Rebecca Gordon On Harper's Bazaar: The 10 Best Perfumes for Leo

Must-haves from Loewe, Nette, and more that channel your inner roar

By Tiffany Dodson Davis

Published: Jul 24, 2026

Leo signs are among the boldest and most confident fire signs in the zodiac. The word “Leo” translates to “lion” in Latin, one reason the sign is well known for its fierce personalities and immense courage. The best fragrances for Leo signs serve as a reflection of their inner flair and creativity. “Choose fragrances that are luminous, luxurious, and unforgettable,” renowned New York City astrologer Rebecca Gordon tells Bazaar.

Harper’s Top Picks:

Grace McGrade, fellow astrologer and the cofounder of Stars Align, agrees, noting that scents worn by this star sign should serve as an extension of their star power. “You were built for the spotlight, and everyone who has ever met you already knows it,” adds McGrade. “Warm, generous, and magnetically alive, you enter a room and turn heads.” According to her, Leos should opt for a fragrance that’s as warm and unapologetic as they are.

While Leo signs can make just about any parfum, toilette, or cologne their own, we’ve taken the liberty of curating 10 favorites that hit all the right notes, including beloved picks like Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s Gentle Fluidity Gold and Carolina Herrera’s Good Girl Jasmine Absolute eau de parfums. Read on for more of the best fragrances for Leo signs to spritz this season and beyond.

BEST GENDERLESS: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Gentle Fluidity Gold Eau de Parfum

“Ruled by the sun, Leo naturally gravitates toward radiant, regal fragrances that command attention while expressing warmth and generosity,” says Gordon. Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s Gentle Fluidity Gold combines notes like ambery woods and musk to create an elegant warmth that lasts.

Key notes: Juniper berries oil, nutmeg oil, coriander seeds oil, musks, ambery woods, vanilla blend

Best with Neroli: Nonfiction Neroli Dream Eau de Parfum

Gordon counts neroli and orange blossom among the key scent notes for Leos, and this eau de parfum from Korean beauty brand Nonfiction contains both. Created as an homage to changing seasons, the layerable fragrance starts bright before drying down to a soft, powdery musk.

Key notes: Neroli, orange blossom, muguet, musk

 

Warm-weather months are prime for social gatherings for everyone, but especially for Leos. “You’re busy, and this is your season to get out there. See and be seen. Show up. Accept the invitation. Let people remind you how loved you are,” says McGrade. This fresh-solar scent from Nette bottles the ease and warmth of summer, and even aims to boost feelings of confidence and mindfulness—perfect for any Leo sun, moon, or rising sign.

Key notes: Orange flower, coconut milk, sandalwood

 

Along with tuberose, McGrade counts jasmine as the predominant floral note for Leo signs. This jasmine-forward version of Carolina Herrera’s classic Good Girl eau de parfum is equally unique and familiar, with its statement bottle even featuring a jasmine flower on its stiletto.

Key notes: Toffee, jasmine, benzoin

 

Guerlain’s Eau de Tulle eau de parfum is another floral staple Leos should consider adding to their collection. The fragrance features a dreamy accord of sugared almonds, neroli, and white musk that delicately envelops the skin, just like tulle itself.

Key notes: Angelica seed, pink pepper, citruses, orange blossom, sugared almond, rose, white musk, vanilla, patchouli, incense

 

Astrologists say the best fragrances for Leo signs are the ones that “make people ask what you’re wearing from across the room,” and this beloved Loewe scent does just that. Inspired by new beginnings and morning light, 001 Woman eau de parfum is as fresh as it is warm, with a timeless appeal that is effortlessly luxurious.

Key notes: Italian bergamot, Calabria tangerine, pink pepper, Egyptian jasmine, linen accord, sandalwood, vanilla, amber, musk

 

The golden amber note in Harlem Perfume Co.’s Showgirl eau de parfum anchors the entire sophisticated fragrance, which exudes a modern nostalgia. Since Leos are poised for the spotlight, Showgirl is a perfect fit for the season.

Key notes: Fizzy mandarin, lavender diva, golden amber

 

Here’s an elevated fragrance pick that’s also a little bit cheeky and sure to be a standout in your rotation. Inspired by nightclubs both in ’80s London and now, [Eye Contact] relies on the resinous and slightly smokier black amber note for maximum scent impact.

Key notes: Pink pepper, saffron, leather, cashmere, black pepper, oud, black amber, musk

 

You won’t have to dispose of Dries Van Noten’s Jardin De l’Orangerie eau de parfum once you finish the bottle, as it’s thoughtfully refillable. In addition to neroli buds, the floral scent also contains orange blossom milk, which lends to its sillage. “These notes evoke sunshine, confidence, creativity, and a magnetic presence,” says Gordon.

Key notes: Neroli buds, jasmine, ylang-ylang, orange blossom milk, sandalwood

 

Best Fruity Floral: Henry Rose Ripe Eau de Parfum

Bazaar editors can’t stop raving about this mouthwatering fruity-floral perfume from Henry Rose. Its uplifting, addictive composition, featuring notes of lychee, watermelon sorbet, jasmine, and soft woods, might just encourage someone to take a bite out of you—it’s that good.

Key notes: Lychee, watermelon sorbet, green leaves, cardamom, black pepper, jasmine, peony, rose water, wisteria, upcycled orcanox, soft woods, musks, creamy sandalwood

 

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE