Fresh, Crisp, and Juicy—8 Apple Fragrances You’ll Wish to Spritz for Summer and More

      If you share my preferences, apple likely isn’t the first fruit that comes to mind when thinking about the best perfumes. I am usually more drawn to enticing citrus combinations (like my all-time favorite, Diptyque Eau des Sens) or the creamy, contemporary takes on fig that have gained popularity in recent years. However, when done right, apple can impart a completely unique quality to a fragrance: the crispness, freshness, and subtle juiciness that makes you want to return for more.

      Michelle Feeney, founder of Floral Street, informs me that apple scents are experiencing a resurgence as they invoke nostalgia from the late '90s and early 2000s, a time when fresh, fruity fragrances were prevalent. "As Y2K beauty continues to resurface, apple scents are also making a comeback," she notes. "Apple is a familiar component in shampoos and hair products, evoking a fresh, just-washed sensation that many naturally link to cleanliness." Feeney emphasizes that apple is an extremely versatile note in perfumes, equally effective in bright everyday aromas as it is in more floral, woody, or even gourmand creations. If the concept of an apple fragrance brings to mind overly sweet, synthetic body mists, it’s time to rethink that notion. After testing over twenty apple perfumes, I can confidently say that modern apple scents range from crisp and green to creamy, woody, and sophisticated. Here are my top selections...

      What Is an Apple Fragrance? Although apple is often linked to sweetness, its versatility renders it much more intriguing than one might assume. "Apple is a fruity fragrance note that can have a crisp, juicy, tart, or subtly sweet scent, depending on its formulation. While it is primarily found in the fruity fragrance family, it also adds a fresh, playful element to floral, woody, green, and gourmand fragrances," explains Feeney.

      How to Choose the Right Apple Fragrance The first step is to consider the vibe you desire. "If you appreciate crisp, refreshing scents, seek out apple that is combined with citrus or green notes," advises Feeney. Consider notes like rose, jasmine, and cyclamen. "These contribute to a vibrant, modern floral bouquet while softening some of the sharper green tones," she adds. If you favor light, delicate fragrances, apple paired with floral notes makes for an exquisite combination. "The apple adds brightness, while notes like peony, rose, or jasmine ensure the scent remains soft and airy. For a cozier option, seek out blends of apple with woods or vanilla," she explains.

      The Best Apple Fragrances, Tried & Tested

      - Best Overall Apple Perfume: 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 offspring, I envision it would smell something like Floral Street Sweet Almond Blossom. It embodies that irresistible contrast between clean, airy freshness and warm, comforting sweetness that makes you want to breathe it in and tell everyone, "Here, smell this!" Utterly addictive, I found this to be the softest and most inviting, possessing a refined quality that makes it incredibly wearable.

      2. Phlur Mrs Smith

      Phlur's Mrs Smith is a bit more subtle than others, and that's precisely why I appreciate it. It carries the freshness of a newly cut apple, with a gentle, clean quality that's never over the top. Light, airy, and slightly fruity, it’s a scent I would spritz in my hair before heading out when I want to feel fresh without being overly fragrant. Ideal for hot city days or beach vacations.

      3. Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede

      This Jo Malone London fragrance has been a staple in my collection since it launched in 2013. The red apple is crisp and juicy upon application, quickly evolving into a lush blend of peony, rose, and jasmine. The suede note truly elevates it, providing the florals with a soft, velvety warmth while the apple maintains a fresh and juicy essence. It feels less like an apple fragrance and more like a beautiful bouquet of peonies with a refreshing hint of red apple. It’s romantic, lovely, and an excellent choice for wedding season.

      4. DKNY Be Delicious

      Best Y2K Apple Perfume