Fragrance vs perfume vs cologne: what's the difference?
'Fragrance' is the general word for anything made to smell good. 'Perfume' usually means a fragrance worn on the body, and strictly the strongest concentration. 'Cologne' strictly means a light concentration, though people often use it for any men's fragrance. See the concentration chart.
Should you shake perfume?
No. Perfume is already blended, and shaking adds air bubbles and warmth without improving anything. Store the bottle upright and simply spray.
What's the right way to spray perfume?
Hold the bottle a hand's width from your skin and spray your pulse points: wrists, neck and behind the ears. Don't rub it in. More application tips.
How long should a fragrance last?
There is no single answer. Light, fresh scents often fade within a few hours, while richer warm and woody ones can last much of the day. Skin type, weather and how much you apply all make a difference.
Why can't I smell my own perfume after a while?
Your nose gets used to a scent you smell constantly and stops noticing it, even though other people still can. Before adding more, ask someone close to you, or smell your wrist after stepping outside for a moment.
Do fragrances get better with age?
Some people find a new bottle smells a little rounder after it has been opened for a while, often called maceration. Over years, though, heat, light and air make perfume fade or turn. How to store perfume.
What does niche fragrance mean?
Niche fragrances come from smaller perfume houses that focus on scent rather than mass-market fashion brands, often with unusual ingredients and higher prices. Designer fragrances come from fashion and beauty brands.
What does oriental or gourmand mean?
Both are scent families. 'Oriental', now often called amber, means warm, resinous and spicy. 'Gourmand' means dessert-like: vanilla, caramel and chocolate. Explore warm and amber and sweet and gourmand perfumes.
What fragrance should I wear?
Start with a scent style you already enjoy and where you will wear it. Our free fragrance quiz suggests three Shaik perfumes in five quick questions, or search a perfume you already love on Shop by Inspiration.
