Embarrassing Stories Scent Memory Perfume Fragrances

Skip navigation!

Begin Slideshow

It's kind of crazy how certain scents can instantly evoke memories you'd completely forgotten about. The smell of warm gingerbread cookies, for example, can transport you to that night you slept underneath the Christmas tree while waiting for Santa and his reindeer to show up. Sunscreen and coconut oil can remind you of drinking a daiquiri on the beach in Hawaii years ago. And Chloé Love Story might make you recall an ex-boyfriend's... mom?

That's because spritzing your favorite perfume is an experience in itself — and it's usually done before a big moment. However, there are some moments we'd really like to forget. Immediately. Ahead, R29 editors share the scents that are forever tied to awkward, cringe-y memories.

More from Fragrance

These 11 Perfumes Are About To Blow Up On TikTok, According To Ex...

Why Is Everyone Wearing Perfume To Bed?

All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission. It’s not unusual for cele

by Jacqueline Kilikita

7 Fresh Perfume Trends For Spring, Predicted By A Fragrance Expert

All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission. “I don’t follow tre

by Jacqueline Kilikita

8 Perfume Trends To Watch In 2024, According To Top Fragrance Exp...

All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission. A new year ushers in a fres

by Jacqueline Kilikita

Why Do People “Gatekeep” Their Perfume? An Investigation

I follow a fashion and beauty influencer who appears to share every aspect of her life on social media. From the granular details of her house renovation t

by Jacqueline Kilikita

How To Use Perfume Layering & Astrology To Manifest Your Dream Life

My entire life, I’ve been told that manifesting is delusional — but I have to disagree. I took it personally when Ariana Grande said, “I see it /

by Amanda Mitchell

Why Does Everyone Want To Smell Wet Right Now?

As a very proud water sign, I will always find a way to be in, near, on, or around a body of water. It’s how I center myself to feel peaceful and invigor

by Amanda Mitchell

LoveShackFancy Has Entered The Beauty Game — & Yes, It’s Chic

Whether you’re a fan of the brand or not, LoveShackFancy has managed to own the market as far as whimsical, boho-inspired romantic frocks are concerned.

by Karina Hoshikawa

A Love Letter To Chanel’s Freshest, Most Sophisticated Scen...

I remember the first time I ever smelled Chanel’s Chance Eau Fraîche. I was killing time at an airport duty-free boutique, and picked up a tester while

by Karina Hoshikawa

6 Cult-Favorite Scents That Go Way Beyond Perfume

Have you ever loved a scent so much that you wanted to constantly be surrounded by it? There is no shortage of perfumes out there, but certain brands and s

by Mercedes Viera

Take A Whiff Of R29 Editors’ All-Time Favorite Perfumes

There’s something about a good perfume that instantly brightens up your mood and gives you a burst of confidence. You can never have too many — a t

This Editor-Favorite Chanel Fragrance Just Got Even Better

When you think of designer fragrances, a few things may come to mind: Haughty, old-school, and reserved for only the most special of special occasions. Now

by Karina Hoshikawa

R29 Original Series