Choosing a Perfume

The choice of fragrances and scents seems to grow wider
every day, as manufacturers fight for our attention and
try ever harder to distinguish their offerings from the
competition. With such a selection to choose from, how
does one even begin to know where to start when it comes
to buying perfume?

Broadly speaking, all perfumes fall into one of six
different categories based on their dominant top notes.
Different categories will suit different people or occasions.

Earthy or woody type perfumes evoke smells of the forest,
and are usually very refreshing. They often tend to appeal
to the older generation, and may make ideal gifts.

Oriental fragrances use strong spicy scents, and are ideal
for special social occasions, but be cautious giving them
to anyone you don’t know well – these intense perfumes
can be a very personal choice.

The so-called “greens” are much lighter than the orientals,
and are well suited to more casual wear. Because they make
a less dramatic assault on the nose, they are also safer
to give as gifts!

Modern “oceanic” fragrances are becoming more and more
popular, particularly among younger people who appreciate
the intense but often quite unusual scents, which
instantly bring to mind seaside scenes. Naturally these
are an excellent choice in the warmer months when thoughts
turn to holidays.

Spicy fruity perfumes are also a good warm-weather choice,
and can be a good all-round choice for the woman who wants
to wear something with some traditional base-notes but is
a little different to the classic floral scents.

Finally, those classic floral fragrances are suitable for
almost everyone and any occasion. But be wary of cheaper
brands; this most feminine of all the main groups works
best when the ingredients used are of high quality, and
that means less expensive brands can smell exactly that.

Ultimately, choosing a fragrance is a very personal choice,
and many women prefer to stick with what they know and buy
the same thing year after year. But by trying different
fragrances from the same group as your favourite smell, you
may just discover a new gem.

About The Author
Sara Blackmoore is a relationship councellor, and a freelance
writer. She lives in London, England with her husband and two
children. Sara buys her perfume from http://www.fragrancegopher.co.uk