Wearing perfume is a great way to enhance your personal style and boost your self-confidence, no matter what your age. But with so many different scents on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. If you're wondering how to choose perfume for your age, read on for some helpful tips.

How to Choose a Perfume for Your Age

There is no definitive answer to the question of when or if you should start wearing perfume. Some people believe that fragrance is something to be saved for special occasions, while others think it should be an everyday part of your beauty routine. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to wear perfume is a personal one.

That said, if you do decide you want to start wearing perfume or cologne on a regular basis, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it's important to choose a scent that is appropriate for your age group. Second, be sure to test perfumes before you buy them by trying perfume samples. Perfume smells different on everyone, so what smells good on your friend may not smell good on you. Finally, don't overdo it! A little goes a long way when it comes to perfume, so start with just a few spritzes and see how it feels.

This guide is just that, a guide. You should ultimately choose fragrances that you love and feel happy and confident wearing. But if you're stuck on what to try next, here are some general guidelines for finding the right fragrance that's age-appropriate.

In Your Teens

You might be just starting to experiment with makeup and fashion, and now you want to add perfume to the mix. When it comes to choosing a scent, go for something light and fresh, like a fruity or floral fragrance.

Avoid anything too heavy, as you will probably get sick of it quickly. Sweet fragrances like vanilla, lily, and rose are ideal for young girls because of their freshness and light fragrances. And don’t worry about spending a lot of money on your first perfume—you can always find something affordable by trying brand-name authentic perfume testers. Cloud by Ariana Grande or Philosophy Amazing Grace are great options for teen girls.

In Your Twenties

In your twenties, you're probably still experimenting with different scents and trying to find your signature fragrance. This is the perfect time for young women to experiment with different types of perfumes, from floral to fruity to woody fragrances. You might want to go for something a little lighter and more refreshing, like a citrus smell, during the day, and then switch to something richer and more luxurious for evening wear.

By now, you have probably found a signature style. Your perfume choices should reflect that. If you are into classic looks, try timeless scents like Dolce & Gabbana The One or Lancôme La vie est belle. If you prefer something more modern, go for a clean, crisp fragrance like a unisex perfume such as Club De Nuit Sillage or Calvin Klein CK One.

Light, fresh perfumes are perfect for daytime wear. Try something like Memoire D'une Odeur by Gucci or Yellow Diamond by Versace. And for nighttime, you could go for heavier scents like Club de Nuit Intense or Yves Saint Laurent Libre.

In Your Thirties

By the time you reach your thirties, you probably have a good idea of the types of fragrances you like and don't like. If you're looking for a new signature scent, try something that reflects your confident, grown-up persona. A musky scent is perfect for making a lasting impression at work, while a floral fragrance is ideal for dates or nights out with friends.

As your life changes, so should your perfume choices. If you want fragrances that are both sophisticated and sexy, try Ed Hardy Love Kills Slowly or Crystal Noir by Versace. If you are looking for something more feminine and romantic, go for Lancôme Tresor in Love. And if you want fragrances that are light and refreshing, try Cool Water by Davidoff or Dot by Marc Jacobs. This is also a great time to invest in high-quality fragrances. When you've found a scent you love, it's worth splurging on the real thing instead of opting for a cheaper knockoff. A few luxurious options to try include Sauvage by Christian Dior, Donna Born In Roma Yellow Dream by Valentino, and My Way by Giorgio Armani.

In Your Forties

By now, you have a greater sense of self and know what works for you—both in terms of style and smell. So stick with perfumes that make you feel confident and fabulous. If you want a classic fragrance that will never go out of style, try Christian Dior Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet. If you prefer something sexier and more modern, go for Club de Nuit Milestone. And if you want a lighter smell for daytime wear, try Clinique Happy.

In Your Fifties...and Beyond!

As you get older, you might find that your taste in perfume changes. You might start to prefer lighter, fresher scents, or you might want something a little more luxurious and sophisticated. And that's perfectly fine! There are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to choosing a perfume, so wear whatever makes you feel confident and fabulous.

A few timeless fragrances to try include ETERNITY by Calvin Klein, Versace Dylan Blue, and Musc Noble by Guerlain. If you're looking for something sexier and more modern, go for Bamboo by Gucci or Secret Obsession by Calvin Klein. And if you want lighter scents for daytime wear, try DKNY Be Delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I wear perfume?

That depends on how strong the scent is and how much you apply. If you're wearing a light, refreshing fragrance, you can probably get away with applying it once or twice a day. But if you're wearing heavier, more spicy, peppery fragrances or smoky scents, you might want to stick to just evening wear, otherwise, the smell could be too much.

What's the best way to apply perfume?

The best way to apply perfume is by spraying it onto your pulse points—the places where your body emits the most heat. These include your neck, wrists, chest, and behind your knees. Avoid rubbing the perfume into your skin, as this can break down the scent molecules and make the fragrance less potent.

What is the best way to store perfume?

Perfume should be stored in a cool, dark place—preferably in its original packaging. Exposure to light and heat can cause the fragrance molecules to break down, making the fragrances less potent. And if you're not using the original packaging, make sure to pack the perfume in an airtight container to keep it from going bad.

How long does perfume last?

Perfume typically lasts for two to three years, but it can start to lose its potency after just one year, especially if it isn't stored properly. If you notice that your perfume doesn't seem as strong as it used to be, it's probably time to replace it.

Final Thoughts