Market Research

Cult Beauty Finds Vanilla is the Scent of Spring & Summer

Vanilla scents ‘skin-like’ perfumes, and Kayali scents are currently trending as we head into the warmer months.

March 25, 2026

Assistant Editor

New data from Cult Beauty reveals a clear shift in fragrances this spring/summer. Vanilla-led scents, personalized layering, and lighter formats are emerging as the defining trends for 2026.

Drawing on recent search behavior, the insights highlight a move towards soft, skin-like musks and nostalgic gourmand blends, with this season’s fragrances centered around effortless wearability and personal expression.

Rina Teslica, beauty expert at Cult Beauty said,

“We naturally gravitate towards lighter, softer scents, but what’s really exciting this year is how playful and personal fragrance has become. It’s no longer about finding one signature scent, it’s about layering, experimenting and choosing something that reflects your mood. We’re seeing a big rise in skin-like musks and elevated vanilla blends that feel warm, comforting and easy to wear every day. My biggest tip would be not to overthink it, try mixing your favourites, opt for lighter formats like mists, and most importantly, choose something that makes you feel good.”

This year vanilla-blended scents are leading search traffic. Current vanilla scents are blending with musks, woods, and subtle spice. Vanilla is now less sweet, more elevated, wearable, and modern.

Discovery sets and layering kits are also becoming increasingly popular because they make it easy to experiment, mix, and personalize scents in a way that feels unique.

There’s also a move towards fragrances that feel more intimate and understated. Often described as ‘skin scents’, these are typically musky, woody, or clean notes that sit close to the skin and enhance natural scent rather than mask it.

Top 10 Fragrances for Spring & Summer

Kayali Vanilla 28 Eau de Parfum
Kayali Musk 12 Eau de Parfum
Kayali Yum Boujee Marshmallow 81
Kayali Vanilla Royale Sugared Patchouli 64
Fugazzi Vanilla Haze
Sol de Janeiro Perfume Mist Discovery Set
BornToStandOut Drunk Lovers Eau de Parfum
Kayali Sweet Diamond Pink Pepper 25
Jo Malone London Raspberry Ripple Cologne
Escentric Molecules Molecule 01

Overall, research shows a strong preference for fragrances that feel flexible and easy to wear. Whether it’s layering different scents, using a hair mist for a lighter finish, or switching things up throughout the day, it’s all about having options. Fragrance is becoming much more personal, and we’re really embracing that more fluid, mix-and-match approach.