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You know that scene in Ratatouille when the food is so good it transports a grumpy food critic back to his happy childhood? That’s what the best summer fragrances are capable of doing, just with smell. One spritz of your favorite seasonal scent, and you’re instantly reliving the best of beach days bygone, boat rides with besties, favorite family vacations, summertime crushes, and ice cream cones by the pool. I know such is the case for me, at least—I experience my own version of the Ratatouille critic’s euphoria each time I smell my Vacation sunscreen.
Our top picks:
- Best Everyday Summer Fragrance: Byredo Mojave Ghost, $230
- Best Fruity Summer Fragrance: Phlur Peach Skin Body & Hair Fragrance Mist, $38
- Best Salt Summer Fragrance: Jo Malone London Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne, $168
- Best Vacation Summer Fragrance: Krigler Mediterranean Peach, $495
- Best Floral Summer Fragrance: Aerin Mediterranean Honeysuckle Tiare, $150
It’s no surprise that in the springtime, searches for the best summer fragrance spike. In fact, according to a report from Luxurynsight and Spate, nearly half of perfume purchases in the US are driven by social media recommendations, and Gen Z now considers TikTok (hi, #PerfumeTok) to be the preferred platform for discovering independent fragrance brands. What’s more, fragrance fanatics are more than three times as likely to purchase one if it’s been linked to emotional attributes and/or memories in the descriptions from TikTok videos.
Translation? Everyone really does gravitate toward nostalgia, memory-inducing aromas, and especially those that evoke reminders from summers past. To help you on your seasonal-scent journey, we polled Glamour editors for their favorite summer perfumes, from floral notes to fruity aromas and musky smells.
Best Everyday Summer Fragrance: Byredo Mojave Ghost
1/29Byredo Mojave Ghost Eau de Parfum
It’s a cult-classic for a reason. You truly can’t go wrong with this earthy fragrance for summertime, featuring notes of cedarwood, musk, and magnolia. It dries down to a second-skin kind of aroma that feels very lightweight and mellow. The last thing I want to wear in hot temperatures is something heavy or offensive, and Mojave Ghost gives me just the right amount of scent for everyday. —Ariana Yaptangco, senior beauty editor
Best Shimmery Summer Fragrance: Ceremonia Guava Perfume Hair & Body Mist
2/29Ceremonia Guava Perfume Hair & Body Mist
There’s so much to love about Ceremonia's new Guava hair and body mist. “It's a sweet-smelling mist—it has warm notes of guava, violet, and vetiver for a truly tropical experience. The scent is juicy yet complex and simply screams summer. All it takes is just a few spritzes to make you feel like you’re on a beach (with a coconut in hand). Probably the best part is that it also surprises you with a shimmering, sparkly finish that adds glow to your arms and décolletage. This one really makes you feel like you’re sparkling, inside and out. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, commerce writer
Best Fruity Summer Fragrance: Phlur Peach Skin Hair & Body Fragrance Mist
3/29Phlur Peach Skin Hair & Body Fragrance Mist
It seems like every brand is putting out hair and body mists right now. I find the craze a bit funny (“hair mist,” “body mist,” “hair perfume”—it’s pretty much all the same thing!), but I’m kind of here for the silliness. There’s something very nostalgic about a body mist that transports you back to the mall in middle school, and isn’t that kind of escapism exactly what we need right now? Phlur has bottled that nostalgia, right down to the travel-friendly packaging and sweet peach scent that’s made for summertime. I’ll be keeping this in my beach bag to grab whenever I need to deodorize or for a sunny pick-me-up throughout the day. —A.Y.
Best Unisex Summer Fragrance: D.S. & Durga Debaser
4/29D.S. & Durga Debaser Eau de Parfum
I’m a huge fan of D.S. & Durga’s whole thing—the unique scents, the playful names, the luxe bottles. And Debaser is my newest obsession from the brand. A unisex fragrance, Debaser tells the story of a hot, languid day: Bergamot, pear stem, fig, coconut milk, and tonka bean dance around each other. The effect is fresh and fruity with a slight tropical edge. It’s unlike anything else I’ve used, and if you’re in the mood for a boundary-pushing blind buy, I highly recommend giving it a shot. —Jake Henry Smith, commerce editor
Best Floral Summer Fragrance: Aerin Mediterranean Honeysuckle Tiare
5/29Aerin Mediterranean Honeysuckle Tiare
With notes of grapefruit, honeysuckle, and gardenia, this aptly named fragrance transports me to a seaside garden party on the Mediterranean (is there any better place to be in the summer?). I love a fresh, bright fragrance, and this eau de parfum falls right into that citrus floral category. I’m wearing it all season! —Catharine Malzahn, contributing associate beauty editor
Best Salt Summer Fragrance: Jo Malone London Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne
6/29Jo Malone London Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne
While the sage note gives this fragrance an earthier feel, the sea salt makes it fresher and gives a beachy, just-out-of-the-saltwater feel that makes this one of my go-to warm-weather scents. It’s a lighter cologne, which I appreciate in the summer when I don’t want something too heavy on my skin. It transitions perfectly from day to night, and I like to respray a few times throughout the day when I wear it. —C.M.
