There are literally thousands upon thousands of fragrances on the market – from celebrity scents, to the fragrances created by designer fashion houses to the good old perfumes that have been around for ages. But even with the major influx of new fragrances every year, the older, classic scents are still the most popular.
What do we mean by classic? Well, Chanel No. 5 for example, is one of the best-selling fragrances of all time, and it’s been around since 1921! Filled with neroli and ylang ylang, this scent was famously given the number “5” as Chanel approved it on the perfumer’s fifth attempt.
Did you grow up smelling Opium by Yves Saint Laurent in your mother’s room? It’s been a firm favourite since its release in 1977. Guerlain Shalimar is still a popular choice today, and it was first released in 1925.
So why do we keep returning to these old scents? Partly because they take us on a trip down memory lane. Many of our mothers and grandmothers wore scents like Chanel No. 5, and when we smell it today, we are reminded of our childhood, and of them. Studies have shown that we link smells to emotion, so not only do they bring back happy memories, but they also make us feel happier.
Feeling the recession? During difficult financial times, we are more likely to stick to products we know, and associate with good quality, rather than to experiment with new products we’re unfamiliar with. Plus, as consumers we associate age with prestige. Think about the last advert you saw for jewellery, watches, sunglasses or cars… The most prestigious brands (think the Cartier’s and Rolex’s of the world) are proud of their heritage, and often refer to the brand’s age in ad campaigns. After all, if it’s been around for that long, it must be good, right!
Our final thought? Long ago, fragrances were designed to smell feminine and beautiful. Instead of creating bold, unusual or eccentric scents, perfumers used the limited technology and resources they had to create something that would appeal to as many women as possible. Because these scents are simple and still around, they never date, and we know we can turn to them, no matter what the occasion.
What is your favourite classic fragrance, Beauties?
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Fragrances for different ages
29 Responses
I have never bought Chanel no 5. Opium is what takes me back to my wedding day. Not as classic, I like Van Cleef of Van Cleef and Arpels.
Chanel No.5 smells great and yes I still remember how my mum used to smell.
As a young girl I clearly remember the allure and intrigue of my mother’s make up cabinet located in her dressing table. And pride of place was always Chanel 5! I saved up like crazy and bought my first bottle at the age of 14 years from our local pharmacist. I’ll never forget the excitement of watching the bottle being lifted from the shelf and placed into a beautiful paper bag and handed over. Since then my love affair with all things Chanel has never died; it epitomises elegance and classic French flair
So true! I’m not sure how old it is but Givenchy’s Amarige and Estee Lauder’s Pleasures are fragrances that my mom wore that I just can’t forget.
I dont have a favourite classic perfume but my all time favourite is Kaleidoscope LDT by Lentheric. Unfortunately, they have stopped making it :-(
You can’t beat good old Estee Lauder products. They still the best.
Opium will never get old… I’m still a fan.
The packaging that came along with some of the older fragrances are also quite beautiful and very luxurious. I admittedly use more of the modern stuff though just because I lean for very light scents for the most part.
I love Opium. It is truly a classic fragrance that reminds me of my mom’s hugs.
Opium is still one of my favs , I have kept a little bit that I bought in 1993!
I just find them a bit heavy for daytime