Pure Romantic
EDP · 2021
Jeanne Arthes
Favourite
S
Synthetic
About
A non-standard meta-label for accords built around synthetic aroma chemicals rather than a specific smell family. In perfumery, it points to composition method more than to a single recognizable odor profile.
Scent Profile
As a scent impression, synthetic is usually perceived as abstract, modern, and chemically constructed rather than naturalistic. Depending on the formula, it may read as clean, sharp, smooth, musky, plastic, or aldehydic, but those facets come from the specific materials used rather than from a fixed accord structure.
Signature Notes
Notes most distinctively associated with Synthetic fragrances.
Common Notes
Notes most frequently found in Synthetic fragrances.
History
The concept arises from modern perfumery's reliance on aroma chemicals and captive materials, which expanded the palette far beyond natural extracts. Because of that, "synthetic" is better understood as a descriptor of ingredient origin and effect than as a historical accord category with a stable tradition like fougere or chypre.
In Perfumery
Perfumers use synthetic materials throughout top, heart, and base to create effects that are brighter, cleaner, more diffusive, or more durable than naturals alone can provide. The label may be used informally in analysis when a fragrance feels intentionally modern or material-driven, but it is not usually the name of a stand-alone accord in published families.
Perfumes featuring the Synthetic accord
A selection of reviewed perfumes built around Synthetic.
