Along with autumn, summer is possibly the best time of year for a man to re-evaluate his fragrance wardrobe. Oh sure, that bottle of Le Male or Oud Wood might have served you well during the colder months, but with temperatures rising, now’s the time for something lighter, fresher and altogether more summery. But what should you go for? “As a rule, fragrances featuring citrus notes or ones with ‘marine’ accords work particularly well in summer as we tend to associate them with freshness and coolness,” says perfume designer Azzi Glasser. Look out, too, for traditional colognes, which are both fresh and herbaceous, as well as special summer versions of your favourite scents. Here’s a closer look at what’s on offer…

Super-Fresh Citrus Scents

Nothing says summer quite like the uplifting freshness of citrus fruits. We naturally associate them not only with the warmer months, but with cleanliness too (hence the inclusion of so many citrus notes in cleaning products). Not only that, the smell of citrus keeps us alert – handy when it’s hot and muggy outside.

One of the most popular fragrance categories, the appeal of citrus scents is their initial zingy freshness. It might not last long (citrus notes are famously volatile and short lived on the skin), but it’s ideal for summer.

Not a fan of sharp citrus notes? Then keep your eye out for fragrances like Ermenegildo Zegna Italian Bermamot and Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Universalis, which are big on bergamot. “It’s still a citrus fruit and usually burns off pretty quickly, but it imparts a palpable sense of cleanliness and freshness without appearing too blatant and chilly like some other citrus notes,” says James Craven, Fragrance Archivist at independent perfumery Les Senteurs.

Perfect For: Sweltering city breaks, Mediterranean destinations, balmy evenings, work.