I Asked, And 4 Perfumers Answered—3 Fragrance Trends Positioned to Define 2026

Another year has come and gone, and us Who What Wear editors are already gearing up for another 12 months of beauty trends to peak our interest. It hasn't even been a month, and already, we've been introduced to a number of notable fragrance newcomers and trends that deserve to land themselves in a revamped scent collection just in time for 2026. It's officially the new year, so why not take this opportunity to officially introduce yourself to some elegant fragrances to round out and refine your perfume collection?

Luckily for you, we've already tapped three expert sources and scoured the internet for the fragrances that capture each of this year's scent trends. Scroll ahead for the insider scoop on what will become 2026's most major perfume trends, then shop some of our top picks. It's never too early to get a head start on your signature scent.

Which scent profiles will dominate 2026?

According to experts, 2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by sweet, fruity, earthy, and refreshingly futuristic fragrances that are versatile and wearable (meaning, we won't be seeing as many traditional florals and clean, green scents hitting the market). In fact, this year's biggest fragrance moments will be taking their notes from skincare and wellness. "In 2026, fragrance will continue moving closer to skincare, with the ongoing skin-ification of scent and the introduction of hydrating benefits," says dsm-firmenich Fragrance Developmental Manager Rachael Larsen.

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While many of the classic fragrance profiles we've since in the past will stick around, they'll also continue to evolve. "Fruits will feel edgier and more confident, skincare-inspired elements more intentional, and heritage notes more clearly defined. The key difference is a stronger focus on texture and cultural influence," she says. dsm-firmenich perfumer Erwan Raguenes agrees, highlighting how this year's trends differ from 2025's. "While gourmands and skin-centric scents remain popular, they’re becoming darker, more refined, and longer-lasting," he explains. "Fruity fragrances feel richer and more grounded, and wellness and transparency are now more seamlessly woven into formulation and storytelling."

Darryl Do, Senior Perfect of Delbia Do Fragrances & Flavors confirms that one of 2025's favorite scent profiles will also be making it to the new year: oud perfumes. "Ouds are still of interest to the brands and clean formulas as well as non-GMO alcohol are still strong," he assures us. Custom-made blends, powdery florals, and citrus scents will also be on the rise in 2026 (A.K.A. the perfect opportunity to try your hand at fragrance stacking).

What is the creative direction of fragrances in 2026?

According to Raguenes, perfume trends in 2026 will be driven by textures as an exploration of, "multiple facets of familiar ingredients." Not only will we see more contrast (including hot versus cold, or sparkling versus warm, but this year will celebrate "fragrance designed as an emotional experience rooted in memory, connection, and empowerment." Larsen echoes this sentiment, adding that the year's fragrance creative direction will also balance innovation with tradition, as perfumers revisit iconic ingredients while exploring new textures. "The blending of Western and Middle Eastern fragrance influences will continue, resulting in scents that feel both globally informed and thoughtfully composed," she explains.

Keep reading to discover the six biggest fragrance trends of 2026 worth hoping on to, plus the perfumes we'll be wearing (and receiving compliments on) all year. Smells like success!