This year, I’m excited to share some new perfumes I’ve stumbled upon! After sticking to my favorites for so long, I feel like I’ve finally expanded my collection and have several favorites to highlight for the summer.
At this point, my perfume collection has grown significantly. I still gravitate towards citrus scents for that invigorating freshness. Today, I’m sharing my top 10 picks.
Creed Wild Vetiver
above: sunglasses, bucket hat, bikini top + pareo, nail polish Geranium
If I had to select my signature fragrance of the year, it would definitely be the newest release from Creed, Wild Vetiver. This has received the most compliments of any perfume I’ve owned – it catches the attention of everyone I pass, and even Andrew can’t get enough of it on me. It leans toward unisex but feels more feminine to me.
Incredibly strong, it might be my most potent and longest-lasting scent. It’s a bold vetiver with floral hints including rose, geranium, pink pepper, blackcurrant, cedarwood, and bergamot.
I adore the Creed Refillable Atomizers. They’re so sophisticated, and I love the new green design released with Wild Vetiver. I’ve gifted almost every color available, and they’ve always been a hit.
Creed Virgin Island Water
This is another classic fragrance I’ve cherished for years. Virgin Island Water was the very first Creed perfume I ever bought, and I’ve been smitten since the initial spray. It has a tropical essence that I could wear year-round. Having lived in San Diego, Tampa, and Miami, I feel like it’s suitable for any season, but it’s undoubtedly summer encapsulated in a bottle. (Just a note: Creed has been updating the packaging and design for some of its scents, so yours might appear slightly different.)
This fragrance features a distinct and unique blend of coconut, bergamot, tropical fruits, lime, musk, and jasmine.
Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel
The fragrance I wear most frequently and repurchase the most is the Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Paris-Biarritz (with Paris-Riviera coming in a close second). I’ve consistently worn this since it was launched 8 years ago. To me, it’s the ultimate soft citrus that I can wear any time of the year. It is on the delicate side, so if you’re seeking something more intense, this might not be the scent for you.
This fragrance is both elegant and uplifting without being overpowering. It’s noted for its Sicilian Mandarin and Lily of the Valley Accord. I’m a big fan.
Celine
above: travel perfume case, brush no 2, sunglasses, pouch (old season)
I have a great fondness for Celine Fragrances. They seem to be somewhat underrated. They can be a bit challenging to find since you can only purchase them through Celine online or at select boutiques. They do offer discovery sets which are absolutely stunning.
For years, my go-to scent was Parade, which I still adore. However, if you’re looking for something distinctive that will set you apart, Un Ete Francais is a gorgeous option. It’s a summery floral blend featuring bergamot, neroli, and petitgrain.
Memo Paris
above: brush no 2 (small), makeup bag Celine (old season), lip set, hair clip, ring, nail polish shade Retro
I was introduced to Memo Paris through some friends I made in Miami. I was influenced by Erin Nicole’s choice of Memo Paris Cap Camarat. Her refined taste was stunning, and I was captivated by how fantastic she smelled. I immediately asked her for the details and ordered it.
Cap Camarat genuinely astonished me as it includes vanilla notes, and while I typically love vanilla, I often struggle to wear it during the hot humid months (which, practically, is year-round in Florida). This is not your standard vanilla. It’s not overly sweet but instead leans toward a sultry salty profile. The fragrance features pink peppercorn, fruity apple, ylang-ylang, jasmine, sandalwood, benzoin, Amyris, patchouli, and labdanum. None of these notes usually appeal to me, yet the combination is so exceptional, and I am completely infatuated.
The allure for me lies in the drydown. This is my go-to for date nights.
above nail polish shade Geranium
Menorca is one of Memo Paris’ newest offerings. It has been available only at Memo Paris and sold out quite quickly. This is pure love, featuring a citrusy bergamot with lemon, along with salty musk undertones. It contains all of my favorite notes. It’s lemony without being overwhelmingly so. It shares similarities with Dior’s new Dior Paradise, which I also like (I bought the travel sizes), but I prefer Menorca because it’s not as lemony (if that makes any sense).
Chloe Atelier des Fleurs
For the first time this year, I experienced some fragrances from the Chloe Atelier des Fleurs line, and they’re stunning. They’re very green, earthy, and quite different from most Chloe scents in my opinion! I particularly love the Plage du Figuier, which features a green fig note. This fragrance is airy, light, and very green. I appreciate that it’s sweet, but not overly so. It’s warm yet fresh.
Dior La Collection Privee
above: lip gloss shade 004 coral, powder bronzer review here, bronzer stick review + swatches here, new invisible finish SPF (really love this!)
