HarrySlatkin

Fragrances will last a long time--if they are properly stored, says Harry Slatkin, fragrance expert.

"Fragrances will last a long time if they are protected," says Slatkin, founder of Slatkin & Co., the premier home fragrance brand that is now a division of Bath & Body Works (see video below).

Keep your fragrances, including perfume, eau de parfum, cologne and eau de toilette away from heat. Most importantly, protect them from direct light, especially sunlight. "Light affects the chemical makeup of a fragrance and will change its color which affects the dynamics of how it combines," he adds.

Likewise, Slatkin says fragrances should not be stored in a refrigerator, as the humidity can also change the chemical makeup for the worse. It is best to keep the fragrances in their original containers, if possible, and with the tops tightly closed to avoid exposure to air. If given a choice, opt for bottles with spray dispensers as opposed to ones with open tops or roller balls. Spray dispensers better protect the fragrance from exposure to dirt, dust and air, and have a longer shelf life, too.

Don't be too quick to throw away bottles of perfume that you think may be too old to use, as long as they have been stored properly over the years. "I have smelled scents that are 15 years old, some in bottles that hadn't ever been open," says Slatkin, who is a member of the Luxist Awards' Panel of Experts. "They hold pretty well, and don't change character too much."

Perfume is more concentrated, more complex and less fragile than fragrances (such as eau de toilette, cologne and eau de parfum) that contain less oils and are more diluted. As a result, perfumes tend to last much longer.

Tired of wearing that same old fragrance you've been wearing for years? Would you like to find something new to wear that better reflects your personality or mood(s)? Luxist Awards Expert Panelist Harry Slatkin, who is regarded as one of the country's leading fragrance experts and who is the founder and creative force behind Slatkin & Co., the premier home fragrance brand celebrated for its scent experience and design (now a division of Bath & Body Works), offers a few of his best tips.

BROWSE AND EXPLORE
Look for fragrances in different places, such as a tiny boutique, an open market or even on a trip abroad. You'll be in a relaxed state of mind when you try it on, and every time you wear it, you'll be reminded of your experience.

REFLECT YOUR PERSONALITY
When trying on fragrances, remember to engage the person behind the perfume counter and share details! What kind of car you drive? What kind of dog do you own? What are your interests? The more you reveal, the more luck you'll have finding a scent that suits you. If you're the life of the party, try choosing a fragrance with a bold note, such as cassia. If you would describe yourself as sexy, opt for jasmine, tuberose and orange flower, which all offer seductive scents. If you're more feminine, notes like bergamot, lavender, and rose will leave you with a light, sweet scent.

DON'T SNIFF MORE THAN THREE
Be sure not to sniff more than three scents in a row during a shopping trip, and always spray the leading contender in the crook of your arm. Live with it for awhile. And remember samples are a girl's best friend. You'll know you've found the magic formula when you like both the way it smells right away and over time. The final clue is getting the seal of approval from loved ones and even strangers. Compliments are key! When people like how I smell, I know I've chosen the right one.

MAKE IT YOUR OWN BY LAYERING AND MIXING SCENTS
For a truly unique scent, consider layering two fragrances. The trick is to blend notes that complement each other. Jasmine, vanilla, rose and citrus work well with most scents, while stronger notes such as patchouli and vetiver don't. I love using a classic fragrance as a base, such as Chanel No. 5, and adding something on top. Be daring and take it in a different direction -- you'll end up with something that's truly unique and memorable.