Scent of the Shore: Exploring the Artistry of Oceanic Fragrances

Table of Contents

  1. Key Highlights:
  2. Introduction:
  3. The Olfactory Canvas of the Ocean: Defining Aquatic and Solar Scents
  4. Diptyque Do Son: A Tuberose Breeze by the Vietnamese Coast
  5. Ellis Brooklyn Salt: The Pristine Dawn of a Beach Vacation
  6. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Celestia: The Ethereal Embrace of Sky and Sea
  7. Beyond the Bottle: The Evocative Power of Oceanic Perfumes
  8. Crafting the Marine Accord: A Perfumer's Challenge
  9. Navigating the Waves of Scent: Choosing Your Signature Sea Aroma
  10. FAQ:

Key Highlights:

  • Oceanic fragrances transcend simple freshness, capturing the multifaceted sensory experience of coastal environments, from salty air and sea breeze to sun-warmed skin and exotic florals.
  • Master perfumers employ innovative "marine accords" and notes like ambergris, ylang-ylang, and tiare to evoke the nuanced essence of the sea, often intertwining them with floral or solar elements.
  • These captivating perfumes offer a versatile olfactory escape, suitable for a range of occasions and seasons, appealing to those who seek a connection to nature and a sense of calm or exhilaration.

Introduction:

The human sense of smell possesses an extraordinary power, capable of transporting the mind across vast distances and through the corridors of memory. Among the myriad scent families, oceanic fragrances hold a unique allure, beckoning wearers to a world of sun-drenched beaches, cool sea spray, and the tranquil rhythm of waves. These perfumes are more than just fresh or clean; they are meticulously crafted olfactory narratives that encapsulate the complex, invigorating, and often serene experience of being by the water. They represent a sophisticated evolution in perfumery, moving beyond traditional interpretations of aquatic notes to embrace the nuances of salt, sand, and the vibrant flora that thrives along coastlines.

The journey into oceanic fragrances reveals a spectrum of interpretations, from the bracing chill of a morning tide to the warm embrace of a sunset on a tropical shore. Each composition tells a distinct story, drawing inspiration from specific coastal landscapes and the emotions they evoke. This exploration delves into the artistry behind these captivating scents, examining how perfumers translate the ephemeral essence of the ocean into wearable masterpieces and highlighting notable examples that define this evocative category. Understanding the intricate blend of notes and the creative vision behind them offers a deeper appreciation for these perfumes, revealing why they continue to resonate with individuals seeking an olfactory connection to the boundless beauty of the sea.

The Olfactory Canvas of the Ocean: Defining Aquatic and Solar Scents

The category of oceanic fragrances, often broadly termed "aquatic," encompasses a diverse range of interpretations, each designed to evoke a specific facet of the marine environment. At its core, an oceanic scent aims to replicate the sensation of water—be it the crispness of a waterfall, the vastness of the open sea, or the humidity of a tropical coastline. This is achieved through the ingenious use of "marine accords," synthetic molecules engineered to mimic the smell of sea air, wet stones, or the subtle brininess of the ocean. The pioneering use of calone in the late 20th century, for instance, revolutionized this category, providing a distinct, fresh, and slightly ozonic quality that became synonymous with many early aquatic perfumes.

However, the modern oceanic fragrance landscape extends far beyond this singular chemical note. It has branched into more specialized sub-categories, notably "solar" and "floral aquatic." Solar fragrances, as their name suggests, aim to capture the warmth and light of the sun, often integrating notes that evoke sun-warmed skin, a subtle hint of sunscreen, or the radiant glow of a summer day. These scents frequently employ creamy white florals like tiare or monoi, alongside coconut, vanilla, or amber, to create a comforting, luminous aura. They embody the feeling of basking on a beach, the air thick with the scent of tropical blossoms and the gentle warmth of the sun. The focus here is less on the water itself and more on the surrounding sensory experience of a sunny, coastal retreat.

Floral aquatic fragrances, on the other hand, artfully blend the freshness of marine notes with the lushness of blossoms typically found near water bodies. This fusion creates a harmonious balance between the cool, expansive quality of the sea and the delicate, often heady, aroma of flowers like jasmine, tuberose, or orange blossom. These perfumes often tell a story of coastal gardens, where sea breezes carry the scent of blooming flora inland, or of flowers brought back from vibrant local markets by the sea. They offer a softer, more romantic interpretation of the oceanic theme, maintaining the invigorating freshness while adding a layer of floral sophistication and depth. The interplay between the crispness of the sea and the sweetness of the flowers creates a multifaceted aroma that can be both refreshing and richly fragrant, making them particularly appealing for those who appreciate both natural elements.

