Autumn Perfume Scents to Fall in Love With This Season

As the seasons shift, fall fragrance fills the air. Of course, those classic scents of autumn surround us: the return of pumpkin spice lattes, a cozy night by the fire, a walk among the trees on a brisk day. Our mood and style also changes with the temperature, and the best autumn scents capture that shift. So what makes the best fall scents worth spritzing over and over? Here are some of our favorites, along with why they’re the perfect addition to your fragrance wardrobe. 

Why Fragrance Should Change with the Season

So, why switch perfumes in autumn?  There are a few reasons to change up your fragrance. Just as you switch your wardrobe for the season, it’s nice to change your perfume scents for fall too, especially coming off of the beachy, light energy of summer. We love a cozy fragrance like Cheirosa 71, which has warm, decadent notes of caramelized vanilla, toasted macadamia nut, and tonka bean.

Also, you may not even realize how fall weather affects fragrance. In colder weather, our skin is naturally drier, which can shorten the scent’s longetivty. (The opposite is true as well: When skin is more hydrated, fragrance lasts longer.) According to Harper’s Bazaar UK, it’s important to focus on base notes, which last longest on skin; top notes may be more fleeting when it’s chilly.

The Best Perfume Notes for Autumn

Here are a few fall fragrance notes we love across the Sol de Janeiro fragrance collection.

• Amber: This warm perfume ingredient is a sweet note that smells like a deeper vanilla. You’ll find it in our Cheirosa 76 and Sundays in Rio Perfume Mists.

• Vanilla: An iconic fragrance note year-round, vanilla has a warmth that can be made sensual and savory, or amped up for a dessert-like sweetness. Several Sol de Janeiro perfume mists feature vanilla, including Cheirosa 62™, Cheirosa 59,, and Cheirosa 71.

• Tonka bean: This note adds depth and creaminess to fall perfume scents, making it ideal for warm autumn scents like Cheirosa 71.

• Sandalwood: A go-to warm wood (or “oud,” in perfume-speak), sandalwood is earthy and a bit green—making it the perfect counterpoint to notes like vanilla and amber. Find it in both our Cheirosa 62™ and Cheirosa 59 scent profiles.

The Best Fall Perfumes

Now that you know some of the notes to look for, here’s an edit of Sol de Janeiro favorites to consider as autumn perfume scents. 

• Cheirosa 71: Warm and cozy for the season, this decadent fragrance wraps you up in the comfort of caramelized vanilla drizzled over toasted macadamia nut and rich tonka bean.

• Cherosa 59: This mood-boosting fragrance immerses you in the warmth of vanilla orchid and sugared violet, while sheer sandalwood mingles with whipped amber.

• Cheirosa 62™: Our iconic warm gourmand fragrance opens with creamy pistachio, while a hint of salted caramel unites with jasmine petals and vanilla.

• Sundays in Rio: Inviting & vibrant, this limited-edition fragrance keeps the good vibes flowing with warm vanilla, amber musk, and spicy pink pepper.

How to Make Your Autumn Perfume Last Longer

Even if the cooler fall weather is working against you, these fall fragrance tips will have you smelling delicious all day long. 

• Apply fragrance to moisturized skin: Remember, fragrance clings to hydrated skin better than dry skin. Moisturizing is always important, and even more so for a long-lasting autumn perfume.

• Use a complementary body lotion or body cream: Not only does this step help keep skin moisturized, but it also adds an extra layer of fragrance. Not sure how to layer perfume in cold weather? Try our bundles (like the Cheirosa 71 Duo Bundle) to make it easy.

• Spray on your clothes for longevity: Be sure to to spray from at least 12-18 inches away from your clothing so the fragrance reaches more surface area, rather than targeting a small area. 

• Store fragrance properly: Keep your perfume mists in a cool, dry area away from sunlight so they stay smelling their best 365 days a year.

• Refresh as needed: Want a boost throughout the day? Go for it—our perfume mists are designed to be used anytime, anywhere without being overpowering.

FAQs About Autumn Perfume Scents

What scents are best for fall?

If you want to stick to a more traditional fall fragrance, look for perfumes that are described as woody or spicy. Many gourmand—or sweet—fragrances are also among the best fall perfume scents, too.

How do I choose a signature fall fragrance?

The best fall fragrance is the one you gravitate to most. If you’re not sure where to start, try looking for a scent with a note or two you know you like; for instance, if you love vanilla and amber, consider our limited-edition Sundays in Rio Perfume Mist, which has both, plus spicy pink pepper. When in doubt, you can also take our Find Your Fragrance quiz.

Can I wear summer scents in autumn?

Absolutely! We’re all about summer all year-round at Sol de Janeiro. Wear whatever scent you love.

What is the difference between fall and winter scents?

There is plenty of crossover between fall and winter scents. They both feature warmer, spicier scent profiles. However, there are also winter perfumes that have scent profiles more tailored to that time of year—think cedarwood, pine, or winter berries. These are a bit heavier and are meant to be worn in even colder temperatures. 

Should I layer perfume in colder weather?

Sure! All Sol de Janeiro perfume mists are designed to be layered, so you can mix and match your own signature scent (any time of year). Try spritzing our uplifting Cheirosa 59 and iconic Cheirosa 62™, as their vanilla and sandalwood notes complement each other.