For most people, tea smells like a gingery, cinnamon-packed masala chai—hot, spiced, and impossible to separate from memory. For others, it’s the earthy, green sharpness of a matcha. But it’s not all spice and steam. Some blends twist fruity; think black currant or citrus tapioca pearls that pop mid-sniff. Others nod to yum cha with comforting notes of rice, or delicate florals, like jasmine or rose, floating through the base notes. The result? Scents that feel like a tea break with a range: warm, familiar, and just sweet enough to keep you curious. Either way, they’re comfort, and with monsoon at our heels (well, above our ankles), smelling like tea is the newest chase perfumeries are after.
Imagine this: your favourite rainy-day chai—but you’re wearing it. Warm, fragrant, slightly creamy, with maybe a hint of spice (if you’re feeling bold), it smells like you’ve been cocooned indoors all day. There are also gardenia-leaning fragrances that smell like hibiscus or chamomile tea you didn’t over-steep. Cosy but not sleepy, sweet but not overwhelming.
From milky musks and creamy chai-inspired blends to black tea laced with flowers or amber, these perfumes envelop you in the feeling of taking five—even when you’re running late. Below, see the fragrances making a strong case for wearing your brew instead of just sipping it:
