Fragrance Focus: Finding the Perfect Scent for You

We all know the power of fragrance. Just one spray of [Tom Ford](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/search/?cgid=tomFord)’s classic _Neroli Portofino_ – with its sparkling citrus notes of bergamot and warming undertones of rosemary – can transport you to the shores of the Italian Riviera, regardless of whether you’ve been there before. More importantly, the right perfume has the power to make you feel wonderful. Everyone’s relationship with fragrance is different. Some people find their favourite scent early on and happily wear it for decades to come, establishing a signature scent that becomes their personal olfactory fingerprint. Others build a fragrance wardrobe, carefully curating perfumes to meet the demands of changing whims, dress codes, events and seasons. With so many wonderful perfumes out there, why limit yourself to just one? And just in time to celebrate National Fragrance Week, we help you decode which scent is for you. #### How to Find Your Favourite Fragrance Choosing a new fragrance, whether a signature scent or the latest addition to your perfume library, is an exciting sensory adventure. To begin with, think about your favourite seasons and foods to guide you towards the right fragrance family. If you enjoy blossoming gardens in the summer, you’ll be drawn towards fresh, floral and fruity scents. If you love rich and fragrant foods, oriental perfumes will satisfy your appetite for spices and warmth. For those who like walking through the countryside just after rainfall, woody and green perfumes are the perfect scent. Ideally, you want to trial lots of options. Your nose, however, can only distinguish a few fragrances at a time, so avoid overloading it and only test four perfumes in one sitting. Your body chemistry – such as hormones and perspiration – also has a massive impact on the way perfumes settle and affects how the notes unfurl. Apply the fragrance to pulse points, where your natural body heat helps the molecules to disperse, and enjoy the top, heart and base notes revealing themselves throughout the day. #### If You Like...Fresh Invigorating and uplifting, fresh fragrances can be aquatic, green or fruity, and are perfect for daytime and summer.

#### If You Like...Floral Elegant and feminine, floral fragrances encompass everything from delicate violets and velvety roses to intoxicating gardenias and soothing jasmine.

#### If You Like...Wood From the sweet tones of cedar to the powdery notes of sandal and mossy oak accords, woody fragrances are composed and understated.

#### If You Like...Oriental Complicated and sensual, oriental fragrances are warm and spicy, making them perfect for evenings and special occasions.

_Image via Jo Malone London_