These feminine fragrances are nothing like your grandmother’s scents, lovely as they may be. They’re crisp with juxtaposed notes, such as lily of the valley with truffle, or patchouli with rose and peony. The contrast provides depth to their whimsical flowery qualities.
From top: Stella McCartney L.I.L.Y Eau de Parfum, $90 for 50 ml; L’Eau de Chloé Eau de Toilette, $105 for 100 ml; Miss Dior Chérie Blooming Bouquet Eau de Toilette (limited edition), $92 for 50 ml
To sum up these fruity fragrances would be like trying to do so with fresh linens, spring air or the ocean. Each one has that unforgettable elusive, zesty quality. Ginger, orange blossom, lemon and blue lotus lend invigorating and awakening powers that are more effective (and mouth-watering) than a strong cup of coffee.
From top: Jimmy Choo Eau de Toilette, $63 for 60 ml; Lancôme ô De L’Orangerie Eau de Toilette, $54 for 75 ml; Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Lys Soleia Eau de Toilette $63 for 75 ml; Ralph Lauren The Big Pony Collection #1 Eau de Toilette, $65 for 100 ml
If we had to choose one woman to embody this group of sensual scents, it would be Brigitte Bardot. Notice-me notes like vanilla, tonka bean and sandalwood add an alluring and intoxicating quality. The best part? These eaux smell even better on the skin after a few hours of wear. Think sexy, overtly so
From top: Heidi Klum Summer Shine Eau de Toilette (limited edition), $35 for 30 ml, Prada Infusion d’Iris Eau de Parfum Absolue, $105 for 50 ml, Roberto Cavalli Eau de Parfum, $80 for 50 ml
While getting dressed for work one morning, I played a little guessing game with my husband. I extended my freshly spritzed wrist and coyly asked him what he was reminded of, sure he’d be instantly transported—as I was—to our romantic honeymoon in the Greek islands. Instead, all I got was a raised eyebrow. Fast-forward through the he-said-she-said banter, and what was left was disappointment (How could he not remember the fragrance I wore during such a special time?), or in his case, confusion. Was I wrong to be miffed that my other half didn’t remember the scent, even after I explained why he should? OK, I admit that I may be a little obsessive about my perfumes; I base my daily sprays on my mood, my outfit and even the places I visit. Each spritz holds a key that unlocks a special memory, like Guerlain’s Aqua Allegoria Angélique-Lilas, the honeymoon perfume in question. Every time I wear a different one, I get to relive a special moment. In What The Nose Knows: The Science of Scent in Everyday Life, author Avery Gilbert talks about one’s “smellscape”—the unique-to-you scents that shape and form one’s childhood. I can’t help but think of the fragrances that have perfumed my memory lane.
Tania KwongTania Kwong is Glow's beauty editor. Obsessiveness is clearly intrinsic to her personality: She also describes herself as a "magazine hoarder" stretching back to when she devoured every issue of Bop and Sassy as a teenager.
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