Yahoo Lifestyle Find Your Perfect Fragrance
New directions
Much like the fashion industry, the world of perfumery sees seasonal shifts and the regular emergence of new trends. And with so many fragrance launches every year, choosing a new scent can be overwhelming – so we've narrowed it down for you. Here are our selections of the hottest options to try this summer.
Fresh picks
There's no doubting that floral fragrances are the most popular choice for women, but, according to Kevin Skinner from Galerie de Parfum, Myer Melbourne, there are two distinct types that you should look out for this season. Perfect for the warm weather ahead, the first he suggests are light florals. These uplifting blends combine sweet or fruity notes with a mixed bouquet of blooms. Released just in time for Christmas, try Coach Legacy EDP 50ml, $140.
Single blooms
The other big news for floral scents is a more distinctive celebration of just one flower, such as the Italian jasmine in Acqua di Parma Gelsomino Nobile EDP 50ml, $135. New technology has allowed perfumers to experiment with traditional blooms in a modern way. Experience a new take on lavender with Chanel Les Exclusifs Jersey EDT 75ml, $220, or violet in Tom Ford Violet Blonde EDP 50ml, $155.
Sweet treats
"Even though florals are the largest category [in women's perfumery], the biggest trend is in gourmands," says Catherine Walsh, senior vice president, Coty Prestige. She adds that these perfumes smell like tempting foods, such as vanilla, caramel and chocolate. For a bit of indulgence, we love Prada Candy EDP 50ml, $129.
Rule breakers
"A lot of women are going for more masculine fragrances because they don’t like to be boxed in to wearing something pretty and feminine,” states Christopher Sheldrake, Chanel director of research and development for fragrances. Green, citrus and woody notes have been traditionally used in male colognes, but, as Sheldrake explains, this doesn’t make them any less sexy; in fact, these confident concoctions ooze sensuality. Smell the violet leaves in Balenciaga L’Essence EDP 50ml, $145, or, for an uplifting citrus blend, spritz on Maison Martin Margiela Untitled L’Eau EDT 100ml, $145.
Shopping scents
More than just an accessory, a fragrance can enhance your mood and play up your personality. With this in mind, Sheldrake suggests taking your time when looking for a new perfume. "You're going to live with it and it's going to become part of you," he says. When giving fragrance as a gift, Skinner recommends considering what the recipient has worn in the past, and also "their personality, hobbies, and where and when you think they’ll wear the scent". Whether it's for you or someone special, the easiest way to choose is by thinking of perfumes in distinct olfactory groups and the types of people that are usually drawn to them.
Floral
"Women who wear these scents love to feel feminine and sometimes playful," says Skinner. There's no doubt this is the most popular group among women and is a safe choice for a gift.
New buys to try: Cartier de Lune EDT 45ml, $89, and Jo Malone Wild Bluebell Cologne 100ml, $170.
Oriental
Sexy and confident, this spicy variety makes a statement. "Wear them in the evening, rather than to work or in the morning," advises Sheldrake. Expect warm notes, such as vanilla, musk and amber.
New buys to try: Thierry Mugler Angel EDT 40ml, $79, and Agent Provocateur L'Agent EDP 50ml, $128.
Woody
"These perfumes are chic and elegant," says Sheldrake. Boasting traditionally masculine ingredients, such as sandalwood and cedar, these blends are for women who feel comfortable in their own skin.
New buys to try: Elie Saab Le Parfum EDP 50ml, $138, and Bottega Veneta EDP 50ml, $150.
Fresh
Lighter than the other groups, these uplifting perfumes often include green and citrus notes. They're great for the weekend, a summer’s day, or if you prefer a more subtle scent.
New buys to try: Hermès Un Jardin Sur Le Toit EDT 100ml, $180, and Keiko Mecheri Paradise Lost EDP 75ml, $225.
Sample a spin-off
Whether you're buying perfume as a gift or for yourself, the numerous options can make it difficult to decide. If this is the case, Walsh suggests being "guided by what you traditionally wear, first and foremost". With many limited-edition buys and twists on old favourites now available, this means you needn't settle on something you've worn before.
New releases: Calvin Klein Forbidden Euphoria EDP 50ml, $90; Chloé Love, Chloé Eau Intense EDP 50ml, $130; Estée Lauder Sensuous Nude EDP 100ml, $150; Lancôme Trésor Midnight Rose EDP 50ml, $112; Dior J’Adore EDT 100ml, $155; Guerlain Idylle Eau Sublime EDT 70ml, $130; Michael Kors Limited-Edition Gold EDP 50ml, $138.
Selecting a signature fragrance
"It's a tough call to smell something once and think, 'OK, I love it,'" cautions Walsh. This is especially true if you’ve appreciated a perfume on someone else, or after trying it on a tester card. "Fragrances can change drastically on every person's skin," she continues. The most important thing to do is sample a variety on cards first. If your nose starts to feel overwhelmed, clear it by smelling the coffee beans provided at cosmetics counters. Next, you'll need to narrow your choice down to two contenders and spray one on each wrist. Skinner recommends waiting at least two hours to see how they settle on your skin before making your final selection.
