Refreshing, Zesty, and Succulent—8 Apple Fragrances You’ll Want to Spray for Summer and More

      If you’re similar to me, apple might not be the first fruit that comes to mind while considering top perfumes. I tend to be more drawn to enticing citrus blends (like my all-time favorite, Diptyque Eau des Sens), or the creamy, modern variations of fig that have gained popularity in recent years. However, when crafted well, apple can add a distinct character to a fragrance: it brings crispness, freshness, and a subtle juiciness that keeps you coming back for more.

      Michelle Feeney, the founder of Floral Street, mentions that apple fragrances are making a comeback as they evoke nostalgia from the late '90s and early 2000s, a time when fresh, fruity scents were ubiquitous. "As Y2K beauty resurges, apple fragrances are enjoying a revival too," she states. "Apple is also a common note in shampoos and haircare, lending a clean, just-washed essence that many associate with freshness." According to Feeney, in the realm of perfume, apple is highly versatile, complementing both vibrant everyday scents and more floral, woody, or gourmand compositions. If the idea of an apple fragrance brings to mind overly sweet, synthetic body sprays, it may be time to rethink that perspective. After testing over twenty apple perfumes, I can confidently say that today's apple scents range from crisp and green to creamy, woody, and refined. Here are my top selections...

      What Is an Apple Fragrance? While apple is typically linked with sweetness, its versatility adds intrigue beyond expectations. "Apple is a fruity fragrance note that can be crisp, juicy, tart, or subtly sweet, depending on the formulation. It usually fits into the fruity fragrance family but also lends a fresh, playful element to floral, woody, green, and gourmand fragrances," Feeney points out.

      How to Choose the Right Apple Fragrance First, consider the vibe you desire. "For those who prefer fresh, crisp scents, look for apple combined with citrus or green notes," Feeney advises. Think of rose, jasmine, and cyclamen. "These elevate the floral bouquet’s brightness while softening some of the sharper green notes," she adds. If you enjoy light, delicate fragrances, apple pairs beautifully with florals. "The apple brings brightness, while notes like peony, rose, or jasmine keep the scent soft and airy. For a cozier option, seek apple blended with woods or vanilla," Feeney clarifies.

      The Best Apple Fragrances, Tried & Tested

      Best Apple Perfume Overall: Floral Street 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 linens and fresh-baked apple pie had a fragrance offspring, I envision it would smell something like Floral Street Sweet Almond Blossom. It exudes an enticing contrast of clean, airy freshness balanced with warm, comforting sweetness that makes you want to inhale it and share it with others. Utterly captivating, this scent is the softest and most welcoming, possessing a polished quality that renders it incredibly wearable.

      2. Phlur Mrs Smith

      Phlur's Mrs Smith is slightly more understated, which is precisely what I appreciate about it. It captures the essence of a crisp, freshly cut apple with a soft, clean nuance that isn't overpowering. Light, airy, and subtly fruity rather than cloyingly sweet, it’s the scent I would spray in my hair before going out, ideal for hot city days or beach getaways.

      3. Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede

      This Jo Malone London fragrance quickly became a staple in my collection since its launch in 2013. The red apple note is juicy and crisp upon application, soon transforming into a lush blend of peony, rose, and jasmine. The suede note is what truly elevates it, offering a soft, velvety warmth while the apple maintains a fresh and juicy quality. It feels less like an apple perfume and more like a beautiful peony bouquet with a crisp bite of red apple. It's romantic, pretty, and an excellent choice for wedding season.

      4. DKNY Be Delicious

      **Best Y2K Apple Perfume**

      Dkny

      Be Delicious Eau de Parfum

      Key notes: Apple, cucumber, grapefruit, magnolia, violet, rose, sandalwood, white amber. Known as