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I’ve been in the mood for some high-summer fragrances lately, probably because the weather has been so unpredictable—one minute it’s rainy, and the next, it’s scorching hot, making sunscreen absolutely necessary. I’ve started taking short sun-naps on my front step, just basking in the warmth and listening to the playful dance of bees and insects around the wisteria.
This whole fragrance kick probably started with the wisteria. The scent of those blossoms reminds me of some of my favorite summer perfumes. One that I reach for often is Tom Ford’s Soleil Blanc. It’s rich, sunny, and sensual, mixing ylang ylang, jasmine, and tuberose with a warm coconut and tonka bean base. It’s truly a joy to wear. The body spray version is a more budget-friendly option.
You might have noticed that my latest photos feature the new Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc, which is a fresher, more citrusy version of the original. It’s also more unisex, perfect if you enjoy a sparkling, lighter scent. In contrast to Soleil Blanc, which feels like lounging under a palm tree, Eau de Soleil Blanc is like playing in the Caribbean Sea’s cool waters.
Another standout is l’Occitane’s Terre de Lumière L’Eau, a lighter twist on its original, which shares a similar vibe with Lancome’s La Vie Est Belle but without being overpowering. It’s perfect for those early spring days when you want something floral and fresh without diving straight into exotic territory.
Aerin Hibiscus Palm brings pure summertime in a bottle, with a combination of white flowers, coconut milk, and ylang ylang. It evokes a sense of being magically trapped inside an empty suntan oil bottle. Although it reminds me of Tom Ford’s Orchid Soleil, it holds its own and is absolutely delightful.
Talking about favorites, Virgin Island Water from Creed is a must-mention. Its bold, coconut-heavy aroma makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a Malibu-infused embrace while maintaining a bright and expensive scent. Musky with white flowers, it’s less traditionally feminine but thoroughly addictive.
Lastly, even though l’Occitane en Provence’s Calanques is no longer available, it was phenomenal. Capturing the essence of the sea, it was salty, zesty, and complex—a true departure from standard colognes. Here’s hoping for its return!
On a more affordable note, Colab’s Paradise dry shampoo offers an exotic, long-lasting scent similar to Estee Lauder’s Bronze Goddess. Currently on a sale, it’s an absolute steal!
