Fragrance expert Rob D. Blandford, based at the University of Tasmania and trained at the Grasse Institute of Perfumery in France, has analysed the perfume choices of royal women, revealing an intriguing link between the Queen and Princess Diana, and between the Duchess of Cambridge and the Duchess of Sussex.
The Queen's signature scent is L'Heure Bleue Eau de Parfum by Guerlain, a 1912 composition by Jacques Guerlain. Blandford describes it as a "monumental French composition" with tropical florals, spices, iris, vanilla, and woods. He says it "attracts attention and creates an air of mystery" and suggests the Queen is "happy to be in the spotlight."
Princess Diana favoured Quelques Fleurs by Houbigant, created in 1913. Blandford notes it contains florals, civet, and oakmoss, creating a "grand and quite posh" effect. He interprets both the Queen and Diana's choices as reflecting "natural royal qualities: confidence, largesse, [and] being happy to be the centre of attention."
In contrast, Kate and Meghan prefer more restrained scents. Kate loves Orange Blossom by Jo Malone, a soft, unisex citrus floral from 2003. Blandford calls it "safe" and "not a perfume for a risk-taker." Meghan opts for Wood Sage and Sea Salt, also by Jo Malone, a 2014 composition described as "salty and clean, evoking an ocean breeze."
