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Best summer fragrances 1

12 Best Summer Fragrances for Men


Summer is all about hot days and long nights made better by summer fragrances that are carried by the sea breeze. You’ll want something to keep you smelling sharp by the beach on a hot day, cool in the air-conditioned office you work in, and playful enough to work hard on weekends when partying is expected. Ultimately, you want to smell fine the whole time and our list of the top summer colognes for men will mix with your body’s natural oils to create a delicious and vibrant scent.

Best Summer Fragrances for Men at a Glance

Our list of the best summer colognes for men goes like this.

Now we’ve had a look at our favourites, let’s check out the complete list.

RELATEDLooking for a great fragrance? These are our favourites, as chosen by our editors.

Coach green for men
Green by Coach | Image: Ben McKimm / Man of Many

1. Green by Coach

Price: from AUD$120

ProsCons
Unique Kiwi scent immediately after spraying which is perfect for summer. Great value for money compared to the designer options on our list and is often complimented by the public.Not very long-lasting and needs a few top-up sprays every 3-5 hours. Also not the strongest fragrance and the projection and aroma are a little lacking.

Green by Coach is one of the best value-for-money fragrances on our list with strong notes of Kiwi on the nose immediately after spraying. The fragrance settles on the skin with middle notes of rosemary and geranium which mellows it out before the classic cedar base notes take over. In our testing, we didn’t find it long-lasting on skin or clothes, but with a price less than half of the Tom Ford and Parfums de Marly options on our list, it strikes a good balance for those with value in mind.

Top notes: Kiwi and Bergamot
Middle notes: Rosemary and Geranium
Base notes: Cedar and Moss

Azure lime by tom ford
Azure Lime by Tom Ford | Image: Tom Ford

2. Azure Lime by Tom Ford

Price: from AUD$410

ProsCons
The freshest summer fragrances we’ve ever reviewed. Lime is dominant but beautifully balanced by the middle musk notes as the fragrance dries.The projection is strong, but for such an expensive fragrance it’s not long-lasting as options from Parfums de Marly and Creed.

It’s in the name, but you’re instantly brought notes of fresh lime with this Tom Ford fragrance for men. Not only does this make it a great summer cologne, but it offers a unique scent that mimics the most luxurious gin and tonic you’ve ever made. By far the freshest option in their product line-up, the smell begins to round itself out with musk-based middle notes that create longevity on skin and clothes as it dries.

Galloway by parfums de marly
Galloway by Parfums de Marly | Image: Parfums de Marly

3. Galloway by Parfums de Marly

Price: from AUD$398

ProsCons
The ultimate ‘quiet luxury’ fragrance that’s very fresh and classic in its scent profile. Longevity is outstanding (6+ hours) and the balance of citrus and musk is amongst the best we’ve ever tested.It’s a lot of money to spend on a fragrance that flies under the radar. You won’t get compliments from strangers, but you will get noticed by those who appreciate a rounded masculine scent.

The perfect summer fragrance if you’re looking for a designer option that avoids too much bergamot and chooses fresh crisp citrus, lavender and ambroxan notes instead. In our testing we found the musky middle notes to fade quite early as they made room for peppery base notes that added a touch of spice to the citrus mix. Longevity is outstanding and we didn’t have to top-up until lunchtime. If you’re sick of overly powerful fragrances that scream “look at me” this is a great alternative. It’s refreshing in a classic charming way.

Top notes: Citruses and Pepper
Middle notes: Orange Blossom and Iris
Base notes: Musk and Amber

Royal water by creed
Royal Water by Creed | Image: Creed

4. Royal Water by Creed

Price: from AUD$439

ProsCons
It might be one of the less ‘in your face’ options from Creed but it’s a classy, luxurious, and masculine scent that’s perfect for everyday wear. The herbal elements and cedarwood base perfectly balance the citrus top notes.As noted by many in the fragrance community, Creed quality has gone downhill in the last few years as popularity and demand continues to rise. As good as this fragrance is, it’s sometimes hard to justify buying a larger bottle for everyday use so we’d recommend a smaller bottle.

The longest-lasting summer fragrance for men that we’ve tested, Royal Water by Creed is one to add to your list if you like luxurious scents. If we had it our way we’d be wearing Royal Water in summer and Royal Oud in fall and winter, it’s that good. That being said, it edges out another great fragrance, Terre D’hermes, for a spot on this list because of its longevity. Some reviews online state that it’s a ‘basic’ scent you can find anywhere, but we strongly disagree. There’s also a herbal element that combines with an ambergris and cedarwood base to form a rounded classy fragrance that you don’t come across very often.