The evolution of these scent profiles reflects a growing sophistication in perfumery, where the aim is not just to smell "like the beach" but to evoke a specific memory, emotion, or narrative tied to the ocean. Perfumers now draw upon a broader palette of ingredients and techniques, moving beyond simple freshness to craft complex, nuanced compositions that capture the true essence of coastal living. This dedication to detail allows oceanic fragrances to offer an immersive sensory experience, transporting the wearer to their desired seaside escape with every spritz.

Diptyque Do Son: A Tuberose Breeze by the Vietnamese Coast

Diptyque's Do Son Eau de Parfum stands as a quintessential example of a floral aquatic fragrance, offering a poetic interpretation of a coastal memory. The inspiration for Do Son is deeply personal, stemming from the childhood summers of Diptyque co-founder Yves Coueslant in Do Son, a small town on the Vietnamese coast. His recollections of the intoxicating scent of tuberoses carried on the sea breeze, mingled with the aroma of flowers his mother brought back from local markets, form the emotional core of this addictive perfume. This narrative imbues Do Son with a unique blend of nostalgia and natural beauty, distinguishing it from more generic aquatic offerings.

At its heart, Do Son is a celebration of tuberose, a flower renowned for its heady, creamy, and sometimes indolic scent. Unlike many floral fragrances that feature tuberose prominently, Do Son manages to present it with a remarkable lightness and transparency, preventing it from becoming overly heavy or cloying. This is achieved through its clever composition. The top notes introduce the vibrant freshness of tuberose and orange blossom, creating an immediate impression of lush, blooming flora. Orange blossom, with its sweet, slightly green, and honeyed facets, complements the tuberose, adding brightness and a touch of Mediterranean warmth.

As the fragrance develops, a heart of jasmine emerges, weaving seamlessly with the dominant tuberose. Jasmine, another intensely fragrant white floral, reinforces the perfume's floral character, contributing its rich, sweet, and sometimes subtly animalic nuances. The genius of Do Son lies in how these powerful floral notes are tempered and elevated by a subtle yet pervasive marine accord. As Jessie Dawes, chief marketing officer for Diptyque Americas, explains, this olfactory note creates "the sensation of being close to the ocean." It's not an overt smell of salt or seaweed, but rather an ethereal, cooling breath of sea air that provides contrast and balance to the otherwise opulent florals. This marine whisper is crucial; it prevents the tuberose from overwhelming the senses, instead allowing it to bloom as if gently caressed by a coastal breeze.

The base note of amber provides a warm, resinous foundation, anchoring the vibrant florals and marine freshness with a soft, comforting depth. Amber, often described as warm, sweet, and powdery, contributes to the perfume's longevity and adds a subtle richness that prevents it from being purely linear. The overall effect is a fragrance that is profoundly floral yet unmistakably airy and fresh, evoking images of a serene coastal landscape where fragrant blooms meet the invigorating embrace of the sea. Reviewers often praise its unique balance, noting its floral character softened by a subtle muskiness that lends it versatility, making it suitable for both day and evening wear without being overly "nighttime." Do Son is a testament to Diptyque's ability to translate complex memories and natural phenomena into sophisticated and enduring olfactory experiences.

Ellis Brooklyn Salt: The Pristine Dawn of a Beach Vacation

Ellis Brooklyn's Salt Eau De Parfum offers a distinct interpretation of the oceanic theme, positioning itself as a solar fragrance that captures the essence of the sea itself, rather than conventional beach stereotypes. The creator’s inspiration for Salt is notably specific and evocative: "the first day of a beach vacation. You wake up early on your own, there's no one on the beach yet, and there's still that morning freshness in the air." This narrative sets Salt apart, focusing on a moment of serene solitude and untouched natural beauty, far from the typical associations of tropical drinks and suntan lotion.

