The Art of Layering in Perfumery
Written on 1 July 2025
With its origins in Japan, the art of « layering », « Saho » in Japanese » and « millefeuille » in French, was initially derived from the application of cosmetics, consisting of applying different treatments to the face to maximize beauty and obtain a perfect complexion.
Traditionally, the process begins with removing makeup and cleansing the skin, next applying a general hydrating treatment, and finishing off with targeted products, like under-eye serums for example.
Just as precise and gentle gestures quickly become a daily routine, once or twice per week, it’s advised to add an exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and keep your skin soft and smooth.
Want to try this feel-good routine? Nothing could be easier with our Maison’s cosmetics range: “Lumière” lotion, serum, and cream, eye contour from the “Les Essentiels” collection, body scrub… you can create your own beauty kit—and don’t forget the finishing touch: a perfumed body cream to moisturize your skin with an elegant fragrance.
Speaking of fragrances: did you know that the art of “layering” can also be used with different perfumes?
At Galimard, we are always committed to staying true to our values while embracing new trends. Naturally, our boutique consultants had fun experimenting with layering two or three perfumes—with results that are as surprising as they are alluring.
The technique is simple: first, spray the most intense fragrance, and a few seconds later, spray a lighter one on top.
There are countless possible combinations, though we advise not layering more than three fragrances.
As we’ve mentioned in other blog posts, the fame of Grasse’s flowers in perfumery is due in part to the vast compositional possibilities they offer: they can be used in every olfactory family, and the three HÉRITAGE creations —our perfumer Yusuke Masuda’s latest works — pay special tribute to them. This collection is especially well-suited to layering: layer “T” with “J” for a sensual, opulent trail, or “R” with “J” to enhance your femininity with a touch of romance.
Ready to go even further? Then let’s dare to elevate Grasse’s iconic flowers with the powerful, captivating notes of the Collection Privée : “T” combined with Oud Vanille will envelop you in sunny, radiant scents, Oud Jasmin paired with “J” adds a fruity twist to the floral-animalic notes of Grasse jasmine, and Musc Royal harmonizes beautifully with “R”, giving it exceptional longevity.
These three examples perfectly illustrate one of the main advantages of layering: after application, the scent trail is rich and long-lasting.
In the Classic Collection, all daring combinations are possible— just avoid layering perfumes that share too many notes. For instance, combining “Journal intime” with “Si tu savais…” isn’t ideal because both are too citrus-heavy.
On the other hand, pairing “Cantabelle” (slightly tangy) with the fruity softness of “Songeries” is very interesting.
For gentlemen, we suggest trying “Aventure” with “Sportissimo” or “Un hiver à Grasse” with “1”, for example.
If the experience intrigues you but you’d prefer to start cautiously, why not begin your first trials with our Eaux de Cologne?
Patchouli/vanilla, vetiver/patchouli, lychee/citrus verbena, or rose/orange blossom are all safe bets to get started—and then… Let your inspiration guide you!
Our shopping tips to test layering without breaking the bank: Try the 6-perfume box sets (for men, women, or unisex) or the discovery box of the Collection Privée —offering you countless layering combinations!
The benefit of layering is twofold: extended fragrance longevity and the ability to change your scent (almost) infinitely, depending on your mood and the season!
See also
Discover Galimard’s New Fragrance Notes
Written on 8 September 2025
As summer is ending, why not hold onto its magic a little longer? Galimard invites you to extend the season with playful, irresistible new notes designed to awaken cherished memories and inspire creativity. Cherry, cotton candy… no, these aren’t ice cream flavors, but the latest stars of the gourmand perfume universe. Dreaming of a feminine […]
Interview : a day in the life of Marianne, Laboratory Manager at Galimard
Written on 7 August 2025
Welcome to Galimard ! Today we would like to introduce you to an important team member : Marianne. Galimard is one of the few perfume brands with it’s own local production factory, located in Grasse, which can be visited any time of year. Today we would like to take you even further behind the curtain of perfume […]
Interview: professional portrait of Véronique, Galimard’s longest-serving guide
Written on 2 June 2025
Welcome to Galimard! We would like to introduce you to one of our team members: Véronique The most tenured guide of our legendary perfume house is Véronique, a véritable jack of all trades. She welcomes, teaches, and guides clients from across the world through the Galimard factory with a professionalism and humor that leaves a […]