When it comes to perfumes, something is enchanting about having a signature scent that defines your presence year-round. However, I like to think of fragrance in the same way I consider my wardrobe. While I have staple perfumes that I return to time and time again—my fragrance basics—I enjoy layering in summer fragrances for women, much like trying a trending style of shorts or a new dress silhouette when the seasons change.
Yes or no, I adore summer perfumes. They are typically fresh, fruity, and delicious, evoking images of sunny beaches and tropical cocktails, even if my reality is more of a drizzly walk around the park. Although I have some travel plans, until I take off, I like to change up my scent and let my holiday perfume transport me from garden sunbathing to far-flung beaches before I’ve even caught a flight.
17 of the Best Summer Perfumes
1. Ouai Dean Street
Keynotes: Citrus, apricot, rose, magnolia, blossom, and musk
Soho is vibrant all year round, but it truly comes to life in the summer, so it makes sense that one of its most iconic streets is the namesake for Ouai’s seasonal offering. This is a delicious perfume featuring a mouthwatering array of notes. At first sniff, it’s like a chic fruit cocktail of apricot, grapefruit, and mandarin before a floral sweep of rose, magnolia, and violet settles in. It all sounds very sweet, but once it dries down, you’ll notice a warm, musky finish that keeps it feeling grown-up. I adore it.
2. Loewe Agua
Key notes: Bergamot, yuzu, and Ceylon tea
This Loewe perfume was the fragrance of summer last year, with the fashion set sharing it all over Instagram. This year, I’ve fallen back in love with it and see this being a staple scent for years to come. This is a universal summer scent that I truly think anyone would adore. It combines notes of bergamot, yuzu, and Ceylon tea to make for a lively and refreshing spritz that smells great without being overpowering.
3. Dior Eden-Roc
Keynotes: Sea salt, citrus, jasmine, pine tree, and labdanum
Forget coconuts, pineapples, and all those other sweet accords that often creep their way into summer perfumes. This offering from Dior is fresh, woodsy, and decidedly more sophisticated. It smells like warm, salty skin at the end of a long day at the beach with a welcome hit of greenery from sun-dappled trees.
4. Commodity Mimosa
Keynotes: Lemon, bergamot, blood orange, mandarin, orange blossom, black pepper, jasmine, orris, and musk
Picture this: You’ve just met your friends for that first summer brunch, sitting outside and chatting while drinking mimosas all morning in the sparkling sunshine. That’s exactly what this scent smells like. It’s a bright, fresh, citrusy fragrance with hints of lemon, blood orange, mandarin, and orange blossom.
5. Zara Fashionably London
Key notes: Bergamot, rose, and musk
There couldn’t be a perfume more suited to the British summertime than this London-inspired drop from Zara. Created by Jo Malone CBE, Vibrant Cities is a collection of eight fragrances inspired by the scents of Europe’s most fashionable capitals. Fashionably London is a love letter to summer in the city: a juicy blend of bergamot, rose, and musk.
6. Maison Margiela Replica Matcha Meditation
Keynotes: Green tea accord, bergamot, orange blossom, jasmine, benzoin, and moss
I’m a big fan of Maison Margiela’s Replica collection and the way that all the fragrances evoke memories of specific times and places, but I wasn’t hugely excited to see that this scent was inspired by matcha—a scent that, traditionally, I’m no lover of. How wrong I was. This is a fresh summer scent that, yes, definitely smells of green tea but has so much more going on. It contains ripe bergamot and mandarin, lush jasmine and orange flowers, and even a hint of sweet white chocolate. To me, it smells like enjoying a matcha latte in the garden on a sunny Sunday morning—both comforting and uplifting, and a real joy.
7. Diptyque Eau Rihla
Keynotes: Leather, iris, cedar, and raspberry
While I’m yet to get my hands on the classic Diptyque summer collection, I have been lucky enough to try this unexpected scent from the French fragrance house, and I’m head over heels for it. Since it’s inspired by journeys through the Middle East, I was expecting this to be a heady fragrance more suited to autumn or winter. When I read leather, saffron, and cedar, I was anticipating an oud-inspired perfume that wouldn’t be up my street. Instead, this is a balmy, vibrant fragrance that smells like strolling through a Moroccan market in the height of summer. If you like your perfumes to have a little spice and a lot of warmth, then you’ll adore it.
8. Penhaligon’s Quercus
Keynotes: Basil, lemon, jasmine, and moss
A homage to the humble lemon, this is a bright, zesty perfume that smells like sunshine in a bottle. While many lemon fragrances that I’ve tried in the past can veer into the cleaning-product territory, this one transcends its citrus notes with touches of musk and a jasmine and lily floral bouquet.
9. Miller Harris Rêverie de Bergamote
Key notes: Bergamot, orange, basil, lavender, rosemary, geranium, leather, sandalwood, patchouli, vetiver, and moss
Despite this scent being unashamedly citrus with its punchy bergamot and tangerine notes, it’s delightfully herbal too—almost like a fancy cocktail. As well as its fruitiness, it has aromatic hints of rosemary and vetiver, which lends it an almost earthy feel. It’s unexpected and delightful.
