Help for a new-to-perfume gentleman based in Singapore?

[kreteknose]

I can't find a beginner's thread on my questions, I'm completely overwhelmed by the long lists of perfume names (okay, Aventus and Green Irish Tweed seem to appear in every other) in various threads, and many old threads about Singapore are 10+ years old now.

Hoping for some help. I'm in my late 30s and based in Singapore. I never paid attention to perfume despite a long corporate career. I also never paid attention to romance until I very recently and very quickly began dating a younger woman who has a very sensitive nose. Passing by the ION Orchard mall Jo Malone display near the entrance, she made me smell the testers and said she loves their woody male scents.

I'd love to take the hint and am now searching for a signature scent despite never having purchased perfume before.

I'm not a fresh graduate and am perfectly willing to bypass the beginner's collection to get a bottle of something I like and will spray on every time I meet her. If it's a bottle of Creed for a first buy, so bet it (although maybe I shouldn't start with a $1,000 niche artisan bottle evoking ambergris).

I'm starting with this article which I've shared with her, and am clueless beyond this: https://basenotes.com/articles/the-...fragrances-every-beginner-should-sample.3278/

Questions:
1) Literally, how would you choose? Should I just take that article and the lady and find a sample of every top designer fragrance on the list every time we go out? (Context: Singapore is a major financial center and the country is the size of one city.) Is there some better but less intuitive way other than going to a couple of malls and sniffing test strips then spraying the day's winner onto skin?

2) #1 aside, stupid question, but is there a more enjoyable method? Given this is the lady's idea, I suspect she will enjoy this more than I will, so taking her to a couple of malls will be fun for her. She will enjoy choosing the bottle she will make me buy for myself.

3) Is there a recommended price point and bottle size for someone who's never purchased perfume? Should I be happy to buy a 100ml of Creed and call it a day (or a year, or a decade)? Or do people actually buy smaller bottles or sample sets and take their time?

4) Literally where do you buy perfume? Do you just go to the boutique or department store counter (in the context of living in a major financial center with easy access to all the brands), or are there discounters and international channels to consider? And Singapore-specific, does anyone recommend the legendary Mustafa department store, lesser known local perfume/cosmetics stores with older/discontinued stock, or even the perfume stores that claim they can clone any fragrance at Arab Street / Sultan Mosque?

5) Singapore is a year round hot and humid island city at the equator, and I swear this is many men's excuse for not wearing perfume outside going out at night. Does this affect the choice and any caveats?

Absolutely clueless, overwhelmed, and hoping for advice!

 

[StylinLA]

First kreteknose,, welcome to Basenotes!

You're a real blank slate. Guessing you've been here reading a bit here and it can all seem very intimidating.

Next- relax, there is no wrong way to do this. Do not over obsess about doing it "the right way." There is no such thing.

The lady you mention seems to have a keen interest in scenting you so I do think going on an excursion with her would be worthwhile way to start.
She seems to be a big part of what has spurred your interest and there are a few million things worse than a woman liking your scent. It's fine to go out sampling with her, but keep in mind you want to have something that you like too! She will understand that.

If she's into fragrance, you can have a fun time of it and she'll probably enjoy being included. One slight warning- sampling in store is fine and gives you a pretty good idea of the scent. But in practice, many of these scents last varying amounts of time, and develop over time a bit differently than that first spritz in the store. My own personal recommendation is to find out which you both like in store sampling and then see if you can get a sample to wear all day. I have no idea how the stores in Singapore operate. In USA some will give samples- some won't. You may end up buying some samples online.

You also have to be careful to get a scent or scents which will not be over powering in the Singapore weather.

You sound to me like you're not overly concerned about being thrifty, but I would advise some caution before buying anything very pricey until you have given it a test wearing. I'm a crazy fraghead with too many bottles, but nevertheless quite cautious before buying an expensive bottle (well usually).

Please keep us posted on your mission.

That article you posted is okay- but it is really not written for someone like you at this stage of your interest. It is more for people who already are aware they have a very keen interest in fragrances and is making suggestions for some of the classic scents for people who like collecting.

