Fragrance for back to school, back to work, back to reality

By Adriana Ermter

If starlets Jennifer Grey, Melanie Griffith, Alicia Silverstone, Julia Roberts and Reese Witherspoon’s memorable silver-screen respective roles as Baby, Tess, Cher, Vivian and Elle taught us anything, it’s the importance of reinvention. After all, no one puts baby in a corner. So, with summertime fading into a distant, happy memory and a back-to-school and a back-to-reality mentality redefining our moment, we’ve devised three ways your perfume can help you re-adjust back to the new season’s routine, whether you’re heading back to school, back to work or just back to reality after a lounging, sleeping-in summer. 

Rule No. 1: Wipe the slate clean
Standing in line at the University bookstore, packing the kids’ lunch boxes and waving goodbye to Summer Fridays are your signals to be courageous and embrace a fresh start. Crisp, fresh, shimmering eaus replete with notes such as, tart kumquat, lime flower and pear blossom are zesty, invigorating and hope-filled, helping set the right tone for a new beginning. 

Spritz to try: Guess, Dare EDT, $60 (50 ml), www.guess.ca; at Shoppers Drug Mart, www.shoppersdrugmart.ca

Rule No. 2: Work hard for success
Common knowledge says that it takes 21 days to form a new habit. But we think clear goals and perseverance are the real bellwethers of success. Just ask Elizabeth Arden. For 25 years the brand’s Red Door perfume has been renowned for its high-performance, long-lasting notes of golden honey, black currant and rose extracts. Bold and feminine, one spritz will ensure that you’re moving in the right direction.
Give it a whirl. Elizabeth Arden, Red Door 25^th Anniversary EDP, $85 (50 ml), www.elizabetharden.ca; at The Hudson’s Bay, www.thebay.com
Rule No. 3: Apply new wisdom
Settling into your new routine feels less daunting when you fire up your confidence. Start with this Evoke blend of juniper, lavender, mandarin, rose and vetiver. Its aquatic-inspired mix of classic notes and calming aromatics will help you get in touch with your insightful and high-achieving self.
Spritz: Evoke the Elements Within 100% Pure Botanical Perfume, Water EDT, $55 (15 ml), www.evoketheelements.com