A perfume is the fashion accessory that you can’t see, but it can make or break your outfit. You spray it, and suddenly you feel more confident or more put together. What people smell is just as important as what they see when you enter a room.
But finding the right scent involves going beyond just picking something that smells nice. You have to look for something that feels like you. Just like your clothes and accessories, perfumes are an extension of your personal style.
Let’s find out how to choose a perfume that actually matches your style.
Know Your Notes
Perfumes are made up of notes, also known as families. The three perfume notes are top, middle, and base. Knowing what each note is can help you figure out your preferred notes.
Top notes are the first impression or the first scent you can smell when you apply a perfume. These can be light or sharp and have scents of herbs or berries.
Middle notes are what you smell when the top ones have faded. They are the core of the scent, which is why they’re also known as “heart notes.” You can go for florals, fruits, or spices.
Base notes are the finish. They linger on you the longest and make up the base of the perfume. Think vanilla, woods, or amber.
If you love warm and cozy vibes, go for perfumes (香水) with vanilla or sandalwood in the base. Or if you prefer something fresh, citrus and aquatic top notes might be better.
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Match Scents to Your Style
The way you usually dress or carry yourself can help you choose the right perfume.
If you’re a minimalist who lives in monochrome and clean lines, avoid anything overpowering. A soft and subtle scent of musk-based perfumes and light florals might be your thing. Think of a fragrance that is “barely there” and smells like you just stepped out of the shower.
If you’re a bolder person who loves statement clothing and accessories, you want something that announces your entrance. If you love dark lipstick shades and tall heels, go for rich florals like rose and vanilla or amber bases. A perfume that is strong and leaves a trail works best.
The trick is to know your personal style, your choice of clothing and accessories, and use it to find a perfume that fits.
Test Before You Buy
Perfumes can smell different on different people. Your body chemistry, skin type, and even your diet can affect how a scent sticks to you.
Don’t ever buy something just because it smells good on your friend or someone else. Instead, test it on your skin and let it settle. Give it at least 30 minutes, and see how it changes throughout the day.
You can also ask someone close to you about what they think and if it feels like your style.
Don’t Follow Trends Blindly
A signature scent should feel personal. Following a trend or buying the latest viral perfume eliminates any personal touch. Just because it’s endorsed by your favorite celebrity doesn’t mean it suits you.
Use the trends as inspiration, and trust your nose. If a scent makes you feel confident and more you, it’s doing its job. A good perfume doesn’t just smell “good,” it should smell like you.