All about fragrances

Your everyday perfume is a part of what makes you who you are. It gives wearers a presence and a pleasant fragrant never fails to leave a lingering impression. 

Your favourite perfume is basically the scent of your aura, the fragrance that you identity yourself with. You will find yourself going back to the same brand over and over again.

If you do not already have a set of staple fragrances, or if you are a first-time shopper for fragrances, be aware that you're a spoilt for choices, and that can be an overwhelming experience.

Fresh citrusy fragrances are created from fruits like oranges, bergamots and lemons. They are usually light and fresh smelling. Chanel No. 5 Eau De Parfum, Victoria's Secret Lemon Escape Eau De Parfum, and Daisy Marc Jacobs EAU SO FRESH are some iconic fresh citrusy fragrances for ladies.

For men there is Orange Spice by Creed, and Terre Hermes by Hermes for Men.

Floral scents are usually strong, clinging and sweet. Such fragrances are usually a blend of rose, violet, lily, jasmine and lavender. Chloe Absolut De Parfum is in its tenth year of production, and is an absolute favourite of most women.

Most men's floral fragrances consist of orange blossom — the main ingredient that works like a love potion. The Burberry Brit for men is hands down the best floral scent for men.

Earthy or woody fragrances are blended from plants such as cinnamon, vanilla, honey, sandalwood, patchouli and oakmoss. They are warm, dry and musky. Most fragrances for men are heavily based on this theme. Also, the classic fragrances for men are earthy or wood themed.

Oud, very popular today, falls under this theme. Gucci Guilty, Intense by Dolce & Gabbana, and of course Tom Ford Sahara Noir are amongst the bestselling men's perfumes. For ladies who like a deep musky scent, Miss Dior and Burberry Body have the perfect blend of sweet and smoky.

Oriental themed fragrances, as the label suggests, are made from ingredients sourced from exotic parts of the world. Ingredients include spices such as pepper, cloves and cinnamon. The scents are usually warm and sensual, and definitely for the ones who love travelling.

Two must have exotic fragrances are Opium by Yves Saint Laurent which is amber based, and Prada Candy which is caramel based. For men, perfumes of this theme include the cult favourite Paco Rabannae 1 Million Intense — the ingredients in this include cardamom, black pepper and saffron.

Lastly, a word of advice, make sure the fragrance you chose to wear is an extension of yourself like an invisible ID!

Photo: Collected