How to find a fitting fragrance

First impressions are important, and nothing makes a bigger statement than the perfect fragrance. More than any other sense, smell influences our emotions, memories, and even desires. Unfortunately, scouring department store counters for a personal scent is a tricky undertaking.

Such an activity has only grown more difficult in recent years, as the fragrance industry continues to grow and expand, establishing all-time highs in sales along the way. Much of that growth is due in large part to celebrity fragrances. For instance, Britney Spears’ blockbuster Curious brand fragrance reportedly earned $100 million in counter sales in 2004, the year it was launched.

While the boom in celebrity scents has proven beneficial for the fragrance industry, consumers are still left with a market that now includes hundreds of choices. When it comes to wearing and choosing a fragrance, those looking to make a lasting first impression would be wise to consider the following.

Choosing a Fragrance

The key to finding your perfect scent is understanding what kind of impact you want to make.

For those looking for something classic, a citrus scent with floral undertones is your best bet. “Sharp citrus notes of bergamot, orange, lemon, and mandarin are excellent for both day and night,” said Tom Moloney, managing director of the Clarecastle Group. “Best of all, most classic fragrances are unisex, so men and women can share equally.”

Oriental-blend fragrances, featuring exotic flowers and musky base notes of vanilla, sandalwood, and patchouli, are most appropriate for those who are more outgoing and boast busy social schedules.

Those looking for more understated fragrances for such events as casual get-togethers or other more laid back gatherings would probably find what they’re looking for with floral perfumes. Soft scents such as lilac, violet, and jasmine create a subtle femininity.

Testing Fragrances

You should never make a fragrance purchase simply because it is something your friend is raving about. Since perfumes can be perceived in different ways depending upon body temperature and other external factors, it’s important to try the fragrance on your wrist and discover the subtle ways it changes as the day goes on. As it evaporates and the fragrance notes expire, you’ll get a good sense as to whether this is the right fragrance for you.

Wearing a Fragrance

There is an art to wearing a fragrance once you have discovered the perfect one. The best place to dab or spray is in any area around your body where the highest body temperature is maintained (wrist, inner arms, chest, thighs and legs). Avoid spraying the fragrance around the face where your sense of smell is acutely sensitive. You should also avoid spraying fragrances on delicate garments, such as silk, since it may cause staining.

Get to know how your fragrances react during the course of a day. This way you can moderate application so that you don’t overwhelm those around you. When applied correctly, a person should get a faint whiff of the fragrance when you pass by.

While making a strong first impression may not be easy, doing so with scent doesn’t need to be so hard. Whether your department store scouring leaves you loving a classic, romantic, or sexy fragrance – wear one that truly embodies your personality and will make a lasting statement.