The unexpected should serve a purpose
An original signature can emerge from an unusual pairing or a new treatment of a familiar material. It does not necessarily depend on a rare ingredient. Ask whether the difference enriches the experience through texture, memory or an interesting tension, or merely attracts attention during the first few seconds of discovery.
Develop your own comparison points
Originality becomes easier to perceive when you know several approaches to the same theme. Try contrasting interpretations of vanilla, wood or rose before drawing a conclusion. A highly personal fragrance may also emerge from a workshop, but enjoying it matters more than a promise that nobody else will own or wear it.