What the abbreviations tell you
EDP means eau de parfum; EDT means eau de toilette. You will see these terms beside a fragrance name to identify the version being sold. They are worth noticing when you compare products or try to find the bottle you remember, even if they are not the most interesting part of choosing a scent.
CHANEL describes its parfum, eau de parfum and eau de toilette versions as related interpretations that differ in concentration and intensity. That is a useful example of how a house explains its own range. Read CHANEL's fragrance FAQ. When you shop another range, look for that house's explanation of the versions you are comparing.
Match the complete name
When someone says they love a fragrance, ask which version they own. The name on the front may be familiar while the smaller line underneath changes the product you are comparing. A later release or variation can add another layer of confusion.
For an inspired-by fragrance, pay attention to the reference in the same way. Atlas Slate names Dior Sauvage EDP as its inspiration. The EDP part helps you find the intended comparison. If your favorite is another version, start by checking its description and deciding which part of that fragrance you most want to explore.
Decide what you mean by stronger
Are you asking for a more noticeable opening, a scent you can still detect later, or more presence around you? Those are different preferences. A concentration abbreviation does not answer all three questions in a way you can rely on for every perfume.
Imagine liking the bright first impression of one sample and the later woody character of another. Calling one “stronger” leaves out the most useful part of what you learned. Describe the part you enjoy, then compare the products at similar points in the wear. Our projection and sillage guide helps separate those terms from longevity.
Compare the finished fragrance
Start with the complete product name, then look at its scent description and available size. Give a finalist a normal wear day using the product's directions. Record what you notice at the start and later on, and whether you want to wear it again.
Keep price in the comparison, but use the same size when you want a simple unit-price comparison. A larger bottle may cost less per milliliter while still being more money than you want to spend. It is only useful value if you want that much of that fragrance.
If a brand gives a concentration percentage, treat it as one disclosed specification. You still need to decide whether you like the scent and the way it wears. A larger number is not a substitute for that decision.
What to check at Petals & Smoke
Products including Atlas Slate, Black Tea Neroli and Rose Cashmere are labeled eau de parfum. We keep that detail available without asking it to carry the whole description. The inspiration, notes, sizes and current price are more useful for building your shortlist.
For example, Black Tea Neroli and Rose Cashmere share that concentration label but offer very different note directions. Tea and citrus or fruit and rose is a more helpful first choice than searching for a winner based on the shared abbreviation.
Once you know the direction you want, use our wear-test guide to make the comparison your own. Buy the version you enjoy using, in a size that fits your plans.