8 Things Everyone Should Know About Fragrances

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Scent is powerful. It can transport us to a different time and place, evoke emotions, and create lasting memories.
But when it comes to fragrances, there's a lot more than meets the nose. Here are 8 fascinating things everyone should know about the world of fragrances.
#1 Fragrance classification is complex
Fragrances are typically classified into major families:
• Floral (rose, jasmine, lavender) Donna inspired by Valentino Donna Born in Roma
• Fresh (citrus, green, oceanic) Key Lime Gelato, a citrus, gourmand scent.
• Oriental (amber, vanilla, spice) Afternoon by Afternoon Swim includes Amber notes.
• Woody (sandalwood, cedar, patchouli) Millionaire Elixir, a Woody-amber scent.
• Fougère (fern-like, lavender, coumarin) Wanted inspired by Azzaro The Most Wanted a Fougère Oriental scent.
But modern fragrances often combine notes across families for unique scents. Top, middle, and base notes also unfold over time.
#2 Natural vs synthetic ingredients
Fragrances today use both natural and synthetic ingredients. Natural ingredients like essential oils can be extracted from flowers, fruits, woods, resins, and more. But natural extracts are costly.
Synthetics allow perfumers to design consistent, affordable fragrances. But some synthetics have come under scrutiny for potential health effects.
#3 Fragrance notes and accords
Key ingredients in fragrances are called notes. Notes are combined into accords - scent impressions. For example:
• Top notes - first impressions (citrus, herbs)
• Heart notes - main theme (floral, oriental)
• Base notes - foundational, lingering (wood, musk)
Notes and accords interact to tell an olfactory story that unfolds over time. Master perfumers composing fragrances are like musicians writing a symphony.
#4 The fragrance industry is secretive
Unlike food or drug labeling, fragrance brands don't have to disclose all ingredients. Fragrances are considered trade secrets.
This leads to consumer complaints about undisclosed allergens or chemicals of concern. But brands argue full disclosure would destroy creativity and innovation. The debate continues.
#5 Vintage fragrances can still be found
Discontinued or "vintage" fragrances from decades past are collectible for perfume enthusiasts. Vintage scents can capture nostalgia and transport wearers back in time.
Popular vintage fragrances include:
• Chanel No. 5
• Guerlain Shalimar
• Dior Poison
• Midnight inspired by Yves Saint Laurent Opium
Vintage fragrances can still be found at estate sales, on resale sites, or from collectors. But quality and storage impact longevity.
#6 Prices reflect supply chain, marketing, more
Why is perfume so expensive? Key factors include:
• Rare natural ingredients like oud, ambergris
• Brand marketing and packaging
• Celeb endorsements, ad campaigns
• Retail displays, department store commissions
• Supply chain from crops to production to market
So, while the actual fragrance compound may not cost much, by the time it reaches shelves - you'll pay a premium.
#7 Fake fragrances flood the market
The global copyright perfume market is booming, with fakes costing Cologne brands billions annually. Warning signs of copyright fragrances:
• Cheap prices online or in discount stores
• Misspellings or odd phrasing on packaging
• Not sold by authorized retailers
• Odd or chemical smell
Stick to reputable retailers or brands' official sites to avoid wasting money on imitation scents.
#8 Fragrances don't have to be gendered
Traditionally, floral or sweet scents were marketed to women while woodsy, spicy fragrances targeted men. However, gender norms are evolving.
Wear any fragrance that makes you feel happy and confident, no matter how it's categorized. Explore perfumeries with an open mind and see what scents appeal most to you.
Fragrance preferences are profoundly personal. Hopefully, these facts give some insight into this multi-billion dollar industry. Scent speaks to the emotions, so find a signature fragrance that makes you feel your best every day.