How To Pick A Perfume As A Gift; Choosing The Top Fragrance
How to pick a perfume as a gift can be tricky. The scent remains a modern symbol of femininity. For many women, a fragrance is more than just a glass bottle; it becomes their signature trait and marks their presence and unique personality.
Charged with strong, evocative olfactory power, perfume can change your demeanor. Therefore, when choosing this second skin, it shouldn't be done on a whim but rather as something individualized and able to withstand the bounds of time.
While fragrance - as a great gift - is popular, choosing a floral Chanel and an airy Dior can be difficult, especially when you're buying it with the thought of someone else in mind.
That's where we come to the rescue. We're here to guide you in narrowing down the wide variety of products so you can avoid the headache of doing so yourself. This article should give you a good idea of how to choose a perfume gift for Valentine's day or a men's cologne for Valentine's day. The selection of a well-thought-out gift of perfume starts here.
Which Type Of Perfume Is Best Choice For A Woman, According To Her Age?
An essential question to ask when gifting a scent to someone is of what age are they? This is not done to evoke discomfort but rather to find the appropriate gift.
You would not choose the same aroma for a young girl as you would for a woman in her sixties. This has to do with how age brings about maturity, and the scents that once appealed to you in adolescence have changed through time to become more refined.
The following headings aim to give insight into which fragrance as a gift suits each age group best.
A teenage girl / young adult
This time period is considered an olfactory initiation. It is often during this time in life that we are introduced to our first perfume. Generally, the aromas that are suitable a fresh, light and sweet rather than tarty and heady. They should complement a girl’s youth and vibrant energy.The 20s
The 20s mark an era of self-discovery and an exploration of one’s personality. Adolescence and childhood may seem far away but adulthood hasn’t seemed to really settle in yet. An ideal aroma must therefore reveal this paradox through preserving a youthful attitude while affirming the new confidence and sensuality that comes with this age group. Fragrances with floral notes are popular due to their lightness and pleasing qualities.
The 30s
Women in their 30s are most likely to be looking for something that accentuates their sex appeal yet remains elegant. Mystery and sensuality are often craved and should be highlighted by an aroma that matches these traits. For this reason, aromas with deep amber and creamy vanilla should be your go to choices. Spicy aromas can also complement the dynamism of this age group.The 40s
The 40s mark an era of seeking out change and looking for ways to reinvent yourself. This extends to switching up one’s scent. The key here is to drop all the scents that make it onto the top 10 list. Instead, opt for something atypical or niche that will bring something new into your daily life.The 50s
50 is the age at which you reach the peak of your life. At this point in time, you understand and know yourself and what best complements your personality. This benchmark should be celebrated! The products worn at this time should highlight one’s elegance and charisma without neglecting a feeling of sensuality. Aromas that include leather accords are strongly recommended.The 60s
When approaching the grand 60s, it is not uncommon to turn back to the great classics of perfumery. Although these can be seen as old-fashioned by some, they remain a timeless token for others. Here, older scents are fully appreciated and one can finally understand their full meaning. Find something that includes woody and earthy notes.The 70s
This decade often marks a time of reflection and contentment. One may have children who have now had grandchildren and life is filled with family and sharing. Go for something that captures the memories and the joy behind living life up to this point and something that carries emotional value. Remember that this scent will be etched into the memories of those around you forever.The 80s
The 80s are often a time of nostalgia. Here, moments of the past are recalled and can be remembered with a gentle smile. Opt for an aroma which encompasses this. Something that evokes a sensation, a person or a specific moment that exudes happiness and comfort. This aroma can then become something that is intimate and meaningful in your life.
What Scents Should You Wear For Your Man To Like It?
Let us remember one of the main goals of an aroma: to seduce. How fun and charming it is to see those around us who are bewitched by the beauty of a sensual fragrance.
Ladies, listen up. The following describes different types of men and what you should wear to capsize their hearts.
The manly man
This man is strong in personality and confident in everything he does. He may find an odor attractive if it complements his charisma. That being said, he may be drawn to spicy and seductive aromas. Or, if you’re attracted to more discreet tones, go for a softer, contemporary aroma guaranteed to impress.
