Summers are something we eagerly await. Nothing is better than waking up to the enchanting earthy smell of morning dew; vibrant, sunny days and relaxed musky evenings! Everyone looks forward to unpacking their beachwear and flip-flops to bask by the pool or sea, or sipping cool mocktails in their favourite summer dress and heels.

Whether heading out for a getaway or a hectic day at work, the most essential accessory in summer is definitely a good perfume. Something that keeps you refreshed energised and deodorised all day long.

Fragrances have the power to influence our senses and uplift our mood — transforming the environment from mellow to merry within seconds! Here are a few insights on how to pick the right fragrance this summer:

• Hit the right note: You should be able to pick a distinct fragrance for yourself without going in for something that is way too popular in the market. Identifying the correct note that suits your personality is of utmost importance. Use adjectives to define yourself and pick a fragrance that resonates strongly. Don’t want to smell like everyone else now do you?
• Choose lighter tones: A fragrance that reminds you of fresh sea breeze or floral notes on dew is known to cool the body and instantly pacify the mind. A summer scent should quench the heat and sooth the senses. Avoid heavy tones like vanilla, cocoa or caramel as they exude warmth, and are best for winters.
• For dazzling evenings: For casual outings, parties etc, you should opt for fragrances with mild floral hues and woody base note. Such fragrances are feminine in nature and subtly infuse an enchanting effect. A combination of a fruity top note, a leafy heart note and an intense base note does the trick.
• All day scents: To smell good all day long, you don’t have to douse perfume every hour! An eau de toilette is the ideal option. It is a happy medium between airy cologne with a punch of a perfume. Once absorbed in the skin, it gradually diffuses throughout the day, to release a lasting scent.
• Day in & day out: Every fragrance is synonymous with the mood or time we carry it. While picking up a right fragrance for day wear, go for aqua, fresh or rose-based scents. For a night out, opt for a more concentrated note like amber, cedarwood or musk with a light hint of floral note such as jasmine or lily.

(The author is an expert from the House of McNROE)