Perfumes have been in existence since the first time people got close enough together to smell each other. Even in the post-Industrial Revolution world, when more people than ever have access to running water, electricity and hygeine products, perfumes (which were originally meant to mask unpleasant odors) have remained popular. Designer fragrances are now among the loftiest of social status indicators, with an importance that is tantamout to clothing and jewelry.
Historical Favorites
It is true that designer perfumes come at a higher price. There is a tier of designer fragrances that can be found at chain drugstores, such as Cool Water or good old Chanel, but high-end department storess or professional perfumeries are the only places where some of the more coveted fragrances are sold. These would be brands like Creed Fleurissimo (a favorite of Queen Victoria in her day) and Gianni Versace. Stores that carry such elite brands are also more likely to have test bottles available than drug stores, which generally do not.
Something for Every Woman (And Man)
Celebrity fragrances are always popular, such as those endorsed by Sarah Jessica Parker and Britney Spears, and can be found at most retail outlets. Not only will you smell nice, it gives others a chance to guess which perfume you’re wearing. The flattery goes both ways when you’re able to tell someone that they guessed right! In today’s culture, there are also unisex fragrances that both men and women can wear, like Donna Karan’s Be Delicious or CK One Summer (by Calvin Klein).
For those who see perfumes for women the way others see wine or cigars – and there are many of them – there are different designer perfumes for day or night, for birthdays or weddings, and for different vacation climates. The real aficionados even know how to apply their fragrances in layers. No matter the heights of your personal taste, there is one rule of thumb that applies to all who use perfume: A little goes a long way. With that in mind, splurging for a decanter of the good stuff might not seem so financially extravagant after all.