Tis the season and no doubt many of us will be thinking that fragrance will make a perfect gift for that special person this Christmas. This is usually a safe bet and well-received. However this market has changed beyond recognition over the years, so before you spend your hard earned cash, read on about some fabulous innovative new ideas in the fragrance market.

Spray perfume

Spray perfume is the ‘norm’ and will remain a firm favourite for years to come, but this method has some downsides. Generally you spritz at home or the office and cannot carry a bottle around all day for obvious reasons.

Why not consider Lancôme, the well known cosmetic range that has invented the world’s thinnest perfume spritz bottle at 15mm thick. It is called Idôle and comes in an elegant rose gold container, which you can purchase in three sizes – 25ml, 50ml or 75ml. Most of the major department stores carry this range, so why not pop in and ask to sample it?

Solid perfume

This was popular many years ago and has made a resurgence in recent times, as it is easy to carry and apply when you have the desire to do so. Solid perfume is interesting as it smells different on each individual owing to the PH balance of our skin.

Famed for her candles, Jo Malone has created a delightful range of solid scents, in what looks like a stylish mini coaster, at £14. The beauty of this is it’s great for those on the go – you can slip it into your handbag or pocket, with no need to worry about spillage. I like to pop mine into a drawer as I do with candles before I use them; the fragrance gently infuses my items.

Perfume powder

Armani has produced an elegant powdered perfume called Sì, which looks like a small compact. It’s another alternative that is easy to transport and dab on throughout the day or evening. At £35, it is certainly an unusual per-fume idea for those who like to be different!

Perfume pen

There are even perfume pens nowadays – Scent Republik have produced a range of fragrance pens for a reasonable £12.50. You apply the felt tip pen as little or as much as you want, and with over 600 applications per pen, this product will last you well. Just slip it in your pocket or purse to use as and when you need.

Shay & Blue

Shay & Blue is a UK based brand focusing on being ‘real’
and authentic. Their fragrances are handmade from start to finish, and in a short period of time they have won several prestigious awards.

The perfumes are unisex, vegan and cruelty free, bringing a contemporary twist to artisan fragrance. Each item is beautifully packaged and, although not cheap, you certainly get what you pay for.

They have a beautiful box of their five top favourites in small travel sizes for £75, which would make an exquisite present. Also, their Kings Wood fragrance for men is a rich, woody, leathery aroma, and comes in impressive brown and gold packaging. Another great gift idea this Christmas.