There’s something oddly deflating about walking into a room, only to realize you’re wearing the same scent—or worse, the same outfit—as three other people. In a world dominated by trend cycles and TikTok-viral products, standing out has become an art form. But the answer isn’t loud prints or dramatic entrances; it lies in subtle, thoughtful curation. Want to build a style and scent identity that whispers elegance and discernment? Start here.
PART I: Fragrance – Your Invisible Signature
They say scent is the most powerful trigger of memory. It’s intimate, lingering, and tells a story long before you speak. Yet, the most popular fragrances today are often overly recognizable. Think sugary vanilla blasts or citrus florals that saturate every subway station and cocktail bar. If you want to cultivate allure without blending into the background, it’s time to refine your fragrance wardrobe.
Skip the duty-free top sellers. Instead, explore fragrance houses that prioritize craft over marketing. Brands like Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Diptyque, and Le Labo may sound familiar, but it’s their lesser-known editions that carry personality. Don’t reach for Baccarat Rouge 540 (you already smell it on everyone); opt instead for Amyris Femme or Grand Soir—they’re warmer, more nuanced, and less expected.
Similarly, Diptyque’s Tempo offers a green, earthy alternative to the standard floral. It’s unisex, a little moody, and endlessly intriguing.
Want something even more under-the-radar? Discover D.S. & Durga’s Debaser, with its fig-moss-coconut twist, or L’Artisan Parfumeur’s Mon Numéro 10, a spicy, smoky perfume that evokes quiet confidence.
Layer with Purpose
Another way to personalize your scent? Layering. But this doesn’t mean spraying two perfumes randomly. Start with a grounding base (like a sandalwood or musk-forward fragrance), then add a top note contrast—perhaps a citrus or floral—to balance it. Brands like Jo Malone London design with layering in mind. Try combining Wood Sage & Sea Salt with Peony & Blush Suede for a scent that’s coastal, warm, and uniquely yours.
PART II: Clothing – Beyond the Algorithm
Scroll through any fashion feed and you’ll see it: the same cuts, same styling formulas, and yes, the same oversized beige blazers. While minimalism has its timeless appeal, individuality doesn’t have to be sacrificed on the altar of aesthetic uniformity.
Here’s how to avoid being a carbon copy of the Instagram grid.
Invest in Character Pieces
It’s not about dressing loudly—it’s about wearing pieces that carry a story. Think: a sculptural Totême coat with an asymmetric collar. A hand-knitted vest from Bode, where every garment is one-of-a-kind. Or a pair of trousers from The Row that drape like liquid and speak the language of quiet wealth.
When shopping, ask yourself: Would this piece still interest me if I saw no one else wear it?
Play with Underrated Colors and Textures
Skip the seasonal “it” colors and opt for something less anticipated—forest green instead of olive, aubergine instead of burgundy. Explore texture: matte silk, raw denim, waxed cotton. These elements create visual interest without being overt.
Look into labels like Lemaire for earthy, intelligent palettes and masterful fabric treatment. Or Studio Nicholson, where structure meets sensuality in the most effortless way.
Tailoring, Always
Off-the-rack rarely fits perfectly—and ill-fitting clothing is the fastest route to looking like everyone else. A simple cinch at the waist or a cropped hem can transform even high-street pieces. Brands like COS and Arket offer a clean base; a trip to the tailor makes them look triple the price.
PART III: Accessories – The Details That Define You
While many obsess over the outfit’s core, it’s the accents that actually build your aesthetic memory. A unique bag, a pair of angular earrings, or even a vintage belt can become your “thing.”
Opt for Artisanal or Vintage Finds
Instead of another monogrammed tote, consider a handwoven bag from Dragon Diffusion, or a sculptural clutch from Aesther Ekme. Not only are they beautifully made, but they also fly under the radar—no screaming logos here.
Jewelry? Seek out smaller ateliers like Completedworks, whose draped metal forms echo fine art, or Saskia Diez, known for ultra-light yet statement-making pieces. Even a thrifted vintage brooch can do more for your look than a designer bracelet seen on every influencer.
Shoe with Intention
A shoe can signal everything: your mood, your aesthetic, even your values. Instead of this season’s viral sneakers, opt for something timeless yet niche—like Repetto’s ballet flats, By Far’s architectural boots, or Aeyde’s sculptural loafers.
Or go heritage: Paraboot for chunky French chic, Church’s for British classics, or ATP Atelier for minimal Scandi elegance.
PART IV: The Mindset Shift – From Imitation to Curation
The ultimate marker of good taste? It’s not just what you wear or spray—it’s how you choose. Curation, not consumption, is the new luxury.
Before you buy, ask:
Does this feel like me, or like someone I follow online?
Will this still make sense in my wardrobe six months from now?
Can I pair this with at least three things I already own?
Taste isn’t about access to expensive things. It’s about coherence, restraint, and storytelling. Think of your style and scent as a kind of visual and olfactory autobiography—what do you want people to feel when they encounter you?
The Power of Understatement
In the race to stand out, the most refined people often move in the opposite direction. They lean into the quiet, the complex, and the subtle—the kind of style that doesn’t scream for attention but holds it effortlessly. You won’t see them chasing hashtags, posting haul videos, or obsessing over the latest algorithm-driven trend. And yet, you’ll remember them vividly: the comforting trace of their amber-toned perfume, the way their perfectly draped coat catches the light, the soft creak of a leather bag that looks like it’s lived a hundred beautiful lives.
Their presence doesn’t beg to be seen—it invites you to look closer. So next time you’re tempted by a viral “must-have,” pause. Consider the path less algorithmically traveled. The world doesn’t need another trend follower. It needs you—curated, intentional, and completely unrepeatable.
