Perfume shopping guide: How to find your perfect fragrance

Perfume notes and personality: Your signature scent is deeply personal. Take your time, sample different fragrances, and see how they evolve on your skin (Image: Canva)

Have you ever caught a whiff of someone’s fragrance and thought: That scent is so them. A signature perfume is a pleasant aroma and also an invisible accessory that speaks a lot about who you are. The right scent can create a lasting impression, evoke memories, and even boost your confidence. However, with countless options, the process of finding your perfect fragrance could be overwhelming and confusing.

Your fragrance reaches people before your handshake does, speaking volumes without a word. Therefore, choosing the right perfume is more than smelling good; it’s about discovering a scent that resonates with your personality, mood, and lifestyle, says Rishi Verma, founder of NEESH. “Much like fashion or music preferences, the fragrance you wear becomes a part of your identity. It is, therefore, important to understand the fragrance families and trust your instinct, so that you can curate a scent wardrobe that feels authentic and empowering,” she says.

Understanding fragrance families:

The first step to finding your ideal perfume is understanding the different fragrance families. Each category has its own distinct characteristics that appeal to different personalities and moods. Verma shares:

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Floral: Soft, romantic, and timeless, floral fragrances are perfect for graceful and sophisticated people. “Classic scents like rose or jasmine are perfect for someone who enjoys elegance and warmth. Floral perfumes are like a bouquet of emotions, ideal for someone who wants to leave a delicate yet memorable impression,” says Verma.

Fruity: Lively, sweet, and youthful, fruity fragrances are good for people with adventurous spirits. “If you’re drawn to spontaneity and fun, a scent with apple, peach, or berry notes might be your match,” she adds.

Oriental: Bold, exotic, and mysterious, these scents often feature warm spices, vanilla, or amber. “Perfect for someone who enjoys standing out in a crowd, oriental fragrances exude confidence and allure. This fragrance family is for people who want their presence to be felt long after they’ve left the room,” Verma informs.

Woody: Grounded, earthy, and sophisticated, woody fragrances often combine sandalwood, cedar, or patchouli. They suit people who value strength, reliability, and understated elegance.

Fresh: Crisp, clean, and invigorating, fresh scents with hints of citrus or oceanic notes are ideal for energetic personalities who embrace life with optimism and enthusiasm.

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How to choose the right scent for your personality:

When selecting a perfume, think about the message you want to convey. “If you’re outgoing and love socialising, a bright fruity or fresh fragrance might capture your energy. For those who prefer a touch of mystery, an oriental or woody scent can create a warm, inviting aura,” says Verma. She advises not to overlook the seasonal aspect of fragrances: “Spring and summer call for lighter, more refreshing scents, while autumn and winter are perfect for richer, deeper aromas that create warmth and comfort.”

Trust your instinct:

Lastly, your signature scent is deeply personal. Take your time, sample different fragrances, and see how they evolve on your skin. “A great fragrance should make you feel confident and connected to yourself. That’s the magic of finding the one that’s truly yours,” Verma adds.