How to Choose a Perfume for a Gift: A Guide to Picking Scents They'll Love

Quick Answer

To choose a perfume gift, start by observing the recipient's existing fragrances and lifestyle. When in doubt, opt for a discovery set like the DISCOVERY SET from 27 87, which offers a variety of scents and reduces the risk of gifting a full bottle they might not love.

Choosing a perfume as a gift can feel like a high-stakes guessing game. With countless notes, concentrations, and brands, the pressure to pick a scent they'll adore is real. But it's also one of the most personal and memorable gifts you can give. This guide walks you through the key considerations—from understanding their scent preferences to knowing when a discovery set is the smarter choice—so you can gift with confidence.

At 27 87, we believe fragrance is an expression of individuality. Our curated lines—from the Calm line's serene compositions to the Wild line's bold statements—offer something for every personality. Let's dive into how to match a scent to the person you're shopping for.

Understand Their Scent Preferences

Before you even start browsing, take a mental inventory of what they already wear. Do they gravitate toward fresh, citrusy scents or warm, woody ones? If you can sneak a peek at their perfume collection, note the dominant notes. For example, if they love sweet, fruity fragrances, a scent like HAKUNA MATATA with its banana and honey accord might be a hit. If they prefer something more unconventional, a smoky, metallic option like #HASHTAG could intrigue them.

If you're not sure, don't be afraid to ask mutual friends or family. Alternatively, consider their lifestyle and personality. An adventurous, free-spirited person might appreciate the tropical vibes of HAKUNA MATATA, while a modern, tech-savvy individual might resonate with #HASHTAG's digital-inspired blend.

• Observe their current fragrances to identify preferred note families.
• Consider their personality: bold, subtle, classic, or avant-garde.
• When in doubt, choose a versatile scent that works for various occasions.

Consider the Occasion and Season

Think about when and where they'll wear the perfume. A fragrance meant for daily office wear should be subtle and professional, while a special-occasion scent can be more intense and long-lasting. Season also matters: lighter, fresher scents like those in the Go line are perfect for summer, while richer, warmer compositions like MOSAÏQUE with its honey and leather notes shine in cooler months.

If the gift is for a special event like a birthday or anniversary, you might lean toward a more luxurious or statement-making scent. For everyday wear, a versatile option that transitions from day to night is ideal. The Wild line, for instance, offers bold scents like ELIXIR DE BOMBE that make a memorable impression.

• Match the scent intensity to the occasion—subtle for work, bold for events.
• Seasonal scents show thoughtfulness; fresh for summer, warm for winter.
• A versatile fragrance is a safe bet for a first-time gift.

Decide Between Full Bottles and Discovery Sets

The biggest decision is whether to commit to a full bottle or opt for a discovery set. A full bottle is a bold, generous gesture, but it carries the risk of missing the mark. A discovery set, like the DISCOVERY SET from 27 87, contains 2 ml vials of multiple fragrances, allowing the recipient to explore and find their favorite. It's a gift that keeps on giving—they can wear a different scent each day and eventually choose a full-size they truly love.

Discovery sets are also perfect for perfume enthusiasts who enjoy variety and experimentation. They're a low-pressure way to introduce someone to a brand's range. And with 27 87's reimbursement offer—where the set's cost is credited toward a future purchase over 100 Euro—it's a smart investment that encourages them to find their signature scent.

• Discovery sets are ideal for uncertain taste or new perfume wearers.
• Full bottles are best when you're confident about their preference.
• Look for sets with a credit-offer to add value.

Decision Rules for Choosing a Perfume Gift

• Rule 1: Know Their Taste: If you can identify their favorite note families (e.g., floral, woody, sweet), choose a fragrance that aligns. When unsure, pick a versatile scent with balanced notes. Observation beats guessing.
• Rule 2: Match the Occasion: For a special event, opt for a bold, memorable scent. For daily wear, choose something subtle and adaptable. Consider the season—fresh for summer, warm for winter. Context matters for the perfect fit.
• Rule 3: When in Doubt, Go Discovery: If you're not confident about a full bottle, a discovery set is a safe and thoughtful gift. It lets them explore multiple scents and find their own favorite. Discovery sets are a win-win.

Top 27 87 Picks for Gifting

• DISCOVERY SET: Contains 2 ml vials of #hashtag, elixir de bombe, wandervogel, hamaca, genetic bliss, sónar, flâneur, rule of 72, mosaïque, per sē, hakuna matata and lametta. Cost is reimbursed on any purchase over 100 Euro. Perfect for a gift when you're unsure of their taste—they get to explore 12 scents and can later apply the cost toward a full bottle.
• HAKUNA MATATA: A fruity-amber composition with banana and honey, bergamot, and jasmine from southern China. A playful, tropical scent ideal for someone who loves sweet, unconventional fragrances and wants a feel-good, carefree vibe.
• MOSAÏQUE: A cold smoky vibe with honey, plum, ylang-ylang, roasted cocoa, leather, and oak moss. A complex, mysterious scent for someone who appreciates depth and uniqueness—great for cooler seasons or evening wear.

Who Each Option Suits Best

Best for

• Perfume enthusiasts who love exploring new scents and building a collection.
• Beginners who are still discovering their preferences and want variety.
• Anyone who appreciates the thoughtfulness of a curated selection.

Not for

• Someone who already has a signature scent and prefers consistency.
• A minimalist who dislikes clutter and wants only one full-size bottle.

Choosing a perfume gift doesn't have to be daunting. By understanding their preferences, considering the occasion, and leveraging discovery sets, you can give a gift that feels personal and thoughtful. For a surefire choice, explore the DISCOVERY SET from 27 87—it's a gift that offers endless possibilities and a journey into scent.