1. Scent a card

    One spray from arm's length

    Let it dry before you seal it. More than one spray can smudge the ink.

  2. Take it with you

    Decant into a small atomizer

    Fill it halfway so it travels well. Top up from the big bottle at home.

  3. Scent a drawer

    One spray on a cotton ball

    Tuck it into a drawer of scarves or sweaters. Swap it every few weeks.

Make your perfume last all day

How to · With perfume

Make your perfume last all day

2 minutesEvery dayEasy

Steps

  1. 1Spray right after a shower, when your skin is warm and slightly damp.
  2. 2Smooth a little unscented lotion on your wrists and neck first. Scent clings to moisturized skin.
  3. 3Spray your pulse points from about 6 inches away. Don't rub your wrists together.
  4. 4Add one spray on fabric, like a scarf, where scent lasts longer. Test an inside seam first.

  • Strength is on the label

    From strongest to lightest: parfum (or extrait), eau de parfum, eau de toilette, eau de cologne. Stronger lasts longer and costs more.

  • Pick a family

    Fresh (citrus, green), floral, warm (amber, vanilla, spice) or woody. If they already wear something they love, stay in the same family.

  • Wait before deciding

    A scent changes on the skin. The first spray is the top notes; give it fifteen minutes before you judge.