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9 Trendy Forest-Inspired Perfumes That Are Perfect for Outdoor Season

Breathe in and say ahh...

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a display of various perfume bottles arranged among natural elements
Mike Garten

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As GH's beauty director, I see new perfume trends popping up almost every day lately, from dessert-like gourmands to milky notes and more. One that stands out from the crowd this season: the crop of fragrances that are inspired by the aromas of the outdoors and forest. They offer a fresh counterpoint and alternative to the super sweet and fruity scents that are dominating right now—and guarantee you won't smell like anyone else.

These perfumes are grounded in earthy notes stemming from trees (like pine, cedar, cypress), plants (think eucalyptus, myrtle), and even sap and moss to conjure a tranquil walk through the woods and the calming feeling that comes with being surrounded by nature. Whether you prefer lighter or bolder perfumes—or something in between—take your pick from my favorites to bring the aroma of nature wherever you go.

The name of this Chloé perfume means "under the pines" and I can confirm that it surrounds you in the soft breeze of coastal pine trees, the freshness of eucalyptus and myrtle, and the warmth of cypress wood and amber. I've added it to my personal collection for its herbal, verdant yet gently sun-warmed quality that's truly transporting and irresistible.

This The Nue Co. scent was created with grounding in mind and is rooted in deeply woodsy aromas, with notes of cedarwood and pine, plus spices like pepper and cardamom. It envelops you in a complex, sophisticated scent that's smoky, a little spicy and masculine, and definitely memorable.

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Inspired by the rainforest, this bargain-priced Fine'ry fragrance smells green and herbaceous at first sniff, then mellows into a more woody and spicy scent thanks to notes of papyrus wood, cardamom, and black tea. (It also comes in eau de parfum.)

Venture into the dark side of the woods with this Maison Margiela fragrance, a strong, intoxicating scent centered on balsam fir with earthy notes of moss, maple sap, and cedarwood. It smells like taking a deep breath in an evergreen forest in winter.

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Lighten up with this refreshing Oscar de La Renta fragrance, an infusion of zesty green tea, green pear, and green apple grounded by moss and cedar. Its airy, watery essence is the perfect antidote to balmy summer days.

True to its name, Heretic's unique fragrance is as earthy as it gets, with notes of vetiver, grass, hemp, and violet leaves. The vibe upon spritzing is leafy and a touch minty, with a bitter undertone.

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Eucalyptus is the obvious star of this D.S. & Durga fragrance, but it's not a dusty, artificial facsimile: This version smells like real, fresh eucalyptus, backed by aromas of damp woods, sea spray, rosemary, cypress, and dried leaves. The result is invigorating, almost astringent, and what you dream the fanciest spa would smell like.

Nature-inspired perfumes don't have to be crunchy. Case in point: This refined Dolce & Gabbana fragrance, an understated mix of tea leaves, Italian citrus, pink pepper, and cedarwood. It has earned a permanent place in my perfume wardrobe thanks to its soft and comforting "quiet luxury" feel.

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When the weather turns chilly, reach for this Ellis Brooklyn fragrance: The notes of juniper berries, cardamom, bourbon, and three types of woods remind me of curling up by a fireplace in a log cabin on a cold winter's day.

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