The Art Of Applying Sample Colognes: A Guide

Sampling cologne is an important step in finding your signature scent. Fragrances smell different on everyone, so it's worth testing a cologne before committing to a full-size bottle. There are many ways to get your hands on cologne samples, from visiting beauty stores and department stores to ordering online or subscribing to a fragrance discovery service. Once you have your sample, you can test the cologne by applying it to your skin – try the wrists, neck, inner elbows, or chest.

Ask at a department store

Asking for cologne samples at a department store is a great way to try out new fragrances without committing to a full-sized bottle. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:

Find the Right Department Store

First, you'll want to locate a department store that carries a wide variety of colognes and fragrances. Stores like Nordstrom, Macy's, Saks, Bloomingdale's, and Neiman Marcus are known for their extensive fragrance sections. These stores typically have dedicated fragrance counters or sections, making it easy to browse and sample different colognes.

Approach the Sales Associate

Once you're at the department store, don't be afraid to approach a sales associate for help. They are there to assist you in finding the right fragrance. Be friendly, genuine, and open to their suggestions. Explain that you're looking for a new cologne but aren't quite ready to commit to a full bottle. Let them know that you'd like to sample a few options before making a decision.

Sample on Paper or Skin

You can start by asking the sales associate to spray the cologne on a piece of paper or a testing strip. This will allow you to get an initial impression of the fragrance. If you like what you smell, you can then ask to try the cologne on your skin. Apply a small amount to your pulse points, such as your wrists, neck, and behind the ears. Avoid rubbing it in, as this can distort the fragrance.

Take Your Time

Don't feel rushed when trying out cologne samples. Fragrances can evolve and change over time, so give each cologne some time to settle on your skin. You may find that the scent develops and smells different after a few minutes or hours. This will help you understand how the fragrance suits you throughout the day.

Ask for a Small Sample

If you find a cologne that you particularly like, don't hesitate to ask the sales associate for a small sample to take home. Many department stores provide small sample vials or bottles, especially for newly launched fragrances. You can also bring your own empty sample vial and ask them to fill it for you. This way, you can try the cologne for a few days and see if you truly like it before purchasing.

Remember, the key to getting cologne samples at a department store is to be polite, friendly, and open to their recommendations. Building a good rapport with the sales associates can increase your chances of getting samples and finding your signature scent.

Ask at a beauty store

How to Use Sample Colognes: Ask at a Beauty Store

Sampling cologne is a great way to find your signature scent without committing to a full-sized bottle. Beauty stores like Sephora and Ulta are excellent places to start your search. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

Step 1: Visit a Beauty Store

Walk into a beauty store like Sephora or Ulta, and head straight to the cologne section. These stores usually have a wide variety of fragrances, including popular brands and new releases.

Step 2: Engage with a Salesperson

Don't be intimidated by the vast selection or the knowledgeable staff. Approach a salesperson and express your interest in exploring new colognes. Be open about your desire to find a signature scent and your willingness to experiment.

Step 3: Request Samples

Communicate your interest in a particular cologne or a specific type of fragrance. The salesperson will be more than happy to assist you in finding the right samples. Beauty stores often provide free samples, and the salesperson can guide you toward the best options.

Step 4: Inquire About Application Techniques

Ask the salesperson about the best way to apply the cologne samples. They can provide valuable insights into application methods, such as spraying, dabbing, or using testers. This ensures that you get the most accurate representation of the fragrance.

Step 5: Take Samples Home

Depending on the store's policy, you may be able to take home a few samples to try out. This allows you to experience the cologne over a more extended period and in different environments.

Step 6: Test the Colognes

When testing the cologne samples, consider applying them to your skin rather than just smelling them from the vial. Fragrances interact with your body's natural chemistry, so it's essential to see how the scent develops on your skin over time.

Apply the cologne to pulse points like your wrists, neck, or inner elbows. These areas emit more heat, which helps the fragrance project and persist. You can also spritz or dab the cologne on your forearms to let the scent waft around you subtly.

Step 7: Evaluate the Fragrance

Take note of how the cologne makes you feel and how it evolves throughout the day. Pay attention to the top notes, middle notes, and base notes, as these layers combine to create the unique fragrance profile.

Step 8: Reflect and Decide

After testing and evaluating the cologne samples, take some time to reflect on your experience. Consider which fragrances resonated with you and how they made you feel. This reflection will help you decide if you've found your signature scent or if you need to continue your search.

Remember, the beauty store staff is there to assist you in your fragrance journey. Don't hesitate to ask for help or additional samples to ensure you make the right choice. Happy scent hunting!

Request samples from the brand's website

Requesting samples from a brand's website is a great way to try out a cologne before committing to a full-sized bottle. Here are some tips on how to go about it:

Find the Right Websites

Firstly, you'll need to identify the websites of the brands whose colognes you want to sample. A simple online search should lead you to the official websites of these brands. You can also look for niche perfume boutiques or perfume sample businesses that sell a variety of samples from different brands.

