With hundreds of new fragrances, how do you know which are for you? The secret: Use your style as your guide.
By Katie Becker
Jon Paterson / Studio D
With hundreds of new fragrances, how do you know which are for you? The secret: Use your style as your guide. "Like fashion, your scent should fit your mood and where you're going," says Sheena Chandran, Sephora's director of fragrance merchandising. "It's the invisible finishing touch." Here, the perfect perfumes to complement your look.
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LADYLIKE & ELEGANT
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If you're a classic type who likes sophisticated dresses with fur and pearl details, you'll feel most polished wearing white floral scents. "Grace Kelly favored these fragrances," says Ben Krigler, the fifth-generation nose of New York's Krigler perfumes. "Mimosa, iris, and peonies have a connotation of high society." Jasmine and lily are also refined picks.
Runway looks: Balenciaga and Oscar de la Renta Fall 2015
When you want to play up your girly side in a pink frock or a frilly number, spritz on a sugary, gourmand scent. "There is an addictive quality to these smells that attracts people to you," says Krigler. Look for fruity notes such as plum, passion fruit, and pear, or intoxicating sugarcane, coffee bean, and caramel. Sweet florals like lily of the valley are equally playful.
A woman who loves a chic pantsuit or menswear-inspired accessories with an of-the-moment androgynous edge "needs a strong balance of feminine and masculine notes," suggests Chandran. Popular combinations this season: lush, full florals like rose and jasmine spiked with deep, clean woods like sandalwood and cedarwood. Soft amber helps anchor the duality.
Runway looks: Narciso Rodriguez and Boss Fall 2015
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Jon Paterson / Studio D
Michael Kors Rose Radiant Gold, $100, macys.com; Tom Ford Noir Pour Femme, $115, macys.com; Donna Karan Liquid Cashmere Black, $108, lordandtaylor.com; Narciso Rodriguez Narciso Eau de Toilette, $96, bloomingdales.com; Byredo Parfums Rose of No Man's Land, $220, barneys.com; Bottega Veneta Knot Eau Florale, $125, bloomingdales.com.
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GLAM & SEXY
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On nights that call for a look-at-me LBD with strategically exposed skin, opt for an unforgettable scent. "Women who want to be seen will like intense spices," says perfumer Yves Cassar. Black pepper, saffron, incense, and leather notes all leave a lasting impression. New concentrated formulas and oils are extra alluring when dabbed directly on the neck and décolleté.
Runway looks: Dolce & Gabbana and Emilio Pucci Fall 2015
The free spirit who reaches for elaborate ethnic prints and fringed skirts and wears her hair in beachy waves will be at home in a patchouli-based blend. "It's woody, earthy, and one of the most complex notes perfumers use," says Cassar, who helped create Calvin Klein's Euphoria Essence. Bright accents like pink pepper and citrus add freshness for fragrances that are young and effortless.