Carnation - The Perfume Society (2024)

‘Supermarket’ and ‘garage forecourt’ carnations are mostly a huge disappointment because the spicy, clove-y smell you get when burying your nose in a garden-picked bloom is generally missing. Actually, it’s a flower closer to the cottage garden ‘pink’ – similar to the variety so loved by British gardeners, and known as ‘clove-pink’ – which is used in perfumery. (Carnation absolute is only produced in the south of France, though.)

Unpick the chemical structure of this plant and you’ll find it’s incredibly rich in an aroma compound called eugenol – so quite often, what you smell in a perfume hasn’t come from a plant at all, but has been synthesised. The price of the natural ingredient probably doesn’t help: it takes 500 kilos of flowers to produce one kilo of ‘concrete’, and about one-tenth that quantity of absolute.

Once upon a time (in the Victorian/Edwardian era), carnation was hugely fashionable (and if you ever manage to get your hands on a bottle of Caron’s now-extinct Bellodgia, you can experience just why it was so beloved). Now it has a somewhat old-fashioned, great-aunt-ish image, which means carnation tends to be consigned the chorus of a perfume rather than placed in the spotlight. Nonetheless, this piquant spicy flower is a cornerstone of many, many Ambrée perfumes, adding a delicious, almost nose-tingling brightness, and complementing the floral notes: carnation and rose, in particular, were just made for each other.

Smell carnation in:

Calvin Klein Eternity
Balenciaga Florabotanica
Donna KaranBlack Cashmere
Estée Lauder Youth Dew
Floris Malmaison
Miller Harris Fleur Ambrée
Nina Ricci L’Air du Temps
Paloma Picasso Paloma Picasso
Prada Prada Amber
Vivienne Westwood Boudoir
Yves Saint LaurentOpium

Carnation - The Perfume Society (2024)

FAQs

What is the most iconic perfume of all time? ›

You had to know this was coming. Chanel N°5 is, without a doubt, the most iconic fragrance of all time. It's been a staple within many a glamorous woman's fragrance wardrobe since its creation back in 1921.

Why do carnations not smell anymore? ›

Pollution is dulling the scent of flowers and impeding some of the most basic processes of nature, disrupting insect life and imperilling food supplies, a new study suggests.

What do carnations symbolize? ›

The carnation flower symbolizes Love, Captivation and Distinction and today, it's no wonder that it's so widely used and is the best alternative to rose bouquets. It also makes a lovely addition to any bunch because of its long-lasting freshness and fragrance.

What does carnation smell like in perfume? ›

Carnations have a subtle balmy and spicy fragrance, remissent of cloves. Carnation can give its scent naturally, processed in Grasse. However, its scent is very disappointing as it is far from that of the fresh flower. Moreover, as its yield is very low, it is rarely used.

What is the nicest smelling perfume ever? ›

Here, the 10 greatest fragrances of all time, as voted on by the beauty industry.
  • Chanel No. Launched: 1921. ...
  • Le Labo Santal 33. Launched: 2011. ...
  • Thierry Mugler Angel. Launched: 1992. ...
  • Chanel Coco Mademoiselle. Launched: 2001. ...
  • Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue. ...
  • Dior Eau Sauvage. ...
  • Tom Ford Black Orchid. ...
  • Giorgio Armani Acqua di Giò
Feb 25, 2022

What is Oprah's favorite perfume? ›

Bijan Classic Fragrance for Women.

What is the most fragrant carnation? ›

' 'White Rabbit' boasts the most fragrance of all!

Are carnations making a comeback? ›

Carnations are making a comeback people! Carnations are SUPER resilient and long-lasting. They require little prep work and most importantly, they're affordable!

Are carnations a funeral flower? ›

Carnations are a very popular choice for sympathy flowers. They are fragrant and long-lasting flowers, making them ideal for services that last for several days. A white carnation represents purity and innocence. Pink carnations send thoughts of remembrance.

