Move Over, Skin Scents—Milky Perfumes Are the Fragrance of the Summer
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Over the past few years, musky and subtle "skin scents" reached an all-time high thanks to internet-breaking, crowd-pleasing launches such as Glossier You and Phlur's Missing Person . This summer, however, it's time for " milky perfumes " to take center stage.
According to beauty and wellness booking platform Fresha , searches for "milk perfume" increased by 128 percent in the past year. It's a natural progression from the skin scent phenomenon, as it has a similar comforting, cozy feel but with a little more intensity and sensuality that allows for better longevity—especially in the warmer months, when fragrance tends to dissipate more quickly.
While last year saw perfumers incorporating food-inspired coconut and almond milks into their compositions to give them a sweet, warm, and cocooning edge, 2026 is pushing that creativity further, with perfumers opting for expressive and innovative accords such as incense milk and mineral milk. These lab-created accords create a softer, smoother, and creamier version of what is often a more intense ingredient.
As fragrance expert Nick Gilbert, co-founder of Olfiction perfumery studio, previously told ELLE: "Olfactively, we're seeing the gourmand trend continue to evolve into new directions, with new takes on milky or 'lactonic' fragrances, sweet roasted and caramelized effects, and a proliferation of starch-y notes like rice."
According to him, the popularity of the gourmand scent category means there is continued innovation within it; hence the rise of milky scents, which lean into gourmand without being overpoweringly sugary-sweet. The category also appeals both to those who enjoy a skin scent but are looking for something plusher and to those who want a lasting scent trail without overwhelming the senses—or the room they're in. Ahead, find the best milky perfumes to try this summer.
Bottega Veneta Ricordami Eau de Parfum
Inspired by nostalgic Italian summers filled with gelato and sunshine, Ricordami is a sophisticated take on the delectably creamy scent of vanilla-and-chocolate stracciatella ice cream. It's playful yet elegant, perfect for spritzing on vacation.
Glossier You Soie Eau de Parfum
Dolce & Gabbana Your Devotion Eau de Parfum
If it's a romantic vanilla waft you're after, try Your Devotion EDP Intense. It opens with a succulent hit of fresh melon and settles into a sweet, creamy floral that wears beautifully in the summer heat.
AllSaints Sacred Sands Eau de Parfum
The Nue Co. First Milk Comfort Gourmand Eau de Parfum
Don't be fooled by the name: There is nothing cloying or juvenile about First Milk. Instead, it is a velvety, gentle, and comforting scent of soft woods and cozy musks. It smells like a beloved cashmere sweater and a hug from your best friend—a welcome addition to any fragrance rotation.
DedCool Xtra Milk Eau de Parfum
This is one of the most refined fragrances inspired by warm skin. Simple, clean, and elegant, it's the perfume that'll have those around you saying, "You smell good."
Réservation Parfums Late Night EDP
Réservation Parfums is inspired by captivating, memorable moments in a hotel, and Late Night evokes soft sheets, smoke in your hair, and the promise of a lazy, hazy morning ahead. Warm, spicy cardamom mingles with milky notes and creamy sandalwood to create a cozy, smooth composition.
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