It may be contentious, but this new fragrance is poised to become the trendiest scent of the summer.

      As a beauty editor with a passion for perfumes, I get especially excited when a surprising scent starts to gain popularity. While I will always appreciate the warm richness of top vanilla fragrances or the delicate essence of soft white florals, there's an exhilarating thrill in discovering a fragrance that is completely unique. That's how I felt about the newest trending fragrance note that has recently gained traction. Now that I've had the opportunity to experience it in various forms, I predict it will become quite popular among fans of distinctive summer scents.

      If you haven't tried a banana perfume yet, don't be alarmed. Although it may sound strange, trust me, the sweet and creamy aroma pairs wonderfully with some of the more familiar notes you already adore. “It seems to usher in a ‘new era’ for traditional tropical fragrances,” remarked Romy Kowalewski, the founder of niche fragrance brand 27 87, when I asked her about the rising popularity of this note. “[However,] banana doesn’t follow the same familiar path as classic gourmand scents. It doesn’t envelop you in sweetness or cater to expectations. It is audacious and full of surprises.” This makes banana perfumes perfect for those seeking a tropical fragrance that embodies the essence of the season while still feeling fresh and invigorating. “I would say that banana perfumes are meant for those unafraid to be bold in their fragrance choices and who appreciate the abstract, avant-garde, and the magic it brings,” Kowalewski continued. If that resonates with you, keep reading to learn more.

      What does a banana perfume smell like? (Image credit: Jazzria Harris) “The banana scent is [...] much more intricate than you'd expect,” Kowalewski explained. “It begins with a sharp, almost intense top note that transitions quickly into a creamy heart, intertwining floral hints of jasmine, clove, and even a trace of something animalistic,” she continued. “Then it mellows, like velvet, reminiscent of the last spoonful of a dessert that feels both familiar and yet hard to articulate.” Is anyone else feeling hungry? To satisfy your cravings (at least when it comes to fruity fragrances), I’ve compiled a selection of the best banana perfumes. Alongside traditional tropical scents, you’ll discover unique interpretations that merge this gourmand note with everything from florals to boozy aromas. Get ready to go bananas for these summer fragrances…

      The Best Banana Perfumes

      Best unique banana perfume: 27 87 Hakuna Matata Eau de Parfum (£163)

      Best boozy banana perfume: Borntostandout Nanatopia Eau de Parfum (£240)

      Best floral banana perfume: Marc Jacobs Daisy Wild Eau de Parfum (£64)

      Best tropical banana perfume: Kayali Maui in a Bottle Sweet Banana (£79)

      Best creamy banana perfume: Ellis Brooklyn Banana Milkshake Hair and Body Mist (£36)

      1. 27 87 Hakuna Matata Eau de Parfum

      Best unique banana perfume

      27 87 Hakuna Matata Eau de Parfum

      Key notes: Green banana, ripe banana, jasmine, honey, labdanum

      Let’s begin with what I consider the most intriguing banana scent in this collection. 27 87’s Hakuna Matata is referred to as “playful. Tropical. Unconventional.” and I believe this perfectly captures it. It starts with an almost powdery banana note, reminiscent of foam candies from childhood. Instead of becoming overly sweet, jasmine makes an entrance, adding softness, and the syrupy honey contributes a richer, nearly musky depth. It's a fragrance that requires a few encounters to fully comprehend, but once it captures your interest, you'll want to keep applying it.

      2. Borntostandout Nanatopia Eau de Parfum

      Best boozy banana perfume

      Borntostandout Nanatopia Eau de Parfum

      Key notes: Rum, banana, caramel, cinnamon, tonka bean

      Nanatopia is akin to a banana cocktail that is bold, intoxicating, and smooth. Rather than a fresh banana, it evokes the scent of a banana caramelized in dark brown sugar and infused with rich alcohol, reminiscent of enjoying it in the shadowy corners of dimly lit spaces. This banana fragrance is luxurious and indulgent, and it glides down so seamlessly that you may not realize you've finished your glass until you take that last sip. To me, it’s the perfect scent for late summer nights!

      3. Marc Jacobs Daisy Wild Eau de Parfum

      Best floral banana perfume

      Marc Jacobs Daisy Wild Eau de Parfum

      Key notes: Banana flower, jasmine, macadamia, sandalwood

      If you’re uncertain about banana fragrances or prefer something that subtly alludes to the note, I highly recommend Marc Jacobs Daisy Wild. Instead of using the fruit literally, it fuses banana flower with jasmine and sandalwood. The outcome is a light floral scent that is both bright and lively, yet still very