The Georgia-based company, which is also a leading fragrance and flavor player, says this is one of the main findings of the 2007-2008 Arylessence TrendWathc, an annual analysis of trends that are driving consumer lifestyles and ultimately fragrance choices.
"Fragrance is a part of how consumers see themselves, how they live, how they feel about the world around them, and even the colors they like," explained Cynthia Reichard, executive vice president of Arylessence.
"Fragrance is the first sensory attribute experienced when consumers explore new products," she adds, noting that fragrance creates consumer preference, defines brand personalities, and in many product categories is the quickest way to a sale.
The research finds that three lifestyles - Exotica, Health and Well-Being, and Luxury Living - are the primary drivers towards new fragrance launches and trends within the segment through to 2008.
The company explains that the Exotica lifestyle reflects global influences, offers unlimited possibilities in fragrance innovation, and includes the use of exotic botanicals for beauty, home decor and household products.
Meanwhile, the company's experts add that the desire for the Health and Well-Being lifestyle touches virtually every aspect of peoples' lives, prompting individuals to purchase scents that convey restful, restorative and uplifting environments and complement consumer desires for softer, calming colors.
Lastly, the Luxury Living lifestyle, which has grown exponentially in recent years, and, according the experts, connotes soft, jewel-toned colors, shimmering fabrics, and rich, indulgent and spice-infused fragrances.
The company adds that its current TrendWatch describes 13 distinctive lifestyles and consumer attitudes linked to these three main trends and in turn relates what type of fragrance ideas are reflected by this combination of trends.