How to Choose a Perfume That Really Feels Like You

A simple guide to niche perfumes, styles and scents that reflect who you are

Choosing a perfume is far more than picking a pleasant scent. It’s about expressing personality, mood and identity through something invisible yet deeply powerful. This is where artistic perfumery makes the difference. Niche perfumes offer a wide range of olfactory experiences designed to suit different tastes, lifestyles and needs. From fresh and understated compositions to bold, intense creations, niche fragrance allows everyone to find a scent that feels personal and authentic.

But with so many options available, how do you choose the perfume that truly represents you? Understanding a few key elements can make the journey easier, and far more enjoyable.

Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum and Extrait de Parfum: Understanding the Differences

One of the first aspects to consider when choosing a perfume is its concentration, as this directly affects intensity, longevity and overall character.

Eau de Toilette fragrances are typically lighter and fresher, making them ideal for everyday wear or warmer seasons. They have a concentration of essential oils ranging from 12% to 15% and they tend to sit closer to the skin and offer a discreet, airy presence. A great niche example is Diptyque Philosykos, a green and luminous scent that feels natural, relaxed and effortlessly wearable.

Eau de Parfum strikes a balance between freshness and depth. With higher concentration, ranging from 15% to 20%, it lasts longer on the skin and often becomes a signature scent. Byredo Gypsy Water is a refined option that blends brightness with warmth, adapting easily to both day and evening wear.

For those who love intensity and presence, Extrait de Parfum offers the richest experience. Highly concentrated (from 20% to 30%) and long-lasting, these fragrances are designed to leave a lasting impression. Maison Crivelli Hibiscus Mahajad is a striking example: bold, sensual and layered, perfect for those who want a scent that speaks confidently and unapologetically.

Olfactory Families: Let Your Preferences Guide You

Understanding olfactory families can help narrow down your choices and identify what truly resonates with you.

Citrus and fresh fragrances are energising and vibrant, ideal for those who love brightness and movement. Xerjoff Nio delivers crisp freshness with elegance, making it perfect for active days and dynamic personalities.

Floral perfumes often evoke a more romantic mood, but they can feel expressive and refinement, leaving a subtle yet memorable presence. Frédéric Malle En Passant captures this floral spirit with a modern, confident and personal touch.

Woody and musky scents communicate elegance and confidence. They’re often understated yet distinctive, ideal for those who prefer subtle sophistication. Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 is a modern classic: minimalist, refined and uniquely personal on each wearer.

For those drawn to warmth and sensuality, sweet and spicy fragrances create an immediate emotional impact. Maison Mataha Escapade Gourmande wraps the senses in richness and intensity, perfect for moments when you want to stand out.

Finally, clean-scented perfumes focus on simplicity and purity. Evoking freshly washed skin or crisp linens, they feel intimate and authentic. Juliette Has a Gun Not a Perfume is a prime example, adapting to each person’s skin and becoming a truly personal signature.

Start with Yourself, Not with Trends

Trends come and go, but personal perfume remains. Instead of following what’s popular, ask yourself how you want to feel when wearing a fragrance. Confident? Calm? Energised? Elegant? Perfume has the power to enhance emotions and accompany you through different moments of the day. The right scent doesn’t change who you are, it amplifies it!

Consider the Context

A perfume can feel very different depending on where and when you wear it. Some people prefer one signature scent for every occasion, while others enjoy selecting different fragrances for work, leisure or special events. There’s no right or wrong approach. What matters is choosing a perfume that feels appropriate for the context and comfortable on your skin, helping you feel confident rather than self-conscious.

Leave Room for Discovery

Finding the perfect perfume is rarely instantaneous. It’s a process of discovery that benefits from time and curiosity. Trying samples or discovery sets allows you to experience fragrances over several days, observe how they evolve and understand how they interact with your skin. Often, it’s an unexpected scent that turns out to be the perfect match!

Ultimately, the perfume that represents you is the one you wear effortlessly. The one that feels natural, familiar and unmistakably yours. It becomes part of your presence, subtle yet memorable. Because choosing a perfume isn’t just about scent; it’s about deciding how you want to tell your story to the world!