Start with preferred scent family, intended setting and the impression you want. A shortlist of three or four candidates is usually easier to assess than dozens.

Give each candidate enough time to develop. Avoid comparing too many on your skin at once because the scents can overlap.

Consider the full day, comfort and cost per use. The best purchase is the one you want to reach for again.

The more you understand what you enjoy, the easier it becomes to choose with confidence. A note list is a starting point, not a substitute for time with the actual scent. Notice what you return to, not just what grabs your attention in the first few moments.