BEAUTY: SUMMER SCENTS

Clean and fresh are dominating our fragrance lineup this summer. We’re talking light floral, citrus and fruity blends, and steering clear of notes that won’t benefit from the extra intensity of a rise in temperature, like musk, vanilla or anything overly sweet.

It’s also important to remember that, while the heat will magnify your scent, it will also burn it out faster, making mini, on-the-go products perfect for more frequent application. You can also increase longevity by layering – body lotions, hair mists and fragrant oils will all help your scent stick around longer.

Here, we’ve narrowed down some of the best contenders for the season ahead.

Maison Francois Kurkdjian Gentle Fluidity

These twin perfumes are something of a revolution in the fragrance world. Two distinct scents, each with its own personality and mood, created from the same 49 ingredients but with varying concentrations. The gold bottle is infused with spices and florals, with an emphasis on coriander seed, vanilla and musk; the silver is woody and vibrant, laced with notes of nutmeg and amber.

Byredo Lil Fleur

Known for its sophisticated scents, Byredo captures the first flush of youth in this universal floral fragrance which is inspired by music. Damascena rose and leather are at the heart, accompanied by hints of saffron, cassis and tangerine, as well as blonde woods and amber.

Aesop Rōzu

Green and contemporary, Aesop’s latest genderless scent pays tribute to modernist French architect Charlotte Perriand and the Japanese garden rose created in her name. A character the brand describes as “intense yet tender, nuanced and expansive, with remarkable longevity” has been concocted with ingredients both common and unusual, such as shiso and guaiacwood.

YSL Black Opium Neon

For those who know the original, Black Opium isn’t exactly your typical summer-fresh scent, but this new incarnation is electrifying. A harmonious blend of coffee, orange blossom and dragon fruit offer the same intoxication of a hot summer fling – surprising and irresistible.

Jo Malone London Waterlily

The quintessential British perfumer has been transported to Korea, taking cues from the waterlilies in Seoul’s Huwon Secret Garden. A scent beguiling in its simplicity, the fragility of this aquatic bloom is juxtaposed by jasmine sambac, neroli and white musk which add depth without heaviness.

Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Orange Soleia

A trip to Italy in a bottle, this tutti-frutti potion combines blood orange, mint, pink peppercorns and bergamot to replicate sunshine and frivolity. It’s part of the brand’s beloved Aqua Allegoria collection which is an ode to the beauty of nature’s wonders and raw materials.

Please note that this item will only be available in store.