The start of a new year feels like the perfect time to refresh, reorganize, and refocus—and that includes your perfume collection! Our fragrance shelves often end up filled with scents that no longer resonate with who we are, or worse, bottles we completely forgot we had.
Let’s learn how to declutter, rediscover, and curate a collection that feels truly you as we step into 2025!
Step 1: Gather Your Collection
First, grab all your perfumes—yes, every single one. Even the bottle hiding in your gym bag or the one buried in a drawer. Spread them out in one place where you can really see everything. Already spotting some old favorites you haven’t worn in ages? That’s the magic of this process.
Step 2: Sniff and Reflect
Now comes the fun part: sniffing and reminiscing. Pick up each bottle and ask yourself a few questions:
- Does this still make me happy?
- Do I wear it often, or has it been gathering dust?
- Does it remind me of who I am—or who I used to be?
Some perfumes will feel like a warm hug from an old friend—those are the keepers. Others might surprise you with how much they’ve changed (or how much you’ve changed). If a scent no longer sparks joy, it might be time to part ways.
Step 3: What to Keep
Keep the perfumes that make you feel incredible, whether it’s your signature scent that fits every occasion or a special bottle reserved for those “just because” moments. Don’t forget seasonal favorites, like the cozy vanilla you adore in winter or the zesty citrus you crave in summer. And if you have a rare or discontinued perfume, that’s definitely worth holding onto.
Step 4: What to Toss
Sometimes, perfumes go bad. If the liquid has darkened, the scent smells “off,” or it just doesn’t perform like it used to, it’s time to let it go. But don’t toss expired perfumes into the trash—use them to scent your laundry drawers or freshen up a room. For the perfumes that just don’t suit you anymore but are still in good condition, consider gifting them to a friend who will love them.
Step 5: What to Try
Now that you’ve made some space, it’s time to think about what’s missing. Maybe you’ve always stuck to florals but want to dip your toes into something more spicy or woody. Or perhaps you’ve been eyeing niche or indie brands for a scent that’s completely unique. This is your chance to explore! Look out for trends like yuzu’s sparkling brightness, ambrette’s warm elegance, or sustainable, refillable options to stay eco-friendly.
Step 6: Organize Your Collection
With your newly curated collection, let’s give those bottles the love they deserve. Arrange them on a tray or shelf in a way that makes you excited to use them. Keep your current-season favorites front and center, and store the rest in a cool, dark place to protect them from sunlight and heat. A little organization goes a long way in keeping your collection fresh and accessible.
Final Thoughts
Fragrance is deeply personal, and every spritz should feel intentional, like a small act of self-care.
So, as you step into 2025, let your perfume shelf mirror the best parts of you. Keep what feels right, let go of what doesn’t, and explore new scents that excite you!
