The 14 Best Citrus Perfumes for an Instant Mood Boost

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Citrus perfumes might sound like a classic in the scent world, but compared to vanilla perfumes or floral fragrances, they can be very hard to get just right. If you’re trying to find your perfect summertime fragrance, deciding to smell like a bundle of lemons or an orange grove this season is a bold choice. Just like how vitamin C serums are fantastic at brightening the skin, citrus scents are often noted for their uplifting, mood-boosting qualities.

Whether you want to smell like the real, edible thing, or you’re looking for a classic floral fragrance with just a hint of zest, with the help of ELLE editors, I’ve found 14 fantastic citrus perfumes that you’ll want to wear all summer long. From investment fragrances to tried-and-trues, here, shop our favorite citrus perfumes that will keep you feeling fresh throughout the summer heat.

Replica Under the Lemon Trees Eau de Toilette

Like the name suggests, this lightweight scent smells like walking through a lemon grove. Energizing and zesty, it’s perfect for summer evenings and spring days.

Notes: Lime accord, petitgrain, cardamom, coriander, mate absolute, green tea, cedarwood, cistus absolute, white musk

Size: 1-3.4 fl. oz.

Norstrom rating: 4.4/5 stars

A Nordstrom reviewer says: “Light zesty citrus scent, not too overpowering. It wasn’t too strong, however it lasted a long time. A little went a long way with this perfume. I definitely would get this again!”

Tangerine Boy Eau de Parfum

A personal favorite, this perfume smells like the real thing. I’m not a huge fan of candy versions of real fruit, so a tangerine fragrance that actually smells edible is a first for me. Tangerine Boy is fresh and not too sweet, so you’ll want to keep a bottle in your purse to continually spray throughout the day if you favor more intense scents.

Notes: Tangerine, lemon, amber

Size: o.32-1.7 fl. oz.

Sephora rating: 3.7/5 stars

A Sephora reviewer says: “I’m in love with this scent. It’s a very clean, clear citrus, the black pepper tames the scent a bit, especially as it dries down. Personally the dry down on me is true to the first spray, the tangerine and lemon are very prominent, very bright and fresh out of the shower, perfect for summer.”

Lime Basil & Mandarin Cologne

Jo Malone’s fragrances are lovely on their own, but also ideal for layering on top of other favorites. Mandarin, basil, and amber create an unusual yet intriguing combination that's perfect for anyone who loves fresh citrus without overpowering sweetness.

Notes: Mandarin, basil, amber wood

Size: 1-3.4 fl. oz.

Nordstrom rating: 4.7/5 stars

A Nordstrom reviewer says: “If you wish to be remembered, this is the fragrance to wear. I first tried it years ago, and I seem always to come back to this as the main scent that I wear. I love the fact that it leaves an impression, but does not overwhelm. It has been described by people who stood downwind of me and have used adjectives such as alluring, inventive, and distinct. Jo Malone’s Basil Lime and Manderin has come with me into some of the most wonderful moments of my life!”

Villa Bordighera 20

If you’re not yet familiar with Krigler, consider them a couture fragrance line. “Adult obligations have prevented me from packing up my entire life and relocating to the gorgeous Amalfi Coast. For now, Krigler Villa Bordighera, which is named after the Italian city of the same name, is the next best thing to the feeling of the other Italian hotspot. Villa Bordighera bursts with citrus flavors reminiscent of a refreshing lemon drop or limoncello gelato, but as it settles, the vivid strains of grapefruit and bergamot grow stronger,” says Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com’s Beauty Commerce Editor and resident perfume expert.

Notes: Bergamot, rose, grapefruit, cashmere wood, lemon, jasmine

Size: 0.07-3.4 fl. oz.

Citrus Grandis Eau de Parfum

Though we know that fragrance should never be gendered, the fact remains that a lot of perfumes end up being labeled as either “men’s” or “women’s.” If you're looking for a universal citrus perfume that doesn’t have those limitations, this one is beloved by all.

Notes: Pomelo, yuzu, black currant

Size: 0.3-1.7 fl. oz.

Sephora rating: 4.5/6 stars

A Sephora reviewer says: “Citrus fragrances are not often nuanced or complex. This was, and then some. The spray and dry down are different, yet both pleasing. This fragrance is sophisticated and beautiful. I love the elegance of the bottle.”

Aqua Allegoria Mandarine Basilic Eau de Toilette

Not only will you become obsessed with this perfume for its lightweight notes and luxurious scent, but also for the stunning bottle. This perfume is packed with natural ingredients and it’s also refillable, so you never have to say goodbye to the bottle.

Notes: Mandarin, basil, green tea

Size: 2.5 fl. oz.

Sephora rating: 4.5/5 stars

A Sephora reviewer says: “Truly lovely scent and exquisite bottle as well. It smells divine and looks stunning on my bathroom counter. It is certainly a perfume I’ll be wearing and enjoying this spring and summer.”

Fleur de Portofino Eau de Parfum

If you aren’t able to get to Italy this summer with the rest of your Instagram followers, this perfume can transport you there for less than the cost of an economy ticket. With Sicilian lemon and jasmine, it’s a flawless blend of floral and citrus.

