Fragrance is the odor of flowers or other plants that people put on themselves to make them smell nice. The word is sometimes used interchangeably with perfume, but fragrance refers to the odor of flowers and other plants while perfume is a more general term for a stronger or heavier odor.
Choosing a Perfume or Cologne for Men or Women
It can be overwhelming to choose a scent, particularly when you’re trying to find something that will make your loved one say, “Wow!” But there are ways to narrow your search and help ensure that you end up with the right fragrance. For starters, consider the top notes and middle notes first.
Professional perfumer Kalliope Amorphous says, “Top notes are the first thing you’ll notice when you apply a fragrance.” She recommends starting with a scent that has floral, citrus, or woody top notes.
Middle Notes
The middle notes of a perfume are those that linger longest after the top and base notes have dissipated. These notes include herbs, fruity or floral notes, and aromatics such as bergamot, tea leaves, or white musk.
Niche Parfums
For those who prefer a bolder, more unique fragrance, there are niche brands that create their fragrances with a higher price tag and high-quality ingredients. They appeal to a more selective customer who appreciates the work and expertise that goes into these perfumes.
But beware of the terms “fragrance” and “parfum.” These words are often used to cover dozens, or even hundreds, of chemicals on beauty product labels, including petroleum by-products, synthetics, and parabens. And since companies are legally required to disclose the ingredients used in their products, it’s a good idea to look for ones that clearly state what’s scenting them.