Introducing: Perfect Nonsense – Avon’s boldest fragrance collection yet. This vibrant trio* features unexpected scent pairings, including pink peppercorn and fresh peaches, crafted to celebrate self-expression and the growing cultural embrace of the unconventional.
Created with Gen Z and younger audiences in mind, the unisex scents reflect a world where individuality is celebrated. With around 1,600 monthly searches1 for “how to be more confident,” it’s clear there’s an appetite for leaning into your self-expression more, and Avon, is the beauty brand offering a new way to empower people to embrace who they truly are.
To mark the launch, AVON commissioned a nationwide survey2 to explore how comfortable people really felt expressing their quirks. The results are clear: conformity is out and uniqueness is in.
Only 1% of Brits admit to following the crowd
The survey revealed a striking shift in attitudes across all demographics. A significant majority of respondents said they felt at least somewhat comfortable being themselves (77%), with only 1% admitting to “following the crowd.” It’s clear that a cultural transformation is underway, and platforms like TikTok have accelerated it. From alt fashion tutorials to the rise of hyper-niche hashtags like #goblincore and #weirdcore, it’s never been cooler to be a little offbeat.
Gen Z is heading this movement. Nearly half of 18–24-year-olds said they feel somewhat comfortable sharing their quirks (47%), and over a third feel very comfortable doing so (35%). However, a small minority still struggle with it (6%), underscoring the continued influence of social media on confidence. From Emma Chamberlain’s irreverent charm to the rise of maximalist aesthetics and creative chaos, Gen Z is rewriting the rules of what it means to fit in.
Over 70% of 65+ year olds feel comfortable being themselves
Importantly, this movement isn’t exclusive to the young. Avon’s findings show that older generations are just as likely to embrace their quirks. Over 70% of those aged 65+ reported feeling comfortable being themselves.
Meanwhile, traditional gender norms are dissolving. Masculinity is evolving, with 36% of men saying they feel very comfortable expressing their uniqueness and only 3% feeling very uncomfortable doing so. Whether it’s Harry Styles wearing pearls or Chris Hemsworth meditating on self-worth, pop culture is making space for a broader spectrum of self-expression.
Women are equally breaking free from outdated expectations. Many reported feeling very comfortable in their individuality (36%), with cultural icons like Lizzo, Phoebe Bridgers and Billie Eilish making it clear that beauty is seen as being unapologetically real.
Community is key to building confidence
The survey also explored what helps people feel confident expressing their true selves. The top answer? Community. Nearly half of respondents said a supportive circle of friends or peers empowers them to be authentic and 12% are encouraged by brands that champion individuality. The findings align with rising trends in grassroots wellness, from local run clubs to queer meetups, and shows that confidence grows in connection.
Self-sufficiency increases with age
Interestingly, more than half of respondents aged 55+ said they don’t need external validation to be themselves, compared with just 6% of 18–24-year-olds. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity: how do we help younger people build this same level of self-trust earlier?
The digital influences
Gen Z, meanwhile, find strength in the digital realm. Nearly a third said authentic influencers help them embrace their uniqueness. For many, make-up isn’t just a cosmetic product, it’s a form of identity expression. Influencers like Bretman Rock, NikkieTutorials and shows like Euphoria have made self-expression through beauty more accessible and acceptable than ever.
Men, notably, also pointed to external sources of confidence. Around 15% said they’re encouraged by brands that champion individuality and others cited social platforms and influencers. In an era of evolving masculinity, this reinforces the need for visible role models who challenge outdated norms.
Perfect Nonsense is a fragrance collection that dares to be different
Created by the same world-leading perfumers who created Carolina Herrera and Dolce & Gabbana, Perfect Nonsense, features three unique scent profiles* designed to defy expectations and encourage self-expression. Bamboozie and Choco Tuberose are among the fastest-selling variants, nearly selling out just weeks after their launch.
- Peppery Peaches: a sensory plot twist that pairs fresh and juicy peaches with a fiery pink peppercorn buzz – it’s sweet, spicy and impossible to ignore.
- Choco Tuberose: a decadent fusion of deep and delightfully sweet chocolate and elegant tuberose. It’s wild, yet somehow perfect.
- Bamboozie Cocktail: earthy bamboo notes meet the zesty brightness of juniper and citrus, creating a refreshing, clean blend with a botanical twist.
Victor Costa, Head of Fragrance Brands at Avon, shared his vision for the collection:
“Two years in the making, Perfect Nonsense is our most exciting scent launch yet. It’s about breaking rules, challenging expectations and empowering people to express their identities without limitations. We partnered with the best perfumers in the world and together we created something original, imaginative and proudly strange – because that’s what people want right now.”
Nisrine Bouazzaoui Grillié, the perfumer behind Peppery Peaches, added:
“Creating this scent was about embracing contrast. I’ve always loved working with floral, fruity and natural ingredients, but this pairing was truly special – playful, bold and completely new. It’s designed for people who want to wear their personality on their skin.”
As the findings from Avon’s nationwide poll show, confidence is a layered journey – and fragrance can play a powerful role in how we express and embrace our identities. Whether it’s through fashion, friendships, or simply the scents we choose to wear, confidence comes from honouring what makes us different.
Please visit https://avon.uk.com/blogs/avon-blog/celebrate-your-you-with-perfect-nonsense-why-embracing-your-inner-weird-is-the-new-self-confidence for more information.
Perfect Nonsense is available now via Avon Representatives, online at avon.uk.com and on Amazon.
All three fragrances are approved under Cruelty Free International’s Leaping Bunny Programme.
