Romantic fragrances have had a makeover. Here are nine we know you are going to fall head-over-heels with.
Nowadays, romantic fragrances don’t have to be predictable, overly sweet, or the kind of perfume your grandmother wore (if you don’t want them to be). After all, modern love stories are more dynamic and varied than ever before – self-love included – and so are the scents that are inspired by the most sought-after of emotions.
Gone also are the days when romantic fragrances were defined by powdery florals and syrupy sweet scents that could easily slip into feeling immature. Now, perfumers are crafting blends that are bold and intriguing – inviting you (and those you love or want to love) to come a little bit closer.
One of the best things about modern romantic fragrances is their ability to surprise. Rose – that most romantic of flowers – as well as the softness of white florals and musk are completely transformed through a touch of spice, coffee and richer accords, while still instantly feeling amorous.
Modern romantic scents have pushed past outdated ideas of what’s “for men” and what’s “for women” too – with a boom in unisex colognes and celebrations of stealing your other half’s fragrance at any opportunity. Sensuality isn’t confined to floral or musky notes either; perfume now blends woody, spicy, and fresh elements in innovative romantic ways.
So, if you think romantic fragrances are stuck in the past or predictable, think again. Today’s scents are daring, unexpected, and very easy to fall in love with.
Here are some of our favourite romantic fragrances for spring.
Jo Malone’s Taif Rose Cologne Intense is like the evolution of a first kiss – soft yet unforgettable. It begins with the delicate freshness of Taif rose. Then, as the fragrance deepens, rich coffee notes emerge and amber wraps everything in a warm, sensual embrace; much like the moment desire takes over and a good kiss lingers on the mind long after it ends.
Thought that soft, romantic fragrances couldn't last throughout the day? Think again. Charlotte Tilbury's first foray into fragrance breaks the floral mold. Specifically designed to linger on your skin for up to 18 hours, the brand used a special algorithm that pairs notes together that trigger certain emotions – in this case, love. And yes, the blend of rose essential, pink pepper and cashmeran really is joy-inspiring.
Ready to say 'I love you'? Fragrance Du Bois' Lovers is a sultry and undeniably romantic fragrance that will give you the confidence to do so. It's also the perfect pre-date spritz for when you are out for a candle-lit dinner, with its initial electrifying spark of passion fruit and ginger, which mingles with a heart of rose, saffron and jasmine, and ends with the cocooning wamth of woods.
Romantic fragrances don’t have to be soft and floral. This one from Fragrance du Bois is truly confidence-boosting.
This take on Narciso Rodriguez For Her is like rekindling a past romance – familiar yet deeper and thrillingly new. While the original For Her is a soft embrace, this version turns up the intensity, like the moment an innocent touch transforms into undeniable passion, with the traditional muskiness given new life through lush white florals, juicy peach and vanilla.
For anyone who loves their scent to truly stand out – Meltmyheart leaves an intoxicating trail in your wake. Opening with the edible sweetness of rich dark chocolate and velvety orris butter, ginger then gives a subtle heat as it unfolds, while creamy sandalwood and deep oud introduce a lingering, skin-like sensuality. Best of all, you can make it part of your outfit with one of our beauty director's favourite fragrance necklaces too.
Innovative and playful, Late Night Gelato is not just wearable – it's actually the world's first lickable fragrance, so is sure to get your pulses racing. As for the scent (and taste), it is like your favourite ice cream, tempting you with its creamy sweetness and that little citrus zing that keeps things playful. It's the kind of scent that makes you want to lean in closer, share a laugh, and maybe even steal a kiss. A flirtatious, indulgent treat that brings out the fun side of romantic fragrances.
While traditionally marketed as a men's fragrance, Jimmy Choo Man Extreme is a total power move for women. It’s got that bold, spicy kick with a smooth, leathery and vanilla base that makes it feel ultra-seductive, like stepping into a suit with just the right amount of mystery. This one's your secret weapon for when you want to turn heads and leave a lasting impression on your next date.
Men’s fragrances can be just as romantic on a women’s skin, especially if you want to make a seductive impact on your next date.
From the brand that originated the trend for your-skin-but-better fragrances, Byredo's Blanche is gentle (like traditional romantic fragrances), but far from boring we promise. The fragrance starts fresh and airy, before undressing slowly on your skin to reveal a delicate heart of powdery iris and rose, plus a graceful creamy, woody trail. Effortlessly wearable, with a single spritz, it beckons someone you love to come that little bit closer.
It's not just fragrances for your skin that have had a modern romantic update. Like a reenergised bouquet of fresh flowers, Rituals' spray avoids falling into the trap of becoming too powdery, with a waft of raspberry and patchouli that provides a sweet and sparkling home scent that you'll want to experience again and again. Plus, the modern design ensures you'll instantly fall in love with it.
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Lead image: Jo Malone London
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