Blending fruity nostalgia with an unexpectedly luxurious twist, banana is the breakout scent of the summer, thanks in part to trendsetters like Sabrina Carpenter and Prada. “Banana is definitely having a moment,” says TikTok’s self-proclaimed “King of Gourmand” and go-to fragrance expert, Paul Fino. “It’s playful, nostalgic and surprisingly versatile.” Steering clear of smoothie territory and leaning into sophisticated scents, these seven banana-infused perfumes are leading the pack.
Behind the Complex Banana Note
While banana may seem basic, Walter Johnsen, VP of Product Development at InterParfums (brands like Oscar de la Renta, MCM, Guess, Ferragamo and Donna Karan, are part of the portfolio) considers it the “shiny new penny” in fragrance.
“In the grand scheme of things, when you consider banana, it is a relatively new note being used in the world of fine fragrance,” he says. “Traditionally, banana was discarded as too sticky and sweet when considering prestige or niche brands.”
Now, through the use of new technologies, Johnsen says we are seeing the banana note “reimagined and restructured” to be creamy, playful and even sophisticated. “The banana is now seeing the spotlight as a possible new direction as the next big gourmand note adding elements of ripe tropical sweetness, the yumminess of banana pudding or even the caramelized richness of banana bread—showing that the once-viewed one-dimensional note is anything but. The use of banana brings a nostalgic twist to a fragrance that resonates with people. It is a complex note and one that is not always easy to use because of its traditional sticky and thick stigma, which is based on the reality of the fruit itself.”
In the development of this new gourmand, Johnsen explains, the secret is striking the right balance and composition of the banana with other notes. “Banana is creamy and sweet, and it can mix well with soft florals, musks and warm woods to offset the sweet thickness cresting the perfect balance of a playful adventure.”
The new allure of banana also goes a bit deeper, Johnsen says. “In my opinion, people are seeking out scents that ground them to something real—real joy, real memories, a real sense of peace—and banana grabs all of that. It’s fun nostalgia without being emotional. Is it the next ‘big’ thing? Time will tell.”
Kay Mashhadi, Brand Relationship Manager at Scent Split, sees the banana craze also coming back to something as simple as the shades of the season.
“It’s summer and the season of joyful colors like yellow. To match its energy, we need perfumes that are mood-lifting and wearable. Banana perfumes are great choices because they capture a summery tropical vibe that feels light and carefree. The smell of banana is often paired with coconut, vanilla and a splash of citruses to evoke the feeling of beach vacations, fruity cocktails, and lazy afternoons. Their soft gourmand scent makes them comforting, while their exotic twist keeps them fun and happy. They’re as casual as bikinis and as fancy as a glittering dress for an evening party by the beach.”