The attentive man
A cologne that is natural and elegant is a surprise when it comes to the attentive man. He may enjoy something more refined and modern. Your signature scent should thus be something of a classic or embody the beauty of femininity.
The sporty man
Athletes may appreciate something a bit more dynamic and playful on a woman. A lively and vibrant cologne would be a great idea when trying to get this type of man’s attention. In this case, citrus-based aromas that bring out your spontaneous and sparkling side are ideal.
The funny man
The funny man may appreciate spontaneity and light-heartedness. As a result, search for an EDT that gives off a fresh, eccentric aura. This can be a floral cologne embellished with hints of fiery spice. Here, there should be a balance between authenticity and playfulness.
The romantic man
A romantic companion will certainly be drawn towards a rose headline note which is tender and gentle. Essentially, something that embodies a gesture of love. There are no shortages of fragrances that do just that. You can never go wrong with an aroma that includes whimsical notes of jasmine, rose, or lilac.
The intelligent man
Here, there may be an emphasized focus on being unique yet comfortable. This type of man may appreciate you not falling into the banality of choosing generic aromas. Instead, opt for something interesting in a niche and unconventional way.
The Perfect Fragrances According To A Woman’s Character
An aroma needs to exist in harmony with a woman’s personality. It must become a real olfactory signature and work well with her body chemistry. The aroma should be indicative of the character of the woman wearing it. Here are some key characters to help you choose which headline notes work best.
Natural all the way
This type of woman may highlight her spontaneity through something light and airy. Transparent, almost lucid scents will bring her the most pleasure and authenticity. Nature is right up her alley! We’d advise floral, spicy, or fruity components.
Exuding intelligence
Why not evoke a sense of curiosity and mystery through perfume? After all, a scent that conveys engaging in thought-provoking discussions is what you’re looking for. Niche and unusual notes will work in this woman’s favor.
The mysterious woman
To complement and emphasize one’s mysteriousness and seductiveness, play around with new scents that are deep and uncommon. The perfect gift includes amber, powdery and vanilla accords that are bound to be appreciated. These will bring the people around you closer in an attempt to find out who you are.
The dreamer
Feet on the ground, head in the clouds. This can be used to describe this type of woman. Here, favor aromas that work with a dreamlike character. It should reflect the desire to be elsewhere and the use of a vivid imagination. Choose one that holds a poetic, magical feel.
Business takes priority
If one’s career and status as a businesswoman are of paramount importance, this is the right category to look into. A gift highlighting this woman’s natural charisma and deep determination is essential. It would help if you had something that remains feminine and sensual while making a statement and retaining professional refinement. Try out something with a leather accord.
Funnybone
Does this woman always manage to make the people around her laugh? Can you describe her personality as goofy and spontaneous? If so, seek an aroma that matches this playful and cheerful nature. Enjoy life to the fullest and try out something that includes mischievous gourmand notes. You won’t be disappointed!
Shop For The Right Perfume Gift According To The Zodiac Sign
We can all agree that everything is connected to nature and the wide universe around us. In saying so, astrology contains many personal symbols, much like perfume. Let's link the two worlds of astrology and perfumery together when deciding how to choose a perfume.
Aries
Aries radiates a fiery, incandescent light. Find a fragrance that encompasses this as well as an air of seduction. A spicy oriental scent will do the job.
Taurus
A Taurus woman is discreet yet captivating. She may enjoy the most gifts withweet and subtly greedy notes.
Gemini
Geminis are curious and live in a state of eternal adolescence. Warm, inviting notes should highlight their ardor and inquisitiveness.
Cancer
A cancer woman may be attracted to aquatic elements that match the aura of this water sign. Marine notes with a somewhat romantic and emotional feel will complement this star sign best.
Leo
Generally, women belonging to this fire sign exude light and energy. They display a determination to get things right. Opt for an aroma that is charismatic and vibrant
Virgo
Virgos may tend to be more down-to-earth. They are drawn to nature and its beauty. Go for something flowery, woody accords, fruity and aromatic.
Libra
Libra women may like the finer things in life while wanting to maintain a balance between luxury and nature. The perfume chosen here should be sweet while having a certain airy approach.
Scorpio
Scorpios are usually sensual and romantic. Their scent should be able to immerse them in something that complements this. Favor round, voluptuous and exotic scents.
Sagittarius
This star sign encompasses lively women full of passion and a desire to thrive in their way. The ideal aroma here would hint at an adventure.
Capricorn
Capricorn women can be very nature-orientated. The refreshing scent of mountain air, minerals, and rocky components is enjoyed for this star sign.
Aquarius
This describes the modern, connected woman. Women who fall under this star sign may always be on the lookout for the newest scent. Go for something that reflects the current perfume trends.
Pisces
This water sign generally finds pleasure with scents associated with the ocean. They may also often express the desire to escape. The ideal aroma here may include marine and aromatic accords.
The Four Olfactory Families Specific To Women’s Fragrance
Perfumes on the market exist in a wide variety, much to our pleasure as consumers. Because of this diversity, they have been established into different olfactory families, making them easier to classify. The first form of perfume classification came about in the 1900s and has adapted to fit modern-day perfumery. There are eight main families, four specific to women’s fragrances.
- Chypre
The chypre family is based on woody, fruity and soft florals. This category was introduced in 1917 and is known for its generally rich and persistent compositions. Chypres perfectly embodies the fiery and determined temperament of the woman wearing it. This category also includes classes such as:
Floral chypre
Floral chypres are known for their spicy and balmy qualities. These are usually accompanied by floral components such as rose, jasmine, or lily of the valley.
Fruity chypre
Mostly, this type of fragrance is sweeter than its counterparts. Fruity chypres are enriched with intoxicating gluttony. They are derived from warm, fruity flavors, including peaches and plums.
- Hesperids
This olfactory family mainly consists of feminine citrusy scents derived from bergamot, lemon, orange, grapefruit, and tangerine. They can remind one of the calm Mediterranean and all its fresh, lively aromas. Hesperids have become synonymous with freshness and lightness. This family includes the following:
Aromatic citrus
A combination of citrus notes and aromatic essences makes an indisputably fresh duo. These are usually enriched by aromatics such as thyme, rosemary, and tarragon.
- Floral
The floral family is the most popular category when discussing more feminine fragrances. These often include a blend of green and poetic and romantic notes that complement its fruity or spicy foundation. This olfactory group is ideal for conveying feelings of charm, romance, and femininity. This family includes the following:
Floral aldehyde
This fragrance encompasses all floral notes associated with animalic and powdery scents. They are often linked to seduction and a reveal of sensuality.
Aquatic floral
These focus on a combination of fresh aquatic and delicate floral notes. Aquatic florals mimic a traditional bouquet in the presence of marine notes.
Carnation floral
Carnation is wonderfully aromatic and is known for its slight pepper quality. Thus, when incorporated into floral perfumery, it creates a unique element of dynamism and excitement. The resulting perfume is known to be deep and rich in scent.
Fruity floral
These sweet compositions have been a delighting crowd pleaser since the beginning of the 20th century. As the name of the fragrance suggests, it combines the heady scent of a bunch of flowers with fruit notes such as apricot, raspberry, litchi, and blackberries.
Green floral
These fragrances emphasize vegetative notes. They exude a remarkable freshness and give off a distinct spring sensation. These remind you of the smell of freshly cut grass.
Jasmine floral
The striking scent of jasmine in women’s perfume can steal the show. It radiates an aura of nobility and refined luxury. These are often complex but elegant in structure.
Lily-of-the-valley floral
The gorgeous bells of the lily of the valley appear in the springtime. These renowned flowers make compelling and timeless products that radiate the freshness of the seasons' changing.
Orange tuberose floral
This category of floral fragrances was introduced in the mid-twentieth century. The essence of this fragrance stands out with its unique and intriguing scent. Orange tuberose floral reinforces a sense of originality and sensuality in perfumery.
Violet rose floral
This duo is known for its romantic and powdery blend. For its pleasant and versatile nature, Violet rose floral remains a top choice for many revered perfumery houses.
- Oriental
Oriental fragrances are synonymous with amber aromas. They tend to radiate warmth and sensuality and are perfect in cooler weather. Orientals may use components such as vanilla, wood, and flowers. This emphasizes exotic and seductive undertones. The following fall under the oriental olfactory family:
Oriental floral
These scents effortlessly maintain the balance between sensuality and elegance. Floral and spicy notes allow for a subtle feeling of seduction.
Spicy oriental
These striking combinations of notes are for women who lack nothing in terms of character. These bold fragrances usually include elements such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. All these notes blend to make a stellar oriental perfume.
Oriental vanilla
The vanilla component of the oriental family is known to be one of the star ingredients in women’s perfumery. It uncovers a sweet, syrupy layer and incorporates addictive notes like amber.
Oriental woody
Oriental woody base notes are undoubtedly the warmest. They exude a sensual blend of rich and complex notes including, but not limited to, amber, sandalwood, and cedar.
5 Of The Most Common Notes Specific To Women’s Aromas
It must be said that certain notes, whether perceived individually or surrounded by other notes, appear more feminine than others. Notes perceived as more feminine are often used as staples in women’s fragrances. The following list aims to give insight into the five most common female perfume ingredients.
Rose
The art of perfumery can agree that the scent of a rose is a fundamental ingredient in women’s perfumes. This note presents an immense variety of scents and can range in sensations from seductive and spicy to lighthearted and romantic.
Patchouli
This is right up your alley if you’re looking for an ingredient that encapsulates a feeling of nostalgia with a slight woody feel. Patchouli defines a fragrance that is generous and authentic.
Sage
Sage is an ingredient that tends to remind one of the fragrant Mediterranean. Sage can be referred to as round and shapely when used in the composition of a perfume. It is aromatic and widely used in women’s scents.
White musk
White musk is a synthetic ingredient that exudes an aura of cleanliness. This component can also be comforting, enveloping, and inviting in nature. It accounts for most of the soothing sensations found in women’s aromas.
Jasmine
Jasmine is the second most popular ingredient used in perfume. This enrapturing scent is originally from Egypt and India and is seen to rival rose-based ingredients. Jasmine is the seal of prestige and luxury, often resulting in a powdery, floral and fruity aroma.
How To Match A New Perfume With A Woman’s Sense Of Style
The two elements of style and personality of the person go hand in hand. Therefore, a new scent must match the woman's style and personality.
Here’s how to choose a fragrance with the sense of style you have in mind.
Classic style
If the sense of style you’re trying to match is understated yet feminine, choose a fragrance with a green, fresh scent and tangy notes. These notes generally go well with a fashion sense that is subtle, elegant, and devoid of many eccentricities.
Trendsetter
Does the person you have in mind always seem to keep up with the latest trends? In that case, you’ll need to update yourself on what’s in and out. Try out a variety of vibrant contemporary notes before making a final decision.
Outgoing and flashy
For someone fearless in their fashion choices and not afraid to draw attention to themselves through their sense of personal style, go for a fragrance that matches this flamboyance. You may opt for spicy and floral notes that radiate an aura of couture.
The sportswoman
If the sense of style you have in mind consists of tracksuits and the latest sports gear, let your aroma complement this. Search for something dynamic and fresh that works well with your body chemistry.
Elegance and poise
If the person you have in mind tends to flee from eccentricities and places great importance on remaining refined, then this is the one. Instead of opting for something modern, they may find more enjoyment in the classics. An aroma that remains chic and poised is ideal.
Romantic and care-free
Find a fragrance that can immerse you in a real-life fairy tale. Try a scent with airy floral notes and magical aquatic elements. No matter where you are, you’ll always be surrounded by a charm and wonder of a romantic perfume.
Casual is best
Try a muted, earthy fragrance for something more suitable for an everyday casual look. Don’t hesitate to contrast deep rich woody notes with something fresh and lively. This will perk up an outfit and make it more refined.
Significant Label In The Industry
Perfumery, as stated in the introduction, is a vast field that collaborates with various industries. When navigating the world of perfume, it is essential to know which perfumery house you’re buying from, as the person you’re gifting may be inclined to a specific brand.
