The 15 Freshest Summer Colognes for Men, From Diptyque to Tom Ford
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Robb Report may receive an affiliate commission.
If you already have a go-to scent, then it might be time to build out a “fragrance wardrobe”—one that allows you to switch between scents based on mood, occasion, or even season. Take the best colognes for men to wear in the summer, for example: They’re a terrific way to keep an upbeat, cool mood that complements weekends spent on the beach, at the lake, or by the pool.
They can also serve as bursts of optimism in the dregs of winter, too. “I love wearing summer scents all year round, especially in winter,” says Leila Zagwolsky, co-founder and CEO of perfume discovery platform LUXSB – Luxury Scent Box. “When I wear a refreshing ‘happy scent’ of aquatic or citrusy notes, it instantly triggers an uplift of energy reminiscent of summer vacations.”
What you deem a “summer fragrance” might differ from your friend’s definition. But one thing is universal, and that’s the feeling the scent gives you, says Clayton Ilolahia, evaluation and communications manager at Fragrances of the World. A summer fragrance should remind you of the season. “I choose fragrances that put me in a literal summery mood, and these notes may vary from person to person,” Ilohalia says. “I lean towards a lot of fresh, light fragrances with notes of citrus, sea salt, green leaves, and clean musks.”
In terms of common fragrance nomenclature, you might want to look for fragrances categorized as green, aquatic, aromatic, or citrus. That’s the typical roster of “summer” notes—but remember, it’s all subjective. You might find a heavier, woody, or spicy scent that has certain summery notes to it, which can also make it feel right for the season.
Summer Colognes: The Best Notes to Wear
While few fragrances will inherently label themselves as “summer scents,” their accords will typically suggest seasonality (if it’s not something otherwise down the middle, like a nice woodsy number). For example, just as something overtly leathery or spicy feels out of place in summer, the below combinations are common in “happy” summer expressions.
Citrus/Floral: “This combination provides a sophisticated freshness with a luxe olfactive style,” says Zagwolsky. “It’s great to wear on a hot or humid summer day.”
Fresh Earthy/Woody: “Woods are perceived as heavy, but a blend of earthy notes balances the woody notes creating a masculine freshness,” explains Zagwolsky. “This makes them appropriate for the warmer summer weather.”
Aromatic Fresh/Citrus: Zagwolsky says this combination smells clean thanks to its blend of greens and zestful citrus notes. “It’s usually on the lighter side, evoking the vibrancy of summer with an aquatic energy. It is an instantly uplifting rejuvenation, like a vacation.”
The Best Men’s Colognes for Summer
Read on for our picks of the best summer cologne for men—plus some favorites from Zagwolsky and Ilolahia.
Best of Robb Report
