A new study of 2,000 Brits has unveiled the nation's top fragrance 'icks', with wearing too much perfume or aftershave and smelling like an air freshener topping the list. The research, conducted by Aldi, also found that using deodorant instead of showering after exercise is a major turn-off for many.
Top Fragrance Turn-Offs
Dousing oneself in fragrance (37%) and 'smelling like an air freshener' (37%) jointly claimed the top spot as the biggest turn-offs for Brits. Close behind was using deodorant instead of showering after exercise (36%). The study suggests that poor fragrance habits could be affecting love lives, as two-fifths (40%) would consider turning down a second date due to someone's choice of perfume or aftershave.
For some, unpleasant scents represent an even greater relationship dealbreaker, with nearly one in 10 (9%) confessing they have ended a relationship over their partner's fragrance. Of the 2,000 Brits surveyed, 19% identified people wearing 'TikTok made me buy it' scents as among their biggest fragrance red flags.
Social Media Influence
Social media continues to influence fragrance purchasing decisions, with 21% discovering new scents online and 19% admitting to buying a fragrance as a direct result of social media content. Despite firm views on fragrance faux pas, Brits are increasingly turning their backs on pricey designer scents in favour of budget-friendly alternatives.
Research revealed that two-thirds of Brits (67%) believe cheaper perfumes and aftershaves smell superior to their luxury counterparts. More than half (57%) said they have received more compliments when wearing affordable fragrances than designer ones.
Aldi's Playful Campaign
Fragrance advertisements also continue to wield considerable influence, with a third of Britons (32%) admitting they've purchased a scent after viewing an advert before even sampling it in person. Aldi has unveiled the 'Aldi Fragrance Advert', a playful campaign poking fun at extravagant luxury fragrance commercials. The brief advert, drawing inspiration from classic designer fragrance campaigns, is set in a typical Aldi environment and features easily sidetracked shop worker 'Dave', highlighting the latest Lacura collection.
Julie Ashfield, Chief Commercial Officer, Aldi UK, said: "It's official, we're a nation of fragrance fans. Our research shows shoppers are becoming savvier and increasingly are turning to affordable options that still deliver on quality and scent. That's why we are excited to launch our latest range of fragrances, offering customers luxury without the premium price tag."
New Lacura Fragrances
As consumers continue seeking luxury scents without the hefty price tag, Aldi is introducing three new limited-edition Lacura men's fragrances. The new Lacura Solar Drift, Lacura Classic Edge and Lacura Urban Dusk Eau de Parfum arrive in stores nationwide from June 11 for £4.99. Customers purchasing can save up to 92% compared to high end brands such as Dior, Ralph Lauren, and Hugo Boss.
Brits' Top 10 Biggest Fragrance Icks
- Wearing too much perfume/aftershave (37%).
- Someone smelling like an air freshener (37%).
- Using deodorant instead of showering after exercise (36%).
- Cologne that smells too chemical-heavy (34%).
- Wearing a scent that reminds you of an ex or family member (29%).
- Layering too many scents at once (28%).
- Mixing clashing scents such as perfume and strong deodorant (24%).
- Perfume that smells like food (24%).
- Reapplying fragrance excessively throughout the day (22%).
- Wearing an overhyped 'TikTok made me buy it' perfume (19%).



