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Modern romantic scents have pushed past outdated ideas of what’s “for men” and what’s “for women” too – with a boom in unisex colognes and celebrations of stealing your other half’s fragrance at any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 Valentine’s Day and beyond.
This intense version of Jo Malone's 'first kiss' fragrance will have you instantly falling in love – but you'll have to get in there quick; it's limited edition. Warm, sensual and lingering (just like a good kiss), the romance of rose infusion and Taif rose are given a come-closer warming feeling because of a base of coffee and amber.
This is the instant mood boost you need when the weather is so grey – a new gourmand fragrance that's almost as impossible to resist as the French patisserie that inspired it. Sweet and floral on first spritz (courtesy of rose and neroli) the lingering aroma is playful but not sickly, with a really delicious vanilla wood and a creamy pistachio accord.
Ready to say 'I love you'? Burberry's new Her parfum will give you the confidence to do so. With its notes of delicate cherry, warm amber and enveloping vanilla all crackling with energy on your skin, it's also the perfect date night spritz for when you are out for a candle-lit dinner (or scrolling along the Thames – it's inspired by the spirit of London after all).
Romantic fragrances don’t have to be soft and floral. They can be bold, come-a-little-closer scents, which are truly confidence-boosting.
The sort of fragrance that will have someone lean over at the bar and ask 'what are you wearing?' From the first burst of pink pepper and mandarin to the heart of jasmine and a warming base, this bolder ambery floral reintrepretation of D&G's original perfume is a scent made to be noticed, and remembered.
A love letter to powerful woman (and therefore the perfect fragrant accessory to wear from first dates to big business meetings), this playful fragrance has an almost tropical feel with notes of sparkling passion fruit, solar frangipani and sensual vanilla. The result: an aroma you'll love to spritz again and again.
Considering Jimmy Choo is known for its beautiful wedding shoes, it's no surprise that the fragrances are just as romantic and easy to fall in love with. The latest is pure joy with lots to excite your nose (and that of others), with a burst of fruity top notes, a full bouquet of fresh flowers at the heart and a cossetting vanilla musk trail.
Formulated with 41% pure perfume oil so it lingers (and lingers) on your skin, this sensual and sophisticated scent also makes a long‑lasting impression on those around you. It flirts from the first spritz, with bright lavender, sage, and geranium sparkling over a hint of bergamot, before melting into a warm, irresistible hug of amber, creamy vanilla, and patchouli, which is pure magic for Valentine’s Day.
Rather than looking specifically for traditionally ‘romantic’ notes (although there are plenty on this list), aim for a perfume that makes you feel confident – that’s the most romantic fragrance of all.
If you want to feel like a Greek goddess on your next date night (and who wouldn't want to feel that confident), Versace's latest Dylan fragrance is for you. Best of all, Blush Pink is soft in its sensuality with a fruity floral aroma that's neither too sickly or too traditional in its femininity. It's a scent that's just effortlessly wearable – with a few surprises such as hints of strawberry apple and marshmellow to discover. Plus, it smells lovely when worn on winter-sun holidays too.
If girls just want to have fun was bottled for the 2026 woman, it probably would smell a little like this. From the moment the succulent plum bursts to life, there’s a playful, confident energy that feels flirtatious and free, and that's continued by the fruity floral heart (courtesy of osmanthus) and a warm vanilla base for some grounding cosyness. What we particularly love is how it develops on your skin, becoming more irrestible over time, just like a love for a new partner.
Becki Murray is Citizen Femme’s Beauty and Wellness Director. As one of the only UK journalists to hold a Distinction-grade diploma in cosmetic science, she combines her unique knowledge with an editor’s eye to help you make smarter choices about beauty, wellbeing, and aesthetics. Becki also heads up CF’s spa guide so you could say she’s an expert in the science of relaxation too…
We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.
Lead image: Jimmy Choo
Any Questions or Tips to add?