There are seven main fragrance families, distinguished by their direction and unique character.
These fragrance families serve as categories for classification, complemented by specific olfactory facets that enrich a fragrance’s composition.
THE AROMATIC FAMILY
Fragrances in the aromatic family, as the name suggests, are rich in aromatic notes. They feature a bouquet of aromatic herbs (thyme, lavender, sage, etc.). Particularly popular with men, they have a masculine quality and are often paired with citrus notes.
THE WOODY FAMILY
This family is characterized by a distinctive, comforting woody scent, with a warm, sensual quality that is at the same time dry and balanced. Woody fragrances are particularly mysterious and are hugely popular with men. The main ingredients in their composition are patchouli, sandalwood, cedar, and vetiver. They often have multiple facets, resulting in a surprising and elegant scent. Mademoiselle Ricci is one of the few examples of a woody fragrance for women.
THE CYPRUS FAMILY
This family takes its name from the first “Chypre” fragrance, launched by François Coty in 1917. Primarily built around accords of oakmoss or cistus labdanum, chypre fragrances have a distinct character, are easily recognizable, and can be softened when blended with other accords.
THE FLEURIS FAMILY
This is the most significant fragrance family in perfumery. Since its central theme revolves around flowers, it reflects their essence, featuring delicate, feminine, natural, and refined scents. A floral fragrance can be a soliflore (based on the scent of a single flower) or a composition built around a bouquet of carefully selected flowers. Floral fragrances are particularly popular, especially among women. It is a family of iconic perfumes.
THE FERN FAMILY
The first fragrance in this family is called “Fougère Royale” and dates back to 1882. Primarily designed for men, the fragrances in this family are not based solely on the pure scent of fougère. They also feature notes such as oakmoss, bergamot, and geranium.
THE CITRUS FAMILY
The first citrus scents are, of course, the very famous Eaux de Cologne that we know so well. This family refers to the notes found in citrus zest (grapefruit, lime, orange, mandarin, etc.), and leaves a particularly pleasant, tangy scent in its wake—like a breath of fresh air.
THE ORIENTAL FAMILY
Like a scene from *One Thousand and One Nights*, oriental fragrances have a powerful sillage. Based on warm notes such as vanilla or oud, these accords can be a bit heavier than the previous ones, without losing any of their infinite sweetness. Oriental fragrances are built around sunflowers and a variety of Eastern spices, creating a finish that is both elegant and sensual. Often featuring an amber or even golden undertone, orientals are typically powdery scents that play on the idea of seduction.
