We’ve often heard that moving to a new city can change your life. One such tale is that of a Cornish barber who moved to London and, in doing so, changed the course of his destiny. He has built a luxury brand that beats every other in the perfume industry and is adored by Queen Victoria’s family.

In this post, discover the captivating story behind Penhaligon’s, what makes it stand out, the must-have scents, and a guide to wearing them with flair.

How A Barber Entered The Royal Gates

William Henry Penhaligon was a British barber and perfumer. Initially, in the 1870s, he worked as a barber at the London Hammam (Turkish Baths) of Jermyn Street. Eventually, he started to sell his products to many who were from the higher classes. That was the place where he created his first signature, Hammam Bouquet. And the business spread as far and as fast as its fragrance.

Thanks to Penhaligon’s unconventional scent and charm, it became a favorite among the royals and the Royal Warrants. Today, the unforgettable perfume house is owned by a Spanish fashion and fragrance company, Puig International SA.

Why Penhaligon’s

What separates Penhaligon from other perfume brands? It is its quality of ingredients, the effortless blending of complex scents and spices, and the design of the bottle; every detail is taken care of.

Their perfumes don’t just smell divine; they transport you. One spray may bring the image of a candlelit palace and a silk gown, while another might evoke the air of London streets.

Penhaligon stands out by making every fragrance feel intimate. Like it was made just for you.

The Evolution of Perfume Trends Through the Lens of Penhaligon

Over the years, fragrance trends have shifted from traditional gendered florals and musks to unisex, niche, and narrative fragrances. Penhaligon’s has evolved alongside these changes. A great example is the Portrait Collection, where every bottle is designed in an eccentric animal bust, having its backstory – classic British notes balanced with innovative scents.

Their excellent branding, luxurious packaging, and heritage-based ingredients are traditions that still grab the attention of modern consumers.

Bestsellers In Spotlight

Oud: Oud is a type of fragrant resin found in agar trees that has a rich, woody scent often called liquid gold. It has been used for centuries in Middle Eastern perfumery; oud is prized for its warmth making it a sought-after base note. Base notes include woody, musky, and spicy ingredients. They are long-lasting and provide the foundation of a fragrance.

Penhaligon uses oud powerfully in The Tragedy of Lord George—a scent that whispers luxury.

Keynotes: Ambrox, rum, tonka bean

Iris: This note has long been associated with grace and poise. Iris tells an earthly story. If you are looking for a bolder middle note, then floral and sweet smells are ideal. Iris scents of Penhaligon are soft, feminine, and sophisticated.

Iris Prima is recommended if you prefer a soft, clean, and slightly wood-like fragrance. It is inspired by the Royal Ballet, consisting of the powdery elegance of Orris root (the refined form of iris).

 Keynote – violet, leaf musk, and mimosa.

 Gin: You read that right. Gin is not just for cocktails anymore. Penhaligon’s has turned it into something unexpected. For instance, take bright citrus, cool juniper, and herbal. It can be a luxurious addition to any perfume wardrobe collection.

A signature note is Juniper Slin which is an eau de toilette that is like a sip of a cocktail in summer.

 Keynote – juniper berry, black pepper, and vetiver.

More to Explore:

• Halfeti – Spicy and woody with notes of rose and oud.
• Blenheim Bouquet –It was created in 1902, it blends citrus and spice.
• The Favourite – Full of Powdery florals and creamy musks.
• Luna – A soft floral inspired by moonlight.

 Penhaligon’s fragrance guide

Choosing a luxury perfume is an art. It should match your personality and enhance it.

How to Wear Penhaligon’s Perfume? Here is a guide for every occasion

• OUD: You can wear it usually during evenings, winter weddings, or black-tie events

Mood – Bold, romantic, mysterious

• IRIS: Pair it with your daytime essentials, be it workdays, coffee dates, or even Sunday walks.

Mood – Polished, gentle, refined

• GIN: It can be your most-used scent for summer mornings, vacations, and rooftop lunches

Mood – Fresh, cheeky, spontaneous

For a detailed guide, you can take a look at Fragrantica – a website dedicated to fragrance enthusiasts.

There’s a Penhaligon for every mood, moment, and memory. So go ahead — explore! Whether it’s musky Oud, floral Iris, or playful Gin, find your statement aroma.