It’s time to discover your next signature scent. We’ve sorted the world of perfume into two main families to help you find your perfect match. Whether your mood calls for timeless woody classics or fresh vibrant spritzes, we got you!
Notes About Notes
Ever wondered why your fave perfume smells so great in the store, but a little different an hour later? You’re not imagining things… it’s all about the passage of time. Here’s the scoop on how it all works:
The First Impression (Top Notes)
These are the scents you smell when you spritz. Top notes are designed to make an immediate impact. You’ll notice them immediately, but they’ll fade in about 15 to 20 minutes. Think of them as the friendly hello that gets you hooked.
The Heart (Middle Notes)
After about 20 minutes, as the top notes fade, the middle notes (also known as heart notes) emerge. These form the core of the fragrance and are what you’ll smell for the majority of the day. This is where the perfume truly shows its personality.
The Base (Base Notes)
These are the foundation of the fragrance, the deep and long-lasting scents that provide richness and stability. You’ll start to notice them after about 30 minutes and they’re what lingers on your skin for hours.
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The Classics
This category features deeper notes like cedar, sandalwood, patchouli and oud. They usually go hand in hand with spicy, ambery and musky notes for a scent that’s deep and inviting.
Salvatore Ferragamo Ferragamo Fiamma EDP
Wow factor alert! A signature fragrance in the making, it opens fresh with notes of white pear, saffron and cherry. In the heart, jasmine and gardenia bloom. At the base, ambrox, patchouli and musk. Run – don’t walk for this.
Gucci The Alchemist’s Garden Vanilla Firenze Eau de Parfum
Not your typical sweet vanilla; this brand-new release is sophisticated, complex and beautifully balanced. The star is creamy vanilla, while its deep middle notes are woody. As it settles, a clean, soft musk lingers.
Kylie Jenner Cosmic EDP
This versatile fragrance bursts with blood orange and jasmine, transitioning into a warm heart of golden amber and peony. It finishes with a blend of cedarwood and vanilla musk. A crowd-pleaser.
Chloé Atelier des Fleurs Cèdres Intense EDP
Even though this is categorised as a woody fragrance, it’s got a bright, fresh opening that makes one think of warm days. It absolutely deserves a place in anyone’s collection.
Elie Saab Le Parfum EDP
Uplifting and romantic, this scent opens with radiant orange blossom, leading to a heart of jasmine and patchouli. It finishes with a woody, honey-rose base, creating a timeless. Perfect gift for gifting.
Rochas Audace EDP
Forget everything you know about the vintage version; the 2025 scent is bold and modern. It opens with sweet mandarin and raspberry, has a heart of white florals and a creamy, warm base of tonka and musk. It’s an unapologetic on-trend scent.
Sisley Soir de Lune EDP
This could easily be mistaken for a vintage scent from a bygone era. Not for the timid, it opens with spicy citrus, blooms with floral notes and finishes with a strong, woody musk. It’s a true statement scent.
READ MORE: Master Trick On How To Pick Your New Summer Signature Fragrance
The Fresh Takes
This group contains fragrances that are lighter, brighter and more energetic. These scents are defined by fresh floral bouquets, zesty citrus top notes and playful fruity accords.
Roberto Cavalli Paradiso Rosa EDP
A gorgeous spring fragrance, perfect for warm days and evenings. Expect a bright and vibrant introduction of pink grapefruit and raspberry. It settles into its floral heart, then the base of the fragrance is where it gains its sensual, lasting power.
Kate Spade Bloom EDT
A bright and charming floral-fruity scent. Crisp, zesty citrus and green fruit notes provide an invigorating burst that is the hallmark of a “fresh” perfume. Even as it dries down to a soft, woody base, an airy quality remains. A feel-good fragrance for sure.
Gucci The Alchemist’s Garden Osmanthus Nectar EDP
We guarantee love at first sniff. Instead of traditional citrus, this has vibrant apricot notes, which is a core part of the osmanthus flower’s natural aroma. It’s given a lift by a delicate tea note, adding an aromatic and slight greenness. Very unique, very refined.
Jimmy Choo I Want Choo Le Parfum
Top notes of pear and bright blackberry, which create an immediate, uplifting fruity accord. The fragrance evolves due to the jasmine and ambrette notes, but it ultimately settles into a warm, amber-floral and woody base. This strikes a beautiful balance between fresh and creamy, making it a versatile choice.
Lacoste L.12.12 Silver Rose EDP
A modern and elegant floral scent with a clean, sophisticated feel. It’s a fresh take on a classic rose perfume. What makes it fresh? Citrus accords create a crisp, sparkling and slightly tangy scent that contrasts with the softness of the rose.
The Body Shop Rebel Rosebud Fragrance Mist
A light and affordable mist that offers a spicy, sensual take on the rose. It’s designed for a quick refresh and a bold and energising vibe. Love it!
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This article first appeared in the September/October 2025 Issue of Women’s Health South Africa. Words by Lizzy Ferret and Gotlhokwang Angoma-Mzini.
