Channel your inner Jane Austen heroine with these DIY perfumes

To transform into the Regency heroine that you always knew you were, why not tap into another sense? The sense of smell!

In 1730, Juan Famenias Floris started making perfumes in London. His first scents included jasmine, orange blossom and lavender, and they quickly became very popular among fashionable society of England. You can actually visit Floris and buy his famous lavender scent today. The popular scents that were developed and worn during the Regency included Lily of the Valley, Night Jasmine, and Tuberose. Floris created a lovely scent that was worn by brides —a combination of orange blossom (top note), carnation, lily, jasmine (heart note), and sandalwood (base note) called Stephanotis, which symbolizes good luck. Once you have more experience mixing scents, you can recreate this Regency staple.

Today’s DIY is your own customizable, Regency-inspired perfume and body spray. With only a few supplies, you can make a chemical-free scent that is perfect for your personality and lets you channel your favorite Austen heroine. If you’re new to making perfume, start with one or two different scents and build up to a complex mixture as you make more.

Here are some ideas for you to find your perfect fragrance:

Elizabeth Bennet: Jasmine, Vanilla. Equal parts strong and light, this blend is perfect for all of the effervescent, hard to catch, yet intellectual Lizzies of the world.

Jane Bennet: Rose. The image of one perfect, pink rose captures the spirit of kind, beautiful Jane. It’s delicate enough to embody her femininity, but bold enough to be the supportive older sister.

Emma Woodhouse: Lily of the Valley, Orange Blossom. Sweet and tangy, this combination captures Emma’s liveliness and sass, with enough mystery to keep your Mr. Knightley on his toes.

Elinor Dashwood: Lavender. By far, Jane Austen’s most level-headed and serene heroine, Elinor’s nature is just as soothing and gentle as this calming scent.

Marianne Dashwood: Sandalwood, Cinnamon. Marianne may be young, but she carries the most intensity and sensuality of any Austen lady. Capture your passionate and romantic side with this scent (which would pair perfectly with a gorgeous red dress!)

Supplies:

1. Essential oils (You can find them everywhere: check local health food stores or order online)

2. Carrier oil (To dilute the essential oil, use a carrier oil, such as sweet almond, jojoba, or olive)

3. Glass vials (I used these), spray bottles

4. Pipette or dropper

Steps:

1. Drop 3-5 drops of each scent into your bottle.

2. Fill the rest of the bottle with the carrier oil.

3. Add more of the scent if you desire.

4. Mix it for 30 seconds.

5. Use the cork stopper to apply the scent.

A little inspiration: When you put on your personalized scent, be sure to embody the heroine to the fullest. Be kind, be passionate, be principled —in everything you do! These easy scents also make the perfect gift for the Austenite in your life. To maximize the effect of your scent (and you ensure that you catch the attention of the Mr. Darcy or Mr. Knightley in your life), apply a dab or spritz of the perfume in the following places: behind ears, at the base of the throat, inside of elbows and wrists and behind the knees.