Stereotypes are persistent, even in the world of perfumes. Even today, perfume store aisles are divided into two distinct sections: on one side, the men's section, and on the other, the women's section, where you'll find perfumes labeled «for men» and «for women» respectively. What then about so-called «genderless» or «unisex» perfumes, those specifically designed to appeal to both sexes without distinction?
Le Studio des Parfums explains the traditional differences between men's and women's fragrances in classic perfumery, as well as the history of unisex fragrances, those scents designed to appeal to everyone.
What are the characteristics of men's fragrances?
Scent in gendered perfumes largely reflects traditional conceptions of men's and women's roles in society. As such, classic men's colognes often seek to embody an ideal of strength, power, and masculinity.
This is particularly evident in the woody notes found in men's fragrances, such as leather, tobacco, and spices. These notes are generally deeper than in women's fragrances, which are associated with freshness and lightness, according to a stereotypical view of femininity.
We can also mention some very popular men's fragrances. L'Homme by Yves Saint Laurent, L'Homme Idéal by Guerlain, Sauvage by Dior: the marketing for these perfumes immediately excludes women who might be looking for a more intense fragrance than what traditional feminine perfumes generally offer. Just like men looking for a milder fragrance, they therefore have every interest in opting for a unisex perfume, halfway between men's and women's fragrances.
What are the characteristics of women's perfumes?
Unlike men's fragrances, classic women's perfumes are primarily characterized by sweet and floral notes, with rose, vanilla, and jasmine at the top of the list. Others favor gourmand, or even sensual, scents derived from fruits, cocoa, orange blossom, etc.
Here, there is no «ideal woman»: iconic perfume names like Miss Dior, Coco Mademoiselle, or Guerlain's La Petite Robe Noire, however, invite men to pass them by. Available in various shades of pink or in shapes generally associated with women, many bottles also reveal the strongly gendered nature of women's perfumes, like the Cacharel Yes I Am bottle, inspired by the design of a lipstick.
Despite these traditional differences between men's and women's perfumes, don't hesitate to wear a fragrance that perfectly matches your personality and tastes, regardless of its brand. Consider choosing a unisex perfume to enjoy a unique scent that reflects your personality.
Where does the popularity of unisex perfumes come from?
Unisex perfumes are actually the precursors to gender-specific fragrances. It was only at the end of the 19th century that perfumes specifically designed for men and women truly emerged, primarily for commercial reasons.
In the West, the first unisex perfume marketed as such was the famous CK One by Calvin Klein, created in the 1990s. It was a huge success with consumers – both men and women – looking for a balanced fragrance. Compared to women's and men's perfumes, unisex perfumes place more emphasis on «neutral» ingredients such as musk, lavender, and citrus.
Le Studio des Parfums offers you the opportunity to create your own unisex fragrance during a tailor-made creation workshop in the heart of the Marais. Thus, the 100 exclusive notes from our perfume organ are made available to men and women who wish to create their own personal perfume, without any distinction of gender.
