Why We Love Fragrance – There’s something undeniably intimate and empowering about wearing fragrance. It’s not just about smelling good—it’s about capturing a feeling, telling a story, and making a statement without ever saying a word. At Women Talking, we’ve long believed that fragrance is more than a finishing touch. It’s an extension of who we are.
So, when I was invited to the exclusive launch of the new D’OTTO Literature Collection, I couldn’t resist.
This wasn’t your typical fragrance launch—it was inspirational. Bold, emotive, and deeply intelligent, D’OTTO has once again pushed the boundaries of what scent can do. Their latest collection, available for a limited time at Harrods from 1st June to 1st September, is a fearless olfactory tribute to literature’s most rebellious heroines: Charlotte and Emily Brontë.
Fragrance as Rebellion
At the heart of D’OTTO’s new releases—4×2 and 8×1—is a profound respect for women who shook the world with their words. These aren’t nostalgic tributes. They are modern-day manifestos bottled in scent.
4×2 is inspired by the quiet but unshakable strength of Jane Eyre. Think delicate Lily of the Valley and Mexican Tuberose, layered with rich, soul-warming notes of Vanilla Bourbon, Myrrh, and Brazilian Tonka Bean. It’s gentle, yes—but never meek. It whispers of independence, love on one’s own terms, and the audacity to stay true to oneself.
8×1, on the other hand, is all wild passion and stormy skies—an aromatic homage to the brooding intensity of Wuthering Heights. Opening with zesty Amalfi Rhubarb and Sorrento Lemon, and grounded by earthy Cedarwood, Italian Cashmere, and sensual Musks, this is a fragrance that lingers like a haunting memory. Romantic, yes—but also raw, fearless, and untamed.
As Tiziana Terenzi, Artistic Director at D’OTTO, puts it:
“This collection is born from our desire to capture the fire of women who didn’t just write stories—they wrote revolutions. To launch the Literature Collection with Harrods—an institution that embodies heritage and innovation—is a dream. These fragrances are more than scent; they are spirit bottled.”
The Nose Behind the Revolution
Of course, no D’OTTO fragrance would exist without the unique genius of Paolo Terenzi—the man behind the scent. A third-generation Italian perfumer, Paolo is also a professional musician and poet, known for his boundless creativity and rich artistic sensibility.
Nicknamed the “politically incorrect nose,” Paolo is a lover of art in all its forms, making him the perfect match for a brand like D’OTTO. His ability to translate emotion and creative expression into fragrance is second to none. Whether transforming a painting into a perfume or, in this case, immortalising literary heroines in scent, Paolo creates perfumes that are liquid art—unfiltered, unapologetic, unforgettable.
Why It Matters
Wearing perfume is deeply personal. It’s how we armour ourselves. How we show up. How we express our moods, our desires, our truths. What D’OTTO does—so brilliantly—is remind us that scent isn’t frivolous. It’s powerful. It can speak to our inner worlds, our dreams, our rebellious spirits.
As women, we’re so often told to tone it down—to stay polite, quiet, inoffensive. But a fragrance like 8×1 doesn’t ask permission. It makes its presence known. And in doing so, it gives us permission to do the same.
A Scented Summer to Remember
Whether you’re a lifelong Brontë lover or simply someone who appreciates artistry in all forms, the D’OTTO Literature Collection is worth experiencing in person. Available now in Harrods for a limited time, it’s a rare chance to explore fragrance not just as beauty—but as bold, beautiful expression.
And as for me? I’ll be wearing 4×2 on days when I need quiet strength. And 8×1 when I’m ready to take up space.
Because perfume, like literature, can change the way we see ourselves—and the world.
Poppy Watt