How to Choose Between EDT and EDP
When it comes to shopping for perfume or aftershave, the choice can seem overwhelming. There are so many designer brands each showcasing its own collection of unique fragrances, not to mention the different strengths.
Both perfumes and aftershaves can be created in varying strengths, which is great as it means you’ll find something that’s right for every occasion. But how do you choose your strength of fragrance, and what does it all mean? Here we’ll take a look at the difference between Eau De Toilette and Eau De Parfum.
What is EDT and EDP?
The strength of a fragrance is dependent on the amount of perfume oil that is used. Perfume oil is mixed with alcohol to create the intensity of a perfume or aftershave; the more oil, the stronger the scent and the longer it will last.
Understanding the difference between these strengths can help you choose the right perfume or aftershave. Eau De Toilette is the lighter of the two, usually including between 5-15% of essential perfume oil. Fragrances labelled as EDT will usually last around 4-7 hours.
On the other hand, Eau De Parfum usually has around 10-20% perfume oil and so is a much stronger blend. These fragrances can last up to 8 hours.
For even lighter options, look for Eau De Cologne which uses around 2-4% of oil, or Eau Fraiche which is the lightest at 1-3%.
When to wear EDT and EDP
Eau De Toilette fragrances are often favoured for everyday wear, whether you’re in the office, at home or out running errands. EDT is the perfect choice for spritzing before you walk out the door for the day, although its lighter scent may fade slightly over time.
If you’re heading out for a date night or some other special occasion, Eau De Parfum is a must. EDP fragrances can have a bigger impact and leave a lasting impression; they won’t fade through the day either. This makes Eau De Parfum a great choice for whiling away the hours over a few drinks.
Our favourites
If you’re looking for a little inspiration to help you choose, here are some of our favourite EDT and EDP fragrances for men and women.
Women’s EDT and EDP perfumes
Women’s Eau De Toilette fragrances are typically delicate but they can still pack a punch. For a perfect example of the former, L’Eau d’Issey by Issey Miyake is a fresh, soft fragrance for everyday wear. With notes of freesia and rose, mixed with sandalwood and cedar, it is a tribute to nature and water.
On the other hand, Guerlain Samsara is an equally perfect example of an Eau De Toilette, but with a much more distinct and bold scent. Opening with ylang-ylang, peach and bergamot, Samsara has a floral heart of iris, violet and jasmine before finishing on a woody base. It remains one of the best-selling oriental perfumes since its release in 1989.
Women’s Eau De Parfums can be much more intense and richer, which is why they are often reserved for evening wear; although there is no hard and fast rule! Thierry Mugler’s Alien is one of the most distinctive perfumes of the last 15 years, with a floral woody fragrance. Combining jasmine with cashmere and white amber, Alien is invigorating and bold.
Another favourite EDP for women is Paco Rabanne Lady Million, with a vibrant scent created from orange, raspberry and jasmine. Combined with neroli, patchouli and amber, it is a fresh and sparkling fragrance that will last the day.
Men’s EDT and EDP aftershaves
For men, both Eau De Toilette and Eau De Parfum aftershaves can be distinctive and memorable, with the EDT fragrances offering a slightly lighter and subtler scent. One of the best examples of an Eau De Toilette for men is Hugo Boss Bottled. Its masculine, woody and classic scent is created from citrus fruits, geranium and cloves, combined with sandalwood, cedar and musk. Its strength is just enough to be noticed, without becoming overpowering.
For something that breaks the rules a little, Armani Code is an EDT created with a unique combination of sophisticated notes including citrus, woody notes and leather. Opening with bergamot and lemon, Armani Code has a heart of star anise and guaiac wood, before finishing on a base of leather and tobacco. Despite its powerful ingredients, it has a perfectly understated scent that delivers just the right amount.
For men’s Eau De Parfum aftershaves that won’t go unnoticed, Mont Blanc Explorer is a great example of an EDP with an aromatic and stimulating scent. Created with bergamot and pink pepper alongside leather, patchouli and Haitian vetiver, it is a woody and earthy fragrance designed to last.
A cult favourite of many is Dior Sauvage, which was originally released as an EDT. The new EDP version reveals new sides to the fragrance, with bergamot combined with the unique blend of Szechuan pepper, nutmeg and lavender. Finishing on a vanilla base, it is a smoky, woody fragrance with impressive longevity.