What is carnation in Christianity? ›

The carnation means fascination, distinction, and love. According to a Christian legend, carnations grew from the Virgin Mary's tears as she watched Jesus carry the cross. This is how they became associated with motherly love.

What do pink carnations mean at a funeral? ›

Each colour represents a different emotion: red carnations symbolise admiration, white carnations symbolise pure love and innocence, yellow carnations sympathy and pink carnations symbolise a mother's pure and eternal love.

Why carnation is called flower of God? ›

The flower of god is Dianthus caryophyllus or Carnation . The name is a fusion of the Greek words "dios" and "anthos." The Greek god Zeus is depicted by "dios," and "anthos" means flower. That's why the Carnation is recognized as “God's Flower.”

What scent did Marilyn Monroe wear? ›

Marilyn Monroe famously told interviewers that she wore Chanel No. 5 to bed (and nothing else), but it wasn't her only favorite. Like millions of other women, Monroe was a fan of Chanel No 5. However, in 2002, it was revealed that she also had a secret penchant for Floris Rose Geranium.

What kind of perfume did Audrey Hepburn wear? ›

14 iconic women and the fragrances they loved: Created specially for Audrey Hepburn by Hubert de Givenchy, L'Interdit—which means "forbidden" in French—was created in 1957. Rumors spread that Audrey didn't want Givenchy to release the scent, but it was ultimately made available for wide purchase in the 1960s.

What scent is seductive? ›

Vanilla, jasmine, ginger, patchouli, sandalwood… all these are known to have great powers of attraction and provoke aphrodisiac reactions,” describes Ricci.

Which perfume is No 1 in the world? ›

1 Imperial Majesty, priced at Rs 3.2 crore, was listed as the world's most expensive perfume in the Guinness Book of World Records.

What are the top 5 selling perfumes? ›

Top 10 Selling Fragrances in the USA in Summer 2022
  • Dior Sauvage: This one is undoubtedly due to the Depp v. ...
  • Bleu de Chanel: ...
  • Chanel Chance: ...
  • Chanel Coco Mademoiselle: ...
  • Armani Acqua di Gio Eau de Toilette: ...
  • Yves Saint Laurent Y: ...
  • Carolina Herrera Good Girl: ...
  • Dior Miss Dior:
Oct 20, 2022

What is Kim Kardashian's favorite perfume? ›

Kim Kardashian by Kim Kardashian

Gardenia in particular has been singled out as Kim Kardashian's favorite fragrance note, and that's what shines through most vividly in the heart of this perfume that Kim K loves.

What fragrance does Michelle Obama wear? ›

Creed Love in White Edp is Michelle's go-to scent as it reflects perfectly the freedom to choose and act. The top-notch quality scent has a sophisticated blend of ingredients and floral scents that creates a refreshing impression and an even alluring aura.

What was Lady Diana Favourite perfume? ›

According to the website, Celebrity Fragrance Guide, Princess Diana had a selection of fragrances she liked to wear, most notably Hermes 24 Faubourg, Penhaligon's Bluebell Cologne, and Creed Royal Water which was created especially for her.

Which flower has the strongest fragrance? ›

Lily. Lilies are known for being one of the strongest-smelling flowers around. These large, dramatic flowers come in a range of colors and are perfect for any occasion.

Why don't people like carnations? ›

Most people either love or hate "clove pink," as they're otherwise known, and the haters will rattle off a list of reasons: They're cheap, they remind people of funerals, and they're technically just a filler flower. But we'd argue that it's about time for carnations to make a comeback.

Are carnations trendy? ›

Carnation comeback!

For many years, carnations were considered pedestrian and cheap. But the last couple of months, the carnation has been positively trending. “Carnations are coming back. They're actually really cool flowers with a great texture,” said Darroch.

Which lasts longer roses or carnations? ›

Roses can last seven days or more, while carnations can last two to three weeks. The vase life of any bloom, of course, also depends on correct maintenance.

