Fragrance Guide
New to exploring fragrance, or just want a refresher on the terms you'll see across our product pages? Here's a plain-language guide.
Eau de Parfum vs. Eau de Toilette
These terms describe the concentration of fragrance oil in the bottle. Eau de Parfum (EDP) typically has a higher concentration of fragrance oil than Eau de Toilette (EDT), which generally means a richer scent that lasts longer on skin. EDT is usually lighter and more subtle. Neither is "better" — it comes down to personal preference and how long you want the scent to last.
Perfume vs. Cologne
"Perfume" and "cologne" are often used informally to describe women's and men's fragrances, but the terms actually refer to concentration too — cologne (Eau de Cologne) is typically one of the lightest concentrations. Many fragrances marketed as "cologne" today are unisex in wearability regardless of concentration.
Fragrance Notes: Top, Heart & Base
Fragrances are built in layers, often called "notes," which unfold over time as a scent wears:
- Top notes are what you smell first — light and often fade within the first 15–30 minutes.
- Heart (or middle) notes emerge next and form the core character of the fragrance.
- Base notes are the deepest, longest-lasting layer, often what remains hours later.
Where available, we list a fragrance's notes on its product page so you know what to expect as it develops.
What Is Oud?
Oud (or "oudh") is a rich, resinous, deeply aromatic material derived from agarwood, long used in Middle Eastern and South Asian perfumery. It's prized for its complex, woody-sweet character and is a signature note in many Arabic fragrances.
Arabic & Middle Eastern Fragrances
This is a broad fragrance tradition, often featuring oud, amber, musk, saffron, and other rich, warm materials. These fragrances tend to be bold and long-lasting, and are increasingly popular well beyond the region they originate from. Browse our Arabic & Middle Eastern collection to explore.
What Does "Unisex" Mean?
A unisex fragrance is designed to be worn by anyone, without being marketed specifically toward one gender. Many modern fragrance houses release unisex scents built around notes — like citrus, woods, or musk — that don't lean traditionally masculine or feminine. See our Unisex collection.
Storing Your Fragrance
Fragrance is sensitive to heat, light, and humidity. For the best longevity, store bottles in a cool, dark place — away from direct sunlight and bathroom humidity — and keep them upright with the cap on.
Applying Fragrance
Fragrance tends to project well from pulse points — wrists, neck, and behind the ears — where body heat helps it diffuse. Applying to clean, moisturized skin can also help a scent last longer.
Choosing a Fragrance
Consider where and when you'll wear it (everyday vs. evening), which note families you're drawn to (fresh and citrus, warm and woody, floral, or oud-forward), and concentration if longevity matters to you. Reading the notes listed on a product page is a good starting point even before trying a scent in person.
How Long Does Fragrance Last?
Longevity varies by fragrance, concentration, your skin chemistry, and the environment (heat and humidity can make scent project and fade faster). We don't guarantee a specific wear time for any fragrance — performance is inherently personal and can vary from person to person.