10. Prada Les Infusions de Prada Iris
Keynotes: Iris, mandarin, neroli, and benzoin
Floral lovers will adore this elegant iris scent. Honestly, I couldn’t tell you what Iris smelled like before stumbling across this perfume, but it’s this: soft, powdery, and subtle. Sure, it’s flowery, but the modern mix of mandarin and neroli means that I think this summer perfume will have widespread appeal.
11. Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt
Keynotes: Ambrette seeds, sea salt, and sage
Inspired by the great British seaside, the Jo Malone summer collection is cottagecore vibes in a bottle. Take in the scent of the coastline with the sea salt notes, whilst the sage notes add a woodiness to balance out the fragrance. This scent almost has you hearing crashing waves.
12. Parfums de Marly Greenley
Keynotes: Sicilian bergamot, mandarin, green apple, cedarwood, violet, oakmoss, musk, and amber wood accord
In my opinion, all perfumes are unisex, but this fragrance from Parfums de Marly goes out of its way to avoid any notes traditionally coined as masculine or feminine. Instead, it’s a riotous concoction of tangy green apple, sun-soaked mandarin, and Sicilian bergamot with a musky base of oakmoss, amber, and cashmere wood. I think it’s the perfect scent to spray on during a balmy summer afternoon as you transition from day to night.
13. Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess
Key notes: Bergamot, mandarin, jasmine sambac absolute, amber, tiare flower, vanilla, and coconut
Genuinely, what would a roundup of the best summer perfumes be without the iconic Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess? When most people think of summer fragrances, it’s this one that springs to mind, and it delivers on seasonal spirit. It’s a tropical tirade of vanilla and coconut, sweet Tiare flower, and sunny bergamot—but it’s that amber base that provides its trademark warmth. I come back to it every year, despite smelling it on so many people because it truly reminds me of summer.
14. Ellis Brooklyn Bee
Keynotes: Dark rum, Havana, honey, cinnamon, sandalwood, vanilla bean, and cocoa absolute
For me, this is a summer perfume that’s made for when the sun goes down—in fact, it kind of smells like enjoying a dark and stormy at a beachside cocktail bar. It combines dark rum and deep berries with hints of honey and cinnamon for a sweet yet spicy warmth. It’s delectable, and it comes in a travel-friendly size that is perfect for taking abroad or popping into a handbag for on-the-go spritzing.
15. Aesop Gloam
Key notes: Saffron, jasmine sambac, and mimosa
Warm and spicy, this fragrance evokes the heat of summer with a scent blend that includes notes of pepper, saffron, and cardamom alongside crowd-pleasers like jasmine and mimosa.
16. & Other Stories Perle de Coco
Keynotes: Wild fig, lemon, black pomegranate, jasmine petals
This has been my go-to affordable summer fragrance for years. Wild fig, jasmine, and pomegranate mixed with dry tobacco leaves and lemon result in a truly intoxicating finish.
17. Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 + Mandarin
Keynotes: Cedarwood + Mandarin
This fragrance always transports me to a tropical destination. It has a zesty and fresh citrus tone but is also aromatic, velvety, and smooth.
18. Chanel Nº 5 Eau Première Feminino
Keynotes: Ylang-ylang, neroli, jasmine, and vanilla
An iconic classic reimagined, Chanel Nº 5 Eau Première is a lighter, fresher take on the timeless original. Perfect for summer, this perfume combines the elegance of ylang-ylang and neroli with the floral sophistication of jasmine. The base notes of vanilla add a touch of warmth, making it a versatile fragrance that can be worn from day to night. Its delicate balance of floral and creamy notes ensures that it remains a staple in any best perfumes for women’s collections, embodying the essence of summer scents.
19. Kayali Vanilla 28
Keynotes: Vanilla orchid, tonka absolute, amber woods, musk, and brown sugar
Kayali Vanilla 28 is a delightful summer perfume that envelops you in a warm, sweet embrace. With a rich blend of vanilla orchid and tonka absolute, this fragrance is both comforting and intoxicating. The addition of amber woods and musk gives it a sultry depth, while the hint of brown sugar adds a delectable sweetness. Perfect for those who love gourmand scents, Kayali Vanilla 28 is versatile enough to be worn day or night, making it a standout in any collection of the best perfumes for women. This scent is ideal for evoking the cosy, sweet moments of summer.
20. Maison Francis Kurkdjian – Baccarat Rouge 540
Keynotes: Saffron, jasmine, ambergris, amber wood, fir resin, and cedar
Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s Baccarat Rouge 540 is a masterpiece that exudes luxury and sophistication. This perfume has a unique and complex composition, blending the richness of saffron and jasmine with the warmth of ambergris and amber wood. The fir resin and cedar add a woody depth that makes this fragrance both mysterious and alluring. Ideal for those who seek a distinctive scent that stands out in a crowd, Baccarat Rouge 540 is perfect for evening wear and special occasions. It’s a sophisticated addition to any collection of best perfumes for women and an unforgettable summer scent.
