Scent of a Woman

For: relaxation

‘Vanilla’ may be a byword for bland, but in the olfactory world it is anything but. In a recent study, scientists found that just one sniff of a vanilla bean could create feelings of joy and relaxation. Which makes Valentino Donna happiness central with vanilla as the dominant base note, plus heart notes of rose and iris and top notes of bergamot.

A Valentino Donna Eau de Parfum and matching body lotion boxed set is exclusively available in Valentino boutique at The Boulevard at Studio City, Macau.

For: energy

Forget the litre of coffee – if you’re looking for an energy boost, get a hit of citrus instead. It’s proven that sniffing an orange or lemon will immediately increase alertness, which means the Givenchy Eclat Precieux, with its dominant mandarin top notes, is the ideal scent for a busy working day. It goes from day to night effortlessly too, with its pretty heart notes of rose and hyacinth perfect for that after-work cocktail party.

Givenchy Eclat Precieux is not yet available in mainland China – but you can find it now at T Galleria by DFS at The Boulevard at Studio City, Macau.

For: confidence

When it comes to jasmine, looks can be deceptive. Despite its delicate appearance, this floral is one of the most powerful anti-depressants in the natural world and one whiff can produce feelings of confidence and optimism. Bulgari Goldea, which mixes jasmine with musk, raspberry and orange blossom, must be the ideal first date fragrance then.

For: romance

So, that first date has gone well – what fragrance do you wear on the all-important third date? Tom Ford, fashion’s resident sex god, is on hand to help with his sultry Black Orchid perfume and its heart notes of incense and dark chocolate. Both ingredients are proven aphrodisiacs and will help set the mood for an evening of romance.