The fragrance opens with an immediate sense of purity and calm, aiming to replicate the cool, crisp air of a deserted shore at dawn. This unique approach means Salt avoids the more common coconut or overly sweet notes often found in "beach" scents. Instead, it leans into the more nuanced aspects of the marine environment. The composition features a complex blend of notes designed to evoke the specific feeling of salty, wet skin and the natural aroma of the ocean.

Key notes include ylang ylang, violet leaves absolute, Tahitian tiare, magnolia dianica, musk, vegan ambergris, and sandalwood. Ylang ylang contributes a rich, creamy, and slightly exotic floral sweetness, reminiscent of tropical blooms. Violet leaves absolute introduce a green, earthy, and slightly metallic freshness, adding to the sensation of dew-kissed foliage near the shore. Tahitian tiare, a prominent solar note, provides a luminous, creamy, and subtly narcotic floral aroma, intrinsically linked to sunny, tropical locales without being overtly sweet. Magnolia dianica offers a delicate, fresh, and slightly citrusy floral facet, contributing to the "morning freshness" aspect.

The inclusion of musk provides a soft, warm, and skin-like base, enhancing the perfume's longevity and adding a sensual, comforting quality that feels like sun-warmed skin. Crucially, the use of vegan ambergris is a significant element. Traditional ambergris, a rare and ethically complex ingredient derived from sperm whales, offers a unique salty, animalic, and subtly sweet marine scent. Vegan ambergris aims to replicate this complex profile, lending Salt its authentic "smells like the sea itself" character without ethical concerns. This note is pivotal in providing the distinct brininess and oceanic depth that defines the fragrance. Sandalwood, with its creamy, woody, and slightly milky aroma, rounds out the base, providing a smooth, comforting finish that grounds the more ethereal top and heart notes.

The combination of these elements results in a fragrance that is both unique and deeply evocative. Reviewers frequently describe it as smelling "like a day on the water," noting its ability to conjure images of "sunscreen in the best possible way" and "salty wet skin." It’s a sophisticated take on an ocean-inspired scent, managing to be fresh and invigorating while also possessing a comforting, sun-drenched warmth. Salt Eau de Parfum is a testament to the idea that oceanic fragrances can be both naturalistic and highly refined, offering an olfactory journey that is both serene and deeply personal.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Celestia: The Ethereal Embrace of Sky and Sea

Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Aqua Celestia Cologne forte Eau de Parfum presents an "ethereal" interpretation of an aquatic scent, focusing on the boundless, serene connection between the blue of the sea and the blue of the sky. This fragrance is part of Kurkdjian's "forte" collection, which aims to amplify the luminosity and intensity of his existing "Aqua" line, making them more vibrant and long-lasting while retaining their signature freshness. Aqua Celestia forte specifically seeks to capture a sense of infinite horizon, where the sky meets the ocean in a seamless, tranquil expanse.

The composition of Aqua Celestia forte is characterized by its remarkable clarity, brightness, and a refreshing quality that feels both invigorating and soothing. It is designed to evoke a feeling of lightness and boundless freedom, much like standing on a pristine beach with an unobstructed view of the horizon. The fragrance achieves this through a carefully selected palette of notes that balance crispness with subtle floral and musky undertones.

Key notes include blackcurrant, mimosa absolute, jasmine absolute, mint, and musks. Blackcurrant, particularly its bud, contributes a distinctive green, slightly tart, and fruity freshness to the opening. It provides an immediate burst of vibrancy that is both natural and uplifting, without being overly sweet or heavy. This note helps to establish the "bright" character of the fragrance, reminiscent of clear morning air.

Mimosa absolute, derived from the delicate mimosa flower, introduces a soft, powdery, and subtly honeyed floral sweetness. This adds an ethereal quality, contributing to the sensation of a gentle, sun-kissed breeze. Jasmine absolute further enhances the floral heart, providing its characteristic rich, sweet, and sometimes indolic warmth, which blends seamlessly with the other notes to create a harmonious floral bouquet that feels light and airy rather than dense.

The inclusion of mint is a stroke of genius in achieving the fragrance's signature freshness. Mint provides a cool, crisp, and herbaceous zest that is instantly refreshing and enlivening. It acts as a counterpoint to the florals, preventing the scent from becoming overly sweet and reinforcing the "clean" and "aqueous" facets. This minty coolness is crucial in conveying the sensation of a fresh sea breeze.