Check for Free Sample Options

Once you're on a brand's website, look for any mention of free samples on their homepage or dedicated tabs like "Free Samples" or "Freebies." Sometimes, brands will offer free samples to promote new products or when they launch a new perfume. Keep an eye out for such opportunities, especially with newly launched perfume companies that are keen to develop a customer base.

Contact the Brand Directly

If the brand doesn't offer free samples on their website, don't hesitate to reach out and ask for them directly. You can usually find contact information, such as a customer service email address or a website inquiry form, on their "Contact Us" or "About Us" page. Be genuine and polite in your request, expressing your interest in their products and your desire to try before purchasing. You can also try contacting them through their official social media channels, such as Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

Explore Online Options

In addition to brand websites, there are other online avenues to explore:

• Online Department Stores: Many department stores, like Sephora, offer free samples with online purchases. You may be able to choose the specific cologne samples you want.
• Freebie Websites: These sites offer free samples from various brands, but be sure to read the fine print and avoid any that ask for credit card information.
• Subscription Boxes: Services like Scentbird and Scentbox offer monthly deliveries of different colognes, allowing you to discover new fragrances without committing to full-sized bottles.
• Online Outlets and Sample Businesses: Perfume outlets and specialised sample businesses often provide a wide range of samples at affordable prices.
• Online Swapping Venues: There are forums where people swap perfume samples and other beauty products. However, be aware that buying and selling are usually not allowed on these sites.

Remember, when requesting or purchasing cologne samples online, always read the terms and conditions carefully and ensure you're dealing with reputable sources to avoid counterfeits or diluted products.

Check magazines for samples

If you're looking for cologne samples, it's worth checking out some magazines. Many beauty and fashion magazines include fragrance samples as strips or vials. For example, Vogue, Allure, and Cosmopolitan are known to include samples. You can also order samples from discount fragrance sites.

While some people save the samples they receive from magazines, others find creative ways to use them. Some people use them to keep their suitcases, closets, dresser drawers, or cupboards smelling nice. You can also place them under sinks, along with a bowl of baking soda, to keep the area fresh. If you're feeling adventurous, you could try transferring the samples into an atomizer for easier application.

Sign up for subscription boxes

Signing up for cologne subscription boxes is a great way to sample new fragrances without committing to a full-size bottle. Here's how to sign up for some of the most popular cologne subscription boxes:

Scentbird

Scentbird is one of the most well-known cologne subscription services and offers a wide range of fragrances to choose from. To sign up, follow these steps:

• Visit the Scentbird website.
• Take the scent profile quiz to find fragrances that match your preferences.
• Choose a starting scent from their bestsellers collection.
• You will receive an 8-milliliter bottle of your chosen scent for your first month.
• After the first month, you will unlock the full catalog and can choose from over 600 fragrances, including niche and designer brands.
• Each month, you will receive your chosen scent in a free atomizer case.
• You can also swap your fragrance for a full-size makeup or skincare product.
• Scentbird offers flexible subscription plans, allowing you to choose between monthly, bi-monthly, or quarterly deliveries.

Scent Box

Scent Box is another popular option, offering a large variety of fragrances. Here's how to sign up:

• Visit the Scent Box website.
• Choose a subscription plan: Standard, Premium, or Platinum. Each plan offers access to different tiers of fragrances, with the Standard plan starting at $16.95 per month and offering access to over 600 fragrances.
• Select your fragrances for the month and add them to your scent calendar.
• You will receive a 30-day supply of your chosen fragrance(s) each month, along with a fun-colored atomizer case.
• Earn "Scent Bucks" through their rewards program and redeem them for future purchases.

Perfume.com

Perfume.com is a great option if you're looking for designer fragrances at a discount. Here's how to sign up:

• Visit the Perfume.com website.
• Choose the Fragrance of the Month program.
• Browse the available fragrances and select the one you want to receive each month, or let the experts choose a bestseller for you.
• For your first month, you will pay $7.47, and subsequent months will cost $14.95.
• You will receive a 0.27-ounce fragrance of your choice, along with a travel atomizer, each month.

Olfactif

If you're looking for unique and niche fragrances, Olfactif is a great option. Here's how to sign up:

• Visit the Olfactif website.
• Choose from their monthly subscription plans: the standard plan includes three 2-milliliter spray vials for $20 per month, while the deluxe plan includes six vials for $38 per month.
• You will receive a curated collection of fragrances from around the world, along with exclusive discounts on full bottles and à la carte samples.
• Prepay for multiple months to save extra on your subscription.
• Earn reward points with their loyalty program and redeem them for discounts on future purchases.

Frequently asked questions