 

[hednic]

Welcome to you kreteknose! Enjoy your time here at Basenotes.
As to question # 3 - it depends on the person. Some like myself, prefer the 100ml bottle size while others prefer smaller sizes - 30ml or 50ml.

 

[Adonna]

Welcome to Basenotes @kreteknose ☮️
Rest assured, You are in the right place.
You will find guidance and answers here
a~~

 

[kreteknose]

OK, I randomly went out with the lady into the perfume section of the Tangs department store. I realized:

1) It's novel and extremely fun to have a lady stop and sniff you every 15 minutes. I need to identify the locations I can test spray perfume on.

2) Salesladies also have fun test spraying someone accompanied by a lady clearly choosing perfume.

We validated our tastes:

1) We both want a masculine scent with a woody base. We tried Acqua di Parma Oud and thought it was lovely but one dimensional, and wanted something on top of it, likely citrus (or maybe lavender). We thought Jo Malone Oud & Bergamot was a good start.

2) We don't like incense or leather, and don't like overly peppery scents. We tried Acqua di Parma leather, instant no.

3) She hates rose and anything floral (and probably prefers male scents for herself). She thought Jo Malone Oud & Bergamot was okay, but hated Jo Malone Velvet Rose & Oud. Non-citrus fruity is also out, we tried Tom Ford Cherry perfumes and got a laugh.

Highlights of the first scouting mission:

Creed Green Irish Tweed - She really liked it newly sprayed, I said my Dad might like it. We were underwhelmed when it settled into a peppermint scent we found boring and one dimensional.

Creed Aventus - She hated it newly sprayed and thought it smelled like car freshener, but liked it as the notes came out starting 15 minutes later. I like how it has a complex but not overpowering scent even 2 hours later, though my first reaction was to ask if it's that unique and what else in the same "vibe" is available.

Terre d'Hermes - She liked it and liked it more as the notes came out, but thought it was too much citrus for a male scent. I like how it evolved and how it has its complexity without being overpowering, though I agree it's a lot of citrus notes. Certainly a great choice for woody and citrus, and I'd love to compare it to Chanel's male scent. (We liked this more than H24, which didn't make my wrist.)

Dior Homme Eau de Toilette - She liked it as a fresh and refreshing male scent with the same vibe as Aventus. She actually likes it more than Aventus but I think it's because it has a stronger smell while I thought I like Aventus slightly more due to a more complex scent.

Gucci Guilty Eau de Toilette - She really liked this for the woody base and citrus and lavender notes. In fact she wanted me to buy it so she could use it for herself. (I also liked the Parfum, but she liked the incense note much less than the lavender finish of the EDT).

Conclusion:
I'd consider buying 3 bottles instead of one:
- Aventus or Dior Homme, for the fresh but complex male scent
- Terre d'Hermes (but want to try a similar Chanel), for the citrus finish
- Gucci Guilty EDT, for the lavender finish (and because she has declared she wants to be able to steal the bottle)

I now see how dangerous this is, since I was just talking about one bottle hours ago.

Given how I've narrowed it down to the above woody scents with citrus or lavender notes, and have eliminated incense/leather, floral and non-citrus fruity, what should I be trying next?

What are the "best in class" scents in the three slots I describe above?

And are there better sources for the above scents than the department store?

 

[cacio]

Congrats on your new discoveries. It seems you and your friend are off to a very good start.

If guilty seems to have been a hit, why not go with that?
The Chanel corresponding to Terre d'Hermes would be Pour Monsieur EDT, but if any, it's more citrusy (pour monsieur edp is sweeter).

Regarding freshies, a genre often recommended for hot weather is vetiver. Not everybody likes it, but worth having your friends look into it. The most famous example is perhaps Guerlain Vetiver.

cacio

 

[kreteknose]

Thanks! Based on the article I shared, I was going to try Chanel Egoiste, in case that’s close to something I liked.