Finally, a base of musks provides a clean, soft, and comforting finish. Musks are often used in "clean" fragrances to extend longevity and create a second-skin feel, adding a subtle warmth and sensuality without detracting from the overall lightness. In Aqua Celestia forte, the musks contribute to the ethereal quality, making the scent feel like a natural extension of the wearer's skin, rather than a heavy perfume.

The overall impression of Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Celestia Cologne forte is one of pristine purity and luminosity. It is a fragrance that evokes a sense of calm and clarity, like a perfectly clear day by the sea where the boundaries between sky and water blur. Its fresh, light, and clean character makes it a versatile choice, particularly suited for warm weather or for anyone seeking a scent that embodies serenity and expansive natural beauty. It stands as a testament to Kurkdjian's mastery in crafting elegant, minimalist compositions that resonate with profound emotional depth.

Beyond the Bottle: The Evocative Power of Oceanic Perfumes

The enduring appeal of oceanic fragrances extends far beyond their pleasant aroma; it lies in their profound ability to evoke powerful memories, sensations, and emotions. These perfumes tap into a collective human fascination with the sea, a primal connection to its vastness, mystery, and life-giving properties. For many, the scent of the ocean is synonymous with freedom, escape, rejuvenation, and adventure. A well-crafted oceanic fragrance can act as a personal portal, transporting the wearer to a beloved beach, a serene coastal retreat, or even the imagined vastness of the open sea, regardless of their physical location.

This evocative power stems from the complex interplay of notes that mimic the multifaceted sensory experience of the coast. It's not just the smell of water, but the subtle brininess of the air, the warmth of sun on skin, the crispness of a sea breeze, the scent of sand, and the unique flora that thrives along shorelines. Perfumers, acting as olfactory storytellers, meticulously blend these elements to create a holistic sensory narrative. The marine accord, whether ozonic, salty, or mineralic, forms the backbone, providing the essential aquatic character. This is then layered with solar notes like tiare, coconut, or amber to add warmth and luminosity, or with fresh florals like jasmine, tuberose, or orange blossom to introduce a delicate sweetness and natural elegance.

The psychological impact of these scents is significant. The association of the ocean with tranquility and stress reduction means that wearing an oceanic fragrance can contribute to a sense of calm and well-being. The invigorating aspect of sea air, often replicated through mint or citrus notes, can provide an uplifting boost, making these perfumes ideal for starting the day with a sense of freshness or for moments when a mental pick-me-up is desired. Furthermore, the clean and often minimalist nature of many oceanic scents aligns with a desire for simplicity and natural purity, appealing to those who prefer fragrances that feel understated yet impactful.

Oceanic perfumes also offer remarkable versatility. While often associated with summer due to their fresh and light qualities, their nuanced compositions allow them to transcend seasonal boundaries. A floral aquatic, with its balance of blooms and marine notes, can be equally captivating in spring, while a solar aquatic, with its warmth and depth, can provide a comforting escape even in cooler months. They are suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual daytime wear to more sophisticated evening events, depending on their specific blend and intensity. Their ability to feel both natural and refined makes them a popular choice for those seeking a signature scent that is both distinctive and universally appealing.

Ultimately, the evocative power of oceanic perfumes lies in their capacity to connect us to nature, to memory, and to a sense of boundless possibility. They are not merely accessories; they are sensory experiences that enhance our mood, transport our minds, and remind us of the serene beauty and exhilarating freedom found where land meets sea.

Crafting the Marine Accord: A Perfumer's Challenge

Creating an authentic and compelling marine accord is one of the most significant challenges in modern perfumery. Unlike natural essences derived from flowers, fruits, or woods, the "smell of the sea" is an abstract concept, a complex interplay of various volatile compounds found in sea air, algae, sand, and even the subtle ozone created by crashing waves. Perfumers cannot simply extract an "ocean" oil; they must meticulously reconstruct this sensory experience using a palette of synthetic molecules and natural ingredients.

The breakthrough in marine perfumery came with the discovery and widespread use of calone in the early 1990s. Calone (Methylbenzodioxepinone) is a synthetic molecule that imparts a distinctive ozonic, fresh, and slightly aldehydic aroma with a watery, seaweed-like nuance. It's often described as smelling like "fresh sea air" or "watermelon rind." While revolutionary, its initial omnipresence led to a certain uniformity in early aquatic fragrances, making many smell somewhat similar.

