Finding your signature scent is a special moment; it’s a personal choice that feels right for you in so many ways!  But before you get there, there are several factors to be explored. So, whether you’re just bored of the scent you always reach for, or you’re starting your journey into the world of fragrances, our experts here at The Perfume Shop are here to help. Welcome to our ultimate guide on choosing the right perfume for you!

1. DON’T TRY TOO MANY FRAGRANCES IN ONE GO
Even if you have made it your mission to find your new signature scent, it’s worth limiting the amount you try at one time to a maximum of three. Test your chosen fragrances on different areas of your skin for at least 24 hours before you make a decision. This way, you can really appreciate and understand how the scent will develop on your skin.

2. DON’T RUSH THE PROCESS
When you first spray perfume, the notes you will experience are known as ‘top notes’. These will linger for a while, but then they will develop into the heart notes. Then finally, this will dry down into the longer-lasting base notes. Never decide whether a perfume is the one for you from the first spray, as you have several hours of developing scent to experience after the first spritz.

3. UNDERSTAND FRAGRANCE NOTES AND FAMILIES
Do you already have a collection of perfumes? If so, what do they say about you? Do you favour florals? Are your scents bursting with warm, amber notes? Or perhaps you adore the crisp, freshness of citrus? If so, you can use this knowledge as the base of your search for a new perfume. Alternatively, you can explore fragrance families which are the opposite of your usual go-to if you are in the mood for something totally new!

4. FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCTS
Ouds might be booming in popularity and fancy flowers maybe your best friends top pick, but you should never select a scent based on other people’s opinions. It is a personal choice, so always go with what naturally appeals to your senses and style.

5. SHOPPING ONLINE? TRY THESE SERVICES
If you cannot get to one of our The Perfume Shop stores, it doesn’t mean your journey to finding the right scent for you has hit a dead end. Why not try one of our online services created to help you buy a perfume when you can’t test it in person?

First, we have our Fragrance Finder. You will be asked a few questions, and based on your answers, the fragrance finder will suggest some perfumes you may like.