Reading fragrance notes without the jargon

Top, heart and base are not a mystery. A simple way to read a pyramid so you know what you are buying.

Top notes are the first impression — often citrus, herbs or light florals. They fade within minutes to an hour.

Heart notes are the character of the perfume: florals, fruits, spices. Base notes — woods, musks, ambers — are what stay on fabric and skin.

Why lists can mislead

A long note list does not mean a louder scent. Concentration, dose and your skin chemistry matter more than the brochure.

Use notes as a map, then trust a decant on your own skin before you commit.