The perfume we all need right now

I have a major thing for fragrance, and I tend to gravitate to the same notes over and over again, albeit in different combinations and permutations. I’m all about spicy, woody and clean, beguiling synthetic (like Iso-E Super and ambrox) notes, and not a fan of fruity or floral scents (with the rare exception of tiare, orange blossom and certain roses).

The name of a fragrance has never swayed me in any direction, but there’s a first time for everything—and simply learning that Byredo launched a scent called Mixed Emotions piqued my olfactory interest. There’s an undeniable connection between fragrance, memory and mood, and once the name resonated with me (because my moods are all over the place these days) I had to dig a little deeper.

As it turns, out, the actual notes in this scent speak to me as well. With maté (I’m in), cassis (I’ve never turned down a Kir Royale), black tea (not my favorite taste but a common denominator in many of my perfumes), violet leaves (often a pleasant surprise in the right perfume time and place), birch wood (sign me up) and papyrus (an interesting finishing touch), my olfactory imagination is running wild.

I find it so interesting how the reality of the past year started to set in just when a more normal future feels more within reach—and mixed emotions is an understatement. I’m both melancholy about the hugs, laughs and experiences we missed out on, and excited to begin enjoying life again (and appreciating all of the little things I took for granted all the more). My only question is, will I be able to take my mask off to test this fragrance when I finally step foot back in the mall, or will I be given a sample to experience within my safe bubble at home? Seriously.