6 Summer Scents Every Woman Should Own

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Every woman should own at least two signature scents: one for Winter's cool months and another for Summer's sunny days. We'd even argue that the new season calls for a few extra bottles because there are so many occasions to showcase your favorite aromas. You'll want a classic on hand if you're a bridesmaid, but a long weekend away calls for something new and invigorating. We spoke to Aveen Redjep, team leader of the Procter & Gamble Fragrance Design, and wellness expert Keri Glassman to pair every Summer celebration, from a first date to a music festival, with a coordinating scent profile.

The Occasion: A Wedding
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The Occasion: A Wedding

Almost every weekend of our calendar from April to September is packed with nuptial-related events — bachelorette parties, bridal teas, and formal ceremonies. Whether you're the bride or a just a bridesmaid (again), a memorable scent is a wedding essential. "Weddings are all about harmony, happiness, and confidence, so wear a fragrance that is an old favorite," said Redjep. "You want an old friend with you at the altar, not a show stealer!"

The Scent: Chanel No. 5 Premiere
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The Scent: Chanel No. 5 Premiere

While your mom probably wore the classic Chanel No. 5 to her wedding, the more modern Chanel No. 5 Premiere ($132) is a better fit for a 21st-century bride. The new iteration still has all the base notes of the original: rose absolute, jasmine, neroli, and ylang-ylang. However, the updated fragrance is softer than its iconic cousin.

The Occasion: Vacation Weekend
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The Occasion: Vacation Weekend

If you're heading on a vacation, it's a good time to try out a new fragrance. Since scent and memory are so closely associated, you'll remember the fabulous adventures you had every time you wear it for years to come. For a long Summer retreat, we recommend something with a citrus base. "If you smell something with a little citrus in it, it smells healthy," Glassman explained. "Clean whole foods represent energy. There is that subconscious connection. Just the smell of it is refreshing, optimistic, invigorating."

The Scent: Lacoste L.12.12 Jaune
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The Scent: Lacoste L.12.12 Jaune

Lacoste L.12.12 Jaune ($70) is a fruity fragrance you and your guy can share, meaning you'll have more room in your shared toiletry case. The notes include grapefruit, Golden Delicious apple, and pink peppercorn.

The Occasion: A Presentation at Work
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The Occasion: A Presentation at Work

You've been working on your presentation for days, and now it's time to deliver. The right pair of shoes, the perfect lipstick, and a chic outfit aren't the only secrets to success. You need a scent that complements your strong business persona. Something with a little bit of spice can be just the confidence boost you need. "Spicy notes are representative of energy," said Glassman. "Gives you a kick in your step — you feel empowered, a little bit energetic."

The Scent: Hugo Boss Woman
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The Scent: Hugo Boss Woman

Sometimes you just need a scent for a boss b*tch. Hugo Boss Woman ($72) is it. The fragrance starts with boysenberry and Italian mandarin, then dries down to a deeper-scented woodsy aroma with jasmine, iris, Indian black tea, and cedar.

The Occasion: Date Night
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The Occasion: Date Night

A dinner date calls for a scent that is superladylike. "You should think about notes that make you feel sensual and relaxed to feel sexiest," said Redjep. "They should boost your confidence and allow your natural charm to shine through." We suggest something that won't overpower your date, like something light and floral that will draw your significant other's nose.

The Scent: Oscar de la Renta Extraordinary
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The Scent: Oscar de la Renta Extraordinary

A few pumps of Oscar de la Renta Extraordinary ($92) will envelope you in the scent of neroli, cherry blossom, peony, amber, and vanilla orchid. The combination is light, floral, and feminine. Even if your date ends up a flop, this fragrance will be one to remember.

The Occasion: Brunch
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The Occasion: Brunch

As soon as the temperatures rise above 70 degrees, it's time to set your Sunday brunch schedule. Choose something fresh for a day sipping on mimosas and catching up with old friends. "Fragrance ingredients such as aromatic, fresh floral or citrus notes are more relevant to Spring," said Redjep. "Generally speaking, lighter, fresher scents work better in Spring and Summer."

The Scent: Dolce & Gabbana Dolce Floral Drops
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The Scent: Dolce & Gabbana Dolce Floral Drops

The powdery fragrance of Dolce & Gabbana Dolce Floral Drops ($101) is one all your girlfriends will want to steal for themselves. It's a floral mix of white flowers like amaryllis, daffodils, and water lily with neroli, papaya flower, and musk.

The Occasion: A Music Festival
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The Occasion: A Music Festival

Jamming at a music festival generally requires a hot pair of shades and a pair of cutoff shorts. But did you know your outfit can affect how your fragrance smells? "Warmer weather allows fragrance to diffuse better from the wearer, allowing you to smell it more." Redjep said. "Less clothing also means more exposed skin and therefore more surface area from which to project the fragrance." Keep in mind that whatever scent you pick will seem stronger as the temperatures rise, so select something you (and your companions) will love.

The Scent: Diptyque Florabellio
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The Scent: Diptyque Florabellio

Diptyque Florabellio ($125) is the beach in a bottle. At first spritz, you'll immediately get the salty smell of the sea. The fragrance also incorporates apple blossom petals, coffee beans, and roasted sesame seeds. When you're pressed up against your neighbor grooving to your favorite band, don't be surprised if someone asks, "What's that smell?"

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