What is the most popular funeral flower? ›

Lilies - An elegant choice, white lilies are the most popular type of funeral flowers, representing peace, grace, and dignity.

What flower does a funeral home smell like? ›

Lilies. When someone says, “This place smells like a funeral home” chances are there is a lily nearby. This is often considered the go-to funeral flower and there's significant meaning behind this strongly aromatic blossom. Lilies suggest that the soul of the deceased has returned to a peaceful state of innocence.

What is a condolence flower? ›

Condolence flowers are usually floral arrangements that are prepared by florists and delivered to the home of the grieving family. Sending funeral flowers is a beautiful way to show how much you care during this difficult time.

What does the Bible say about carnations? ›

According to Christian legend, carnations first appeared on Earth as Jesus carried the Cross. The Virgin Mary shed tears at Jesus' plight, and carnations sprang up from where her tears fell.

Is carnation the death flower? ›

The carnation symbolizes eternal grief, love, and loyalty. This flower has long been the flower of mourning. The white carnations signify deep sorrow, combining a powerful symbol of death, sadness, and respect. When you are at a loss for words, ceremonial flowers allow your emotions to be expressed in silence.

What flower represents the Bible? ›

Lily of the Valley in the Bible

The Lily of the Valley also symbolizes Christian Living. We ask, seek, and knock for the beauty, fruitfulness, and fragrance of Christ in our everyday lives. Christians represent a flower among the thorns of the world.

What color carnation means I miss you? ›

Pink and red are the favoured colours of carnations that you must pick up to express him/her that you are missing them. Pink carnations say – “you are unforgettable” while red carnations say – “I admire you and am missing you”.

What does a black carnation mean? ›

Black Carnation: Male hom*osexuality in Interwar Latvia.

What color rose for your deceased mother? ›

Those whose mothers are dead commemorate by wearing white flowers; those whose mothers are alive celebrate with buds of red.

What flower symbolizes the Holy Spirit? ›

Columbines (Aquilegia spp.)

During the Renaissance, this flower was associated with the Holy Spirit and the sorrows of the Virgin Mary.

What do carnations symbolize funeral? ›

Carnations (all carnations signify sympathy and grief)

Red represents admiration and love. Pink signifies remembrance. White represents innocence and love.

What deity is associated with carnations? ›

Carnations are also known as dianthus, meaning 'flower of the gods'. Their name is believed to originate from the legend of Artemis (Diana in Roman mythology), the goddess of hunting.

Which perfume did Princess Diana wear? ›

Princess Diana's favourite perfume was Penhaligon's Bluebell - and you can still buy it today | HELLO!

What perfume does Lady Gaga wear? ›

Voce Viva Eau de Parfum. A warm, woody floral fragrance with orange blossom and bergamot. 4.5 out of 5 stars.

What scent does Queen Elizabeth wear? ›

Queen Elizabeth reportedly wears Guerlain L'Heure Bleue, a spicy citrus with a powdery dry down. It's been a classic for the fragrance house ever since the scent was created in 1912.

What perfume did Meghan Markle wear? ›

Meghan Markle is a big fan of fragrance…

"So much so that if I leave the house and I don't put any on, I'll turn around and go back home." Prince Harry's wife announced that her favourites are Oribe Côte d'Azur Eau de Parfum and Jo Malone's Wild Bluebell and Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne.

What is Michelle Pfeiffer's favorite perfume? ›

Henry Rose Flora Carnivora Eau de Parfum

Whether it's the scent in your home, it was all about people in their limited way creating an environment that made them feel good.

What is Priscilla Presley's favorite perfume? ›

Elvis. On the flip side, Legend for Her is a nod to Priscilla Presley's favorite fragrance, which we hear was Guerlain Shalimar Eau de Parfum. That is an iconic fragrance (and worth every dollar) but a pricey one.

