According to fragrance experts, updating your signature scent is just as important as updating your wardrobe. The temperature of your skin and the air can have an impact on how your fragrance smells and hot weather can intensify fragrance notes. This is why it’s a good idea to switch to lighter and fresher scents with floral or fruity notes as the weather warms.

Clarins Eau des Jardins R760 for a 100ml (BUY) is the quintessential summer scent and is meant to invoke a feeling of strolling through a dream-like garden. The juice is a sparkling blend of zesty fruits with a captivating wild heart rose note, and a woody base that beautifully compliments and mellows the fruits & sweetness.

Like all Clarins fragrances, Eau des Jardins has phyto-therapy benefits that work to uplift your mood and, in addition to scenting the skin beautifully, this scent also moisturises & smoothes.

Launched in 1988, Boucheron Eau de Parfum R1,036 for a 100ml (BUY) is a true classic scent that’s stood the test of time. It’s elegant, sophisticated & feminine – with a slightly seductive personality.

Classified as a “Floriental” (floral & oriental notes, Boucheron opens with sparkling notes of mandarin & delicate orange blossom. Heart notes of jasmine, ylang-ylang, tuberose and daffodil bring a vibrant luminosity to this scent. The woody dry down is warm & enveloping with notes of vanilla, amber & sandalwood that radiate sensuality.

Nuxe Prodigieux Néroli Le Parfum R1,095 (BUY) is a new launch and has fast become one of my all-time favourite fragrances.

This soothing & airy scent unfolds with citrus top notes of Bergamot, Petitgrain & Verbena. The central notes of orange blossom (Neroli) & Lavender exude a serene & happy energy. Lastly, the scents musky base gradually develops on the skin, allowing the fragrance’s magic to slowly reveal itself. I simply can’t get enough of this beautiful scent!

Oscar de la Renta Alibi Eau Sensuelle R1499 for a 100ml (BUY) is a floral scent described as “stirring the senses with alluring intrigue” & was inspired by the confident & mysterious side of a woman.

Soft undertones of bergamot & white tea combine with a floral heart of Rose & Tiger Orchid. The dry-down is warm and musky and an amber note exudes a beautiful sensuality.

The bottle is also so elegant in its simplicity.

Back in 80’s – when my mom worked on the fine fragrance counter at Stuttafords in Eastgate & used to give me loads of perfume samples – I used to wear Byzance regularly.

Byzance by Rochas R1,595 for a 90ml (BUY) was updated in 2019 with a more modern spin. It’s classified as an Amber floral fragrance & is very captivating & mysterious.

The top notes of pear & neroli give Byzance a radiant opening. The enveloping floral heart notes of Freesia Heliotrope & rose give the scent a gentle elegance, while final notes of musk & vanilla ensure a lingering warmth on the skin. And I just adore the bottle!

If you love a fresh, citrus based scent, Berdoues Dolce Amalfi R1,256 for a 100ml (BUY) is for you! Inspired by a holiday on the Amalfi coast, Dolce Amalfi by Berdoues remains one of my most reached for summer scents.

I’d best describe it as floral & luminous. The opening is sparkling & zesty top notes of bergamot, lemon & mandarin. As the scent develops, the floral heart, composed of peony & freesia, gives the scent a ultra-feminine & elegant vibe. The dry down brings a sensual warmth to the scent thanks to the cedar & patchouli notes.

Think of Dolce Amalfi as an olfactory escape. One whiff & you’ll be transported to the Amalfi Coast.

Which of the above mentioned scents appeals most to you? Let me know in the comments section below, I love hearing from you.