Overnight, still smelling good drydown from the Creed and Hermes scents I tried on, and some from Gucci and a little from Dior. Contrary to what I read here, Aventus seems to have longevity for me.

Am I trying the right range, or should I be sure to try things higher or lower? Just based it on that article.

 

[imm0rtelle]

Hoping for some help. I'm in my late 30s and based in Singapore. I never paid attention to perfume despite a long corporate career. I also never paid attention to romance until I very recently and very quickly began dating a younger woman who has a very sensitive nose. Passing by the ION Orchard mall Jo Malone display near the entrance, she made me smell the testers and said she loves their woody male scents.

I'd love to take the hint and am now searching for a signature scent despite never having purchased perfume before.

As you've clued in. I would stray away from the internet and focus on exploring with your girlfriend. Every girl is different. Just because someone says this is great for girls, it doesn't mean it would necessarily mean your girlfriend would respond positively to it. Try to find one that she finds irresistibly sexy on you. What's the point otherwise. Take your time and there's no rush to need to commit now.

Dior Homme Eau de Toilette - She liked it as a fresh and refreshing male scent with the same vibe as Aventus. She actually likes it more than Aventus but I think it's because it has a stronger smell while I thought I like Aventus slightly more due to a more complex scent.

It is not surprising that she likes Dior Homme 2020 more than Aventus. It becomes obvious when you zoom out and ignore the online hype and hysteria echo chamber created online. Dior has a much bigger operation than Creed. Dior has more resources to invest in making sure their fragrances are mass pleasing. Dior has more of an incentive to create a masculine mainstream fragrance that will be mass pleasing towards girls, when worn on a guy.

What are the "best in class" scents in the three slots I describe above?

I don't really like this type of approach towards fragrances. I much prefer auditioning fragrances with qualities you're looking for in mind. Like a casting director trying to audition actors/actresses for the role.

And are there better sources for the above scents than the department store?

Especially since you're in Singapore and have access to more than just department store mainstream designer fragrances, you should really look into the more exclusive designer fragrances and mainstream luxury fragrances. For example, Dior Homme 2020 is part of the brand's mainstream offering, while the Collection Privé is part of their exclusive range.

I feel like these exclusive designer lines are designed in part with an emphasis on the Asian palate.

Terre d'Hermes is part of Hermes' mainstream line, and the Hermessence line is part of their exclusive tier:

And while you're at it, you should take a sniff at the Celine exclusive haute parfumerie collection:

With these exclusive lines, you either have to go to their boutiques or upscale department stores.

Another brand that might work well in humidity and heat would be Byredo:

At the end of the day, trust in your nose and not your eyes. Sniff more and read less would be my tip. I like to read after I sniffed something.

 

[StylinLA]

Thanks! Based on the article I shared, I was going to try Chanel Egoiste, in case that’s close to something I liked.

Overnight, still smelling good drydown from the Creed and Hermes scents I tried on, and some from Gucci and a little from Dior. Contrary to what I read here, Aventus seems to have longevity for me.

Am I trying the right range, or should I be sure to try things higher or lower? Just based it on that article.

You're off to a very good start.

The range you are trying is fine. Again- there are no rules. This is your exploration.

imm0telle's suggestion of Byredo is a pretty good idea. Le Labo might be another good house to try. These two are kind of known to be very modern, cool scents. A bit different than most conventional fragrances.

I love Egoiste, but it might be tricky in Singapore weather.

 

[kreteknose]

As you've clued in. I would stray away from the internet and focus on exploring with your girlfriend. Every girl is different. Just because someone says this is great for girls, it doesn't mean it would necessarily mean your girlfriend would respond positively to it. Try to find one that she finds irresistibly sexy on you. What's the point otherwise. Take your time and there's no rush to need to commit now.


It is not surprising that she likes Dior Homme 2020 more than Aventus. It becomes obvious when you zoom out and ignore the online hype and hysteria echo chamber created online. Dior has a much bigger operation than Creed. Dior has more resources to invest in making sure their fragrances are mass pleasing. Dior has more of an incentive to create a masculine mainstream fragrance that will be mass pleasing towards girls, when worn on a guy.


