“To all the ladies in the place with style and grace,” this one is for you! Summer’s here, and we’re not just outside; we’re showing up, showing out and smelling like a whole vibe. Not only are we trying to look good, we’re trying to smell good too.
But let’s be real—perfume isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your signature scent should match your energy. I’m talking scents that still linger in the room long after you leave, giving off that main character energy that’ll have heads turning and your presence unforgettable. Is it soft and sweet? Bold and spicy? Warm and woody with a little intrigue?
Either way, that’s why we pulled together this list of handpicked must-have perfumes that are, of course, made for us, by us. Ready to smell like your higher self? Get your wallets ready, and let’s get into it.
This fragrance speaks volumes, literally and figuratively. Founder Maya Nije developed her love for perfumery by using scents as a way to bottle memories, moments and emotions in time. Inspired by Minnie Riperton’s 1970 song of the same name, “Les Fleurs,” it is a celebration of life with a fresh and fruity, genderless blend crafted with eco-friendly and sustainable best practices in mind.
Maya Njie Les Fleurs Eau de Parfum 50ml, $, available at Liberty London
Life is lifin’ for so many of us, and we all need and deserve a pick-me-up. What better way to reinvigorate your spirit than with a scent that embodies self-care? Founded in 2023 by Keta Burke-Williams, this award-winning, Bronx-born brand is centered on intention, with each note crafted to exude intimacy and harmony. As Keta puts it, “Scent is a language everyone can understand—but few have the opportunity to speak.”
Ourside Dusk Eau de Parfum, 1.7 oz., $, available at Bergdorf Goodman
An ode to the rich legacy of Josephine Baker, Harlem’s own “Bronze Goddess,” this fragrance from the Harlem Candle Co. captures her bold and radiant essence. It is one of many scents that pays homage to the beauty and brilliance of Harlem, exuding elegance and timeless charm with every note. The perfect aroma for wherever life takes you, it is flirtatious and free-spirited and comes in travel and full sizes.
Harlem Candle Co The Harlem Perfume Josephine Eau de Parfum, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
The name says it all: “LEGENDARY.” And that’s exactly what you are. This scent is confident, unforgettable and magnetic—designed to leave your mark wherever you are. Bold yet balanced, it’s a gender-neutral fragrance blended to perfection and made specifically for you. Because let’s be real, you’re in a class of your own. So own it.
Don’t you just love a delicate floral smell that reminds you of the beauty of a fresh flower bouquet? This fragrance captures love in all its forms, from self-love to platonic, romantic and even familial love. It’s the kind of scent that’ll lift you, soften you and remind you you’re worthy of every kind of tenderness. It’s intimate, with beauty in every note, from jasmine, rose, orange blossom and pear. Consider this a love letter in fragrance form.
MAIR Women’s Peony Silk Eau De Parfum Spray, 3.4 Oz, $, available at Macy’s
Talk about a thoughtfully crafted eau de parfum that sets the tone for your soft girl era and girl-next-door mood. Designed for all skin types, this scent taps into something deeper. With top notes of white tea and orange blossom, and heart notes of red rose, lavender and fresh greens, this one feels soft, thoughtful and smells like luxury in a bottle.
MOODEAUX Worthy IntenScenual Eau De Parfum, $, available at Credo Beauty
Let’s talk details about this vegan, cruelty-free fragrance. Think warm woods with an earthy scent wrapped in keynotes of marshmallow, vanilla and sandalwood. It’s giving summer romance, warm skin, wild thoughts and a gentle reminder that, yes, you are that girl.
Brown Girl Jane Casablanca Eau de Parfum, $, available at Sephora
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