7 Perfumes That Smell Like Summer Holidays

Let’s be honest: the chances of any of us flying abroad to a far-flung, sun-soaked destination this summer are slim to none. If you rely on a summer holiday every year for that boost of Vitamin D and time to destress, it may be a tough reality to be facing.

But fear not, as there are ways to make you feel summery without actually stepping foot onto white sands. It may not be a patch on the real thing, but this year there’s been an influx of perfumes that smell like summer holidays to take you as close to the real thing as you can get RN.

In my humble opinion, there are two types of fragrances that are most associated with summer. One is a classic, zesty citrus, which will have you dreaming of lemon trees, mojitos, and fresh, juicy fruit. The other is that holiday smell of sun cream, coconuts, and beaches.

If you favour the first type of scent brands like Jo Malone London and Bulgari have some glorious new options. And as for the second, you won’t be able to resist fragrances like NIVEA or Sol de Janeiro’s — they’re like summer holidays in a bottle.

Take a look at my top 7 picks for 2020, and let’s pray those summer holidays will be back and better than ever come 2021.

Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa ‘ 62 Eau de Parfum

Described as the scent of the summer, you know this is a sure bet. If you’re a fan of Sol de Janeiro’s iconic Bum Bum cream, you’ll be pleased to know this has the same exact exotic scent, in a long-lasting perfume formula. It smells like mangoes, smooth salted caramel, and suncream. A literal dream.

Bulgari Omnia Golden Citrine Eau de Toilette

This fun-looking bottle is full of summery joy, with zesty notes of Sicilian mandarin and ylang ylang, which are undercut by golden benzoin and cedarwood. If citrus scents are your thing, this is the one to pick up for 2020.

Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau de Parfum

Every year, Estee Lauder brings out their epic new spin on Bronze Goddess, the King of all summer perfumes. It smells like coconutty cocktails, the beach, and warm summer nights. You can’t go wrong with this one.

Petals, Heliotrope & Ambrette Travel Perfume

An unexpected hero in the world of summer fragrances, I only recently discovered this one. It may not sound like it’s going to be perfect for summer, but one spritz and you’ll be convinced. And thanks to its small size, you can take this of slice holiday happiness with you wherever you go.

Maison Margiela Replica Under The Lemon Tree Eau de Toilette

Can you imagine anything more summery than lying in the garden under a fragrant lemon tree while wearing a straw hat? I’m not sure I can. If you’ve not quite got the tree or the garden yet, just buy a bottle of this, which re-imagines the smell perfectly.

Yuja Cologne Jo Malone London

One of two new fragrances in Jo Malone London’s Blossoms Limited Edition Collection, Yuja is a citrus with a difference. As well as the striking hit of Yuja, the cologne also features clary sage and fir balsam, which bring warmth and earthiness.