In Perfume: The Story of a Murderer, Patrick Süskind describes the effect of scents in our everyday lives: “Odors have a power of persuasion stronger than that of words, appearances, emotions, or will. The persuasive power of an odor cannot be fended off, it enters into us like breath into our lungs, it fills us up, imbues us totally. There is no remedy for it.”

Choosing a scent can be one of the most intriguing trips to the beauty section. We can choose one which will be our signature, one we wear only on certain nights, one for office mornings, and even one to help us remember a trip by. Daunting, but it can be worth it as scents do help with mood and memory. It’s also an easy luxury you won’t feel so guilty splurging on from time to time.

For whatever purpose or meaning you want to find, we collected a few scents you can try this summer or even for you to commit to for the months to come.

L’Atelier de Givenchy Rose Ardente

If you want a twist to the delicate scent of roses, this one combines it with some spicy tones. Mixed with chili peppers and patchouli, it evokes long nights in elegant settings. Available at Rustan’s The Beauty Source.

Clinique Happy Heart Eau De Toilette

If you’re into light and refreshing scents, you can opt for water hyacinth, Mandarin and blond wood mix in this bottle. It’s supposed to evoke happy emotions everywhere you go. Available at SM North EDSA.

Aerin Bamboo Rose Eau de Cologne

Aerin Lauder created this scent with Asian gardens in mind. She thought of how there is a balance of a peaceful atmosphere and a sensual feel. You’ll get to find out what she means in this rollerball made with dewy green leaves, Bulgarian Rose Absolute, and amber. Available online.

Elizabeth Arden White Tea Eau de Toilette Spray

Think of all things pristine when it comes to this perfume. It’s a scent that not intimidating as it’s made to mimic the tones of first-steeped white tea: a little earthy but still uplifting. This might go well with morning affairs like brunch out with your friends. Available at SM Makati.

Gucci Bloom

This fragrance is said to be created fully with Alessandro Michele’s vision of women, to “celebrate the authenticity, vitality, and diversity.” It’s then made with tuberose, jasmine bud, and Rangoon Creeper. Available at Rustan’s The Beauty Source, Shangri-la Plaza.

Tom Ford Neroli Portifino

If you need an escape to the Italian Rivera, go for this scent. With a brilliant blue bottle, it has a mix of Tunisian Neroli, Italian bergamot, Sicilian lemon, winter yellow Mandarin, orange flower, and lavender. Available online.

1902 Tradition Cedre Blanc

If you want a fragrance that’s versatile and would blend with most moods, the woody tone of Cedre Blanc would be a good choice. It has top notes of ylang ylang, bergamot, and fig plus heart notes of jasmine and peach. Available at Rustan’s The Beauty Source, Glorietta 4.

Art by Yayie Motos

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