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Your Definitive Guide to the Scents of Summer ’25

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Summer is around the corner and I can’t wait. I’m expecting this to be one of the best summers yet and to top it off, this summer is already set to be one of the best scented in years. Here is your definitive list of the best summer fragrances. As always this list will expand as the season goes on so be sure to check back often for the latest and greatest.

GRAND CUVÉE by Vacation

GRAND CUVÉE is a fancy summer vacation. It’s like that perfect sunset moment with golden light and good vibes. The top notes of argan, chardonnay, vanilla bean, and peach eau de vie create this rich, intoxicating opening, like the first sip of champagne. Then, it deepens with amber, cedarwood, sun-washed sails, and sun-kissed skin. There’s a hint of the ocean breeze and warm skin. Finally, the base of cognac and sabered champagne cork adds this sophisticated, celebratory touch. It’s sweet, but not too sweet, calm yet evocative. Basically, it’s the scent of a luxurious summer getaway.

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Cactus Abduction by Heretic

Picture this: wandering around the desert, the air thick and still, and then, this intoxicating bloom. It’s like being pulled in by the mysterious scent of night-blooming cactus flowers. The initial burst is crisp citrus, a mix of grapefruit and bitter orange, sharpened by carrot seed and a touch of cedar and plai. Then, the heart unfolds with this juicy prickly pear note, brightened by green pepper and verdant geranium. The real magic happens in the base —smoky vetiver and earthy patchouli, softened by sweet benzoin and a hint of exotic aloewood. This isn’t your typical light summer scent; it’s deeper, more intriguing. To me this is the post-festival scent. It’s when my favorite music festival is over and I find myself wandering around the desert taking in the experience. The intensity and beauty of it all.

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Dream by The Maker

Imagine a lazy summer morning in a luxury hotel room. The sun is just starting to peek through the curtains. You’re still snuggled in bed, and on the nightstand, there’s a plate of warm, buttery cinnamon rolls. That’s the vibe of Dream. It opens with this incredibly rich, almost hypnotic vanilla note, swirled with creamy cinnamon butter that just melts into your skin. Then, this airy magnolia and sensual white sandalwood drift in, like a soft, sun-drenched breeze. As it settles, you’re left with this lingering warmth of whipped vanilla, like the sweet memory of that perfect breakfast in bed on a summer vacation you hope never ends. It’s pure comfort and decadence bottled.

Purchase Dream

© PRODUCT PHOTOS COURTESY OF RETAILER SITES

Having dedicated over a decade of his life to the psychology of scent, "the voice of fragrance" joined Pinappos with the express purpose of sharing his passion for perfume from a unique perspective. During this psychological journey, he has quietly built a reputation as one of the world's foremost fragrance connoisseurs.

Written by JASON ARSHAN

Having dedicated over a decade of his life to the psychology of scent, "the voice of fragrance" joined Pinappos with the express purpose of sharing his passion for perfume from a unique perspective. During this psychological journey, he has quietly built a reputation as one of the world's foremost fragrance connoisseurs.

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