Learn why discovery sets are a great way to try new fragrances and discover your next favorite scent effortlessly.
It’s been a while since I’ve purchased a new bottle of perfume, but it’s 2025, and I think it’s time we explore new fragrances this year. My article on the top niche fragrances for women is still one of my most read on the site. But how do I go about knowing which fragrance I want to try? That’s where discovery sets come in.
First, What’s a Discovery Set?
A discovery set from a perfume house, whether a niche or designer fragrance house, is a small set of tiny perfume samples that let you try different scents without buying a big bottle. These sets usually have a mix of fragrances, each with its own unique smell. You can test them on your skin to see which one you like the most and how it changes throughout the day. While some may come in pretty packaging, it’s not common, but it’s a fun way to explore a new scent for yourself or even to gift to someone special.
I recently received a discovery set by House of Puente, which inspired this article, and hopefully soon after I test these, I’ll be able to share my favorite. So why do I recommend them? Here are a few reasons why discovery sets are essentially the best way to try out a new fragrance house.
There Is Variety
We all love variety, and discovery kits usually include a few perfume samples. Usually four or more samples are included from the fragrance house you’re getting them from. Normally these may be the more popular scent from the fragrance brand, but sometimes you’re able to curate your set so you can try exactly what you’re looking for. In the set I got from House of Puente, I received six samples, one from each of the current lines that are available. With these samples, I’m now able to go through each one separately until I find one or two that I just won’t be able to resist buying.
No More Blind-Buying
I don’t know about you, but I’m guilty of this. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve blindly bought a new fragrance based on the recommendation of someone, and once I’ve gotten it, it’s not something that I enjoy or would have bought in the first place. Essentially wasting hard-earned money because we all know perfumes aren’t cheap. With a discovery set, you now have the option of testing out a variety of “sample sizes” until you narrow down the one you really love. Once you’ve found your favorite, you can now splurge on that full-sized bottle. Niche fragrances are generally not inexpensive, so this way you also save money.
You Can Try Limited Edition Scents Without Committing
It’s really all about committing to that full-sized bottle without knowing what you’re getting. Especially if it’s a new fragrance house you’ve never tried before. Many perfume houses sometimes include exclusives or limited edition scents in their discovery kits that are not available in stores. Receiving something that you can only get from the house gives you that special feel.
A Great Way To Test a New Scent Over Time
A discovery kit is a great way to test out new scents over time. Each sample normally lasts at least a day or two, and we all know that scents evolve over time. They’re also different depending on how they’re applied. Perfume should be applied directly to the skin (spritzed, not rubbed in) and allowed to blend with your body’s natural chemistry. While you can also spray it on your clothing, it’s best used on your skin. A discovery kit allows you to test it with your body’s chemistry before you decide on your favorite.
They Are Travel-Friendly
Because of their small size, they make the perfect travel fragrance. They don’t take up any space at all in your luggage, and there’s no need to worry that airport security will confiscate your favorite bottle of perfume. You also have a few different scents for different occasions. Whenever I travel, I take along a few trial-size fragrances with me so I can smell different every day.
They Make Great Gifts
If you’re not sure of your best friend’s fragrance preference, gifting them a discovery kit is a great way to give them options. I usually ask a lot of questions whenever I’m thinking of choosing a bottle of perfume for a friend. For example, I lean more towards gourmand fragrances, while my cousin leans more towards fruity fragrances. Now this takes the guesswork out of fragrance purchases. She once again gets to try a few and choose the one she would love the best. Then you can get the full-sized bottle.
You Get to Experience the Brand’s Signature Style
Last but definitely not least important reason why you should order a discovery kit. If this is a new fragrance house, whether it’s designer or niche, this is a great way to immerse yourself in the fragrance house’s identity. You get to understand their signature notes and what makes them stand out from the others. Do they last as long as they say, do they smell great, and would they make a great value for the money for a full-sized bottle?
In Conclusion
Discovery sets essentially save you money. You’re no longer splurging on a full-sized bottle of perfume that you’re unsure of. You get to try out a few until you narrow down your favorite or even find your signature scent that you can invest in. They are perfect for travel because they take up little to no space and make great gifts as well. You really can’t go wrong with a discovery set, and I highly recommend them.
Would you be gifting a discovery set to someone special, or are you thinking of getting one for yourself? 😊
