How to Choose Your Signature Summer Fragrance
There’s something about summer that makes us want a fresh start.
We swap jumpers for linen shirts, cosy evenings for long sunny days, and weekends at home for holidays, garden parties and spontaneous adventures. So why should your perfume stay the same?
If you've been wearing the same perfume all year round, summer is the perfect excuse to discover something new. Warmer weather changes the way fragrance develops on your skin, meaning the scents you loved in winter may suddenly feel a little richer or heavier than you'd like.
Whether you're searching for your signature summer scent or simply looking to expand your fragrance wardrobe, our team at Abbey Perfumery have put together our favourite tips to help you choose the perfect perfume for the season.
Which fragrance families work best in summer?
Let's start with the basics.
Every fragrance belongs to a fragrance family, and while we all naturally have our favourites, the changing seasons are a brilliant opportunity to try something different.
During the warmer months, many people find themselves reaching for fragrances that feel lighter, fresher and more uplifting. Think sparkling citrus fruits, delicate florals and crisp green notes that feel effortless in the sunshine.
Of course, there are no rules when it comes to perfume. If you love rich ouds in August, wear them proudly! But if you're looking for a fragrance that feels perfectly suited to long summer days, these are the families we'd recommend exploring.
The Fresh & Citrus Family
If you love fragrances that feel clean, energising and effortlessly wearable, fresh citrus perfumes are a fantastic place to start. These fragrances burst open with vibrant notes that instantly lift your mood.
Popular fresh notes
- Bergamot
- Lemon
- Grapefruit
- Jasmine
- Herbs
Perfect for...
- Summer holidays
- Weekend brunches
- Everyday wear
- Office days
- Warm afternoons
Our top picks
The Floral Family
When the gardens are in full bloom, it's the perfect time to choose an in-season floral fragrance.
From soft jasmine to elegant neroli and delicate rose, floral perfumes feel effortlessly romantic and timeless without becoming overpowering.
Whether you're heading to a wedding, enjoying dinner al fresco or simply making the most of a sunny afternoon, we think florals are wonderfully versatile.
Popular floral notes
- Jasmine
- Rose
- Neroli
- Lily
Perfect for...
- Weddings
- Garden parties
- Date nights
- Summer evenings
Our top picks
The Fruity Family
Looking for something playful?
Fruity fragrances have become increasingly popular thanks to their bright, juicy character. Think ripe peach, blackcurrant and exotic tropical fruits balanced with elegant florals or soft musks.
They're joyful, easy to wear and instantly remind us of sunshine.
Popular fruity notes
- Peach
- Blackcurrant
- Pineapple
- Lemon
- Blackberry
Perfect for...
- Holidays
- Festivals
- City breaks
- Everyday wear
Our top picks
Why does perfume smell different in hot weather?
Have you ever noticed your perfume seems stronger during summer?
You're not imagining it.
Heat causes fragrance to evaporate more quickly, allowing the different notes to develop faster on your skin. That's why a perfume can feel brighter and more noticeable on a warm day than it does in the middle of winter.
Because it evaporates more quickly, your perfume may seem stronger but it may need a boost for longevity. We've put together some tips to help your fragrance last longer during hot weather, try these simple tips:
- Firstly apply our Nourishing Body Oil all over your skin for a hydration and scent boost.
- Spritz your fragrance on key pulse points - we also love a spritz on our hair.
- Don't rub your perfume in - this is key, as friction breaks the delicate fragrance oils down more quickly.
- Carry a 10ml travel size for an easy refresh throughout the day.
Do you need more than one summer fragrance?
We don't think your signature scent has to mean wearing the same perfume every single day.
In fact, many fragrance enthusiasts build a small (or large!) "scent wardrobe" with different perfumes for different moments.
You might choose:
☀️ A fresh citrus fragrance for sunny mornings.
🌴 A bright floral or fruity scent for afternoons exploring somewhere new.
✨ A warmer, more sophisticated fragrance for evenings, dinner and cocktails.
Having a few carefully chosen favourites means you'll always have the perfect fragrance, whatever the occasion.
Not sure where to start?
Finding your next favourite fragrance should be exciting, not overwhelming.
That's exactly why we created our Discovery Boxes.
They allow you to experience several of our artisan Eau de Parfums from the comfort of your own home, giving you time to wear each fragrance properly before deciding which one feels like you.
Every perfume in our collection is vegan friendly, cruelty free and lovingly crafted in Great Britain, and we're always happy to help if you'd like a personalised recommendation.
Whether you're looking for the perfect beach holiday fragrance, an elegant summer evening scent or simply a new everyday favourite, we'd love to help you discover it.
After all, summer is all about making memories—and the right fragrance helps make them unforgettable.