The sense of smell is the most closely related to memory. That is why sometimes you will smell something familiar, and it will take you back to a completely different place and time. For many of us, a particular scent or perfume will remind us of somebody from our past--perhaps a grandmother, a favorite aunt, your first love. Perfume is meant to engage the sense of smell and make a person more alluring. For this reason, people have been using perfume for thousands of years as a means of engaging the sense of smell and making themselves more appealing.
The act of making perfume itself began in Ancient Egypt, but the practice became refined by the Ancient Romans. The word itself translates from latin to mean "through smoke", which implies the use of different types of incense in making different fragrances. The early stages of perfume making usually consisted of essential oils and incense, and most were used in religious rituals. France saw the biggest changes to fragrances used in perfume. With the development of the art of alchemy, chemistry emerged, and with that so did eau de Cologne--an invigorating blend of rosemary, neroli, bergamont, and lemon. This mixture was used not only as a perfume, but diluted in bathwaters, infused into wine, and even eaten with a sugar lump to freshen breath.
As the French began to evolutionize the uses for perfume, different products began to emerge. Colognes, aftershave, and deodorant were born from the many uses of perfume during the 16th Century in France. Even now, modern designer fragrances often mimic early perfumes. Dolce & Gabbana offers an extensive line of perfumes and colognes for men and women which are reminiscent in earthy scents of rosemary and lemon, yet take on a feminine edge of floral undertones. They draw on rich, natural fragrance, making them alluring to people all over the world.
Other scents have also evolved from early roots. Chanel is quite possibly one of the most noted fragrances, and it is equated with wealth and prestige. A woman who is wearing Chanel No. 5. It was developed in Paris by Coco Chanel, and was said to epitomize a combination of respectability and sexuality. Chanel No. 5 was said to capture the essence of a 1920s flapper, which was a woman who was fiercely independent yet still completely feminine. The fragrance itself is musky and floral at the same time, and is reminiscent of early perfumes but with a modern feel.
Dior, Gucci, Prada, Givenche, and Viktor & Ro have followed suit in creating signature fragrances which are appealing because of their earthiness and complexity. Each fragrances utilizes the modern demands for a person's "signature fragrance", which can be worn not just for a special occasion, but as part of a regular hygeine routine. Much like the French in early Paris courts, people wear designer fragrances, deodorants, perfumed lotions and soaps, aftershaves, etc. as a means of regular grooming. Just as many women would never dream of leaving the house without applying a coat of mascara or without lipstick on, they also insist on wearing a particular fragrance.
While many people's signature scents will change throughout their lives as they mature or tastes change, there are several classic fragrances which a person will wear for life. Chanel No. 5 is certainly one of the fragrances that have many loyal users. Others from Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, and Gucci are following suit by creating a classic scent which will stand the test of time. They market towards prestige, class, wealth, and respectability all while hinting at a touch of sexuality. This is what makes a fragrance so desirable to the consumer, and one of the main reasons why a person wants a special signature scent.
Wearing a good, quality perfume can leave a lasting impression. Because scent is so closely related to memory, finding the perfect fragrance which balances your personality with sensuality is what most perfume makers aim to do. The scent of a particular perfume or cologne will often bring you back to a certain person, place, and time, and can be as alluring as a cold glass of water on a hot day. The right fragrance can absolutely make a person more desirable and make her completely unforgettable.