There’s an amusing story about Jacqueline Kennedy’s style and wit that occasionally appears in print. It seems that she was seated next to some government dignitaries when the topic of conversation turned to pollution. Jacqueline, in her breathy, sophisticated manner of speech, suggested that the Air Force just spray the country with Chanel No. 5. Not one to undervalue the importance of smelling good, this American icon must have been well aware of the significance of choosing the right perfume.

Before you head to the perfume counter to pick out a scent, there are some interesting facts you should know prior to buying the latest designer fragrance. It has been estimated that the nose is able to identify as many 10,000 different odor molecules. Every time we inhale, our olfactory sense kicks in to help us identify a smell and then make decisions about it. For example, very few people can resist the scent of freshly brewed coffee or of delicious chocolates. That same sense helps us to avoid someone with body odor or the stench of rancid fish. But one of the most remarkable findings about the sense of smell is the connection between the olfactory and memory. “Odor memory” lasts a long time.

With this information in mind, perhaps we want the perfume we choose to send an irresistible signal as well as stay in a special someone’s mind. Just because a fragrance is new doesn’t mean that it is right for you. Before choosing your identifiable fragrance, think about what message you want to convey. There are six main categories of scents. Which ever you choose will be one or a combination of these six scents:

1. Floral

2. Fruity

3. Oceanic

4. Greens

5. Orientals

6. Woody

Each of these is suitable for different occasions as well as different age groups. A soft floral is great for younger women while the strong scent of an Oriental is suited to more sophisticated women. The fresh fragrance of “greens” is perfect for daytime wear.

Once you have determined which type of scent best represents your persona, the next step is deciding whether you will be buying a perfume for everyday wear or for a special occasion. Something you would wear for an evening occasion might not be right for the office.

When you go to the cosmetic counter instead of trying out every scent that is presented to you, look over the packaging and ask the sales person to describe the perfume. Then narrow your search to two possibilities, and try them on. Spray or dab a small amount on the inside of the wrist. This is the best place to test a fragrance. Write down or remember which two you have selected. Run some errands, and while doing so, periodically sniff your wrist to see if these are fragrances that you like.    

It takes some thought and perhaps a little research, but there are rewards for making a good selection. You might find someone saying, “I just can’t get you out of my head!”

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