I don't really like this type of approach towards fragrances. I much prefer auditioning fragrances with qualities you're looking for in mind. Like a casting director trying to audition actors/actresses for the role.


Especially since you're in Singapore and have access to more than just department store mainstream designer fragrances, you should really look into the more exclusive designer fragrances and mainstream luxury fragrances. For example, Dior Homme 2020 is part of the brand's mainstream offering, while the Collection Privé is part of their exclusive range.

I feel like these exclusive designer lines are designed in part with an emphasis on the Asian palate.

Terre d'Hermes is part of Hermes' mainstream line, and the Hermessence line is part of their exclusive tier:

And while you're at it, you should take a sniff at the Celine exclusive haute parfumerie collection:

With these exclusive lines, you either have to go to their boutiques or upscale department stores.

Another brand that might work well in humidity and heat would be Byredo:

At the end of the day, trust in your nose and not your eyes. Sniff more and read less would be my tip. I like to read after I sniffed something.

Thanks! Yes exactly, I want to read after sniffing! Does the mainstream line have similarity with the exclusives? Or just go ahead and try the exclusive lines?

Is this enough of a guide - knowing I am generally looking for a fruity open and woody drydown, or a fresh masculine scent (a broad description as is)?

 

[kreteknose]

You're off to a very good start.

The range you are trying is fine. Again- there are no rules. This is your exploration.

imm0telle's suggestion of Byredo is a pretty good idea. Le Labo might be another good house to try. These two are kind of known to be very modern, cool scents. A bit different than most conventional fragrances.

I love Egoiste, but it might be tricky in Singapore weather.

This is what I was hoping to ask about, how do you adjust what you read for living in the equator? I’ve read some great write ups on “winter” scents!

 

[StylinLA]

This is what I was hoping to ask about, how do you adjust what you read for living in the equator? I’ve read some great write ups on “winter” scents!

That's not really an easy thing to answer. You will need to get your own sense of it. With sampling, you will get an idea of which scents wear more heavy than others. Heavier scents get kind of choking in high heat.

So far most of what you have tried are not very heavy scents.

 

[kreteknose]

That's not really an easy thing to answer. You will need to get your own sense of it. With sampling, you will get an idea of which scents wear more heavy than others. Heavier scents get kind of choking in high heat.

So far most of what you have tried are not very heavy scents.

Thanks, this is a great way of articulating it. I think I'd not get heavier than the ones I listed and didn't think Egoiste was heavier from the description I read.

 

[StylinLA]

Thanks, this is a great way of articulating it. I think I'd not get heavier than the ones I listed and didn't think Egoiste was heavier from the description I read.

Egoiste is not heavy in the usual sense, but I don't think it woul do well in hot humid conditions.

 

[PrinceRF]

Welcome to Basenotes! It can certainly be overwhelming... and for that reason I won't give you any specific names right now since your question is sort of broad (although Creed is certainly worth exploring for signature scents). My suggestion is to go out and explore. If you have a high-end department store near you, like a Saks, Neiman Marcus, or Nordstrom (I'm not sure what is available in your country), I would start there. Don't be afraid to ask questions and take notes! Take your time exploring. You might fall in love with a fragrance after one spray, or you might end up sampling hundreds before settling on your favorite. There is no right or wrong method.

I also heavily suggest buying samples online. My favorite retailer is LuckyScent, as they have a HUGE selection. The cost of samples can add up, but it is well worth it to find your signature scent, and much better than "blind buying" full bottles. Read up on the different types of fragrance concentrations (for an everyday woody scent, I'd opt for an Eau de Parfum, most likely) and different accords, and try to smell an array of different options within the specific genre that interests you the most. And don't be afraid to try something even if the notes don't sound appealing on paper.

Most importantly, trust your nose. Get your lady's opinion, if you'd like, but ultimately make sure that you like whatever you are buying. And finally, know that you are in good company here as you explore. There is a wealth of information on Basenotes, and most everyone here is more than happy to help you out during your journey. So, sample away, and keep us posted with what you discover!

