As the founder of STORIES Parfums, I've spent years exploring how fragrance interacts with the skin, the senses, and the seasons. Summer brings its own set of challenges when it comes to wearing perfume, from heat and humidity to UV exposure. Let's separate myth from fact, and I’ll share my best summer fragrance tips to help you wear your scent with confidence all season long.

Myth 1: Perfume Doesn’t Last in the Heat

Truth: Perfume evaporates faster in high temperatures, but that doesn't mean it disappears.

In hot weather, fragrance molecules diffuse more quickly, making the scent feel stronger initially but potentially fading faster. Opt for perfumes with richer base notes like amber, sandalwood, and musk to give your scent more longevity. At STORIES Parfums, our perfumes are crafted with a balance of top, heart, and base notes that adapt beautifully to warmer weather.

Founder Tip: Apply your fragrance to well-moisturised skin, ideally after using a matching lotion. Our Hand & Body Lotions in STORIES Nº.01 and Nº.02 create the perfect scented base that helps your perfume cling and last.

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Myth 2: Citrus Scents Are Best for Summer

Truth: While citrus scents feel refreshing, they can be phototoxic.

Many summer scents feature citrus oils like bergamot, lemon, and grapefruit. While they feel light and fresh, these oils can cause photosensitivity, a skin reaction triggered by sun exposure. This is known as phytophotodermatitis and can result in pigmentation or irritation.

Founder Tip: Spritz perfume on pulse points that aren’t directly exposed to sunlight, such as inside elbows, behind the knees, or even through your hair or on clothing.

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Myth 3: Your Fragrance Smells the Same Year-Round

Truth: Your body chemistry and sense of smell change with the seasons.

Heat increases perspiration and oil production, which can alter the way a scent develops on your skin. Your own perception also shifts, what smells rich and comforting in winter can feel heavy or cloying in summer.

Founder Tip: Revisit your scent wardrobe seasonally. STORIES Nº.01, with its uplifting citrus top and warm amber base, evolves elegantly in heat. STORIES Nº.02, with Bulgarian Rose, green tea, and a touch of spice, offers a sophisticated freshness ideal for summer days.

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Myth 4: Reapplying Perfume Is a Faux Pas

Truth: In summer, reapplying is not only okay - it’s encouraged.

Just like sunscreen, fragrance can be topped up. A travel-sized bottle or rollerball is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. Look for alcohol-free versions if you're concerned about sun exposure.

Founder Tip: Keep a fragrance sample or mini bottle in your bag. I often refresh with STORIES Nº.02 before an event or meeting - it instantly resets my mood and presence.

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Myth 5: Perfume is Just About Smell

Truth: Fragrance is emotional, sensory, and deeply personal.

At STORIES Parfums, scent is a way to connect with memory, identity, and emotion. Summer offers a sensory richness that enhances these connections.

Founder Tip: Use scent intentionally. Layer it with memory, with meaning. Spray it when you journal, walk barefoot, or watch the sunset. Make it part of your story.

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Top Tips for Summer Fragrance:

• Moisturise first to lock in scent, look to our summer travel editions.
• Apply to clothes or hair to avoid sun-exposed skin.
• Choose deeper base notes for longevity.
• Switch up your scent with the season or try fragrance layering.
• Reapply with intention.

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Discover Our Summer-Perfect Scents

Explore STORIES Nº.01 and Nº.02 and find your signature scent this season. Our Eau de Parfum, hand & body collection, and perfumed candles are designed to bring beauty, wellbeing and memory to every moment.

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