How to choose your signature scent

This is the power of perfume: It can take us away to another place, and it can also bring back memories. The history of fragrance reflects humanity since it served as a means of exchange and expression, a gallant protection against disease, and a potion with divine virtues. A world without perfume would definitely be a world without history.

Choosing a fragrance is like choosing the perfect outfit to wear. It all depends on preference, mood, occasion, and the memory the fragrance brings. My perfume collection is composed of florals, woods, and green scents, among others. I have always wondered about the creative process, the art and science behind the world of fragrances.

Yasushi Akiyama, senior perfumer of fragrance house Givaudan, says, "In creating fragrances, there has to be a concept, a perception driven by the scent. Memory and inspiration are very important since we relate them to the sense of smell." He adds that when the clients want a fragrance, the perfumer tries to understand it in their language. The fragrance comes out when the expectations of the client are fulfilled.

Blending together science and art will give the perfect fragrance.

In the science aspect, if there is a slight change in the precise measurement of formulas, the whole profile of the perfume is altered. There should also be vast research about raw materials.

As for the art part, a fragrance is like a painting. An artist picks the colors and subjects he wishes to create for his masterpiece. The same goes with perfume – it is very personalized. Akiyama adds, "The color for perfumers is the ingredients. We’ve memorized all these and come up with how to make extractions or formulas. Eventually, the fragrance becomes the whole picture of the painter."

France is the birthplace of the perfume industry. Imagine Paris in a bottle. The perfumer painstakingly describes the place in his mind and puts it in his formula. When you smell the finished product, it will remind you of the city’s flair. French perfumes are classics – from the bottle to the ingredients to the creative process behind them.

To showcase the best French perfumes, Rustan’s recently launched its boutique of lifestyle fragrances at Glorietta 3. After a spritz of perfume, you will experience Parisian chic. The store offers a wide range of classic fragrances, as well home fragrances like candles.

Feraud

This dazzling scent captures the light of the sun and the warmth of the south of France, vibrating in unison. The grapefruit blends like a spring breeze with cherry blossom and gardenia. This fruity, floral fragrance for women gives off an aura of white amber and velvety musk that fills the senses.

Enjoy

From Joy comes, aptly enough, EnJoy. This elegant yet playful fragrance is worn by celebrity devotees such as Julia Roberts. EnJoy is a must-have for your beauty range, completing every fashion look with its sensual composition of fruity and floral harmonies – perfect for your wedding day.

Acqua Di Parma

Famous for its cologne, Acqua di Parma makes use of natural ingredients such as citrus, lavender, rosemary, vervain, and rose to suit men and women of all personalities and lifestyles. Acqua di Parma’s new addition, the Blu Mediterraneo aromatherapy line, energizes, tones and relaxes the body day and night.

Acqua Di Genova

This ancient jewel of 19th-century taste has a genuine formulation created for a king and his royal house. Keeping its original formula and packaging of handmade bottles, Acqua di Genova exudes charm and becomes a necessary fashion complement for every occasion.

L’artisan Parfumeur

Jean Laporte wanted to evoke the French tradition of perfume by creating eau de toilettes and room fragrances inspired by nature and familiar scents found in the sweetest corners of memory. Indeed, these fragrances rekindle shared memories. Products include the amber ball, fragrant flowers, fragrant kites and souvenirs.

Ines De La Fressange

This ex-model (and now current muse of shoe house Roger Vivier) has created a subtle and sophisticated fragrance that sparkles like a spell. Its lush blend of white roses and peonies seduces with its alluring aroma: Deep and mysterious iris, zesty mandarin and blackberry finished with rich, lingering neroli, musk, and patchouli. Truly the spirit of French elegance.

Manuel Canovas

Manuel Canovas has created a fabulous collection of high-quality candles and perfumes for the house, recreating each one in a delicate and sensual atmosphere. If you’re a daydreamy, forget-me-not picker, this is the candle for you. It contains soft and light peony, forget-me-not, osmanthus, and acacia wood. Choose from among eight scents.