Best Lightweight Summer Fragrance: Maison Margiela Replica Sailing Day
7/29Maison Margiela Replica Sailing Day
It’s all in the name, isn’t it? I can’t think of a scent that smells more like the beginning of spring than Maison Margiela’s Replica fragrance Sailing Day. This everyday “aquatic” scent is light and fresh with just a hint of spice, thanks to notes of coriander. I’d honestly take a bath in this stuff. —Emily Tannenbaum, contributing editor
Best Sweet Summer Fragrance: Bvlgari Allegra Dolce Estasi Eau de Parfum
8/29Bvlgari Allegra Dolce Estasi Eau de Parfum
Not only does Bvlgari’s Dolce Estasi fragrance look like a luxury candy wrapper, but it is the most divine scent that will remind you of a quaint Italian pastry shop. Think notes of florals, Italian citrus fruit, and a soothing blend of musky notes that aren’t overpowering, just delightful. —Jessica Radloff, senior West Coast editor
Best Vacation Summer Fragrance: Krigler Mediterranean Peach
9/29Krigler Mediterranean Peach Eau de Parfum Spray
I’m going to France for vacation this summer and already know this is the fragrance I’m going to pack. Not only because I’ll be on the French Riviera, where this fragrance originates, or because the aroma is simply to die for—but also, yes, because it perfectly embodies the coastal and fruit-forward yet elegant vibe. With notes of lemon, fougeres (translation: “fern”), jasmine, honey, vineyard peach, bergamot, mandarin, and white musk, it’s warm and fruity yet fresh and floral. The best way I can describe it is “juicy” or ripe in the absolute best way. Don’t let the peach deter you, either: While sweet and zesty like the stonefruit, it’s woodsy, luxurious, and sexy. This is what transporting via fragrance is all about. —Danielle Sinay, contributor
Best Night-Out Summer Fragrance: Ellis Brooklyn Miami Nectar
10/29Ellis Brooklyn Miami Nectar Eau de Parfum
Imagine a tropical scent on a hot summer’s night, along with notes of pink pineapple, palm leaves, and coconut water, and you’ve got Ellis Brooklyn’s limited-edition Miami Nectar scent. Not only does the eau de parfum look like the most inviting cocktail thanks to its turquoise color, but the scent will immediately transport you poolside to the vacation of your dreams. It’s divine. —J.R.
Best Calming Summer Fragrance: Maya No. 1 Perfume Oil
11/29Maya No. 1 Perfume Oil
If you could bottle the feeling of relaxation, luxury, and romance, or warm skin in a linen dress, or napping on a beach vacation without a worry in the world, this would be all of it and more. Sweet, fresh, nostalgic, warm, and sensitive-skin-friendly without feeling overly in-your-face, this, to me, is the quintessential summer scent. I actually love it so much that sometimes I put it on before bed because the aroma is that calming. I wish I was kidding. Whatever, at least I always smell good! —D.S.
Best Longwear Summer Fragrance: Hermès H24 Herbes Vives Eau de Parfum
12/29Hermès H24 Herbes Vives Eau de Parfum
Perhaps the longest-lasting scent in my collection, H24 Herbes Vives is green, fresh, and juicy. Notes of fresh-cut herbs and ripe pear linger long after the initial spritz; I’ve caught this on my skin well past the 12-hour mark. And where other fragrances might get cloying after so long, I’m never mad at this one for hanging around. Spray it for an instant mental vacation. —J.H.S.
Best Beachy Summer Fragrance: Ellis Brooklyn Salt Eau de Parfum
13/29Ellis Brooklyn Salt Eau de Parfum
Salt is the soft scent of a tropical vacation—and it’s so versatile that both I (floral, obsessed-with-beauty queen) and my husband (minimalist whom I’ve had to force to wear SPF) equally love wearing it. The aroma is literally that of salt or, more specifically, a salty skin after a long day spent sailing at sea. Or perhaps a leisurely walk along the waves. It’s creamy, floral, sensual, and complex, and highlights the heady salty notes of ambergris, tropical florals of Tahitian tiare, and the warmth of sandalwood and musk. It’s really tough to explain how lovely it is, but I strongly encourage you to get a tester and try it. Oh, and bonus points for the warmer seasons: This is the only fragrance I know that somehow still smells good mixed with sweat. —D.S.