As perfumery evolved, the desire for more nuanced and sophisticated marine accords grew. Perfumers began exploring other molecules and techniques to add depth and specificity to their oceanic creations:

  • Aldehydes: Beyond calone, other aldehydes can contribute to the fresh, airy, and sometimes metallic or "ironed linen" quality associated with clean water or sea spray.
  • Ozone Notes: Molecules that replicate the clean, sharp smell of ozone, often associated with thunderstorms or fresh air after rain, contribute to the invigorating aspect of marine scents.
  • Salty Notes: Achieving a realistic salty accord is complex. This can involve using specific synthetic molecules that mimic sodium chloride's subtle scent, or combining mineralic notes with certain musks or even a hint of ambergris (or its vegan alternatives). The "salty wet skin" sensation described in Ellis Brooklyn Salt is a prime example of this sophisticated approach.
  • Green Notes: Elements like violet leaf absolute, galbanum, or even certain tea notes can introduce a crisp, green freshness that evokes coastal vegetation or damp mossy rocks.
  • Mineralic Notes: Some perfumers employ notes that suggest the smell of wet stones, pebbles, or sand, adding a grounding, earthy dimension to the marine accord.
  • Algae and Seaweed Notes: While potentially challenging due to their sometimes strong or fishy odor, carefully dosed natural or synthetic notes reminiscent of algae or seaweed can add an authentic, slightly briny, and deep ocean character, often found in more complex or niche marine fragrances.
  • Vegan Ambergris: As highlighted by Ellis Brooklyn Salt, the ethical implications of using natural ambergris (a rare and expensive substance from sperm whales) have led to the development of highly sophisticated synthetic alternatives. These vegan ambergris molecules aim to replicate the complex olfactive profile of natural ambergris—salty, musky, sweet, and subtly animalic—providing warmth, depth, and a crucial marine-animalic facet without harming wildlife. This innovation allows perfumers to achieve the desired oceanic depth and warmth while adhering to ethical sourcing principles.

The artistry in crafting a marine accord lies not just in selecting the right molecules but in balancing them to create a specific "feel"—whether it's the crispness of a northern sea, the warmth of a tropical lagoon, or the vastness of the open ocean. It requires a deep understanding of how these abstract notes interact with more conventional floral, woody, or musky components to build a cohesive and evocative olfactory landscape. The goal is to transcend a simple "fresh" scent and deliver a truly immersive, transportive experience that captures the elusive essence of the sea in a bottle.

Navigating the Waves of Scent: Choosing Your Signature Sea Aroma

Selecting an oceanic fragrance is a deeply personal journey, given the wide array of interpretations available. What one person perceives as a refreshing sea breeze, another might find too ozonic, or perhaps not "salty" enough. Navigating this diverse category requires understanding your preferences and considering the desired mood or occasion.

Begin by identifying the specific facet of the ocean you wish to evoke. Do you gravitate towards the cool, crisp sensation of a brisk sea air, or the warm, sun-drenched comfort of a tropical beach? Your answer will guide you towards either the more traditional aquatic notes or the increasingly popular solar and floral aquatic variations.

  • For a Pure, Invigorating Clean: If your ideal oceanic scent is reminiscent of truly fresh, unadulterated sea air, look for fragrances with prominent marine or ozonic accords, often paired with citrus, mint, or very light green notes. These are typically bright, sharp, and provide an immediate sense of refreshment. They are excellent for everyday wear, particularly in warmer climates, or when you desire a clean, uplifting aura. Think of scents that conjure images of a brisk morning walk along a windswept coastline.
  • For a Sun-Kissed, Tropical Escape: If your preference leans towards the warmth and luminosity of a sunny beach vacation, explore solar fragrances. These often feature creamy white florals like tiare, frangipani, or ylang-ylang, combined with notes of coconut, vanilla, or amber. They evoke the feeling of sun-warmed skin, tropical blossoms, and a relaxed, leisurely atmosphere. These are perfect for summer evenings, holidays, or whenever you want to feel enveloped in a radiant, comforting glow.
  • For a Sophisticated Floral Coastal Vibe: If you appreciate the elegance of flowers alongside the freshness of the sea, floral aquatic scents are your ideal match. These perfumes masterfully blend traditional marine notes with prominent floral accords like tuberose, jasmine, orange blossom, or lily of the valley. They offer a more nuanced and sometimes more opulent take on the oceanic theme, providing a balance between freshness and floral richness. They can be versatile enough for both daytime and evening wear, offering a sophisticated yet natural elegance. Consider them for occasions where you want to feel refined but still connected to nature.
  • Consider the Depth and Longevity: Oceanic fragrances can range from very light and ephemeral colognes to more substantial Eau de Parfums. Lighter compositions are excellent for a quick refresh or for those who prefer subtle scents, while richer formulations with amber, musk, or woody bases will offer greater longevity and projection. Test the fragrance on your skin to see how it develops over several hours, as the dry-down can reveal different facets of the marine accord.
  • Personal Connection and Memory: Ultimately, the most compelling oceanic fragrance will be one that resonates with your personal experiences and memories of the sea. Does it remind you of a specific vacation? Does it evoke a feeling of calm or exhilaration? Allow your emotional response to guide your choice. The best scent is one that transports you, even if only in your mind, to your perfect coastal haven.

