Perfume Glossary - Alla Violetta Boutique

Introduction

Welcome to the Alla Violetta Boutique Perfume Glossary. This page was created to provide a comprehensive compendium of key terms and concepts in the world of niche perfumes, luxury perfumes and artistic perfumery.

Index

Niche Perfumes

Definition

Niche perfumes are fragrances created by independent perfume houses that focus on the quality and uniqueness of the ingredients. Unlike commercial perfumes, niche perfumes are often produced in limited quantities and distributed through select channels.

Characteristics

  • High Quality Ingredients : Often use pure essential oils and other rare ingredients.
  • Exclusivity : These are unique fragrances that you won't find in mass-produced stores.
  • Story and Narrative : Every perfume has a story or theme that accompanies it.

Luxury Perfumes

Definition

Luxury perfumes are fragrances produced by high-end brands, often known for other luxury products such as clothing or accessories. These perfumes are made with high-quality ingredients and are often associated with a luxurious experience.

Characteristics

  • Opulent Packaging : Often feature elaborate bottles and luxurious packaging.
  • Brand Prestige : They are often produced by fashion houses or brands with a long history.
  • Limited Distribution : Available only in selected stores or specialized boutiques.

Artistic Perfumery

Definition

Artistic perfumery is a subgenre of perfumery that focuses on the art of creating perfumes. Unlike commercial perfumery, the goal is to create an olfactory work of art, without concern for commercialization or mass.

Characteristics

  • Creativity : Perfume artists have complete freedom in choosing the ingredients.
  • Complexity : These perfumes often feature complex notes and accords.
  • Personal Expression : Each perfume is an expression of the artist who created it.

Top Notes

Definition : Top notes are the odors that are perceived immediately after applying the perfume. They are generally light and volatile.

Characteristics :

  • Volatility : They disappear quickly.
  • Examples : Citrus, herbaceous notes.

Heart Notes

Definition : Middle notes emerge after the top notes and represent the heart or “body” of the perfume.

Characteristics :

  • Persistence : They last longer than the top notes.
  • Examples : Flowers like rose, spices like cinnamon.

Base Notes

Definition : Base notes are the last to develop and remain on the skin for a longer period.

Characteristics :

  • Duration : These are the notes that last the longest.
  • Examples : Musk, amber, precious woods.

Sillage

Definition : Sillage is the trail left by a perfume, or how much a perfume "projects" around the wearer.

Longevity

Definition : Longevity is the duration of a perfume on the skin, which can vary from a few hours to several days.

Concentration

Definition : Concentration refers to the percentage of perfume oils in a fragrance. For example, an Eau de Parfum will have a higher concentration than an Eau de Toilette.

Agreement

Definition : A chord is a combination of two or more notes that create a completely new smell.

Olfactory

Definition : The term "olfactory" refers to anything that has to do with the sense of smell or smell.

Olfactory Families

Definition : Olfactory families are categories that classify perfumes based on their dominant notes, such as floral, oriental, woody, etc.

Conclusion

This glossary is a starting point for understanding the complex and fascinating world of perfumes. Alla Violetta Boutique is happy to be your guide on this olfactory journey.