Have you ever loved a fragrance even more an hour after applying it? That changing impression is part of what makes perfume interesting.
Top notes: the first impression
Top notes describe the opening you notice when you first spray. Often bright or fresh, they introduce the fragrance but do not tell its whole story.
Heart notes: the character
As the opening softens, the heart becomes more noticeable. Floral, aromatic or spicy impressions can help define the personality of the scent.
Base notes: the lasting impression
Base notes form the foundation. Woods, musks, amber-like accords and vanilla are common examples of the kinds of impressions you may notice in a dry-down.
Notes are a guide, not a recipe
A note list describes a scent experience. It is not necessarily a list of ingredients, and two perfumes with similar notes can smell quite different.
Try the whole journey
When exploring a new scent, notice the opening, then return to it as it settles. The transition is gradual rather than three separate stages. Choose a fragrance you enjoy beyond the first spray.