6 Power Scents For Success At Work

Christian Dior once famously remarked, ‘perfume is the dispensable complement to the personality of women, the finishing touch on a dress.’ To him, a woman’s perfume tells more about her personality than her handwriting. And it’s true that every time a spot of perfume rests gently on the wrists or behind the ears, an olfactory reference point is created between you and your memories.

That’s why fragrances and essential oils of aromatic woods have always had a strong association with gods and royalty. These scents, when worn, lent the wearer a sense of authority. “Egyptian history mentions that perfumery was deeply linked to religion. Pharaohs in ancient Egypt used different scents for different occasions, one for meditation and another for love while a separate perfume was sprayed during wars — one that that exuded power,” states Rupal Tyagi, aromatherapist and founder, Wikka. It is believed that some members of Indian royalty had their signature scents curated for them. Traditionally, rose and exotic florals have been associated with feminine elegance, and woody-leathery-musky compositions with masculine sophistication.

In the contemporary context, the boardroom is a place that witnesses power and prestige. Tyagi recommends that boardroom scents, whether for men or women, should be dominated by woody, spicy and musky components. “An ideal power fragrance should have a citrusy top to awaken your senses, and camphor middle notes with traces of rosemary or mint to stimulate the memory. A lavender-oud-woody base helps to boost confidence and keeps anxiety at bay.” A chypre fragrance with notes of patchouli, jasmine, rose, bergamot, labdanum and oak moss or an Oriental fragrance with notes of vanilla, spices and patchouli are some other scents that help you make a glamorous impact, states Rajiv Sheth, CEO and creative director of All Good Scents.

A whiff, like a time machine, can transport you back in time — to the beach where you first kissed, or to the roses that once bloomed in your balcony. It is no wonder then that the memories triggered by a scent have a stronger emotional impact than those jogged by other senses. Pick a scent that makes you feel comforted and calm, to exude a sense of confidence.

1. Davidoff The Brilliant Game

This perfume is inspired by that moment in a game when you feel confident and positive that victory is just a natural consequence. Ideal for men in dapper suits, the perfume has zesty Sicilian lemon oil extracts, sage and tangerine in its notes.

2. Paco Rabanne Olympéa

Based on the idea of a modern Greek goddess, it evokes strength and conquests. The sensorial adventure marries the sensuality of a salty vanilla accord with the freshness of floral notes.

3. Gucci Bamboo

Sharing the bamboo’s characteristics, the Gucci woman balances strength and confidence with her innate femininity. Aromatic sandalwood, heady Tahitian vanilla and grey amber accords strike a contrast with the softness of lily and orange blossom.

4. Dior Homme Intense

The top note of lavender, middle notes of iris, ambrette (musk mallow) and pear, and base notes of vetiver and Virginia cedar give this masculine fragrance a distinctive character.

5. Roberto Cavalli Eau De Parfum

‘A strong personality is the sexiest thing to me,’ states designer Roberto Cavalli. Not for the faint-hearted, this perfume, belonging to the ambery floral family, mesmerises from the start.

6. Boss Ma Vie Pour Femme

Known for her easy confidence, Gwyneth Paltrow — who is the face of the campaign — is shot in an impeccable Hugo Boss tuxedo. Cedar wood essential oil, which forms the base of the fragrance, encourages a sense of stability and strength.