Professional perfume tester Philippe Bousseton of Takasago brings us the lowdown on this season's scents.

His creations: Tsar Pefume and Cologne by Van Cleef & Arpels, Eau Fabuleuse by Leonard, Cool Water Summer 2006 by Davidoff, Women Summer 2006 by Givenchy.
His cult perfume: Magie Noire by Lancôme.
His favourite spice: Ginger
His favourite herb: basil.
His most intense smell-related memory: "The smell of my grandfather: a mixture of violet, mimosa and rose."

What are the current fragrance trends?
It's got to be floral: white flowers, sensuous bouquets (orange tree flowers, tuberose, ylang-ylang).

Would it be fair to say there's been a comeback of powdered, floral perfumes?
Oh yes, definitely! Musky, solar, exotic with a fruity coconut trend! 

Are food-based scents still successful?
Yes but they've changed - they're more fruity at the minute rather than based on caramel or chocolate.

Are we seeing a return to nature?
Yes, we're seeing lots of flowers and greenery - especially violet, which has come back big-time.