Fragrances have the power to evoke memories, boost confidence, and leave a lasting impression. As summer 2026 unfolds, the beauty experts at Cosmopolitan have been exploring a variety of scents that have captured their hearts and noses. From fresh and citrusy to warm and woody, these fragrances offer something for everyone. Join us as we delve into the world of perfumery and discover the top picks that have become editor favorites.
Each fragrance tells a story, and the editors at Cosmopolitan have shared their personal experiences with these scents. Whether it’s a gift for a loved one or a treat for themselves, these fragrances have become staples in their collections. Let’s explore the unique notes and characteristics that make these scents stand out.
Fresh and Citrusy Scents
The editors have been drawn to fragrances that open with bright and citrusy notes, providing a refreshing and invigorating start. YSL MYSLF is one such scent that has become a favorite. With its bergamot and orange blossom top notes, it offers a fresh and vibrant opening that evolves into a warm base of Ambrofix and clean musks, with a touch of patchouli for a woodsy finish.
Beauty Editor Beth Gillette shares her experience with YSL MYSLF: “I first sniffed this because, allegedly, it’s what Austin Butler smells like, and I refused to believe a man that sexy wouldn’t smell good. But I really grew to love it and have it in my personal collection, even though I don’t have a partner to hand it over to. It’s that classic ‘hot man’ scent, but elevated and unique, largely thanks to the warm skin musks.”
Prada’s Newest Colognes
Prada’s newest cologne has also made a splash among the editors. With its bright bergamot opening, bourbon geranium for floral crispness, and ambery woods for a warm, earthy finish, it’s a complex and complete fragrance that doesn’t require any layering. Assistant Beauty Editor Jasmine Hyman gifted this to her boyfriend over the holidays, and it has since become his go-to scent.
Unique and Genderless Scents
The editors have also been exploring unique and genderless scents that push the boundaries of traditional fragrances. Lore has become a niche fragrance hyperfixation, with its perfectly balanced blend of woodsy, warm, soft, and slightly sweet notes. The cap even doubles as a candlestick holder, making it a chic bonus.
Contributing Editor Mary Honkus shares her experience with Lore’s Somewhere But Nowhere“I picked up a travel size of Somewhere But Nowhere a few weeks ago, and I’ve almost used the whole thing—I can’t stop spritzing it. Cardamom and carrot seeds enliven this with the perfect amount of spice, while glossy leather and cedarwood wrap me in warmth. I love how it then becomes slightly sweet with vanilla and honey.”
Glossier You: A Beachy Delight
Glossier You has pushed the beloved ambroxan skin-scent in a slightly deeper direction with its latest iteration. Living in the solar family, it features bergamot and tiere water for a fresh, aquatic brightness that settles into a salty, ocean finish. This beachy and addictive scent is perfect for summer and completely unique on every wearer.
Beauty Editor Beth Gillette describes Glossier You: “This scent takes beachy in a different direction, something more airy and subdued. The milk and rice notes add a softness that’s not sweet—I’m used to perfumes veering gourmand these days, with milk and vanilla alongside other sweet notes to cozy up a scent. But rice, combined with the O.G. DNA of Glossier You (aka ambroxan), adds a nice muskiness. The florals here are creamy and solar, in fact, it smells a bit like clean laundry to me.”
Warm and Gourmand Fragrances
For those who prefer warm and gourmand scents, the editors have discovered some standout options. Parfums de Marly Althair Eau de Parfum is a genderless blend of bergamotvanillaand amber that offers a deep and rich scent lasting all day long. Beauty Editor Beth Gillette took it on a trip to Europe and found it universally appealing yet sophisticated and fresh.
Another warm and gourmand favorite is Tobacco Memories. Despite its name, it’s not overly smoked but rather light and layered with saffronirisand vanilla alongside its tobacco base. Assistant Beauty Editor Jasmine Hyman gifted this to her dad for his birthday in May, and it has since become his signature fragrance.
Classic and Timeless Scents
Classic and timeless scents never go out of style. Bleu de Chanel is a fail-safe pick with its fresh scent profile of citruscedarand sandalwood. Beauty Director Lauren Balsamo always restocks this for her husband, whether it’s for Father’s Day, a birthday, or the holidays.
For those seeking an edgy cologne, Tom Ford Ombre Leather is a top choice. With its rich leather, subtle florals, and spices, it creates a warm fragrance that exudes confidence. Shopping Editor Hannah Oh is obsessed with this scent on her boyfriend, noting that it lasts all day.
Lastly, Kayali founder Mona Kattan made a scent specifically for her husband to wear on their wedding day. This woodsy fragrance with musk and jasmine is a romantic choice that feels special and unique.