Top notes: Citruses, Lemon Verbena, Mandarin Orange and Bergamot
Middle notes: Basil, Allspice and Cumin
Base notes: Musk and Cedarwood

Best summer fragrances for men dior homme sport by christian dior
Dior Homme Sport by Christian Dior | Image: Dior

5. Dior Homme Sport by Christian Dior

Price: from AUD$135

ProsCons
Longevity, longevity, longevity. This is an outstanding value option that lasted more than 12 hours in our testing. The notes of lemon and bergamot are nothing short of summer staples and work for everyone.One of the hardest summer colognes to fault because it outperforms its price. If we had to be critical, we generally prefer a citrus-driven scent for summer and the peppery spice and woody base don’t help achieve that here.

Dior Homme Sport by Christian Dior might be one of the best value-for-money options on our list, but it delivers longevity that fragrances two or three times its value cannot. In our testing, we found the scent lasted upwards of 12 hours in summer heat. The lemon top notes are perfectly balanced by middle notes of pink pepper while the base is nice and woody to round out the scent as it dries.

Top notes: Lemon, Bergamot and Aldehydes
Middle notes: Elemi and Pink Pepper
Base notes: Woody Olibanum and Amber

Shop at DiorShop at MyerShop at Chemist Warehouse

Another 13 by le labo
Another 13 by Le Labo | Le Labo

6. Another 13 by Le Labo

Price: from AUD$148

ProsCons
Plenty to like about this fragrance, mainly the beautiful ambrette middle notes that perfectly balance the pear and apple top notes. One of the best Baccarat Rouge 540 alternatives we’ve ever tested.Definitely not a scent to blind buy as many people have trouble smelling the base note of Iso E Super and Ambrettolide.

Often rated as the best fragrance Le Labo has ever produced (we still love Santal 33) Another 13 was created in collaboration with AnOther Mag in limited numbers, however, it was so well received it’s stuck around for the long haul. This is unlike any other summer fragrance on our list and is best described by comparing it to another scent legend Baccarat Rouge 540 in which it shares many of its ambroxan and rusitc notes. Like some reviews online, we did find ourselves going a little scent blind after an hour of wearing this, but others still complimented us on the scent so it clearly has plenty of longevity.

Top notes: Pear, Citruses and Apple
Middle notes: Ambrette (Musk Mallow), Amyl Salicylate, Moss and Jasmine
Base notes: Iso E Super, Cetalox, Ambrettolide and Helvetolide

Leau serge lutens
L’Eau by Serge Lutens | Image: Serge Lutens

7. L’Eau by Serge Lutens

Price: from AUD$217

ProsCons
One of our friends described this as ‘fresh linen’ and we have to agree. There are notes of salty sea and nautical vibes attached to it for sure, but it remains a quality luxurious musk scent for everyday wear during summer.Musk is a fairly mute note by today’s standards as it’s neither a standout nor ground breaking scent for impressing anyone, however, sometimes that’s all you want in a great summer scent.

The best time to wear a nautical, salty scent is during summer and L’Eau by Serge Lutens delivers in spade with notes of bergamot and citrus. We also found plenty of mint and sage on the middle notes which balances this linen-like scent out perfectly. Longevity is as expected and no better or worse than the other Serge Lutens fragrances we’ve tested in the past. Maybe our only critique is that the scent is fairly bland in the sense that it doesn’t scream anything in your face and is merely a luxurious musky scent.

Light blue summer vibes by dolce gabbana
Light Blue Summer Vibes by Dolce & Gabbana | Image: Dolce & Gabbana

8. Light Blue Summer Vibes by Dolce & Gabbana

Price: from AUD$120

ProsCons
One of the best summer fragrances for gifting, the scent is simple, clean, and perfect for hot weather. The projection is solid, as is the longevity at around 3-5 hours in our testing.So inoffensive and ‘basic’ that it doesn’t stand out as being anything special so don’t expect compliments. As such, we’d say the pricing is a little high.

Finally, we found a great summer scent for men that doesn’t overpower you with citrus at this price point. Often times the more affordable options are headache enducing, but not here with Light Blue Summer Vibes by Dolce & Gabbana. You’ll love the balancing cypress notes that stand out beyond the basic citrus and base notes of amberwood. Longevity isn’t anything special, but as expected for a fragrance at this price point with our testing showing it lasts 3-5 hours on skin. It’s also our top pick for gifting as far as summer fragrances go because it’s inoffensive and works for all people because of the lemon.

