A Compass for Finding Your Signature Scent, Beyond Brand Names

For instance, how many people could truly understand a new perfume described as "floral, woody, citrus"? Even as we write this, we ourselves can't grasp the true notes until we actually smell it, and conveying that in words is even more challenging. In that sense, this book also serves as a valuable professional guide.

The book's core section, "How to Choose Perfume," clearly and accessibly explains how to select scents by note, by understanding your personality, and by differentiating usage based on dress code or season. A particularly welcome feature is that many of the perfumes featured are currently available in stores. It's a book you can read, try, and truly use as a "contemporary fragrance encyclopedia."

An Interview with Miya Shinma, Based in Paris

—What is the meaning behind the title, "The Golden Rules of Perfume"?

To empower people to choose their scents with confidence. Because the fragrance that is found with such conviction is what can make the wearer shine.

—How would you like people to use this book?

For those buying perfume for the first time, I hope they use it as a guide to selecting scents. For those who already own many perfumes, I hope they use it to organize their fragrance wardrobe.

—From your perspective, what is commendable about how Japanese people use perfume?

The way they adapt their fragrance choices to the season and climate.

—Conversely, are there any aspects you would like to see improved?

Perhaps the tendency to be overly influenced by trends, or to choose trendy scents too readily.

—Please tell us how to best engage with perfume.

An encounter with a perfume, in a way, is fate. Therefore, I believe it's good to try a scent that immediately captivates you without hesitation. However, by choosing a fragrance that aligns with your personality, you can also effectively express yourself. It's important to learn a little more about scents, and at times, to refine your sense of fragrance by wearing timeless masterpieces.

—What are your recent activities?

I am currently developing scents for a new line of Eau de Toilette. I created fragrances featuring French rose and white grape for Felice Towako Cosmetics (a cosmetic line produced by Towako Kimijima). This November, I established "Atelier Arôme & Parfum Paris" and began creating original fragrances for corporations.

The Golden Rules of Perfume
Price: ¥1,890
Author: Miya Shinma
Publisher: Genshobo
Perfumer Miya Shinma, based in France, explains everything from the basics of perfume to professional-level knowledge, offering lessons on choosing scents by personality and fragrance family. Discover the rules for scents that will enrich your life.