Notes: Sicilian lemon, jasmine flower, acacia honey

Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

Nordstrom rating: 5/5 stars

A Nordstrom reviewer says: “This is just what I was looking for! It gets more and more complex as it dries down. Does not end up smelling soapy or flat. I would definitely recommend if you like white florals.”

Chance Eau Tendre Eau de Parfum

When it comes to fragrance, Chanel is a classic. “I’ve been wearing Chanel Chance for nearly a decade now, and it remains one of my all-time favorite scents. With fruity-floral notes of grapefruit and rose, plus a hint of grounding white musk, it’s equal parts feminine, classic, and versatile. It can easily go from day to night and never fails to earn me countless compliments!” Sam Peters, Senior Commerce Editor, tells ELLE.com.

Notes: Grapefruit, rose accord, musk

Size: 1.7-3.4 fl. oz.

Ulta rating: 4.5/5 stars

Gypsy Water Eau de Parfum

Many citrus perfumes are described as bright, but this one also adds some spice for a truly energizing blend. Byredo is hailed as one of the best luxury perfume brands on the market, and Gypsy Water is a favorite of perfume experts and beginners alike.

Notes: Bergamot, lemon, pepper, juniper berries, incense, pine needles, orris, amber, vanilla, sandalwood

Size: 1.6-3.4 fl. oz.

Nordstrom rating: 4.3/5 stars

A Nordstrom reviewer says: “Didn’t know tranquillity until it envelopes me in its notes. Amazingly fresh but sultry scent. Very subtle and yet powerful. It instantly grounds me to my core.”

Bergamot Magnifying

Within this candy-shaped bottle is something truly magical. “This essence from Bvlgari falls into the category of a not-quite-fragrance-fragrance. The single note of Calabrian bergamot just hovers above your skin when worn alone, a very sexy treat for those who get really, really close. But the magic is when you combine it on top of practically anything. Anybody who is into perfume layering will love it,” says Margaux Anbouba, ELLE’s Beauty Editor.

Notes: Bergamot, citrus

Size: 1.35 fl. oz.

Capri Eau de Parfum

If you aren’t yet familiar with 19-69, it’s time to get acquainted. I’ve been a fan of this perfume for years now, and every spritz just gets better. It feels like European summer—hence the Italian island it's named after—got simmered down into this fresh, citrusy scent. Limoncello, anyone?

Notes: Bitter orange, sweet orange, ylang-ylang, angelica seeds

Size: 0.25-3.4 fl. oz.

Sephora rating: 3.6/5 stars

A Sephora reviewer says: “I don’t usually love citrus-focused perfumes, but this one is so beautifully nuanced with heady orange blossom and fresh green notes so it’s not acidic at all. I have had this one for a few years–before the brand was available at Sephora–and it is still my favorite for warm weather. I’m so happy to see their offering here! Unlike many designer fragrances, which can be overpowering and too intense for me, this has a freshness that lasts but doesn’t attack your senses.”

Eau des Sens Eau de Toilette

Diptyque Eau des Sens is for those who aren’t normally drawn to citrus but are looking for something that still has that bright note. The scent can be considered an orange blossom perfume; it’s fresh and uplifting, without being too on the nose.

Notes: Orange blossom, angelica root, patchouli, juniper berry

Size: 1.7-3.4 fl. oz.

Nordstrom rating: 4.9/5 stars

A Nordstrom reviewer says: “I am so fussy with fragrances but I adore this one. Another product I will keep on purchasing. Orange blossom is one of my key favorite ingredients in a perfume. I find it so fresh and relaxing and when I am not in the best of moods, this is one I tend to use to uplift me.”

Joga

This cool-kid brand is making waves with fragrances that you won’t smell on every other stranger on the subway. “I love when I peel an orange and the scent lingers on my hands, but smelling like a fresh-squeezed bottle of OJ is a little weird. Eauso Vert is a new-ish fragrance brand that’s been taking off on #FragranceTok because its scents are universally appealing and clean. The scent Joga is citrusy, without being literal about it. It’s a green citrusy scent that smells fresh and crisp, sort of like an orange that’s still on the tree. I would love to smell this in a fancy yoga studio,” says Kathleen Hou, ELLE's Beauty Director.

Notes: Italian bergamot, cardamom, black currant, petitgrain, turmeric, magnolia oil, green mate, black pepper, vetiver, jasmine, white amber

Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

Bergamote 22 Eau de Parfum

This perfume combines grapefruit and orange blossom for a mysterious, sensual scent. With a head note of bergamot, this perfume has a relaxing energy to it to help combat everyday stress.

Notes: Bergamot, grapefruit, petitgrain, orange blossom, cedarwood, vetiver, musk

Size: o.5-3.4 fl. oz.

Nordstrom rating: 4.6/5 stars

A Nordstrom reviewer says: “Bergamot is a compelling, mysterious scent. Anywhere I go wearing this scent, people wonder what it is. It’s my new signature scent for summer, and I’ve bought many a bottle for my friends. One must understand, great perfume comes from many different substances from all over the world. That is why it’s expensive, cause you’re worth it!”

Why trust ELLE Beauty?

As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Tatjana Freund poured over dozens of customer reviews to find the best citrus fragrances.

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