First time poster here. I’m really intimidated by making the leap into fragrances, and I’d love some help!
It has taken a while for me to figure out my personal style (I’m in my early 30s), and I want to take the plunge into perfumes and the like.
I’ve experimented very, very lightly with gourmand body mists, but what I’ve liked have been very simple. Usually by small makers on Etsy or at craft fairs who focus on clean living and pretty much just use one or two essential oils. I go to them for the simplicity of scent, not particularly because I want a small ingredient list.
My mom always wore very strong Walmart/CVS perfumes and body sprays to cover up the smell of cigarettes. They were very musky and floral on top of just the smell of pure alcohol—which I really want to avoid like the plague.
When I go into a store to try scents, it feels impossible to wrap my nose around smelling even one or two perfumes in one sitting, especially if I’m going in blind.
What I’m looking for:
Entry level perfumes that tend to be well liked by folks new to the game
What I love: Peach (my go-to), vanilla, sugar, oats, and rice.
What I like: strawberry, other stone fruit, bergamot, tea.
Vibe: Delicious, sweet, playful. Not trying to be sexy, but not wanting to smell like what a kid likes in perfume either.
Hard passes: Floral, musky, sandalwood
Occasion: Looking for daily wear, can smell me when we sit mext to each other or lean in for a hug but not as I walk by
Budget: Under $100 for a sample size. Willing to invest long term if I find The One, but don’t want to break the bank on the journey!
What I’ve liked / use
Peche Delicieuse by Le Monde Gourmand — my first big girl perfume buy!
Vanilla Peach by Fig and Ivy Naturals — my go-to
Cotton Candy by Body Fantasies — please don’t judge lol
Dove unscented body wash
Cerave daily moisturizer
And if you generally have any tips, I’d love to hear from you!
Thanks, and sorry for the long post!
Edited for spacing issues