if you haven't already, give this room spray a spritz.
Notes: Fig Leaf, Oud, Amberwood
I light these incense droplets every week, and I've gotten so many compliments from all my friends (they have great taste).
While these fragrances are very tempting, that's not to say that you should write off simpler scents altogether. Fragrances that make your home smell clean also have a role to play in your scentscape.
But for spaces that deserve a little drama, woodier scents are well worth the investment. And if you're looking for more tips on home fragrance, while keeping up with design-worthy launches, our newsletter is the place to be.
