Fresh, Crisp, and Juicy—8 Apple Fragrances You’ll Want to Spray This Summer and Beyond

      If you’re like me, apple may not be the first fruit you consider when selecting top perfumes. I tend to gravitate more towards enticing citrus blends (such as my ultimate favorite, Diptyque Eau des Sens), or the rich, modern takes on fig that have surged in popularity in recent years. However, when executed well, apple can add a unique element to a fragrance: a crispness, freshness, and subtle juiciness that makes you want to return for more.

      Michelle Feeney, the creator of Floral Street, shares that apple fragrances are experiencing a resurgence as they evoke nostalgia from the late '90s and early 2000s, a time when fresh, fruity scents were ubiquitous. "As Y2K beauty continues to return, apple fragrances are also making a comeback," she notes. "Additionally, apple is a common note in shampoos and haircare products, lending a clean, freshly washed scent that many associate with freshness." When it comes to fragrances, Feeney mentions that apple is incredibly adaptable, complementing bright, everyday fragrances as well as floral, woody, or even gourmand compositions. If the idea of an apple fragrance brings to mind overly sweet, synthetic body sprays, it might be time to reassess. After sampling over twenty apple perfumes, I’m pleased to report that today’s apple scents range from crisp and green to creamy, woody, and refined. Here are my top recommendations.

      What Is an Apple Fragrance?

      Although apple is often linked with sweetness, its versatility makes it more intriguing than you might think. "Apple is a fruity note that can be crisp, juicy, tart, or subtly sweet, depending on the blend. It is most frequently found within the fruity fragrance category, but it also gives a fresh, playful element to floral, woody, green, and gourmand scents," Feeney explains.

      How to Choose the Right Apple Fragrance

      The first step is to consider the atmosphere you desire. "If you enjoy crisp, refreshing aromas, look for apple paired with citrus or green notes," Feeney suggests, mentioning rose, jasmine, and cyclamen. "These notes help impart a bright, modern vibe to the floral bouquet while mellowing out some of the sharper green tones," she adds. If you prefer light, delicate fragrances, the combination of apple and florals is lovely. "The apple injects brightness, while notes like peony, rose, or jasmine maintain a soft, airy quality. For a cozier option, consider apple mixed with woods or vanilla," Feeney advises.

      The Best Apple Fragrances, Tried & Tested

      Best Apple Perfume Overall: Floral Street Sweet Almond Blossom Eau de Parfum, £78

      Best Floral Apple Perfume: Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede, £125

      Best Gourmand Apple Perfume: Ellis Brooklyn Apple Love Eau de Parfum, £126

      Best Affordable Apple Perfume: Phlur Mrs Smith Hair and Body Mist, £39

      Best Luxury Apple Perfume: Byredo Pulp Eau de Parfum, £225

      1. Floral Street Sweet Almond Blossom

      Best Overall Apple Perfume

      Floral Street

      Sweet Almond Blossom Eau de Parfum

      Key notes: Pomelo, apple blossom, vanilla, sandalwood, tonka bean, almond, matcha tea.

      If crisp linen and freshly baked apple pie had a fragrance, it would likely smell like Floral Street Sweet Almond Blossom. This scent beautifully combines clean, airy freshness with warm, comforting sweetness, making it irresistible and perfect for sharing with others. I found this to be the softest, most inviting scent, with a refined quality that makes it incredibly easy to wear.

      2. Phlur Mrs Smith

      Phlur's Mrs Smith is slightly more subtle, which is exactly why I appreciate it. It embodies the freshness of a crisp, freshly-cut apple, exuding a soft, clean essence that never overwhelms. This light, airy fragrance has a hint of fruitiness without being sweet or syrupy. It’s the perfect scent to spritz in my hair before going out, providing a refreshing vibe without being overly perfumed. Ideal for warm days in the city or beach vacations.

      3. Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede

      This Jo Malone London fragrance has been a steadfast favorite in my collection since its release in 2013. Initially, the red apple is crisp and juicy on the skin, quickly mellowing into a rich blend of peony, rose, and jasmine. For me, the suede note elevates it significantly by providing a soft, velvety warmth, while the apple maintains a fresh and juicy profile. It feels like a beautiful peony bouquet with a delightful crunch of red apple. Romantic, pretty, and a perfect choice for wedding season.

      4. DKNY Be Delicious

      Best Y2K Apple Perfume

      DKNY

      Be Delicious Eau de Parfum

      Key notes: Apple, cucumber, grapefruit