As fresh as spring

As the first hints of summer flicker tantalizingly into view, scent is a beautiful way to invoke the new season.

“Once the weather warms up, people want to lighten up their fragrance -- or at least change it,” says Robin Coe-Hutshing, founder and creative director of Studio Beauty Mix at Fred Segal, Santa Monica. “Even if it’s not lighter, it’s something that indicates a change.”

Coe-Hutshing says orange blossom, mimosa, sunny florals and citrus are the most popular fragrance notes for spring-summer. “You don’t want anything too cloying in the hot weather.”

Fresh scents such as light, juicy lychee mingle with the classics in a host of new products that would make great Mother’s Day gifts -- or a welcome token of thanks for bridesmaids.

-- Melissa Magsaysay