Beauty & Fragrance
Perfume Buying Guide: Understanding Sillage, Longevity & Notes
Elena Vance•Senior Editorial Stylist•March 08, 2026
5 min read
How to discover your signature scent without smelling 20 test strips. The secrets behind master perfumery and 10-hour staying power.
Concentration Matters
When shopping for fragrance, the oil concentration determines longevity: - **Eau de Cologne (EDC):** 2%–4% oil (Lasts 2–3 hours) - **Eau de Toilette (EDT):** 5%–15% oil (Lasts 4–6 hours) - **Eau de Parfum (EDP):** 15%–20% oil (Lasts 8–10+ hours) KLEVE fragrances are formulated at full Eau de Parfum strength using fine oils sourced from European perfumeries.The Olfactory Pyramid
1. **Top Notes:** First impressions (Bergamot, Pink Pepper, Lemon). Evaporates in 15 minutes. 2. **Heart Notes:** The body of the perfume (Cedarwood, Rose, Cardamom). Emerges after 30 minutes. 3. **Base Notes:** The lingering dry-down (Amber, Vetiver, Velvet Musk). Lingers for 8 to 12 hours.Shop the Edit
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