It is high time we appreciated the beauty of fragrances and made it a staple in our everyday cosmetic routine. Not only does perfume add to your attractiveness, it also enhances your mood depending on which scent you pick for the day.
However, good quality perfumes are usually expensive. The price of a single 80-ml designer perfume could feed you for a couple of weeks or more, depending on the brand.
There are alternatives that you can opt for with just the same quality as the high-ends; and the good news is, they are locally available.
Some Filipino fragrance brands are worth considering, whether you are looking for sophisticated scents or just a bottle for everyday use.
Simoy ng Haraya
Starting with the most Filipino of them all, Simoy ng Haraya offers a wide selection of scents that come in refillable glass bottles as its commitment to sustainability.
Its perfumes are named after Filipino terms denoting human emotions, actions and relationships, such as Alaala (Memories), Dalisay (Pure) and Lambing (Affection). These are made in small batches to ensure their high quality.
Avoid blind buying and try 5ml sampler sizes in a glass spray bottle for only P129.
WHIFF Artisanal Fragrances
After spending time in France and immersing in the art of perfumery, WHIFF Artisanal Fragrances founder Mishy Co saw perfumes as a way to channel energies.
When she released the Heartbroken collection in 2014, it instantly gained a cult following from perfume enthusiasts and even from celebrities.
Despite the strong reputation, its perfumes remain affordable with a starting price of P250 for a 15ml eau de parfum.
In 2016, Whiff created a limited-edition celebrity scent with Heart Evangelista called Linger, in collaboration with Grasse-trained perfumer Renato Lopena Jr.
Scentsmith Perfumery
Being in the business for five years, Scentsmith Perfumery does not have four physical stores for nothing. It can be found at SM Megamall, SM Aura Premier, Greenbelt 5 and Power Plant Mall.
The brand is known for its on-the-spot blending and personalization of their eau de parfum, which is also chemical-free.
Their recommended scents for men are Pink Pepper Leather and Saffron Oud, while popular among women are Bergamot Patchouli and White Magnolia.
MinimaliScent
While also selling Middle Eastern and designer fragrances, MinimaliScent creates its own perfume line that is totally underrated, considering that it is manufactured all the way in Dubai.
Among its growing line is the Secret Formula perfume, a concoction of the famous Creed’s Aventus and MFK’s Baccarat Rouge 540, which was said to be a “hidden gem” full of attraction, luxury and beastly performance. Get yours while they are available, as stocks are fast moving and limited.
One need not break the bank just to smell fabulous when you have Filipino fragrances that are affordable but just as great.