What fragrance turns a man on? ›

Jasmine. Tropical florals like jasmine are proven to increase alertness, improve mood, increase libido and provoke the body's hormone receptors that create the physical aphrodisiac reaction. In ancient cultures, jasmine was a rare flower that symbolised various aspects of sexuality and for a good reason.

What scents drive a man crazy? ›

  • Pumpkin Pie + Lavender. The scent of pumpkin pie (especially when combined with the smell of lavender) increased arousal in 40 percent of men. ...
  • Jasmine. Dr. ...
  • Black Licorice. ...
  • Cinnamon. ...
  • Vanilla. ...
  • Banana Nut Bread. ...
  • Citrus.

Which smell seduces men? ›

Aphrodisiac scents include pumpkin, lavender, vanilla, cinnamon, peppermint, and ginger. Despite some skepticism around the use of aphrodisiacs, studies show that many of these aromas do work — they can be easily incorporated into anyone's fragrance routine.

What is the most popular smell in the world? ›

The odours were chosen to be representative of stuff that is found all over the world, from sweaty feet to ripe fruits, and the results were published in the journal Current Biology. And the most popular smell was… vanilla! That's right.

What is the world's favorite smell? ›

A study conducted by researchers from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden and the University of Oxford has found that vanilla is the world's most universally-loved scent.

What is the world's favorite scent? ›

The sweet and nutty scent of vanillin, the main component in vanilla extract, appears to be the world's favorite scent, according to a new study published this week in Current Biology.

What are timeless perfumes? ›

A timeless perfume is one that will never go out of style, and you can wear it every day without looking like you're trying too hard.

What smell makes happy? ›

Orange, grapefruit, and lemon are all energizing and uplifting scents," says Cynthia LaBonte, aromatherapist and herbalist at Newport Aromatherapy. "We associate citrus with cleanliness. Their top notes go straight up the sinuses to the head and make us feel better, fitter, and even more confident and in control."

What is America's favorite smell? ›

vanilla! That's right. Turns out that the safe, reliable choice is safe and reliable for good reason.

What's a smell that everyone likes? ›

'It seems it's the homely smells that are most popular with bacon, bread and freshly cut grass at the top of the list - all things that can help make a house more warm and welcoming.

What is the Queen's Favourite scent? ›

Here's all you need to know about the fragrance... Floris London is known to be the Queen's go-to perfume brand, with rumours that she opts for the signature White Rose scent. As the only perfume brand to be granted a royal warrant from the Queen, Floris London definitely has the royal seal of approval.

Which perfume is the best for ladies? ›

  • Frédéric Malle Portrait of a Lady. ...
  • Chanel N°5 Eau de Parfum. ...
  • Maison Margiela Replica Jazz Club. ...
  • Gucci A Chant for the Nymph. ...
  • Chloe Vanilla Planifolia. ...
  • Tom Ford Soleil Brûlant. ...
  • Maison Francis Kurkdjian Amyris Femme. ...
  • Parfums de Marly Safanad.
Dec 5, 2022

What are the three most recognizable smells? ›

The World's Most Recognized Smells: Coffee. Peanut Butter.

What was Jackie Kennedy's favorite perfume? ›

She fell in love with the Krigler perfume Lovely Patchouli around the time she married Aristotle Onassis and made the note an instant classic.

What was Elvis Presley's favorite perfume? ›

Lenel for Men is a fragrance with classic notes that has been around for decades. Lansky Bros. has sold Lenel since the 1950s and most notably, it was Elvis Presley's favorite cologne brand. The Lenel Natural Spray Cologne is 3.4 FL. OZ.

What is Audrey Hepburn favorite perfume? ›

Created specially for Audrey Hepburn by Hubert de Givenchy, L'Interdit—which means "forbidden" in French—was created in 1957. Rumors spread that Audrey didn't want Givenchy to release the scent, but it was ultimately made available for wide purchase in the 1960s.

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