10 Best Citrus-musky Unisex Picks Influencers Endorse

Why Citrus-Musky Unisex Fragrances Are Suddenly Everywhere (And Why You’ll Love Them)

Let’s be honest—if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent way too much time in the perfume aisle sniffing until your nose goes numb, only to end up smelling like a fruit basket collided with a lumberjack. I used to think finding the perfect unisex scent was basically wizardry. Turns out, it just requires a little insider knowledge and following the right influencers—those YouTubers who can literally sniff out a dupe from across the room.

So today, I’m diving into the “citrus-musky” universe. And yes, it’s a thing. The best part? These fragrances are fresh, clean, and totally non-gendered. They work for brunch, date night, or even just a trip to the farmers’ market when you want to look like you woke up this fabulous (even if you hit snooze five times). I’ve rounded up ten picks that every big fragrance YouTuber keeps raving about—and I’ll share exactly why they deserve a spot on your dresser.

What Makes Citrus-Musky Scents So Irresistible?

Citrus gives that sparkling, just-showered freshness. Musk brings warmth and depth that clings to your skin—like your favorite cashmere sweater, but in scent form. When you combine the two, you get fragrances that are lively yet cozy, bright yet grounded.

Why do influencers love them? Because they’re easy to layer, suit almost every season, and most importantly—they won’t make you smell like a teenage boy’s gym sock (I wish I was kidding).

How I Chose These 10 Picks

I watched hours of reviews from top fragrance YouTubers like Demi Rawling, Jeremy Fragrance, and Big Beard Business—people who can spot a good blend from a mile away. I checked for:

Lasting Power: Does it stick around or disappear after breakfast?
Versatility: Can you wear it everywhere?
Projection: Will people notice (in a good way)?
Bottle Design: Because, let’s be real, we’re all suckers for a pretty bottle.
Value for Money: Is it worth your hard-earned cash?

Ready? Let’s get sniffing.

1. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Universalis

Freshness That’s Basically a Mood-Lifter

If I had a dollar for every influencer who called Aqua Universalis their “go-to everyday scent,” I’d have… enough to buy another bottle. This one is all about pure citrus—think lemon zest and Sicilian bergamot—layered over white musk and light woods.

Features: Crisp lemon, bergamot top notes; soft musk base
Bottle: Sleek, minimal glass (so Instagrammable)
Size: 70ml and 200ml bottles

I wore this to a friend’s outdoor brunch and got three compliments before my mimosa arrived. It’s clean, light, and doesn’t feel overpowering. Demi Rawling says it’s “the smell of clean sheets”—and honestly, she’s right.

2. Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 + Mandarin

The Ultimate ‘Your Skin But Better’ Scent

Escentric Molecules is famous for minimalist magic. Molecule 01 + Mandarin is their twist on Iso E Super (that molecule everyone says is “invisible but magnetic”), blended with a pop of juicy mandarin.

Features: Iso E Super base; fresh mandarin top
Bottle: Modern, clear with orange accents
Size: 100ml

I first noticed how it adapts to my skin: citrusy at first, then musky and subtly woody. Jeremy Fragrance describes it as “the perfect mood enhancer”—and he’s not wrong. It’s understated but makes people lean in for a second sniff.

3. Byredo Sundazed

Seriously Summer In A Bottle

Sundazed is what I grab when I want to feel like I’m on holiday—even if I’m just running errands in yoga pants. It opens with sweet mandarin and Californian lemon, then dries down to cotton candy musk.

Features: Mandarin, lemon top; neroli; musk base
Bottle: Byredo’s iconic minimalist round bottle
Size: 50ml and 100ml

What stands out is the playful vibe. It’s fun but grown-up—like sipping lemonade by the pool with your best friend. Big Beard Business calls it “the smell of sunshine.” Couldn’t agree more.

4. Le Labo Bergamote 22

Cult Classic With Edge

Le Labo’s Bergamote 22 gets all the love on YouTube—and for good reason. It’s zesty bergamot with vetiver and musk underneath, so it feels both crisp and slightly smoky.

Features: Bergamot top; petitgrain; amber; musk
Bottle: Apothecary-inspired glass
Size: 50ml and 100ml

I love its genderless vibe—my partner steals it constantly. It lingers without being loud and smells expensive (because it kind of is). If you want to feel like you have your life together, this is the one.

5. Louis Vuitton Afternoon Swim

Statement Citrus With Class

This is the bottle influencers keep front and center for a reason. Afternoon Swim bursts out with orange, bergamot, and mandarin—then settles into a gentle musk that lasts all day.

Features: Sun-ripened orange and bergamot; white musk
Bottle: Bright blue glass (seriously stunning)
Size: 100ml

When I need pure energy in a spritz, this is my pick. Jeremy Fragrance calls it “liquid sunshine.” It’s bold but never harsh—a confidence booster before meetings or social events.

6. Tom Ford Neroli Portofino

Italian Riviera In A Spray

Every fragrance lover on YouTube seems to own Tom Ford Neroli Portofino. It’s sparkling with neroli flower (think orange blossom), lemon, and amber musk—like walking through an Italian garden at golden hour.

