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Anthropologie Provence Society

Finding the right scent can be a bit like a scavenger hunt. Perfume isn't a one-size-fits-all accessory, but a personal expression of your taste, style and mood. What works wonders for your best friend might not perform as well on you. Here are a few tips or fragrance hacks to guide you through finding "the one" for you on your next olfactive adventure.

Know the Scent Families

We are all creatures of habit; we reach for the same thing with different packaging every single time. It’s easier to navigate through the multitude of scents when you know which family your favorite scents are in.

a. Floral/Sweet

b. Citrus/Fruity/Fresh

c. Oriental/Spicy

d. Woody/Chypre

Knowing which family of scents you like will narrow down the playing field. Personally my favorite perfumes all fall in the Citrus/Fruity/Fresh category.

Buy for the Current Season

When you walk up to your fragrance counter or favorite e-tailer for scents, purchase for the current season you're in and then switch it up with some of the scents you already own. Floral/Sweet scents are your go-to for springtime. Citrus/Fruity/Fresh is ideal for warmer weather in the summer. In cooler weather, the stronger scents (Woody/Chypre) work best. Personally, I think the Oriental/Spicy scents can be worn year round, but they are best appreciated when worn at night.

Take Your Skin Type into Account

For those with dry skin the scent will dissipate more quickly. A highly concentrated perfume will have more staying-power for you than an Eau de Toilette.

Spray it on Your Skin Last

I am a perfume addict by definition! Every time I see new fragrances the first thing I do is spritz it on my skin and by the time I actually find a new one I like there is no room on my arms to test the scent. Instead of testing your skin, spray it on a blotter card first. After five minutes, smell it again to see if it still speaks to you. If it does then you can spray it on your skin.

Time of Day Matters

Did you know that our sense of smell is keener as the day progresses? It is also keener in warmer weather. Try shopping later in the day so you can best smell the different perfumes.