Ever noticed how a fragrance can smell one way when you first walk into a space, and then feel completely different a few minutes later? That’s the magic of scent notes at work.

Just like music is built from layers of harmony, a well-crafted fragrance is built in layers called top, middle, and base notes. Each one plays a different role in shaping how the scent is experienced over time.

Top Notes: The First Impression

These are the notes you notice right away. Often light, fresh, or citrusy, top notes are designed to capture your attention and draw you in. They evaporate quickly—usually within 15 minutes—making room for the heart of the scent to shine.

Examples: Lemon, peppermint, marine ozone, or green watery notes.

Middle Notes: The Heart of the Fragrance

Also called heart notes, these emerge as the top notes fade. They form the core of the fragrance and typically last for an hour or more. Middle notes are usually more rounded and complex, offering a smooth transition between bright top notes and deeper base notes.

Examples: Lavender, jasmine, rosemary, or tropical fruits.

Base Notes: The Lasting Impression

These rich, grounding notes appear last—and linger the longest. Base notes are what give a scent its lasting power and depth, often remaining detectable for hours after application. They’re typically warm, woody, or musky.

Examples: Amber, sandalwood, vanilla, woody musk.

Why It Matters

Understanding scent notes helps you make more informed choices—whether you’re selecting a signature fragrance or designing an experience for your space. For example, a scent like Catching Rays from our collection opens with bright citrus and peppermint, mellows into floral and herbal mid-notes, and finishes with warm amber and cypress for a balanced, long-lasting scent.

When you choose a fragrance, you’re not just choosing a smell—you’re choosing a story that unfolds over time.