Best Year-Round Summer Fragrance: Glossier You Fleur Eau de Parfum
14/29Glossier You Fleur Eau de Perfume
Glossier’s beauty products have never wowed me, but there’s a special place in my heart for the brand’s signature fragrance. While it’s at first a bright, woody, floral scent, it gradually changes on your skin, melting into something deeper and more inviting. And unlike so many other perfumes, it’s pretty subtle. Even though $60 is not a steal, one bottle lasts forever—I’m only on my second, and I’ve worn You religiously for years. Just buy it. —J.R.
Best Gourmand Summer Fragrance: Boy Smells Sugar Baby Perfume
15/29Boy Smells Sugar Baby Perfume with Honeysuckle & Musk
If I had to describe this perfume in one word, it would be nostalgia. It transported me back to my tween self shopping the aisle of Limited Too and Juicy Couture, but with a grown-up twist, thanks to honeysuckle and musk. It’s simply delectable, so I’ll be dousing myself in this on summer nights for the foreseeable future, there’s no doubt about it. —A.M.K
Best Body Mist Summer Fragrance: Flamingo Light Hydrating Spray Lotion
16/29Flamingo Light Hydrating Spray Lotion
I’m extremely picky about scent in general because of my highly sensitive nose (yes, I am that person who will ask to move seats on a plane if my seatmate is wearing too much perfume or cologne). Over the years I’ve found only three commercial fragrances I really love—my DMs are open if you’re curious—but I use them super sparingly. However, I recently discovered this light body mist by razor brand Flamingo and am obsessed. Not only is it incredibly hydrating, but the scent is so, so good. It’s not fruity or floral (vom), but rather clean and a bit woodsy thanks to subtle notes of vetiver and bergamot. I use it all summer and find it to be a more subdued alternative to spritzing on heavy eau de parfum during the hottest days of the year. —Perrie Samotin, digital director
Best Occasion Summer Fragrance: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Vitae Eau de Toilette
17/29Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Vitae Eau de Toilette
I love a heady perfume, but summer is the only time of year when I like to lighten things up. Not too much, though—scents that are overwhelmingly sweet and floral have never been my cup of tea. Thankfully, Aqua Vitae strikes the perfect balance. It starts out full-bodied but gradually becomes airy and delicate as it wears. Striking notes of guaiac wood and tonka bean fulfill my musky quota, while citrusy mandarin and lemon add some intriguing brightness suitable for warmer months. —A.Y.
Best Sunscreen Summer Fragrance: Vacation Eau de Toilette
18/29Vacation Eau de Toilette
My summer doesn’t emotionally begin until I’ve done two things: Blast “Summertime Sadness” while lounging by a body of water, then spray Vacation’s fragrance all over myself and anyone else who will allow me the pleasure (assuming I’m not already wearing the SPF). Because this fragrance is the classic summertime scent—mainly because it came from a sunscreen. Before I had this bottle, I used to open my tube of the sunscreen just to sniff it—even on days I wasn’t going outside! Once you take a whiff, you’ll understand: The notes of coconut, banana, pool water, pool toy, and swimsuit Lycra make for the most visceral, happy-memory-inducing experience of all time. 10/10 recommend. —D.S.
