In the market for a signature summer fragrance? Here’s our guide. Firstly, when out on the search don’t spritz before you hit the stores. Your skin needs to remain odour-neutral to accurately test those new fragrances. “Smelling the perfume on paper after the alcohol has evaporated is the only sane way to test a fragrance. Spray a few scents on blotter cards, taking note of the names, and smell them away from the alcohol-heavy air of the perfumery,” explains Roja Dove, world-renowned fragrance specialist and perfumer. Now wait. Hold off for 30 minutes until making a decision on which are your favourites.
This time delay is necessary to see how the fragrance evaporates and evolves into the heart and base notes once applied. Next, go back to the shop and apply the fragrances you selected one by one to your skin to see how they combine with your natural pheromones (those chemicals emitted by the skin that affect how a perfume will smell on you – and whether your crush will fancy you too).
As for where to put them? “The back of your hand and the wrist are ideal,” says Will Andrews, director and technical expert of fragrance communication at Coty. And don’t worry about ‘breaking’ fragrance molecules by rubbing your wrists together. “It’s impossible,” says Andrews. “The worst it can do is warm it up and make it develop into the heart note more quickly, as it would in a hotter climate.” Turns out it’s a pretty good thing to do. Right, now you know what to look for and how to look for it. Here are a couple of our summer favourites.
Scents We’re Obsessed With This Summer
Trust us, you’ll want them all.
Oscar De La Renta Bella Tropicale Eau de Parfum
Just one spritz is enough to transport you to a sunset in Zanzibar. Sweet and floral meets woody and musky, a tropical getaway in a bottle. Pineapple, coconut water, musk and sandalwood notes make this scent enticing and sensual.
Givenchy L’Interdit EDP
This fragrance marries the timeless elegance of orange blossom, jasmine and tuberose with the earthy richness of vetiver and patchouli. The result? A versatile scent that’s irresistibly sexy by night yet refreshingly light for the day.
Creed Queen of Silk Eau de Parfum
If you like headier scents, this one’s for you. The embodiment of the ethereal softness of silk, this fragrance is crafted with Chinese osmanthus, saffron, tuberose, passion fruit and Madagascar vanilla notes, all combined to create this warm-spicy-sweet bouquet.
Gucci Flora Gorgeous Orchid Eau de Parfum
The pink bottle of Gucci Flora Gorgeous is already a cult favourite, but this new Orchid edition takes it to another level. Think sunshine in a bottle. With vibrant vanilla notes and a fresh marine Ozonic Accord, it balances the rich warmth of Vanilla Orchid with a crisp, breezy edge.
Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Eau de Toilette
This summer classic deserves a spot on everyone’s list. It’s the kind of scent that makes you feel fresh, vibrant and completely irresistible.
With bright top notes of Sicilian Cedar, Apple and Bluebell, it opens with a crisp, fruity energy. The heart notes of Bamboo, Jasmine and White Rose add a soft floral touch, while the base notes of Citron Wood, Amber and Musk bring a warm, grounding finish.
Narciso Rodriguez Narciso Ambrée Eau de Parfum
Not only is the coral-toned bottle on point for 2024, but the scent is too! This luminous fragrance captures the warmth of sun-kissed skin. At its heart is Narciso’s signature musc, surrounded by frangipani, ylang-ylang, amber and cedar. Together, they create a magnetic and radiant scent. Perfect to heat up any date night.
MontBlanc Vetiver Glacier Eau de Parfum
Experience a crisp burst of freshness with this sophisticated scent. Bitter vetiver, spicy ginger and nutmeg ignite a lively opening, while warm cedarwood and sandalwood ground the fragrance with an earthy richness. A hint of white musk adds a contemporary twist and the raw, woody sandalwood envelops you in a cosy embrace. Perfect for summer evenings, this fragrance exudes elegance and effortless charm.
READ MORE: 12 Perfumes That Always Attract Mega Compliments
Tom Ford Soleil Blanc EDP
Unexpected. Sultry. Addictive. This summer fragrance captures the essence of sun-soaked luxury. Soleil Blanc is your ticket to endless warm days and unapologetic indulgence.
Marc Jacobs Daisy Wild Eau de Parfum
Jasmine, vetiver and banana blossom blend to create a fresh, wildflower-inspired fragrance. Daisy Wild sparks your free-spirited side, evoking the beauty of nature with every wear.
Salvatore Ferragamo Signorina Libera Eau De Parfum
Celebrate freedom and femininity with Signorina Libera. Its blend of bergamot, plum, rose and sugar invites you to embrace joy, sisterhood and your unique path.
Le Coq Sportif Bleu Eau De Parfum
Effortlessly unisex, Bleu combines the freshness of bergamot and lavandin with the earthy depth of mate and patchouli. Understated yet elegant, it’s a go-to for anyone who craves simplicity with a twist.
Zadig & Voltaire This Is Us Eau De Toilette
Soft musks, creamy sandalwood and vibrant patchouli unite in a scent that celebrates connection and togetherness – forever young, forever free.
Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Cheirosa 62™ Perfume Mist
Sol de Janeiro, one of the hottest, trendiest brands has finally landed on South African shores! This warm, delicious mist layers pistachio, salted caramel, jasmine petals and vanilla for a sunny, beachy vibe that lingers all day.
