I’m Ready for a New Perfume—These Spring Scents Are Classy, Fresh and Compliment-Worthy

Key notes: King William pear, freesia, patchouli

I had to start with what I would describe as the most iconic spring perfume of all time, and a scent that I always come back to at this time of year. Jo Malone London's English Pear and Freesia is a sweet, fresh, juicy delight bursting with spring-like energy. Although it sits in the floral family thanks to notes of freesia, hints of pear balance it out for a well-rounded finish that I don't think I will ever get sick of.

Key notes: Neroli, bergamot, yuzu, orange blossom, jasmine, vanilla, ambrox

New from luxe perfume brand Parfum De Marly is Athenais. Opening on a burst of bright neroli and bergamot, this fragrance unfurls onto the skin to reveal richer notes of amber and jasmine. While it appears fresh and vibrant at first, it has this expensive-smelling undertone that will have everyone asking what spring scent you're wearing.

Key notes: Pear, bergamot, blackcurrant, lily of the valley, rose, musk, vanilla

It really doesn't get more spring-like than this. Floral, fruity notes of pear, blackcurrant, rose and lily of the valley all mingle together to create the perfect perfume for this time of year. It's worth noting that this scent is an eau de toilette, so although it might not last as long as an intense perfume, it feels beautifully light and airy on the skin.

Key notes: Bergamot, eucalyptus, cypres, cedarwood, fig, ambrox, fir balsam, moss

I tend to gravitate towards fig perfumes in spring, as they are often wonderfully green and fresh. Case in point, this new launch from Chloé. The fig accord in this fragrance is leafy yet warm, with a solar element that evokes images of the French countryside. Honestly? It's one of the most gorgeous, delicate spring fragrances I've come across this year.

Key notes: Bergamot, caramel, coconut, vanilla, musk, tonka bean, amber

If you're after a super sweet spring perfume, then Summer Friday's latest launch, Sunlit Vanilla, will be right up your street. A heady concoction of caramel, coconut and vanilla, this fragrance is smooth and creamy with a sugary element that makes it totally addictive.

Key notes: Ylang-ylang, sandalwood, vanilla

You're probably familiar with Dior's iconic J'adore perfume, but the brand has just launched an intense iteration that is bound to turn heads this spring. The fragrance takes the sensual floral aroma of the original to another level, enveloping the senses in its warm, golden nectar. To me, it feels like that first bit of sunlight after a very long winter.

Key notes: Wild strawberry, bluebell, warm amber, violet leaf

Yes, this is a fruity scent, but it doesn't have that sickly sweetness you would expect from strawberry notes. Instead, amber, sandalwood and violet leaf add an earthy, woody touch that makes this perfume smell super sophisticated. The fresh, light aroma reminds me of spring in the countryside, running through fields of bluebells with a picnic in hand.

Key notes: Aldehyde, bergamot, sweet pea, jasmine, orange, white musk, sandalwood

While Maison Francis Kurkdjian's bestseller, Baccarat Rouge 540, is undoubtedly an evening scent (if you've not smelt it, it's rich and gourmand), 724 is definitely more of a wearable daytime fragrance. Although the floral notes are key, if you love fresh or woody scents, you'll find that 724 provides the perfect middle ground. Clean soapy aldehydes and heady jasmine and sweet pea mingle with white musk and warming sandalwood.

Key notes: Bergamot, blood orange, grapefruit, vetiver, patchouli

A reinterpretation of Acqua Di Parma's iconic Colonia fragrance, this citrusy scent comes alive on the skin. A more intense version of the original, zesty notes of bergamot and blood orange take centre stage, before being grounded by an earthy base of vetiver and patchouli. This is the kind of perfume that will add a serious spring to your step.

Key notes: Hyacinth, geranium, lavender

A lesson in not judging a perfume by its packaging—you might think that this would be a classic, old-fashioned floral, but in fact, it's nothing of the sort. Thanks to fresh, green notes of lime blossom and geranium, and warm suede-like orris, this is a truly modern floral. A tribute to the gardens at Highgrove, the home of King Charles III, it's an incredibly elegant and uplifting fragrance.

Key notes: Neroli, bergamot, ambrette, iris, orange blossom, musk, sandalwood, cedar

Inspired by the delicacies of a French patisserie, Honoré Delights is actually sweeter than I'd normally go for, with creamy gourmand notes. However, it remains grown-up thanks to neroli, iris, and some woody base notes. I first tried this back in 2020 and have brought it back out every spring since —wearing it brings me instant joy.

Key notes: Peach, blackcurrant, saffron, osmathus, leather, amber, sandalwood

Fruity fragrances typically lean summery, but the light, fresh, juicy scent of peach really comes into its own in spring. As well as Guerlain's trademark richness that runs throughout (thanks to saffron, leather, and osmanthus), this has warm notes of amber and sandalwood, and a sharp but subtle hint of blackcurrant blooming through its heart. It's complex yet very lightweight—the perfect signature spring scent.

Key notes: Lychee, geranium, bergamot, grass, peony, jasmine, vetiver, musk, amber

I'll admit this is far from being your typical spring fragrance, but for those who avoid both floral and fruity scents, yet still want something light for spring, Cowgirl Grass is ideal. Sure, musk and amber don't exactly scream spring, but alongside an earthy base, there's a skin-like muskiness and freshness thanks to the floral and fruity notes. It's chic, sophisticated and unexpected—and I can't stop spritzing it. It's now one of my favourite D.S. & Durga perfumes.

Key notes: Bergamot, apple, black tea, black amber, musk, oakmoss

Probably one of the greenest and grassiest fragrances in this edit. Spring fragrances can lean towards the classically "feminine", but this is definitely the type of perfume that anyone could wear. Mixed with bergamot, apple, and a touch of black tea, it's a citrusy yet spicy perfume that celebrates fresh, vibrant notes—perfect for spring. Oh, and the beautiful bottle is worth the money alone in my opinion.