Features: Neroli; citrus; amber; white musk
Bottle: Turquoise glass with gold cap
Size: 50ml, 100ml

I save this for special occasions because it feels fancy without being stuffy. The bottle looks gorgeous on any vanity—trust me, your bathroom shelf wants this.

7. Atelier Cologne Orange Sanguine

Juicy And Uplifting

Influencers rave about how realistic Orange Sanguine smells—like you just peeled a blood orange at breakfast. The musky base keeps it grown-up and long-lasting.

Features: Blood orange; jasmine; tonka bean; musk
Bottle: Simple rectangular glass with orange label
Size: 30ml, 100ml

I wore this on a rainy day and it instantly improved my mood. It’s practical too: small enough for your purse, perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.

8. Hermès Eau de Mandarine Ambrée

Cozy Citrus For Lazy Days

If you want something softer but still fresh, Hermès Eau de Mandarine Ambrée is the YouTuber-approved pick. It blends mandarin with amber and musk—think citrus but wrapped in a cozy blanket.

Features: Mandarin; amber; passion fruit; musk
Bottle: Signature Hermès orange bottle
Size: 50ml, 100ml

I wear this when I want comfort—like after a long workday or while reading at home. It’s not loud but stays close to the skin.

9. Jo Malone London Lime Basil & Mandarin Cologne

Kitchen Garden Meets Classic Musk

Jo Malone scents are influencer staples because they’re so layerable. Lime Basil & Mandarin mixes bright lime with savory basil and soft musks—it’s fresh but sophisticated.

Features: Lime; basil; mandarin; white musk
Bottle: Clear glass with silver cap
Size: 30ml, 100ml

I recommend this for daytime or work settings—it’s unobtrusive but memorable. My mom borrowed mine once and now refuses to give it back!

10. Clean Reserve Solar Bloom

Eco-Friendly Citrus With A Musk Twist

Clean Reserve Solar Bloom is all about sustainable luxury—which YouTubers love to highlight. It starts with bergamot and mandarin, then moves into coconut and warm musks.

Features: Bergamot; mandarin; coconut water; solar musk
Bottle: Recycled glass with wood cap
Size: 100ml

I love that it’s earth-friendly and smells like sunshine after rain. It lasts all day without overwhelming sensitive noses.

My Personal Favorites (And Why They Fit My Lifestyle)

Here’s the thing—I don’t believe in “one scent fits all.” Some days I want to smell like fresh laundry (Aqua Universalis), others like citrus cocktails (Orange Sanguine). If you’re always on the go, pick something light with lasting power (Le Labo Bergamote 22). If you’re more into cozy vibes at home, Hermès Eau de Mandarine Ambrée will never let you down.

When choosing these fragrances, I made sure they’d work for brunches, office days, outdoor strolls—you name it. And yes, they look gorgeous in Pinterest-worthy flatlays.

What Should You Look For In Citrus-Musky Unisex Perfumes?

Scent Notes:

Look for top notes of citrus (lemon, orange, bergamot), balanced by musk or amber in the base.

Longevity:

Opt for Eau de Parfum if you want lasting power; colognes are fresher but might need reapplying.

Bottle Design:

If aesthetics matter (and let’s be real—they do), pick something with minimal glass or colored accents that fits your vibe.

Seasonality:

Citrus works year-round but shines in spring/summer; musky bases ensure they’re not too “summery.”

Price Point:

Influencer picks range from $60 (Atelier Cologne) up to splurge territory ($300+ for Louis Vuitton). Know your budget before you fall in love!

Buying Advice: How To Shop Smart For Your Perfect Citrus-Musky Scent

Try Before You Buy
Get samples online or from department stores before committing to a full bottle—your skin chemistry might surprise you.
Check Return Policies
Some retailers allow returns if the scent isn’t right.
Layering Is Key
Don’t be afraid to mix with other perfumes or even body lotions to customize.
Watch Influencer Reviews
YouTubers test longevity and projection so you don’t have to guess!
Gift Sets Can Be Great Value
Often come with travel sprays or matching lotions.

FAQ

What makes a fragrance “unisex”?

Unisex perfumes use balanced notes that appeal across genders—no heavy florals or overly strong woods. Citrus-musky blends are usually light enough for everyone.

Will these work for sensitive skin?

Most picks here are gentle (especially Clean Reserve), but always patch-test if you’re prone to reactions.

How can I make my perfume last longer?

Apply to moisturized skin (unscented lotion first), focus on pulse points (wrists, neck), and avoid rubbing after spraying.

What size bottle should I buy?

If it’s new to you, start small (30–50ml). Love it? Go bigger for better value per spray.

Are these good for gifting?

Absolutely! Their universal appeal means they suit almost anyone—and bottles look gorgeous wrapped up.

Final Thoughts: Citrus-Musky Is Where Style Meets Function

If you want a fragrance that feels fresh yet comforting—and actually makes people ask what you’re wearing—these influencer-endorsed picks are gold. Whether you’re spritzing for yourself or someone special, citrus-musky blends are truly everyday luxury.

And don’t worry—I’ll be here sniffing my way through more bottles so you don’t have to!