How to Choose a Perfume for Someone Else

Picking out perfume for someone else is no small feat. It’s choosing something that they’ll be using on repeat for months.

But where do you even start? From deciphering scent profiles to taking sneaky hints, here’s your guide to choose a perfume that will make them think you have magical powers.

Let’s get into this high-stakes world of fragrance matchmaking.

1. Take Note of Their Vibe (and Their Style)

First things first, don’t make it complicated. Start by getting a feel for their general vibe. Are they the free-spirited, bohemian type who loves nature? Or maybe they’re all about the classics, the kind who would rather wear black-and-white than any loud color. Their style says a lot about what type of perfume might suit them.
Casual and Cool: Think fresh and light fragrances—citrusy, green, or maybe even aquatic scents that feel effortless.
Classy and Refined: For someone who gives Audrey Hepburn vibes, you can’t go wrong with elegant florals or subtle woods.
Mysterious and Edgy: Got a friend with a taste for adventure? Spicy, smoky scents might be right up their alley.

The easiest way to start? Peek at what they already have (if you can) or pay attention to their style—it’ll tell you more than you think.

2. Consider Their Hobbies and Hangouts

Believe it or not, where they hang out and what they love to do says a lot about their fragrance preferences. Imagine if they’re always camping, hiking, or just loving the outdoors, they’ll likely enjoy fresh, green scents. If their vibe is more “city nights,” maybe a bold, spicy perfume is more their thing.

It’s all about thinking of perfume as an accessory to their lifestyle. A good perfume should feel like an extension of what they love to do.

3. Find Out Their Go-To Scents (Without Being Obvious)

Here’s where you put your detective skills to use. If you’re close enough, try complimenting their current perfume and casually ask what it is. You’ll get a solid hint about their preferred scent family—be it floral, woody, fresh, or spicy.

Another trick? If you notice they’re drawn to certain candles, room sprays, or even lotions, take note! People tend to be consistent with scents they enjoy. And if all else fails, remember this: their personal space can give clues too. Someone with fresh, breezy candles or ocean-inspired room sprays might prefer lighter, cleaner perfumes, while someone with amber incense and rich candles is probably into deeper, moodier scents.

4. Go for “Easy Like Sunday Morning” Scents

When in doubt, pick a safe scent. There are some fragrances that just feel universally appealing and easygoing. Think soft florals, gentle citrus, or light musk—scents that don’t scream for attention but make a subtle, pleasant impression.

These types of perfumes are like a cozy sweater—warm, comforting, and universally flattering. Even if it’s not their forever fragrance, it’ll be one they can enjoy for everyday wear.

5. Sample First, Buy Big Later

Here’s the golden rule of gifting perfume: test before you invest. Instead of committing to a big bottle right away, try out a travel-sized version or even a gift set with miniatures. This way, they can play around and see which one resonates the most.

Perfumes can smell different on everyone, so a sample set lets them find their perfect match without pressure.

6. Skip the Trendy Scents (Unless They’re Obsessed with It)

Every now and then, a fragrance will blow up on social media or get hyped as “THE scent of the year.” But trendy doesn’t mean timeless. Unless they’ve already hinted that they love a certain popular scent, go with something that feels more timeless or personal. A classic fragrance has staying power—it won’t feel “so last year” six months down the road.

If they love a scent that’s all over Instagram, then go for it! But if you’re unsure, classic always wins.

Ready to Make That Perfect Pick?