Sampling is key. Apply a small amount to your skin and allow it to evolve. The unique chemistry of your skin can alter how a fragrance smells, so what might be captivating on a test strip could differ on you. By considering these aspects, you can navigate the vast ocean of aquatic fragrances and discover the perfect scent that embodies your personal connection to the shore.

FAQ:

Q1: What defines an "oceanic" or "aquatic" fragrance? A1: Oceanic or aquatic fragrances are a scent family designed to evoke the smells and sensations associated with water and marine environments. They typically feature notes that create a fresh, clean, and often ozonic impression, reminiscent of sea air, rain, or a cool breeze. The core is often a "marine accord," a synthetic blend that mimics these qualities, sometimes complemented by salty, mineralic, green, or subtle floral notes to round out the experience.

Q2: Are oceanic fragrances only for summer? A2: While oceanic fragrances are often associated with summer due to their refreshing and light characteristics, their versatility allows them to be worn year-round. Lighter, more ozonic aquatics are indeed perfect for warm weather, but more complex "solar" or "floral aquatic" variations, which incorporate warmer notes like amber, musk, or creamy florals, can be equally captivating in spring or even provide a comforting, transportive escape during cooler months.

Q3: What is a "marine accord" and how is it created? A3: A "marine accord" is a synthetic blend of aromatic chemicals designed by perfumers to recreate the scent of the ocean. Since the ocean doesn't have a single extractable fragrance, perfumers combine molecules like calone (known for its fresh, ozonic, watermelon-like scent), along with other aldehydes, salty notes, and sometimes subtle green or mineralic facets, to evoke the complex smell of sea air, brine, or wet stones.

Q4: What is the difference between "aquatic" and "solar" fragrances? A4: "Aquatic" fragrances primarily focus on the fresh, clean, and watery aspects of the ocean, often featuring cool, ozonic, or salty notes. "Solar" fragrances, while still ocean-inspired, emphasize the warmth and light of the sun and the beach environment. They typically incorporate notes like creamy white florals (tiare, frangipani), coconut, vanilla, or amber to evoke sun-warmed skin, tropical blossoms, and a radiant, comforting glow.

Q5: Why do some oceanic fragrances smell salty? A5: The salty sensation in oceanic fragrances is achieved through sophisticated blending. It can come from specific synthetic molecules designed to mimic sodium chloride, or through the clever combination of mineralic notes, certain musks, and sometimes a touch of ambergris (or its vegan alternatives). This adds realism and depth, capturing the actual brininess of the sea rather than just its freshness.

Q6: Are oceanic fragrances typically masculine or feminine? A6: Oceanic fragrances are largely considered gender-neutral or unisex. Their fresh, clean, and invigorating qualities appeal across the board. While some may lean slightly more traditionally masculine with prominent woody or aromatic notes, and others more feminine with dominant floral notes, the core essence of the sea transcends traditional gender boundaries in perfumery, making them widely accessible.

Q7: How long do oceanic fragrances typically last on the skin? A7: The longevity of an oceanic fragrance depends on its concentration (e.g., Eau de Cologne, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum) and its specific composition. Lighter, more volatile notes (like citrus or pure ozonic accords) tend to dissipate faster. However, many modern oceanic Eau de Parfums incorporate base notes like musks, amber, or woods, which can extend their wear time significantly, often lasting several hours on the skin.