Houses that make perfume exclusively
These so-called personal brands place all their attention on the creation of fragrances. They are known for their selective distribution and perfectionism. An example of this would be Serge Lutens. This exclusive house reigns supreme when it comes to atypical, dreamlike scents. This is also the case for the groundbreaking house of Guerlain, which has spent decades in the top ranks of top perfumes.
Houses that specialize in couture fragrances
Many perfumers aim to bring something innovative and unique to the table. This is typical when speaking of couture perfume. The number of brands that make up this category is innumerable, but a few include big names such as Yves Saint-Laurent, Jean-Paul Gaultier, and Thierry Mugler.
Houses that cater to luxury and opulence
In seeking exceptional luxury perfume, you can’t go wrong when looking into perfume houses such as Cartier, Boucheron, and Van Cleef & Arpel. These houses may have started their businesses through precious gems and jewelry but have now extended their brilliance into the perfume industry.
Houses that focus on leather-like aromas
When discussing companies that incorporate the irresistible scent of leather into their brand, we must mention the house of Hermes. This house initially started by selling personalized luggage and gradually entered the world of perfumery with much success. The impact of leather incorporated into a well-made fragrance can’t be ignored.
Houses that specialize in both perfume and cosmetics
Skincare and perfumery often go hand in hand. It is not uncommon to see well-known cosmetic brands become invested in the perfume industry. Aromatic Elixir by Clinique! is an excellent example of this.
Bottles: The Harmony Between Form And Smell
We can’t deny the effect of the appearance of a perfume when choosing a gift. This is why it is essential that the outer glass matches the contents of the fragrance you’re going for. A successful bottle will often complement and accentuate the personality of the scent inside.
24k magic
Certain perfumes undoubtedly belong to the world of opulence. DKNY’s Golden Delicious is crafted in while and yellow gold and is adorned in no less than 3000 gemstones. These prestigious and exuberant bottles definitely make a statement.
The classic bow
Many bottles are decorated by a small bow. This gives the fragrance a couture element through a feminine spirit. Bonbon by Viktor & Rolf and Ricci Ricci by Nina Ricci are excellent examples that use bows in a tasteful way.
The round look
Some perfume bottles are rounded and are likened to a snow globe in shape. This gives the bottle a voluptuous aura and reflects a fragrance which is generous and soft.
The rectangular prism
This is a common shape for a scent bottle as it alludes to elegance and charisma with its straight cut corners. This immediately reveals the stature and image the liquid wants to convey.
Stained glass
Bottles that are tinted or colorful hint at the sparkling, jovial side of perfume. These types of bottles may allude to gourmand or sweet scents.
The Best New And Old Perfume Brands For Women
The following gives insight into some of the most reputable and influential brands for women.
Guerlain
The house of Guerlain made its debut back in 1828, making it one of the oldest French perfumers. This family-orientated brand enforces only one motto: “Glory is fleeting; only fame lasts.”
Hermes
Before 1974, this household name was known for making saddles and harnesses. Hermes then moved on to stake its claim in the booming perfume industry.
Chanel
This French luxury brand is an acclaimed producer of haute couture that has diversified into more pieces that appeal to the everyday person. Today, Chanel is the most prestigious brand in that it holds onto a foundation of expressing one’s femininity with strength and confidence.
Dior
This luxury empire brings several fields of fashion together. Dior focuses on a traditional take on perfumery with interesting contemporary twists. For decades, this brand has stood its ground and maintained relevance in the world of perfumery.
Yves Saint-Laurent
The contribution of this brand to the overall beauty industry has been impressive, to say the least. Saint-Laurent aims to capture sensuality and self-expression through its popular scents.
Issey Miyake
This Japanese perfumer has conquered Europe with their overflowing ambition and creativity. Miyake has given a small yet significant aesthetic revolution to the world of modern perfumery.
Valentino
Valentino perfumes are the perfect choice for a gift, as they are the ideal combination of quality and affordability.
How To Pick A Perfume As A Gift - In Conclusion
Perfume gift-giving can be very satisfying. But picking the perfect scent for somebody else can be stressful and time-consuming as best sellers are not always the right choice. With a little bit of research and some understanding of what the other person wants, you’re sure to gift a fragrance that they will enjoy and cherish for the time to come. We hope this guide clears up a few things and sets you in the right direction.