Fragrance Families Decoded: Find Your Signature Scent
Ever walked into a perfume store and felt completely overwhelmed? You’re not alone. With countless bottles and endless descriptions, choosing a fragrance can feel like a guessing game. But once you understand fragrance families, it all starts to make sense.
Just like music genres or fashion styles, fragrances are grouped into families based on their dominant scent profiles. And knowing your preferences can help you find your signature scent — one that feels effortlessly you.
1. Floral: Romantic, Classic, Feminine
If you love fresh blooms or the scent of spring gardens, the Floral family might be your match. From powdery rose to heady jasmine, floral fragrances are timeless and versatile.
Maeq Match: Fleur Affair — a radiant floral bouquet with a modern twist.
2. Citrus: Fresh, Clean, Energetic
Citrus fragrances are bright, zesty, and perfect for a wake-up call. Think lemon zest, bergamot, and grapefruit. These scents are especially popular in warm weather or for everyday wear.
Maeq Match: Zen Cha — sunshine in a bottle, with sparkling citrus top notes.
3. Woody: Earthy, Sophisticated, Warm
Rooted in notes like sandalwood, cedar, and vetiver, Woody perfumes have a grounding effect. They're often layered with spices or florals for depth and balance.
Maeq Match: Ombre Mystique — smoky sandalwood with a smooth, creamy finish.
4. Oriental / Spicy: Bold, Sensual, Exotic
Also called Amber or Resinous, these fragrances are rich with spices like cardamom, incense, and vanilla. They linger on the skin and make a strong impression.
Maeq Match: Oud Pipe — mysterious, warm, and unforgettable.
5. Fougère: Crisp, Herbal, Masculine
A traditional masculine structure, Fougère blends lavender, oakmoss, and coumarin with green herbs and citrus. The result is a clean barbershop vibe with modern appeal.
Maeq Match: By The Bay — sharp, green, and perfectly composed.
6. Gourmand: Sweet, Edible, Addictive
If you’re drawn to warm, cozy, dessert-like scents, you’re probably a fan of the Gourmand family. Notes like vanilla, caramel, and coffee dominate here.
Maeq Match: Café Pom Caramel — like a café on a rainy day, in a bottle.
How to Find Your Scent Family
- Think about the smells you naturally gravitate toward — fresh laundry? Baked goods? Morning walks in nature?
- Try samples across different families to explore your preferences.
- Layering can also help you combine families to create something uniquely yours.
Final Spritz
Understanding fragrance families is your first step into the world of scent. It’s not about trends — it’s about what resonates with you. At Maeq, each scent is designed to evoke a story, a mood, a memory. Which family feels like home to you?