Understanding perfume
What is a fragrance accord
A fragrance accord is a combination of materials that creates a recognizable overall effect. Leather or amber can be described as accords, while a note is a perceived element and a family is a broader classification.
A HUME Fragrance buying guide
Think of a combined impression
Different materials can be arranged so you perceive one effect rather than identifying every component. The accord name describes that result, not a requirement for one particular natural ingredient.
Keep the vocabulary separate
A perfume can use an amber-like accord, list other notes and still belong to a mixed family. These words describe different levels of the composition rather than competing definitions.
Use accords to compare character
If you enjoy a leather-like effect, compare its softness, smoke or dryness across candidates. Shared accord names do not mean the perfumes use identical recipes or will smell the same.
Try this before you buy
Describe one combined effect you notice before trying to name individual notes within it.
HUME fragrances to explore
Examples for comparing the scent directions discussed here. Notes below come from the current catalogue; they are not a personal-fit or performance guarantee.