Fragrance phenomenon 

Olfaction, quite honestly, is one of the most remarkable senses that exist. According to Wikipedia, there are now an estimated nine to 23 senses found in humans depending on the precise definition of what constitutes a sense – way up from the original five described by Aristotle back in the day. Though there’s now a bevy of senses to choose from, I still sniff out my sense of smell – it is just astonishing how one whiff can transport you to another moment or instance.  The memories conjured up in one inhalation is a better vehicle than any car, plane or boat can boast. Certain fragrances haul me back to different phases in my life and when I feel nostalgic I take a walk down memory lane by means of a quick spritz. People can even be emulated through a simple dab of perfume. 

I tend to associate people with particular perfumes or colognes and there’s no doubt that’s what Richard and Lucy Gomez have done for Bench. Every celebrity personality seems to have their signature scent nowadays so why shouldn’t the Philippines’ fave showbiz couple have theirs too? Skeletal Posh and beautiful Becks have the Intimately Beckham duo, while their newly found BFF (they met at the spooky wedding of TomKat) J-Lo has Glow, and the entertainer was just quoted in Bazaar as saying she’s raking it in on sales of her fragrances. The list is endless as Beyoncé, Sarah Jessica Parker, Jessica Simpson, Britney Spears and Paris Hilton have claimed a piece of the perfumed pie. 

Richard and Lucy have concocted their special fragrances bottled by Bench. Love and Conquer is a testimony to Gomezes’ love for each other. Lucy selected the notes for Richard’s Conquer, an eau de toilette that has a clean and fresh composition with a slight marine twist. At first whiff, elements of mandarin and melon notes are revealed, followed by sparkling elements of marine accords with a woody, musky base. Well-priced at P398, who wouldn’t want to smell like Richard? Deodorant body sprays are available to deliver an instant boost at the start of the day or for a pick-me-up anytime. ReCharge is mildly oriental with hints of eucalyptus and lemon while ReFresh is a light, citrusy yet woody spray. Never let them see you sweat or smell bad for that matter. 

On Lucy’s behalf, Richard chose a sensual scent entitled Love, which begins with green floral notes enhanced by sparkling citrus and marine accords. It reverberates the epitome of Lucy, always the sophisticate. Super affordable at P288, it must be as true as the TV show I Love Lucy. Forever body spray is a floral splash that imparts freshness with citrus and bergamot notes while Remember body spray emits a green and citrus top note with hidden musk and amber tones.  Either way, you can’t go wrong. 

Mwah! eau de toilette by Bench was created for the woman who loves everything about simply being a woman. Three different fragrances have been launched, each evoking subtle sexiness and pure playfulness when worn.  

Gotta love those body sprays. The Gold collection is perfect for those who aspire to be fashionable, elegant and nearly royal this holiday season. Rock on with Glam, floral, woody and musky. Rush is floral, fruity, woody and musky while 18K is floral, fruity, oriental and musky. A steal at P178, these are hot stocking stuffers that give off refinement and flair. 

From The Face Shop comes the fab five – in body fragrance that is. Formulated with aromatic essential oils, these refreshing post-shower colognes provide skin with lasting hydration and subtle scents to uplift the spirits. Why not seal in a little moisture while smelling good enough to eat? A steal at P445 for 4.05 fluid ounces, each body fragrance has its signature properties.

Inspired mainly by nature, The Face Shop has five fragrances that are sure you to get you kicking. Two scents have been created for women, two are unisex and one’s on the market for men.