There are seven main perfume families, distinguished by their orientation and unique character.
These fragrance families form classification categories, complemented by specific olfactory notes that enrich a perfume's composition.
THE AROMATIC FAMILY
Aromatic fragrances, as their name suggests, are bursting with aromatic notes. They are characterized by a bouquet of aromatic herbs (thyme, lavender, sage, etc.). Particularly popular with men, they possess a masculine character and are often associated with citrus notes.
The Woody Family
This family is characterized by a distinctive and comforting woody scent, with a warm and sensual note that is both dry and balanced. Woody fragrances are particularly mysterious and highly appreciated by men. Their main ingredients are patchouli, sandalwood, cedar, and vetiver. They often have multiple facets, giving them a surprising and elegant scent. Mademoiselle Ricci is one of the rare examples of a woody fragrance for women.
The Cyprus Family
This family takes its name from the first «chypre» perfume, launched by François Coty in 1917. Primarily built around oakmoss or cistus labdanum accords, Chypre perfumes possess a distinct character, are easily recognizable, and can be softened when combined with other chords.
THE FLEURIS FAMILY
This is the most important fragrance family in perfumery. With flowers as its central theme, it reflects their essence and is characterized by delicate, feminine, natural, and refined scents. A floral fragrance It can be a soliflore (based on the scent of a single flower) or a composition built around a carefully selected bouquet of flowers. Floral fragrances are particularly appreciated, especially by women. It's an iconic fragrance family.
THE FERN FAMILY
The first fragrance of this family is called «Fougère Royale» and dates back to 1882. Originally designed for men, fragrances in this family do not rely solely on the pure note of fern. They also include notes such as oakmoss, bergamot, and geranium.
THE CITRUS FAMILY
The first citrus fragrances are, of course, the very famous Eaux de Cologne that we know so well. This family refers to the notes found in citrus peels (grapefruit, lime, orange, tangerine, etc.) and leaves behind a particularly pleasant and tangy scent, like a breath of fresh air.
The Oriental Family
Like scenes from *One Thousand and One Nights*, oriental perfumes leave a powerful trail. Composed of warm notes such as vanilla or oud, these accords can be a bit richer than the previous ones, without losing their endless sweetness. Oriental perfumes They are centered around sunflower and a variety of oriental spices, creating a base note that is both elegant and sensual. Often with an amber, or even golden, nuance, oriental perfumes are generally powdery scents that play on the idea of seduction.
