Unisex Fragrances
The Breaking of Gender Norms in the Perfume Industry
We are experiencing a cultural shift in perfumery, the breaking of industry norms and a growing demand for unisex fragrances would appear to be the future of perfumery as more discerning consumers demand olfactory experiences that transcend gender.
So what is a unisex perfume, and why can they become important in an inclusive and environmentally conscious society. It is defined as a fragrance that can be worn by both men and woman, although supposed to lack any gender conscious elements, this isn’t necessarily true; the simple answer is it should smell good regardless of gender, be inclusive and appeal to all.
There are many famous quotes related to woman and perfumes;
“Perfume is a mark of female identity and the final touch of her style.”
Christian Dior
“Ladies, a man will never remember your handbag, but he will remember your perfume.”
Oliver Creed
And of course, many others, but the main takeaway point is that we formerly associated perfume with gender, but that’s all changing, we know that men and women alike both want to smell wonderful, and what’s more inclusive than creating something that is free of gender bias.
In 2010 these types of fragrance only accounted for 17% of the market, but by 2018 it had already rose to 51%, but there is however regional variations. There is also trends based wholly on whether the brand is mass market or luxury, whilst mass market brands lag behind, the high end brands have more or less adopted unisex as the way forward.
This concept of one scent for all is nothing new of course, CK One is considered one of the first marketed unisex fragrances of its type back in the 1990s. Released in 1994, it is a fresh, green and floral scent, whilst a popular scent, the scent isn’t long lasting, people associate it with their school days, and some critics say it leans more to the feminine side, it still became incredibly popular and managed to maintain its gender neutral fragrance status in many different cultures, despite the floral aspects.
Why Unisex Scents?
There are many elements of a fragrance that perhaps make it lean towards the male or female market and perhaps old meanings attached to scents categorized by gender are still very much in fashion and will remain so especially in the mass market category.
The soft cotton like floral aspects are still emphasized in a lot of fragrances marketed for women. While men are frequently the target audience for the stronger scents of wood, leather, and smokiness.
Whilst some feel these stereotypical market assumptions remain, the fragrance houses around the globe certainly want to challenge their customers to try something different, the niche brands are always pushing the boundaries of market standards with their unique and versatile creations.
Furthermore, the practice of de-gendering products has spread beyond of the perfume sector. Products for personal care, skincare, and even fashion itself are all embracing the new unisex concept.
A rather abstract but interesting take on the topic is that by being gender neutral, fragrances and personal care products help with sustainably, no more two separate versions of a product with a gender twist in two separate bottles, labels and packaging.
The increase of non-gender specific goods may be linked to the growing focus on sustainability and minimalism. As consumers become more conscious of their environmental impact, they seek products that align with such values. These types of products may often be found in minimalist packaging, thus reducing waste and excess.
Have you personally noticed that one shampoo or shower gel for the whole family is becoming the norm in your home?
What makes a Unisex Fragrance?
Transforming fragrances into an unbiassed gender experience requires the perfumer to take the olfactory palette and rethink the standard definitions. Perfumery has made remarkable progress, and society is embracing the idea that scents need not adhere to gender-specific norms.
How well the expert perfumer can take traditional masculine and feminine fragrances, and with artistry combined them to achieve harmony is the secret to making a unisex fragrance.
Smells and aromas around our homes that appeal to a wider audience are in higher demand, and this is reflected in the perfume industry, unisex scents are growing in popularity. Customers are embracing a more daring aspect to scent and what male and female means when we smell different elements contained within the product.
A one smell suits all is the key to success in this genre.
Unisex fragrance oils and your products
We want you to think about a variety of elements while choosing the right fragrance oil creation for your end product. Don't let scents associated with men and women limit you, our team in the UK has enriched our collection of creations with fabulous unisex fragrance oils, and our wonderful sales staff here in Dubai are waiting to assist you in selecting the oil that appeals to your target audience.
Why not reach out to one of our team here in JLT to discuss your upcoming projects?
Mobile: +971 52 614 3896