As someone who knows what they like when it comes to perfumes, my fragrance collection tends to be dominated by powdery florals, musky skin scents and the occasional decadent vanilla fragrance. Herby perfumes? If I’m totally honest, they just weren’t a scent profile that I’ve ever really given much thought to. And it’s not because I’m averse to foodie scents either; I can get on board with a sweet gourmand when it feels right. But perhaps I had a preconception that herby perfumes would leave me smelling like an allotment—earthy, savoury and just not all that enticing.
However, after spending a lot of time searching for the best summer fragrances this season, it turns out that I like herby perfumes a whole lot. The perfect antidote for anyone averse to the candied, sugary and piña colada-inspired scents that often dominate the warmer months, these unexpected perfumes lean on notes like basil, rosemary, sage and lavender to create something fresh, aromatic and just as addictive. And when heavy fragrances can feel overwhelming to wear, herby perfumes manage to feel both refreshing and rather delicious.
What Is a Herby Perfume?
Fragrance experts are equally excited about the rising popularity of herby perfumes, too, as consumers shift away from sweet power perfumes and towards wellness scents. “For me, the best herbal perfumes feel alive,” explains Alimra Armstrong, founder of Australian fragrance house Lumira. “Herbs like basil, rosemary, sage and thyme can bring incredible sophistication and luminosity when balanced with citrus, florals or woods. They add texture and energy to a fragrance rather than simply making it smell green.”
Latest Videos From
(Image credit: Mica Ricketts)
How to Choose a Herby Perfume
While herby perfumes might feel like a slightly unknown category, there are some great beginner notes if you’re unsure where to start when choosing one. “Lavender is one of the best entry points into herbal perfumery because it’s immediately familiar and approachable, while still offering complexity,” explains Gabar founders Susan Wai Hnin and Phway Su Aye. “Mint is another great beginner note as it brings freshness and brightness without feeling overly challenging.” Armstrong also rates basil for its “bright, aromatic and naturally uplifting qualities” but points out that the key to a great herby perfume is balance. “Herbal notes shouldn’t dominate, they should add movement and freshness to the fragrance”, she explains.
