Classification of Fragrances by Mismatched Colors

Abstract

Previous studies have examined the relationship between color and fragrance. The fragrances with similar colors have similar impressions. It suggested that colors can express other sensations. However, there has not been much on the relationship between fragrances and mismatched colors. The purpose of this study is to classify fragrances using mismatched colors, and to examine the impression tendency of the classified fragrances. Tone, hue and achromatic color in Practical Color Co-ordinate System (PCSS) were used for color stimuli. 30 fragrances were used for fragrance stimuli. These consisted of flavors and essential oils. For evaluation items, Semantic Differential method was used for impression evaluation, and Visual Analog Scale was used for brightness/vividness evaluation. Procedure for color stimuli: Subject observed the color and performed impression evaluation and brightness/vividness evaluation. Procedure for fragrance stimulation: Subjects smelled the fragrance stimulus and performed impression evaluation and selection of matched/mismatched colors for fragrance. 65 participants joined in the experiment. It was suggested that colors can express the scent through impression, even mismatched ones. In determining the color selection, we assumed that “brilliantness” is related to tone and color category along the hue circle is related to hue. In addition, it was suggested that the harmonious and inharmonic scent colors are in a trade-off relationship.