Fragrance Etiquette Tips You Should Know

April 1, 2011

It was a pretty spring day on the Sunshine Coast. A perfect day for a stroll. I was quietly admiring the scenery, when a man—obviously late for a very important date—brushed past me. Without breaking stride, he turned his head to apologize, and that’s when it happened.

I was immediately overcome by the gift he left me as he hurried down the trail. The overpowering scent of his cologne stopped me in my tracks. There was nowhere to turn. There wasn’t even a breeze to help escort the scent away from me. It hung in the air like a balloon that was clinging to its last bit of air.

Don’t get me wrong, I love the scent of perfumes and colognes, but it was the pure volume of the scent that made me dizzy.

So, here are some tips that will ensure that you’re not “that guy.”

Use the Two-Foot Rule
Fragrance is a personal thing. It’s something you give those you allow to get close to you. Don’t give it away. Use restraint when applying your perfume or cologne. Spraying it in the air and walking through it is one tried-and-true way of ensuring you’re not going overdoing it.
Choose Scents that Complement You (and the occasion)
Your perfume should enhance your image, not distract people. During the day, choose a lighter scent, and save the heavier perfumes for evening.
Know When to Say No
The two places you should never wear perfume are hospitals and airplanes. And if you know you’re going to be around a lot of people in an enclose space, like a theatre, conference room or church, use discretion when applying your perfume. Remember “a little dab will do ya!”
Apply in Private
A lot of people have sensitivities to scent. Be considerate of other people—and their allergies—and don’t apply your perfume in a public place.
Don’t Compete
If you’re attending an event where a part of the experience is aroma—such as a cooking class or a wine tasting—ditch the perfume for the occasion. You won’t win any friends by bringing along your own special scent to a gourmet wine pairing. And it’s unlikely you’ll be invited back!

Following these fragrance etiquette tips should keep you in good standing with your friends and co-workers.

Do you have a story about a fragrance “assault” that you’d like to share? The woman on the plane next to you who freshened up her perfume while you were next to her? I’d love to hear it!

Looking for more etiquette tips? Be sure to sign up to have blog articles sent to your mailbox and don’t miss another manners tip from Miss Maggie!

image: Jennuine Captures