Discover colognes that leave a lasting impression, with guaranteed compliments
Evocative and intoxicating, in 2026 mineral notes and unexpected gourmands (think tomato leaf or rhubarb tartness) are taking over from more traditional summertime scents for men – such as Mediterranean citrus and sun-warmed leather. We’ve rounded up 10 of the very best fragrances for 2026, from Byredo and Essential Parfums to Prada, to help you find your favourite new aftershave. Summer scenting plans, activated.
How to wear aftershave in summer
There’s no better time than summer to adopt a new fragrance. As temperatures rise, scent warms into the skin, making each spritz more evocative than the last. Consider switching to an extrait de parfum (the highest concentration) to help your fragrance last on very hot days.
1. Best all-rounder: Essential Parfums Bois Impérial Eau de Parfum
A mature, confident scent that’s vibrant without being overpowering, Essential Parfums’ blend of spicy Thai basil leaves with sparkling Nepalese pepper contrasts perfectly with the bold woody base. Timeless and iconic – expect compliments.
2. Best long-lasting: Maison Crivelli Cuir InfraRouge Extrait de Partfum
An extrait de parfum – that’s the strongest concentration – for maximum longevity, this multi-layered Maison Crivelli fragrance is a blend of vibrant raspberry and cinnamon with the deep, sophisticated tones of leather and oud.
3. Best daytime: Acqua di Parma Buongiorno Buonanotte Eau de Parfum
Like summer in a bottle, this Acqua di Parma scent lives up to its meaning – “good morning, good night” – as it transitions from fresh to warm. With notes of pink pepper, bergamot, musk and cedarwood, its easy charm makes it perfect for office days.
5. Most-complimented: Penhaligon's Halfeti Eau de Parfum
A heritage British brand, Penhaligon’s excels at sophisticated scents housed in iconic bottles, and Halfeti is a masterclass in how to make a woody floral. Blending grapefruit, oud, Levantine spice and black rose, people will stop to ask what scent you’re wearing.
6. Best aquatic: Prada Luna Rossa Ocean Eau de Parfum
Inspired by the sleek, dynamic beauty of sailing boats, Prada’s ‘red moon ocean’ invigorates with a burst of grapefruit essence, contrasted with the woody vibrancy of incense and vanilla. A cologne as restoring and refreshing as a day at sea.
7. Best woody: Givenchy Gentleman Society Eau de Parfum
If you like multifaceted woody-ambery florals, meet Givenchy’s new signature masculine fragrance. It contrasts the florality of wild narcissus with the deeply woody vetiver and cedarwood for a timeless and unique finish.
8. Best tropical: New Notes Mangomina D Extrait de Parfum
Uplifting and fruity, this extrait de parfum is designed to feel like warm sunshine on your skin, with juicy mango, mandarin, yuzu and fresh marine notes. A new brand at John Lewis, New Notes gets full marks for innovative, memorable scents.
9. Best unique: BVLGARI Le Gemme Tygar Extrait de Parfum
Inspired by Kerala, known as the spice garden of India, this BVLGARI fragrance is one of striking contrasts, where citrus woody notes meet spiciness and depth. Another extrait de parfum, it’s long-lasting and warming – perfect for enhancing cooler summer days.
How to choose your signature scent
When it comes to finding your summer scent, explore different fragrance families and ingredients to find what complements your style; it could be anything from uplifting juicy citrus to spicy scents with musky notes, or hypnotic deep and warm amber. Can’t decide on just one? Try 2026’s trend for fragrance layering; for example, try using a citrus cologne over a woody base to create a unique and long-lasting scent.
