or most of us, reaching for a bottle of perfume or cologne is a simple part of our after-shower routine, something we don’t give much more thought to than brushing our teeth. But perhaps it’s something we should put a bit more thought into.
FashionBeans quotes fragrance archivist James Craven, who serves at London’s oldest perfumery: “Because the sense of smell leads us straight to that part of the brain that deals with our emotions, completely bypassing rationale, you might say our choice of fragrance leaves us stripped emotionally naked.”
There’s nothing wrong with expressing who you are, whether through fragrance or any other means. There are times, however, when we may want to project a specific image of ourselves, and fragrance is a subtle but powerful way we can do that.
Aquatic or marine fragrances speak to elegant simplicity. A man wearing a marine scent is telling the world, “What you see is what you get.” Women wearing aquatic fragrances present as free-spirited, spontaneous, and energetic. Male or female, that whiff of salty ocean spray tells the world you’re a bit of a dreamer, but deliciously uncomplicated.
Consider a citrus fragrance if you want the world to know you’re the leader of the pack, the alpha. Women wearing fruity scents present as energetic and bold, as someone who loves being around people. Men wearing citrus present as competitive, vibrant, and sporty. Regardless of gender, citrus speaks of ambition.
Want to come across as the life of the party? Try a gourmand fragrance (one patterned after edible flavors like honey, vanilla, cinnamon, chocolate, or even coffee). Men wearing gourmand scents are seen as adventurous, sensual, curious, and a bit hedonistic. For women, gourmand fragrances say you’re bright and bubbly, enjoying having all eyes on you without taking yourself too seriously.
Want to own the night? Go with something oriental. Want to tell the world you’re a self-assured, strong man? Try an oud fragrance. Need to present yourself as steady? Wood scents should be your go-to. Florals tell the world you’re feminine and carefree (or, for men bold enough to wear them, they speak of self-confidence and being comfortable with yourself). Green scents (based on green tea, basil, cucumber, etc.) tell the world you’re sophisticated and chic.
There’s nothing wrong with expressing who you are, whether through fragrance or any other means. There are times, however, when we may want to project a specific image of ourselves, and fragrance is a subtle but powerful way we can do that.
The bottom line? The two seconds you spend spritzing or splashing in the morning go a lot further than you may think in telling the rest of the world who you are, so choose your fragrance with care.