Decoding Fragrance Families: Understanding Notes, Sillage, and Projection
Perfume is more than a nice smell; it’s a part of your personality. But with all the fancy terms like “top notes” and “sillage,” it can feel a little confusing.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how perfumes work, how to choose the right one, and how to find a scent that fits you perfectly.
What Are Fragrance Notes?
Perfumes are made in layers, and each layer is called a note. These notes appear at different times after you apply the perfume:
Top Notes
- The first thing you smell right after spraying.
- Light and fresh but fade quickly (in 10–15 minutes).
- Examples: Lemon, bergamot, mint
Middle Notes (Heart Notes)
- These show up once the top notes fade.
- They form the main scent and last for a few hours.
- Examples: Rose, lavender, cinnamon
Base Notes
- The scent that stays the longest (can last 6+ hours).
- They are warm, rich, and deep.
- Examples: Oud, musk, amber, vanilla
Think of perfume like a story: it begins with top notes, the heart carries the theme, and the base is the lasting memory.
3. What is Sillage and Projection?
These two terms are about how your perfume spreads and how long it’s noticed.
Sillage
The trail your scent leaves behind when you walk past someone.
- Strong sillage = Bold presence
- Light sillage = Subtle and close to the skin
Projection
How far does your scent travel from your body?
- High projection = Others can smell it from a distance
- Low projection = Only noticeable up close
If you want something long-lasting and noticeable, go for perfumes with deep base notes like oud, musk, or amber.
How to Find Your Fragrance Family
Fragrance families help group perfumes by their main scent type. Here are the most popular ones:
| Family | Smells Like |
| Floral | Fresh flowers (rose, jasmine) |
| Woody | Earthy and natural (sandalwood, oud) |
| Oriental | Warm and spicy (vanilla, amber) |
| Fresh | Clean and light (lemon, mint) |
| Fruity | Sweet and juicy (peach, apple) |
| Gourmand | Edible and cozy (chocolate, coffee) |
| Aquatic | Ocean-like and crisp |
Final Thoughts
Now that you know what notes, sillage, and fragrance families are, picking the right scent should feel a lot easier. Remember: perfume is personal—choose what feels good on you.Explore Arabella Fragrance to find beautifully crafted oud, attars, and bakhoor that match your personality and style.
We make scents that don’t just smell good—they leave a lasting impression.
