Summer Scents: Monoi Oil

If you love beachy scents then monoi oil should definitely be a part of your perfume collection. The fragrance is made from soaking the small white petals of Tahitian gardenias in coconut oil. Warm, floral, and not overpowering, the scent is a more sophisticated tropical perfume (no pina colada effect here) and layers well with other perfumes, especially those with base notes such as sandalwood, coconut, or vanilla. More reason to add the scent to your stash: the oil has skin and hair benefits and has traditionally been used to as a softening treatment for both.

Don't know where to start? Try layering these two new fragrances for an authentic monoi mix that will last all day. Apply Saffron James Monoi de Mo'orea Tiare, $40 to damp skin after you hop out of the shower. Then, once you've dressed, mist Yves Rocher Monoi Eau des Vahines, $17.60, before heading out the door.