How to smell good… ALL the time

Ever wondered how some women manage to smell amazing all the time? Good news, it is completely achievable, it just takes that extra bit of effort. But…once you’ve mastered it, few compliments will sound sweeter than: “You smell amazing!”

The key to smelling unbelievable is getting the basics right — and each step is like adding an additional layer to your final aroma. While you may want others to think you woke up like this, here’s what you need to do to subtly amp up the aromas in your personal space.

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How to smell good: 6 steps to add subtle layers of scent

A joyful young woman with closed eyes and a big smile, savoring the scent of a frosted donut with sprinkles that she's holding up to her nose. She has a natural afro hairstyle and wears a pink tee under a light pink bib overall, standing against a soft lavender background which complements the playful and sweet theme of the photo.

Go from zero to a hundred with our simple tips to smell great from head to toe! These aromas should be subtle but smell good in their own right. Think of the basic steps as the background music before adding your intentional aroma — your signature scent.

1. Tap into the understated power of soap

Showering with a great-smelling soap or body wash gently scents your skin while washing away unwanted odors. Soaps and body washes will keep your skin clear and healthy… and don’t underestimate the power of the soft aromas that settle on your skin. Clean, heavenly aromas like almond, honey, and lavender will perfectly complement any scent that follows.

2. Employ the staying power of a scented body lotion

Rediscover the power of the basics with clean scents like vanilla, shea, or coconut body lotions. These are subtle, universally appealing, and give a clean, enviable scent that lasts all day. Or, opt for a body lotion that is naturally fragranced with your favorite essential oils. The good news? Your perfume will last longer on well-moisturized skin.

3. Choose your hair products strategically

Believe it or not, you sweat on your scalp more than you realize, and great-smelling hair will immediately set you apart. What is more, the scent of hair products are absorbed into your hair, allowing their aromas to linger — so choose wisely. If you feel like taking things up a notch, spritz some perfume on your brush before brushing your hair. Few things can beat a whiff of great-smelling hair!

4. Let your deodorant do the heavy lifting

Deodorant is your secret weapon to smelling good, thanks to its odor-neutralizing abilities. Look for a fresh, natural aroma that’s barely there. On high-stress days, up your game with an antiperspirant that will help you to steer clear from sweaty situations when you need it most.

5. Refresh your clothes with a soft scent

Without freshly washed clothes, you can give up on the great-smelling game. Look for laundry detergents with a clean smell you love, as it will linger on your clothes once they’re dry. Or, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the washing cycle, and presto…your clothes carry a soft fragrance of their own!

6. Get a perfume that makes a lasting impression

Now that you’ve got the basics covered, look for a perfume that uniquely expresses your personality and style to add the final touch. A signature scent will say something about who you are — a fragrance that connects with your unique sense of charm. Most women who smell amazing have a perfume that magically does just that. Extra points if you can find something slightly off the beaten track that others won’t be able to recognize…don’t worry; here are our favorites!

Prada La Femme EDP

How to smell good perfume picks and tips

We know the devil wears Prada, but trust us, you’ll love wearing Prada La Femme, too! The scent is uplifting, with glamorous florals like frangipani, tuberose, and ylang-ylang. A creamy undertone of vanilla and honey perfectly softens the florals. The perfume will make you smell luxurious all day long, while the alluring notes fuses into your skin, making your signature scent your own best-kept secret. Try Prada La Femme EDP NOW!

Gucci Bloom EDP

Gucci Bloom is not your run-of-the-mill type floral. This contemporary perfume strikes the perfect balance between creamy, sweet, and fresh without being too intense. The trio of white blooms — jasmine, Rangoon creeper, and tuberose — are blended to perfection to create just enough contrast and intrigue. The perfume settles beautifully on your skin in a light, airy kind of way that will add the final touch to make you smell good all day. Try Gucci Bloom EDP NOW!

Acqua di Parma Bergamotto di Calabria EDT

Not a fan of florals? Opt for the sheer fruits and woody accords in Acqua di Parma Bergamotto di Calabria. The undeniably chic blend of fresh bergamot, ginger, cedarwood, vetiver, and musk is destined to set you apart. The scent is elegant and timeless, and leaves a trail of understated class. Try Acqua di Parma bergamotto di Calabria EDT NOW!

House of Bō Agua de Santos EDP

If you walk into a room wearing House of Bō Agua de Santos, you’re sure to make a lasting impression. Elegant, sweet citrus notes blend with neroli and thyme before settling on a base of cedarwood and musk. The fragrance is inspired by the idea of celebrating your individuality, and these intoxicating aromas will allow you to do just that. Try House of Bō Agua de Santos EDP NOW!

Burberry Brit Sheer EDT

Smell unbeatably chic with Burberry Brit Sheer. Aromas like pineapple leaf, mandarin, peony, peach blossom, and pear will instantly uplift your mood. A base of musk and white wood gives an elegant and refined feel to the formula. The perfume will leave your senses wanting more — precisely what you are going for! Try Burberry Brit Sheer EDT NOW!

Versace Crystal Noir EDT

Looking for a floral with an edge? Versace Crystal Noir is the answer. The captivating formula creates a sense of intrigue with notes of pepper and ginger before introducing florals like gardenia and peony. The base brings an edgy sexiness to the scent with amber, musk, and sandalwood. Versace Crystal Noir is an understated, slightly exotic perfume that has just enough point of difference to create an aura of mystery. How to smell good? This perfume will instantly get you there! Try Versace Crystal Noir EDT NOW!

* Want to read more on how to smell good? Find out how to neutralize unwanted scents in our blog, Eau de Oops: How to Neutralize that Overzealous Perfume Smell.