I typically have countless perfumes lining my vanity, but that’s changing this year. Everyone seems to have a signature scent these days, and considering the brain chemistry–altering benefits of fragrances, finding mine is high on my beauty priorities list. But with thousands of perfumes on the market, how do you discover your signature scent? If you’ve been wondering the same, you’re in luck. We consulted Elena Z. Cloud, an expert in the art of fragrance, for the 411 on signature scents.
In the spirit of the Y2K revival, we welcome you to Dear Good Girl, our nod to the iconic advice columns of the early 2000s. Keep reading to hear Cloud’s tips on finding your signature scent, her fragrance-layering trick, and why she thinks Carolina Herrera should be a part of your fragrance collection.
Dear Good Girl,
I’m trying to find my signature scent, but there’s an overwhelming number of fragrances to choose from. Can you give me a step-by-step guide to finding the perfect fragrance for me? — Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
It’s overwhelming to pick a signature scent out of the countless options available, but hopefully these three steps will help:
1. Allow Yourself to Explore. Visit stores, take samples, and always test them on your skin. You’ll be surprised how something you didn’t think you’d gravitate towards can become your ultimate favorite.
2. Don’t Compromise Your Identity. This is the golden rule. By falling into a trap of hype, we often sacrifice what we truly like. Let your personality and style lead you to identify your signature scent.
3. Don’t Underestimate the Sense of Curiosity. Keep your mind open and don’t get stuck on familiarity. If you think you don’t like rose-centered perfumes and the woody ones are too bold for you, go back and try different variations of compositions with those notes, and I guarantee you it’ll shift your perspective.
(Image credit: Carolina Herrera)
Dear Good Girl,
I’ve been loving the ambery-fruity-floral perfumes that are having a moment right now, but I want one that feels more elevated and mysterious. Which fragrance would be a good pick for me? — Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
I think you’d love the new Very Good Girl Elixir ($175) from Carolina Herrera. To me, this is the ultimate staple scent that everyone needs in their collection. It has a combination of cherry and rose, two distinct notes that are undoubtedly complementary. The candy-like aroma of cherry pairs with rich amber and almond to contrast against the romantic rose notes, creating a scent that’s playful and sensual. Luscious vanilla and cocoa add to the daring mystique of the scent. It’s the kind of irresistible fragrance that’ll turn every head in the room and is just begging to be worn on a date night. To me, this combination stands out from other fruity-floral blends because it feels both classic and modern, extending the appeal and versatility.
Carolina Herrera
Very Good Girl Elixir Eau de Parfum
Dear Good Girl,
I want to work on my confidence in 2025. Do you have any empowering rituals you recommend doing while applying your perfume? — Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
If you have a habit of journaling or setting affirmations I’d highly recommend choosing a scent that aligns with your intentions for the day. For example, bright citrusy scents are known for their energy-boosting qualities; musky aromatic scents evoke a sense of calm; iris, sandalwood, and vanilla scents evoke comfort; and ambery scents like the Very Good Girl Elixir tend to magnify confidence and determination. What matters most, though, is the confidence the scent gives you.
(Image credit: Carolina Herrera)
Dear Good Girl,
I’m new to the fragrance world. Can you give me a fragrance tip that only an expert like you would know? — Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
Layer your fragrances! Consider applying your main fragrance on your neck and chest area, then a complementing scent on your wrist, which will create an interesting combination of notes and an echoing sillage effect. For example, consider spritzing the sensual Very Good Girl Elixir on your décolletage for an alluring main fragrance, and then apply the fresh, floral Good Girl Blush ($170) on your wrist for a softer presence.
Shop Carolina Herrera Fragrances
Carolina Herrera
Good Girl Eau de Parfum
The one that started it all. Alluring jasmine meets intoxicating cocoa and vibrant coffee to create a fragrance that’s daring, yet utterly sophisticated.
Carolina Herrera
Good Girl Blush Eau de Parfum
Blooming peony, bergamot, and ylang-ylang mingle with delicate vanilla and romantic rose for the ultimate Good Girl scent. Plus, the blush-pink stiletto looks so pretty on your vanity.
Carolina Herrera
Very Good Girl Eau de Parfum
The predecessor to the Very Good Girl Elixir. This juicy, playful redcurrant and lychee blend leads unexpectedly into a seductive combination of rose and vetiver.
Carolina Herrera
Very Good Girl Hair Mist
Hair mists are everywhere, but this one does so much more than leave your hair smelling divine. It’s actually a hairspray that works to leave hair nourished, glossy, and beautifully perfumed, all in one sprtiz.
Carolina Herrera
Good Girl Blush Elixir Eau de Parfum
This highly concentrated take on the original Good Girl Blush Eau de Parfum, the Good Girl Blush Elixir intensifies the original blend with notes of lush rose, vanilla, and smoky patchouli.
Carolina Herrera
Good Girl Superluxe Swarovski Collector’s Edition
What’s better than a bottle of Good Girl? A bottle that’s adorned with over 2000 Swarovski crystals. It’s the ultimate luxury if you want to spoil the good girl in your life.
Carolina Herrera
Good Girl Hair Mist
Envelop your locks in a veil of the iconic Good Girl fragrance, leaving the captivating scent wherever you go.
Carolina Herrera
Very Good Girl Glam Eau Parfum
If you love the cherry fragrances that are so on-trend right now, this one’s for you. One spritz of this dazzling blend of black cherry, rose, vetiver, and vanilla bourbon, and you’ll feel red carpet ready.
Carolina Herrera
Good Girl Midnight Eau de Parfum
Enigmatic and opulent, this limited-edition fragrance is perfect for a night out. It features orange blossom and tuberose, while warming base notes of patchouli, vanilla, and tonka intensify its mystique.