Dior has some of the most exquisite fragrances I’ve encountered, and I’m always eager to see what’s new in La Collection Privee. I’m especially fond of their customization features like Couture Caps (in two sizes), engraving, and cases. From this collection, I have two summer favorites. Eden Roc is an absolutely beautiful choice, particularly if you enjoy salty marine scents. It evokes the ambiance of a luxurious seaside spa vacation. There are floral undertones, but they’re subtle. It comprises sea salt, jasmine, coconut, pine, and labdanum.
Dioriviera ranks among my top three. It has the most delightful blend of fig and rose, which I think balances it out from becoming too tart or sweet. This fragrance feels like a lavish getaway. It’s warm, green, fruity, sweet, and floral all simultaneously. It has great longevity and is quite potent on my skin. I appreciate that it maintains its character.
Kilian Paris
Kilian Sunkissed Goddess is a quintessential scent for summer in a bottle. It’s such a stunning white floral. If you enjoy Tiare Flowers and Ylang-Ylang, this one is truly iconic.
I have many more fragrances that I adore at the moment, but I aimed to keep this list to 10 favorites specifically tailored for summer!
If you have any of your own summer favorites, please share them with me. I thrive on your recommendations and love hearing what others are wearing.
**Top Summer Fragrances for 2026: A Sensory Journey**
As the summer of 2026 nears, fragrance lovers are eagerly looking forward to the newest olfactory trends that will characterize the season. This year, the perfume industry is fusing innovation and nostalgia, with scents designed to capture the essence of summer through a contemporary perspective. Here’s a glimpse at the top summer fragrances for 2026 that are sure to enhance your sensory experience.
**1. Solar Citrus by Maison de Soleil**
Maison de Soleil unveils Solar Citrus, a luminous fragrance that embodies the sun’s warmth. This scent begins with a splash of zesty lemon and bergamot, evolving into a heart of orange blossom and neroli. The base notes of amber and white musk provide a soft, lasting warmth, making it ideal for sun-soaked days.
**2. Oceanic Breeze by AquaVibe**
Oceanic Breeze by AquaVibe encapsulates the refreshing spirit of the ocean. With top notes of sea salt and marine accords, this fragrance brings forth the feeling of a coastal getaway. The heart of driftwood and seaweed adds complexity, while the base of sandalwood and musk guarantees a lasting impression. Perfect for those yearning for the peacefulness of the ocean.
**3. Tropical Bloom by Island Essence**
Island Essence’s Tropical Bloom represents a lively tribute to exotic florals. The fragrance opens with notes of passionfruit and pineapple, leading to a heart of hibiscus and frangipani. The creamy sweetness of coconut milk and vanilla in the base evokes a tropical paradise. This scent is an excellent choice for adventurous summer vibes.
**4. Green Oasis by Nature’s Harmony**
Green Oasis by Nature’s Harmony presents a refreshing retreat into nature. With top notes of green tea and mint, this fragrance feels revitalizing and crisp. A serene floral touch comes from the heart of bamboo and jasmine, while the earthy sophistication is anchored by a base of vetiver and cedarwood. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and outdoorsy individuals.
**5. Sunset Glow by Twilight Scents**
Twilight Scents offers Sunset Glow, a fragrance that captures the enchantment of a summer twilight. The scent commences with juicy peach and apricot, flowing into a heart of jasmine and rose. The base of patchouli and vanilla envelops you in warmth. Perfect for romantic evenings and sunset strolls.
**6. Citrus Zest by FreshAura**
Citrus Zest by FreshAura embodies a spirited and lively fragrance representative of summer. With top notes of grapefruit and lime, this scent is brightening and uplifting. A spicy twist is provided by the heart of ginger and basil, while the base of cedar and amber concludes with a refined finish. Excellent for those who enjoy an energetic essence in their fragrance.
**7. Floral Whisper by Petal & Bloom**
Petal & Bloom’s Floral Whisper is a tender and captivating fragrance. The scent starts with peony and lily of the valley, leading into a heart of magnolia and freesia. The base of white musk and sandalwood leaves a gentle, powdery touch. Perfect for individuals who appreciate delicate and sophisticated florals.
In 2026, summer fragrances are focused on encapsulating the season’s essence through a variety of innovative compositions. Whether you’re drawn to the freshness of the ocean, the vibrancy of tropical blooms, or the warmth of a summer sunset, there’s a fragrance available for every mood and occasion. Embrace the sensory adventure and discover your signature summer scent.