 

[kreteknose]

Thanks for all the replies so far! Happened to pass through a high end department store on the way to lunch, so today’s update:

- Creed Silver Mountain Water - Lady said she liked it more than Aventus because it had a more citrus than fruity opening note

- Creed Aventus - Thought it left a nice and complex but not overpowering note overnight, so put two sprays on my neck and more on the back of one hand. Salesperson said there’s a discount this month, and gave me a tester of Aventus. Then the lady says she really thinks she really hates Aventus because it reminds her of car air freshener, and pointedly repeats this two hours later so it isn’t just the opening note.

- Chanel Egoiste and Egoiste Platinum - Egoiste is nice but definitely “heavy” relative to others I tried. I put two sprays of Egoiste Platinum on one wrist and could barely smell anything two hours later.

- Chanel Exclusif Sycamore - The Exclusif fragrances seemed more complex and of greater interest to me, so I see why I was advised to check these in boutiques over the mainstream lines. I put two sprays of Sycamore on the other wrist. Nice and complex drydown but the leather/incense smell isn’t it for us. Chanel may not be it.

Lady emphasizing she really liked Gucci Guilty EDT and it’s lavender notes, and second place was Dior.

 

[StylinLA]

Creed Silver Mountain Water is one of my go to scents in warm summer weather. I love it but see if you can test wear it all day. It does not last well on me, but these things vary: it might last well on you in Singapore heat. That's why many of us encourage sample- test wear.

There is another brand called Armaf that makes one named Club de Nuit Sillage that is very similar to Silver Mountain Water and very reasonably priced. I know thrift is not you main goal, but the Sillage is quite good for an inexpensive scent.

 

[Zenwannabee]

Some great suggestions here. Having lived in hot and humid places, I know they can be a challenge for fragrance-wearing. However, of the fragrances you’ve listed, I think Terre D’Hermes has great versatility and stands up well to hot weather. I think also if price is not an issue that Oud Wood by Tom Ford might be an obvious choice. And lastly, as a wild card, you should try Aramis, as it’s patchouli in a tuxedo. Not expensive at all and yet like nothing else. And for me very wearable in any weather. Cheers—and good luck! 🍀

 

[imm0rtelle]

- Chanel Exclusif Sycamore - The Exclusif fragrances seemed more complex and of greater interest to me, so I see why I was advised to check these in boutiques over the mainstream lines. I put two sprays of Sycamore on the other wrist. Nice and complex drydown but the leather/incense smell isn’t it for us. Chanel may not be it.

This reviewer might share similar sentiments towards the exclusive Chanel fragrances: https://youtube.com/clip/UgkxZfw_yYHLA1wAwCSW3yT27JueoRUQF9jj

 

[kreteknose]

This is nuts. After dinner, the lady hugged me, kissed me, then stopped cold and suddenly said she really, really hates Aventus.

That's as clear as it gets.

Has anyone ever experienced anything like this starting out?

If you take a little time to walk through a department store or various boutiques and even wear a couple a day (it's easy to pass through going around central Singapore), what's the best way to maximize the field trips? See how something smells over the course of a few hours (and get the lady's opinion, ideally) and then read old threads and reviews about what you just tried? And see what people who like (or dislike) the same scent also like to try similar scents before deciding?

Thanks again for the responses, hope no one minds if this thread doubles as a to-do list and mini-diary.

(@imm0rtelle, I was laughing at the video reviewer's description of Chanel Exclusif being old school and opulent, but too old. I'm not sure that's my sentiment, it's primarily both me and the lady not liking the incense notes. I also tried Chanel Exclusif Rue Cambon, for example, but it was similarly too peppery. I'm happy to go back and try the others -- I think I tried Le Lion but I didn't like the mossy note either, but I really should read a couple of reviews ahead rather than asking to sniff all 10-12 scents on a counter. Or is this how it's done?)