Top note: Sicilian Lemon
Middle note: Cypress
Base note: Amberwood

Shop at MyerShop at David Jones

Best summer fragrances for men jean paul gaultier le beau
Le Beau by Jean Paul Gaultier | Image: Jean Paul Gaultier

9. Le Beau by Jean Paul Gaultier

Price: from AUD$109.99

ProsCons
Coconut! You don’t often come across a fragrance that’s so refreshing and summer-ready. It’s virtually built for Australian summers. While it’s strong on the nose, the projection seems to end within 5 metres which is perfect for those who don’t want to come off aggressive.While we didn’t notice it in our initial review, the scent tends to get sweeter the more it dries down. Not a particularly nice sweetness either and it’s more of a coconut ‘fake tan’ that isn’t for everyone.

We can’t get enough of this deliciously summery fragrance. Not only do we love the cheeky bottle, but we love how Jean-Paul Gaultier Le Beau is so iconic that it suits almost every occasion and taste, so much so that we bet that nearly every fragrance-wearing man has purchased it at least once in his life. The predictably muscular scent retains a clean edge thanks to big notes of coconut, vanilla, neroli, and mint, making it an all-rounder we don’t see falling off the ranks anytime soon.

Launched: 2019
Top notes: Bergamot
Heart: Coconut
Base: Tonka Bean

Shop at Jean Paul GaultierShop at MyerShop at Chemist Warehouse

Best summer fragrances for men acqua di parma blu mediterraneo mandorlo di sicilia
Blu Mediterraneo Mandorlo di Sicilia by Acqua di Parma | Image: Acqua di Parma

10. Blu Mediterraneo Mandorlo di Sicilia by Acqua di Parma

Price: from AUD$160

ProsCons
If your idea of summer is Sicily in full blossom then take a look at this scent. Fresh vanilla is the most powerful note, but you’ll also find jasmine and orange blossom. All of this is balanced out by a nuttiness by way of almond, cedar, and sandalwood. Different, but exciting.Again, this isn’t a great option if you prefer a citrus-led summer fragrance as the notes are creamier with strong sandalwood at the base.

If you want to transport yourself back to that summer holiday in Sicily, look no further than Acqua Di Parma Blue Mediterraneo Mandorlo. It’s become a popular choice for those who love fresh vanilla and we think it’s the closest smell to the city in full blossom. Beyond vanilla, the middle notes make way for subtle floral waves of Frangipani flower, before white jasmine and orange blossom blend with creamy, sweet notes of almond. You won’t find another fragrance like it on our list.

Top notes: Bergamot, Frangipani, orange blossom, green almond, star anise.
Middle notes: White peach, coffee grains, white jasmine.
Basenotes: Bourbon vanilla, light musk, cedar, warm sandalwood.

Shop at CatchShop at MyerShop at Selfridges

Best summer perfume for men nautica voyage
Voyage by Nautica | Image: Nautica

11. Voyage by Nautica

Price: from AUD$32

ProsCons
It’s been around since 2006 and has remained a crowd favourite with its clever balance of apple, green leaves, cedar and musk. The quintessential summer fragrance for those living by the water, the longevity is surprising for such an affordable cologne.Some reviews online mention that it smells like freshly cut cucumbers and we’d agree. Not that we think it’s a bad thing, but you might.

Voyage by Nautica is one of the best summer colognes for men who like fragrant, citrus top notes that combine with base notes of spice and leather. Emulating the soft notes of a cool, ocean breeze, this fragrance captures that seaside essence by way of a refreshing, long-lasting apple and lotus accord too. In our testing, the longevity was medium, driven by notes of wood and musk that bring an additional masculine touch. We’d expect nothing less from the iconic marine lifestyle brand, a valuable addition to any man’s collection.

Launched: 2006
Top notes: Apple and Green Leaves
Heart:
Lotus and Mimosa
Base:
Musk, Cedar, Oakmoss and Amber

Shop at AmazonShop at CatchShop at Chemist Warehouse

John varvatos artisan blu
Artisan Blu by John Varvatos | Image: John Varvatos

12. Artisan Blu by John Varvatos

Price: from AUD$70

ProsCons
The combination of melon and pistachio ends up creating a pleasant pine and cedar scent upon contact with the skin. It’s a niche fragrance that not many have tried for summer, but we think you’ll love it.If you’re not a fan of pine, this cologne isn’t for you. We don’t recommend blind buying this if you’re concerned about the bitterness.

Artisan Blu from John Varvatos is one of the best summer fragrances for men who love all things citrus. Bursting with summery notes of geranium, orange blossom, bergamot, and melon, it sure has a kick to it, and that’s why we love it. The base notes balance it out so that it’s not overpowering, with pistachio, tamarisk and patchouli which keep it clean and masculine. Plus, the bottle looks like something you’d find at the bottom of the ocean with a note stuffed inside, yet another reason to add it to the collection!

