Choosing the right fragrance is deeply personal—it may require some trial and error to find the one you love. Pay attention to the fragrance family, base notes, strength of formula, and ingredients when making your selection. Perfume labeled as “perfume” boasts the highest concentration of aromatic compounds and essential oils, ensuring longer-lasting wear, whereas Eau de Toilette offers a more subtle scent that gradually fades over several hours. We’ve curated a selection of the best, under-the-radar, and distinctly summery fragrances for men that are effortless to wear, fresh, and guaranteed to leave an impression.
Frédéric Malle Geranium Pour Monsieur, Dominique Ropion
This fragrance deviates from the typical floral and woody scents with a refreshing hint of mint. Conceived by renowned French perfumer Dominique Ropion, it evokes the image of an eccentric Englishman in a blue linen jacket. Vibrant and unique, it blends mint, anise, and geranium with a warm base of sandalwood and frankincense. Perfect for those who wish to leave an unforgettable olfactory trail from morning till night.
Vanilla Sex, Tom Ford
An ode to the iconic ingredient, Vanilla Sex is the epitome of pure vanilla. This sought-after component of modern perfumery gives the composition a distinctively non-innocent dimension. Featuring Tom Ford’s exclusive Vanilla Tincture India, it offers a soft, radiant note that is both unusual and addictive.
Red Leather, Ferragamo
Combining tradition and innovation, this fragrance celebrates craftsmanship and excellence. Reflecting Ferragamo’s heritage, it blends citrus fruits with the intoxicating essence of leather, Vetiver’s earthy tones, ginger’s spicy caress, and sandalwood’s refreshing essence. Ideal for everyday wear, especially evenings.
Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense, Jo Malone London
A fresh and woody fragrance combining cypress, vine warmth, and amber sensuality. This bold scent, favored by Tom Hardy, exudes sophistication and distinction.
Orphéon, Diptyque
Crafted in memory of Olivier Pescheux, Orphéon pays homage to Saint Germain’s legendary jazz club. Featuring juniper berries, jasmine, cedar, and tonka, this powdery and woody fragrance captures the club’s vibrant atmosphere.
Animalique, Byredo
A new release exploring primal instincts, blending lemon, bergamot, mimosa, violet, suede, amber, and tobacco leaves—a perfect match for light summer attire.
Interlude Black Iris, Amouage
Described as “A complex interplay of stoic calm and vibrating power,” Interlude Black Iris embodies comfortable luxury.
Jasmin Majorelle, Le Jardin Retrouvé
Le Jardin Retrouvé is an independent and timeless high perfumery house, founded in 1975 by Master Perfumer Yuri Gutsatz. They were among the first to establish the foundations of Niche Perfumery, creating classic and universally acclaimed fragrances. A rare blend of jasmine, ylang-ylang, Italian lemon, coriander, and iris. Ideal for wandering in the Majorelle Garden in Morocco.
