The best aquatic perfumes: fresh, breezy scents that feel like a getaway in a bottle

“Aquatic fragrances are designed to capture the fresh, breezy essence of water, whether it’s the ocean, a cool lake, or a misty morning,” says Nicole Mancini, principal perfumer at international flavouring and fragrance company dsm-firmenich. The concept is straightforward, and getting a whiff of an aquatic fragrance would make you believe executing it is simple—these scents are often light and crisp, with an inherent effortlessness that’s not as common in other perfume categories. But nothing could be farther from the truth: After all, water itself is unscented, so what’s being harnessed here is the idea of a smell .

“Perfumers recreate its presence through synthetic molecules that mimic its airy, fluid quality, emphasising an invigorating freshness that defines the category,” says Pierre Vouard, fragrance marketing consultant and adjunct professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology. Vogue ’s favourite aquatic fragrances There’s a good chance that the best aquatic perfumes as we know them would not exist today if not for Calone. With an ozonic, crisp, and slightly fruity scent reminiscent of freshly-cut watermelon, this aromachemical became a darling of perfumers around the world in the 1990s , which is when the aquatic fragrance category was born.



“Aquatic fragrances offered a refreshing contrast to the rich, opulent perfumes of the decade prior, ushering in a new era of minimalism in scent,” says Vouard. Perhaps unsurprisingly, you’ll also often find Ambroxan in aquatic fragrances—this aromachemical is a vegan alternative to ambergris, a whale-derived ingredient used in perfume—as well as Aquazone, a note that’s similar to Calone but with a saltier, more iodine-like aroma. You’ll also see more recognisable, plant-derived notes, which can serve as helpful guides as you shop.

For example, maybe you’re looking for an aquatic fragrance that’s like a Caribbean vacation in a bottle. “Coconut adds a tropical, creamy warmth,” says Mancini. “Aromatic notes, such as herbs and spices, introduce a fresh, herbal dimension, while lemon and bergamot bring a zesty brightness.

” (Great when you’re seeking out aquatic scents that call to mind damp gardens or Mediterranean holidays , respectively.) Woods, like sandalwood, cedar, and oud, can provide warmth and depth. From the ’90s to the present day, here are some of the best aquatic perfumes on the market.

The summer-inspired : DS & Durga Rose Atlantic Eau de Parfum The salty option : Maison Margiela Replica Sailing Day Eau de Toilette The airy button-down : Henry Rose Jake’s House Eau de Parfum The serene scent : The Nue Co. Relax Water Therapy Fragrance The sunny day : Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne The classic choice: Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gió Eau de Toilette The oceanic floral : Skylar Salt Air Eau de Parfum The edgy aroma : Tom Ford Oud Minérale Eau de Parfum The light and green : Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Media Cologne Forte The subtle smell : Liis Lucienne Eau de Parfum The spring shower : Issey Miyake L’Eau d’Issey Eau de Toilette The ambery mist : Victoria Beckham Beauty Portofino ’97 Eau de Parfum Everything you need to know Aquatic fragrances started as a minimalist genre that spotlighted airy, lightweight scents , but the category has evolved over the years; today’s aquatic perfumes can be rich and complex. Regardless of whether it’s breezy or bold, the key to a great aquatic fragrance is balance, says Vouard.

“A standout aquatic scent uses contrast—perhaps pairing its breezy freshness with woods, florals, or musks for depth and evolution,” he explains. Some of the earliest aquatic fragrances remain popular today due to their beautifully balanced blends, including the aforementioned Issey Miyake L’Eau D’Issey and Giorgio Armani Acqua Di Gio. More recently-launched favourites include the above Maison Margiela Replica Sailing Day, as well as Ellis Brooklyn SALT Eau de Parfum.

“This fresh, modern take on aquatic perfumery captures the dreamy essence of an ocean breeze, blending crisp marine notes with lush, tropical florals and the warmth of sun-kissed skin ,” says Mancini. “It’s effortlessly chic, irresistibly wearable, and perfect for anyone who wants to bottle up that carefree, just-back-from-the-beach feeling.” The aquatic category should be a staple of any fragrance wardrobe due to these scents’ versatility.

While some have enough complexity to stand alone, many of them are nicely complemented by other perfumes, making them ideal for layering. Vouard recommends choosing your fragrance pairings by category, noting that aquatics tend to pair well with white florals, fruity notes, and woods—so feel free to start mixing and matching. “Test combinations on your skin and give them time to settle before committing,” suggests Mancini, who recommends applying to your pulse points (your wrists and neck) to help the fragrances blend naturally with your skin’s warmth.

If you’re not confident in your fragrance cocktailing abilities, remember that you don’t have to mist on multiple perfumes. “You can also experiment by mixing different concentrations, such as an eau de parfum with a scented body lotion , for a softer, more layered effect,” Mancini says. This story first appeared on Vogue.

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