Best Classic Summer Fragrance: Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Eau de Toilette
19/29Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Eau de Toilette
I wore this fragrance during a summer spent in Italy, so I obviously have some nostalgic ties to it. But personal bias aside, Light Blue makes a perfect summer scent with notes of lime and cedar. To me, it strikes a balance between fruity and floral and is great for everyday use. —Alexandra Follino, art director
Best Soft Summer Fragrance: Coach Signature Eau de Parfum
20/29Coach Signature Eau de Parfum
I’ve never had a random man ask me what fragrance I was wearing until this one. I’ve been obsessed ever since I discovered it, and I get so many compliments. It’s soft enough to wear every day, and the price point makes me feel less guilty about it. It’s sweet and subtle but demands attention. It’s giving “Take me out to dinner, but I don’t need you to.” —Jazmin Gathers, social media manager
Best Earthy Summer Fragrance: Diptyque Eau Nabati Eau de Parfum
21/29Diptyque Eau Nabati Eau de Parfum
Diptyque’s newest Eau Nabati is heavier than what I usually wear, but there’s something about the warm, earthy blend of bergamot, petit grain, and balsam of Peru that feels just right in its contrast for summer. —Talia Abbas, Vogue senior commerce editor
Best Wedding Guest Summer Fragrance: Guerlain Mon Guerlain Eau de Parfum
22/29Guerlain Mon Guerlain Eau de Parfum
I got this as a Christmas gift last year, and I started using it every day since. It has a warm and spicy scent, but the lavender and vanilla notes calm me when I need it. I receive so many compliments on it every time I wear it, and I need to get a bigger bottle before mine runs out. It’s a must-have for those who want something light and sweet for everyday. —Monique Wilson, editorial assistant
Best Romantic Summer Fragrance: Burberry Her Eau de Parfum
23/29Burberry Her Eau de Parfum
The berry and jasmine notes are what make this fragrance smell so light and floral, but its musk-amber base keeps things from being too cloying—perfect for summer. I especially love wearing this in the warmer temps because it smells like the kind of rich-girl summer I can’t afford but wish I could: a gorgeous house on the beach, hydrangeas everywhere, “This Love (Taylor’s Version)” playing in the background—so, basically, The Summer I Turned Pretty. —Anna Moeslein, deputy editor
Best Spicy Summer Fragrance: Amouage Purpose Eau de Parfum
24/29Amouage Purpose Eau de Parfum
This spicy, alluring scent is my most complimented fragrance. Technically, it’s a mix of bergamot, pink pepper, vetiver, and saffron; in effect, though, it smells like a sunburnt beach or a bolt of inspiration. It’s sexy, it’s sophisticated, and it lasts forever. I’m in love. —J.H.S.
Best Tropical Summer Fragrance: Chantecaille Tiare Fragrance
25/29Chantecaille Tiare Fragrance
I’ve never been to Tahiti, but I’m obsessed with the tiare flower and the island’s gorgeous natural habitat and aquamarine waters (which I look at daily on Instagram, thank you very much). Until I actually get there, Chantecaille’s Tiare fragrance is the next best thing. Tiare is the flower of love and beauty, and this scent will immediately transport you to the tropical oasis. It has notes of cyclamen, lily of the valley, Italian bergamot, jasmine, ylang-ylang, red rose, orchid, musk, heliotrope, and vanilla. In other words, absolute paradise. Bonus: It’s vegan and cruelty-free. —J.R.
Best Fresh Summer Fragrance: Snif Honorable Mention
26/29Snif Honorable Mention
Honorable Mention smells like late spring. Floral and spicy notes bring to mind a meadow in full bloom (without making your allergies act up, thankfully). There’s an almost saccharine edge to it—if you use too much, the scent might end up being cloying—but in moderation, it’s delicate and nostalgic, and it lingers long after your initial spritz. And thanks to Snif’s unique model, you can order a bottle, test it out, and send it back for free if you don’t like it. —J.S.
Best Throwback Summer Fragrance: Armani Beauty Acqua di Giò Eau de Toilette Spray
27/29Giorgio Armani Acqua di Giò Eau de Toilette Spray
Since we are now living in the ’90s-throwback era, my OG summer scent is and will forever be Aqua di Gio by Giorgio Armani. I love both the women’s and the men’s scents (I have been known to walk down the street following people wearing the men’s scent because there’s something about it I just can’t help but obsess over). Even though I don’t wear it often, I still keep a bottle. It’s nostalgia in a spray. —Natasha Perlman, executive editor
Best Nostalgic Summer Fragrance: D.S. & Durga Steamed Rainbow Eau de Parfum
28/29D.S. & Durga Steamed Rainbow Eau de Parfum
It’s close, but Steamed Rainbow is my all-time favorite fragrance, especially during the warmer months. The name is completely accurate; somehow, D.S. & Durga managed to capture the scent of water vapor, which brings to mind theme-park vacations and concrete after rain. Grounded with soft florals and bright citrus that never get old, this perfume is a cut above the usual stuff—perfect for anyone who wants something accessible, but unexpected. —J.H.S.
Best Unique Summer Fragrance: Diptyque Corail Oscuro Eau de Parfum
29/29Diptyque Corail Oscuro Eau de Parfum
Diptyque doesn’t do your typical aquatic perfume. Corail Oscuro, one of the newest additions to the iconic fragrance house’s lineup, instead evokes the sea with mandarin and minerals; it’s what you’d dream a coral reef would smell like. Close your eyes and you can almost feel the sun on your skin and the sand between your toes. It’s certainly an investment, but the especially cute bottle means it’ll double as bathroom or vanity decor. —J.H.S.

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