FAQs: Best Perfumes for Women and Summer Scents
1. What are the best perfumes for women during summer?
The best perfumes for women during summer often feature fresh, fruity, and floral notes. Examples include Ouai Dean Street, Loewe Agua, and Dior Eden-Roc. These women’s summer perfumes evoke the essence of summer with their light and refreshing compositions.
2. Why are fresh and fruity notes popular in summer scents?
Fresh and fruity notes are popular in summer scents because they evoke a sense of coolness and vitality, which is especially refreshing during the hot months. They often remind people of tropical fruits and refreshing cocktails.
3. What makes a perfume suitable for summer?
A summer perfume typically has light, refreshing notes such as citrus, florals, and aquatic elements. These compositions are less likely to become overpowering in the heat and can help keep you feeling fresh throughout the day.
4. Can I wear my favourite winter perfume in summer?
While you can wear any perfume year-round, winter fragrances are often richer and heavier, which may be too intense for summer. Opting for a lighter, summer scent can be more pleasant and suitable for the season.
5. How can I make my perfume last longer in the summer heat?
To make your perfume last longer in the summer, apply it to your pulse points like wrists, neck, and behind the ears. You can also layer your fragrance by using matching body lotions or oils.
6. Are there unisex summer perfumes?
Yes, many summer perfumes are unisex. Fragrances like Parfums de Marly Greenley and Diptyque Eau Rihla are designed to be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of gender, with their balanced and universally appealing notes.
7. What are some popular floral notes in summer perfumes?
Popular floral notes in summer perfumes include jasmine, rose, magnolia, and orange blossom. These flowers provide a light, airy scent perfect for warm weather.
8. How do I choose the right summer perfume?
Choosing the right summer perfume involves considering the notes you enjoy and how the scent makes you feel. Test a few options to see how they develop on your skin and select one that evokes the essence of summer for you.
9. What is a signature scent, and should I have one for summer?
A signature scent is a perfume you wear regularly and associated with your presence. A signature summer perfume for women can be a great way to mark the season with a fragrance that captures your favourite summer memories.
10. Can I layer different summer perfumes?
Yes, layering different summer perfumes can create a unique and personalized fragrance. Start with lighter scents and layer with more intense notes to build complexity.
11. Are there budget-friendly summer perfumes?
Absolutely! Brands like Zara Fashionably London and & Other Stories Perle de Coco offer affordable yet delightful summer perfumes for ladies that rival luxury options in freshness and style.
12. What are some long-lasting summer perfumes?
Long-lasting summer perfumes include Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess, Maison Margiela Replica Matcha Meditation, and Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt. These fragrances are known for their enduring presence throughout the day.
13. Why is citrus a common note in summer perfumes?
Citrus notes are common in summer perfumes because they provide a refreshing and invigorating sensation, perfect for hot weather. They are light and energizing, making them ideal for summer wear.
14. What is the difference between eau de parfum and eau de toilette for summer?
Eau de parfum typically has a higher concentration of fragrance oils, making it more intense and longer-lasting. Eau de toilette is lighter and less concentrated, which can be preferable for the hot summer months.
15. How can I store my summer perfumes to keep them fresh?
Store your summer perfumes in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. This helps maintain the integrity of the fragrance.
16. What are some niche summer perfumes to try?
Niche summer perfumes to try include Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 + Mandarin and Ellis Brooklyn Bee. These fragrances offer unique and sophisticated compositions that stand out.
17. Can I wear summer perfumes in the evening?
Yes, many summer perfumes transition beautifully from day to night. Scents like Ellis Brooklyn Bee and Aesop Gloam are perfect for evening wear due to their warmer and slightly more intense notes.
18. What is a holiday perfume?
A holiday perfume is a fragrance you wear specifically for your vacations or holidays. These scents can transport you to your favourite holiday destinations, even if you’re just dreaming of far-flung beaches.
19. Are there any classic summer perfumes that are always in style?
Classic summer women’s perfume like Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess and Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt remain timeless favourites due to their universally appealing and evocative compositions.
20. What should I look for in a summer perfume for a tropical destination?
For a tropical destination, look for summer perfumes with notes of coconut, tropical flowers, and citrus. Scents like Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess and Maison Margiela Replica Matcha Meditation are ideal choices.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect women’s summer fragrances can transform your entire season, transporting you to sandy beaches and sunny locales even if you’re just lounging in your backyard. With so many delightful summer scents for women, there’s no reason not to indulge in the best summer fragrances for women this season. From fresh citrus notes to exotic spices and florals, there’s a best summer women’s perfume for everyone.
For those seeking a truly unique, handcrafted fragrance experience, consider exploring offerings from The Perfume Artisan, who creates bespoke perfumes designed to suit your individual tastes. So go ahead, find your perfect match and let your scent be your signature this season.
