At one point in our lives, we must have looked up our horoscope online or in a local newspaper, even at least once. With a light, expectant heart, we would quickly browse columns, looking for the sign we are born under, only to find a hilariously written fortune. In some cases, the list of characteristics and personality for each zodiac sign fit us perfectly that we wondered if it’s actually legit. Whether it’s for fun or for serious guidance, this art has mystified us for centuries.
A research by Alan R. Hirsch says that one’s preferred fragrances can be indicative of their personality. He also mentions the close connection of the olfactory sense and the limbic system, which explains smell-induced nostalgia – certain scents bringing back memories of events, places, or even people. So it is no wonder that we may associate certain fragrances to certain traits or even significant people in our lives.
Based on their defining characteristics and quirks, we wondered if each zodiac sign has common fragrance preferences. So for fun in today’s World Fragrance Day (March 21), we came up with this list by collating various sources, and adding our personal experience. Maybe this list can help you pick out that next favorite perfume or candle scent!
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
An Aries is known to be fiery and intense, almost aggressive, so cinnamon, pepper, and spices in general accentuate their enthusiasm for countless adventures. They also tend to leave an impression as trailblazers, like tobacco or new car leather. It’s their way or the highway!
Perfume examples:
- Spice Blend by Dior type
- L’Homme Ideal Extreme by Guerlain type
- Halfeti Leather by Penhaligon’s type
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
As an earth sign, Taurus prefers natural scents, such as fresh grass and sandalwood. Despite being a stubborn group, Tauruses love comfort so anything that will help them relax will delight them, like Netflix and vanilla ice cream. As a sign ruled by Venus, they also value beauty and luxury, perfectly symbolized by a bouquet of roses.
Perfume examples:
- La Nuit Tresor Nude by Lancome type
- Aqua Allegoria Rosa Rossa by Guerlain type
- Rose Prick by Tom Ford type
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Gemini is probably one of the most misunderstood and misjudged signs with their unpredictable personalities. They are easily bored, so mentally stimulating scents such as mint and lavender work wonders. Their boundless energy also benefits from uplifting citrusy scents such as orange and lemon.
Perfume examples:
- Aqua Allegoria Orange Soleia by Guerlain type
- Sel D’Azur by Yves Rocher type
- Bleu de Chanel by Chanel type
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
This water sign is said to be the “mothers” of the zodiac – nurturing and at times, overprotective. Scents that remind them of home and comfort soothe their energies, such as baked goods. Clean scents such as cucumber and fresh linen are also fan favorites. Attuned with the moon, Cancerians may also opt for traditional essences such as eucalyptus.
Perfume examples:
- Ginger Bread Latte by Bath and Body Works type
- Cucumber Melon by Bath and Body Works type (literally anything by BBW, really)
- Let’s Stay in Bed by Victoria’s Secret type
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Leos love the limelight – they are confident and charismatic, like there’s a constant fire burning inside of them. This is why bright and robust scents such as lime and mandarin work perfectly for them. Spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg can also energize them, a preference that fire signs share.
Perfume examples:
- Midnight Musk & Amber by Jo Malone type
- Eros by Versace type
- Good Girl Glorious Gold by Carolina Herrera type
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Virgos like their homes clean and organized, so you can never go wrong with any scent that reminds them of cleanliness such as lemongrass and coconut. Grounding notes are a must for them to create their peaceful space, so add a bit of basil and cedarwood. Sage might be too strong though, so keep it gentle!
Perfume examples:
- The One Grey by Dolce Gabbana type
- English Oak & Hazelnut Cologne by Jo Malone type
- Coco Vanille by Mancera type
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
As their symbol represents, Libra likes to have a well-balanced… everything. So a duet of scents in perfect balance attract them – they have a variety of preferences, but making sure they artistically blend together is important. For example: the floral-spicy combination of rose and saffron. They are the resident social butterflies of the zodiac, so cheerful scents such as berries may also entice them, just not overpowering ones! Remember, balance!
Perfume examples:
- Rose Safran by L’Occitane En Provence type
- English Oak & Redcurrant by Jo Malone type
- Rouge Trafalgar by Dior type
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
There is nothing more mysterious than a Scorpio laced with secrets. These water signs are intense lovers, so dynamic scents such as frankincense and pepper highlight their allure. The sensuality of cardamom also excites them. Though not a fan of florals in general, they opt for the strong variants such as frangipani and ylang-ylang. Be sure not to scorn a Scorpio because they seriously hold a grudge, as intense as their favorite fragrances!
Perfume examples:
- Patchouli Ardent by Guerlain type
- Ombre Leather by Tom Ford type
- Coeur Battant by Louis Vuitton
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Sagittarians are free souls – they prefer a life of adventure, so they are often misjudged as too optimistic and to some extent, non-committal. Any scent that reminds them of the other side of the globe, or something they have come across in one their travels makes them excited. These include spices such as saffron, clove, and even curry. Their bright, spontaneous energy can also be accentuated with the sweetness of pears and berries.
Perfume examples:
- Sorbetto Rosso by Escada type
- Armani Code Absolu Gold by Giorgio Armani type
- 1 Million by Paco Rabanne type
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
For our resident workaholi- I mean, career-oriented earth sign, Capricorns prefer scents that give them brief moments of peace and relaxation, but also ones that allow them to focus at work. Thus, calming, classic scents such as chamomile and lavender are definite go-tos. Rosemary is said to boost mood and alertness, so it helps the cap who’s always on the go. And what better scent to pick you up for work but freshly brewed coffee?
Perfume examples:
- Yuja Cologne by Jo Malone type
- Myrrh & Tonka Cologne by Jo Malone type
- Angel Men Pure Coffee by Thierry Mugler type
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
The water-bearer are the rebels and trailblazers of the zodiac, often walking down paths less traveled. For them, perfumes are more than scents – they are psychic experiences. So don’t be surprised if you see an aquarius trying out unconventional scents such as hemp. Their minds are always full of great, unique ideas, so they like crisp scents such as lime and eucalyptus to help them communicate better.
Perfume examples:
- CK Everyone by Calvin Klein type
- Alien Man Fusion by Thierry Mugler
- Women by Calvin Klein type
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
It is no wonder that this water sign is symbolized by the fish – their kind and charitable souls always seek respite in the ocean. Thus, oceanic and marine notes are on top of their list. These late February to early March (cry)babies are emotional in nature, so perhaps a bit of alcoholic scent such as absinthe and cognac adds a special kick. As an advice, lemongrass might help sever some unwanted emotions.
Perfume examples:
- Gingham Body Mist by Bath and Body Works type
- Polo Ultra Blue by Ralph Lauren type
- Un Jardin Sur La Lagune by Hermes type
Sources:
- elledecor.com
- gcimagazine.com
- naturesgardencandles.com
- Zodiac sign vectors created by macrovector_official – freepik
