Perfume 101- A Beginner’s Guide to Fragrance Terminology
The terminology used in the world of perfumes and fragrances can seem rather bewildering. Unfamiliar French terms used to describe a perfume’s characteristics, plus the complex scent descriptions utilized can often boggle the mind. This guide serves as your key to unlocking the fascinating lexicon of perfumery, and equips you with the essential terminology used. Let’s take a look at some of the must-know terms that you shall encounter while browsing for fragrances online:
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Fragrance Notes:
A perfume is like a harmony of various notes of a musical symphony. And much like a musical symphony here too, different notes play at various intervals, unfolding different fragrances in layers over time. These layers are categorized as top notes, heart notes and base notes, and each plays a vital role in the overall olfactory experience.
- Top Notes: Top notes make the first impression of a given perfume. Some popular top notes are the citrusy scent of bergamot and lime and herb-like notes of lavender and rosemary. These notes reach your nose first after you apply the perfume but fade away relatively quickly. These are the notes that set the mood of the scent.
- Heart Notes: The heart notes emerge once the top notes evaporate. These notes are richer and more complex and can take some time to develop and be perceived. Floral notes such as rose and jasmine and spicy notes of cinnamon and nutmeg are some popular heart notes. Heart notes last longer and define the perfume’s true character.
- Base Notes: These notes form the foundation of a perfume. Popular base notes include woody sandalwood and cedar, or balsamic vanilla and tonka bean. They provide depth to the perfume and take the longest time to develop. They linger the longest on the skin, leaving a lasting impression.
Eau de Parfum (EDP) vs. Eau de Toilette (EDT):
These terms refer to a perfume’s concentration and are directly linked to its intensity and longevity.
- Eau de Parfum (EDP): EDPs have a higher concentration of perfume oils (usually 15-20%), making them long-lasting (around 4-8 hours). They’re the go-to choice for those who want a fragrance that lingers throughout the day.
- Eau de Toilette (EDT): EDTs contain a lower concentration of perfume oils (around 5-15%) and have a shorter lifespan (2-4 hours). Lighter in smell, they are ideal for daytime wear or for those who prefer a subtler fragrance.
Sillage:
Sillage, derived from the French word meaning “wake” or “trail”, is the trail of scent you leave behind as you walk through a room. Depending on the notes of a perfume, the sillage of a perfume can be heavier or lighter.
Projection:
Projection refers to how strongly a fragrance radiates from the skin, and influences how far others can perceive it. A perfume with high projection reaches out wider, while a low projection fragrance creates a more intimate scent bubble.
This guide should help you navigate the world of perfumes with ease so that you can find the perfect fragrance suited for you. Equipped with this fragrance glossary, you can confidently browse for and buy perfumes online!
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