Contrary to popular belief, there isn’t a hard-and-fast rule about “age-appropriate fragrances.” The better way to get a feel for what’s right for your skin is to gauge which flavours and smells you enjoy over others: do you prefer floral rather than citrus, spicy or fruity, sweet over musky?
There are many lovely fragrances that can be worn from your first purchase right through to the last bottle you ever buy for yourself. It certainly isn’t true that you can’t wear certain perfumes when you’re at a certain age, but our noses do go through changes at different stages of our lives. International fragrance expert Roja Dove has some tips to guide us through our choices.
20s
Dove believes that this is the time to experiment – the world is your bouquet. At this age, sweet, light, fresh fragrances are in vogue. Celeb scents are also perfect, as they’re fun and playful.
SCENTS: Nicki Minaj Pink Friday 50ml, DKNY Be Delicious 30ml
TIP Spend a little more on the extras that might come in a gift set, like a body lotion that will help you layer your scent. Apply to your pulse points (wrists, crook of your arm and knee, behind the ears and collarbone) where your skin gives off more heat.
30s
This is the decade where your nose starts to shift a little and you may prefer perfumes that have more depth and sensuality, as opposed to just smelling pretty. You’ll start choosing sensual, warmer notes. If you like the EdT – eau de toilette of a fragrance, try its heavier version – the EdP – eau de parfum.
SCENTS: Estée Lauder Pleasures 50ml, Narciso Rodriguez For Her 50ml
TIP If you find a spray dries out your skin, opt for a fragrance-infused balm as it offers hydration.
40s
You know what kind of fragrance you like by now, and Dove says that this is the time to shop for sophistication and femininity. Choose more complex (yet subtle) blends that convey something interesting.
SCENTS: Elizabeth Arden Red Door 100ml, Bvlgari Omnia
40ml
TIP Now that you’ve found a perfume you love, be sure to store it correctly. The best place is cool and dark (like the fridge, but far away from food like butter which can absorb the scent).