No one understands the power of a beautiful and signature scent like the French. Their tastes in fragrances evoke a sense of timeless elegance. Whether we talk about less known brands such as Diptyque or the world's famous channel no 5 you cannot question their tastes in perfumes. So here are a few things you need to know about the French and their perfumes.
History of French perfumes
For centuries France has been the epicenter of perfume and cosmetic manufacturing. Although the Hungarians preceded the French in making perfumes, the most well-known being Hungary water, the French perfected it. French perfumes became increasingly popular in the 14th century, and a lot of flowers were cultivated to create scents. Most of the flower farms were based in Grasse, which is considered the perfume capitals of the world. Before the 17th century, perfumes were mainly used by royalty and nobles to mask odor and serve as a status symbol. However, during the 18th century, when Louis XVII ascended the throne, perfumes became increasingly popular, and the perfume business boomed, especially in France, when more people wanted them.
Grasse has produced most of the world's signature scents form Dior to Coco Chanel. Its warm weather, fertile soils, and abundant water have been considered a conducive environment for growing aromatic plants. Most rare scents such as jasmine, lavender, orange blossoms, and wild mimosas are produced in Grasse.
Difference between Parfum, Eau de Parfum and Eau de Toillette.
The most common variations of perfumes are; the Parfum, the Eau de Parfum, and Eau de toilette. So what are the differences? Parfum is the most concentrated form of perfume and the most expensive. Parfum is also much oilier than Eau de parfum and Eau de toilette. Eau de perfume is only second to Parfum in strength. It contains 18-20% concentration and lasts up to 8 hours. Eau de perfume is more applicable to people with sensitive skin than Parfum.
Eau de toilette literally means "toilet water" and is a lightly scented perfume that is used to refresh your skin. It is has a low concentration of fragrant oils, roughly 8%. This is the most popular perfume as it is quite affordable.
How to apply perfume the French way
1. Always apply your fragrance on your pulse points. That is on your wrists, behind the ears, the neck, behind the elbow, and the back of the knees. You can also spray your hair too.
2. French women apply perfumes not only on the clothes they are wearing but also on their wardrobes, sheets. They believe that it is vital to surround yourself with your favorite perfume scent.
3. Most French women believe that when you go out for lunch or dinner, it's preferable to wear an Eau de Toilette perfume as it's not overwhelming and will not mask the smell of food.
Finally, do not wear your favorite perfume every day; if you become too familiar with the scent, you end up being nose blind and will not be able to smell it.
“A woman who doesn't wear perfume has no future.”
― Coco Chanel
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