There are several different types of fragrance categories or families in the world of perfumery, each with its own distinct characteristics and olfactory profiles. Here are some of the main fragrance categories:
- Floral: Fragrances in this category are dominated by floral notes such as rose, jasmine, lily, and violet. They can range from light and delicate to rich and opulent.
- Citrus: Citrus fragrances are characterized by notes of lemon, lime, bergamot, orange, and other citrus fruits. They tend to be refreshing and invigorating.
- Oriental: Oriental fragrances are warm, exotic, and often spicy. They may include notes like vanilla, amber, cinnamon, and various resins. Subcategories include "spicy oriental" and "amber oriental."
- Woody: Woody fragrances feature notes like sandalwood, cedar, vetiver, and patchouli. They can be earthy, grounding, and sometimes have a hint of smokiness.
- Chypre: Chypre fragrances typically combine citrus top notes, floral heart notes, and woody or mossy base notes. They are often sophisticated and have a complex structure.
- Fougère: Fougère fragrances are characterized by a combination of lavender, oakmoss, and coumarin (a sweet, hay-like note). They are often used in men's fragrances.
- Aquatic: Aquatic fragrances evoke the smell of the ocean or water. They often include notes like sea breeze, water lily, and marine accords.
- Gourmand: Gourmand fragrances smell like edible treats and often contain notes like chocolate, vanilla, caramel, and spices.
- Green: Green fragrances have a fresh, leafy character and may include notes like grass, herbs, and leaves.
- Leather: Leather fragrances capture the scent of leather, often combined with other notes like spices, woods, and sometimes tobacco.
- Aldehydic: Aldehydic fragrances contain aldehydes, which are synthetic compounds that can add a sparkling, effervescent quality to a scent.
- Aromatic: Aromatic fragrances feature notes like lavender, herbs, and spices. They are often used in classic men's colognes.
- Blue scents: Not an official category as ones before, but it has a “fresh out of the shower” vibe to it.
These categories are not strict boundaries, and many fragrances can belong to multiple categories due to the complexity of their compositions. Additionally, newer fragrances often blend elements from different categories to create unique and innovative scents.