Launched: 2016
Top notes: Basil, Bergamot, Chayote, Lavender and Bitter Orange
Heart:
Palmarosa, Geranium, Orange Blossom, Iris and Clary Sage
Base:
Pine, Cedar, Pistachio, Tamarisk and Patchouli

Alternatives to Summer Fragrances for Men

If you couldn’t find what you’re looking for in the selections above, check out these alternatives:

  • L’Homme Ultime by YSL (from AU$149): What could be better than a scent that is guaranteed to seduce? L’Homme Ultime by YSL is one of the best summer perfumes for men to do just that. The fragrance is rife with a warm mix of wood and citrus, combining fresh sage and aromatic wood notes, exuding a spicy aroma but remaining gentle and sensual in its delivery. We love the way it provides a distinctively masculine summer cologne men will want to wear in any season.
  • Eternity Now by Calvin Klein (from AU$49.99): We rate Eternity Now by Calvin Klein as one of the best summer fragrances for men with a more versatile palette. We love it because it seamlessly marries coconut water, vanilla, ginger, star fruit, and cedar to provide an intensely invigorating aroma. The end result is an unbeatable refreshing cologne, and we’d expect nothing less from the iconic brand. Loved by novices and connoisseurs alike, it’s an essential fragrance for the warmer months.
  • Aqva Homme by Bvlgari (from AU$180): Perhaps the best summer cologne for men who prefer something bold and energetic, Aqva Homme is a sure winner. The fragrance exudes a timeless masculine fragrance with notes of Sicilian mandarin and neroli flower. The aquatic, Mediterranean-inspired creation puts a new spin on aqua colognes, an exotic summer fragrance for men you’d expect to find on a private beach bar on a Greek Island. Need we say more?
  • Moonlight in Heaven by Kilian (from AU$385): So fresh and summery, this unique fragrance could transform any ordinary day into a tropical dream. Moonlight in Heaven by Kilian is a leading example of a successful unisex perfume, with dual citrus notes of lemon and mango complemented by lightly spicy tonka beans, resulting in neither a female nor male-dominating scent. If this isn’t enough to have you bowing down in its glory, the heavenly aroma means both you and your partner will feel lighter and carefree upon the first whiff, making it one of the best summer fragrances for men or women, a win-win.
  • Spicebomb by Viktor & Rolf (from AU$134): For those who like things spicy, Spicebomb is one of the best summer perfumes for men you can get your hands on. Viktor & Rolf’s have seriously outshone themselves with this subtle, summery blend. Bursting with warm notes of leather and tobacco with cool notes like grapefruit and pink pepper, we love how bold and exotic it is. Not only is the fragrance a statement unlike anything else, but the grenade-style bottle is also a statement in itself, and makes for the perfect ornament in any room.
  • Dior Homme by Christian Dior (from AU$123): The king of masculine, summer scents, Dior Homme by Christain Dior is about as summery as it gets. We love the sweet and spicy notes that make this cologne what it is, layered with a citrus fragrance and warm notes of amber and cedar. We also love how it is long-lasting, meaning you can wear it no matter how hot and feel confident you will be smelling delicious all day long. A versatile male summer cologne that is as relevant today as it will be in 100 years from now.

If you need help choosing, check out our guide on finding your own signature scent. And once you’ve found a cologne that suits you, you’ll want to know how to apply it correctly.

Why You Should Trust Our List

When it comes to our list of the best summer perfumes and colognes for men, it goes without saying, that expertise is key. While the editorial team here at Man of Many has had the chance to test every fragrance on this list (often thanks to our friends in the industry), we’ve also turned to the wider public for their overall ratings.

This list has been written and curated by Ben McKimm who is a fragrance expert and has spent more time collecting and researching men’s colognes than he’s happy to admit. In compiling this list he took into account three major perspectives to determine the overall rating.

In addition to his own opinions, he took into account reviews via the perfume forum Fragrantica and the Australian retailers Myer and Chemist Warehouse. From there he collated that information together and measured the fragrances via overall scent profile, reader ratings and commercial availability.

Your FAQs Answered

What are summer fragrance notes?

Citrus is the most prominent note in a summer fragrance, however, it’s typically balanced by middle notes of ambroxan and musk. Base notes are kept woody and aromatic to help with the longevity of the scent. These notes create a cologne that is perfect for hot days when your body is more susceptible to sweat.

Which is the longest lasting summer fragrance?

In our testing, Dior Homme Sport by Christian Dior and Royal Water by Creed are the two longest lasting summer fragrances with both lasting more than 8 hours on the skin and even longer on clothes. Interestingly, the Dior fragrance is more than half the price of the Creed option so keep that in mind when you’re buying.