While wardrobe, hairstyles, and shoes are the obvious ways we express ourselves, some of us have an appreciation for another aspect of beauty to complete our signature look and the way we feel. Perfume has been the way we speak to others without saying a word. It communicates whether we're flirty, soft, and feminine, earthy and confident, or everything in between. Fragrances do more than help us smell good. If we think about it, it's a part of who we are.
I remember when I first started wearing CHANCE by Chanel. It was a gift and honestly something I would have never purchased for myself. I always admired women who swore by their favorite perfume (they always seemed so put together and womanly), but I never invested in myself that way. After a few sprays of my new favorite fragrance, I started to wonder how I lived without it for so long. I experienced a new level of empowerment, confidence, and womanhood. And that seems to be the consensus about the power of a signature scent.
We talked to five women who dished on what fragrance makes them feel the most powerful, and why they have no plans on ever letting it go.
Karen
Courtesy of Karen
"I love to feel elegant and classy on any day! Sensational by Celine Dion helps me unravel the sweet spots in life, wherever I go. When I smell amazing, I feel good... and when I feel good, I know I can conquer anything!
"This perfume exudes the warm combinations of sweet-smelling jasmine, amber, and sandalwood. It also has notes of frozen pear, apple, and plum. The powerful yet subtle aroma of these scents makes me feel so feminine and ready to take charge!
"A perfume that has the power to motivate me in such a positive way, is definitely a keeper. I always make sure I have this scent close by, ready to make magic whenever I am!"
Tiffany
"I believe a woman's scent is a part of her aura, her energy. The moment I spray on Chanel No. 5 L'eau, not only are my senses heightened but so is my confidence. It's a fresh, sweet and alluring scent that's lighter than its predecessor, the original Chanel No. 5.
"Wearing Chanel No. 5 L'eau makes me powerful because it evokes emotions and leaves an imprint that stimulates all the senses. I command the room with my presence, leaving a strong impression. But I believe it's my scent that leaves an imprint. Whether it's recognized as sultry, sexy, or strong. Every woman has that fragrance that has a magnetic pull which makes her unforgettable. And for me, it's Chanel No. 5 L'eau."
Candace Junée
Courtesy of Candace Junée
"Smelling good has always been one of the things that has built confidence for me. I love fashion, hair, and beauty so I've always felt that the way I smell is a cherry on top to finish my look for the day. I love getting compliments on how I smell, the way I dress, and how I style my hair.
"Gucci Guilty makes me feel super feminine, elegant, chic, and memorable. It makes me feel confident that I smell as good as I look and feel... and there's nothing more powerful than walking into a room full of confidence from within! Whether I'm on my way to meet with a client or going out for the night, I feel confident that my presence will be remembered."
Moyo
Courtesy of Moyo
"My favorite perfume is Alien by Mugler, along with their body lotion. I absolutely love the smell and the design of the deep-purple glass bottle, which I may add is my favorite color. Since 2018, this has become my signature scent. I was working at my first corporate job, straight out of college when I first purchased this perfume. It was a high-end fragrance that I wanted to gift myself. It's not just another $15 body spray, you know?
"Every time I wear Alien, someone, usually an older woman, compliments my smell and or knows the exact brand that I am wearing, which makes me feel powerful. Knowing that I selected and purchased my own perfume makes me feel powerful. I walk around with a boost of confidence and positive energy. There are so many cliche quotes that remind us of how important perfume is and they are in fact all true. Wearing Alien reminds me of the powerful woman that I am.
"When I put it on Alien, it makes me feel like I can conquer the day. I feel independent and beautiful. It's empowering, feminine, subtle yet strong."
Kyona
Courtesy of Kyona
"Coco by Chanel makes me feel unstoppable yet soft and beautiful! There is always something about getting dressed, doing your hair, perfecting your face, then gracing your body with an impeccable scent to top it all off. Adding this scent makes me feel like everyone who encounters me will see (and smell) how intentional I was about caring for my appearance. Dressing the part is the first step, smelling good just seals the deal!"
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Featured image courtesy of Candace Junée