It’s difficult to pinpoint what, exactly, makes a scent romantic, because it’s not about a garden-fresh rose or a sweet buttercream vanilla but the feeling you have when you wear it. More challenging still, the way love smells to you can change through the years with new life experience — which means Valentine’s Day is a fitting time for a total refresh.
This year, maybe you want an airy citrus that hints at the thrilling butterflies-in-your-stomach sensation of a new crush. Or there could be some sweet symbolism in a warm, grounded floral, a nod to your long-term relationship. Wherever you currently stand in your personal life, scroll ahead for a fresh 2020 guide to the most romantic perfumes — for your love of love, of adventure, or just because you’re into jasmine and rose and the glass bottle looks pretty on your vanity.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Coach Dreams Eau De Parfum
This adventure-ready scent, inspired by a cross-country road trip, is a little New York and a little Palm Springs — like a worn-in leather jacket soaked in sunshine and fresh desert air. Who’s in the passenger seat? That’s your call.
Coach dreams eau de parfum 40ml, $, available at Coach
Diptyque Eau Capitale Eau de Parfum
Diptyque’s newest fragrance is engineered specifically embody the the essence of Paris, starting with an undertone of patchouli before weaving in bergamot and lush rose petals that will instantly transport you to a garden café in the City of Love.
Diptyque Eau Capitale Eau de Parfum, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Floral Street Neon Rose Eau De Parfum
It’s love at first spritz with this juicy springtime floral, which blends rose with jasmine for a bright, cool scent that’s as attention-grabbing as the vivid long-stem flowers outside every bodega in the West Village.
Floral Street Neon Rose Eau De Parfum, $, available at Sephora
Bvlgari Rose Goldea Eau de Parfum Spray
If you judge a perfume by the bottle alone, this rose-gold jewel makes a winning first impression. In addition to accessorizing your dresser, the scent inside — a soft rose meets musk — is a dreamy, sensual mix of sweet and seductive.
Bvlgari Rose Goldea Eau de Parfum Spray, 1.7 oz., $, available at Macy’s
Nars Audacious Fragrance
This fragrance launched earlier this season, and at first whiff we determined it to be the be-all, end-all of date-night perfume. Sexy smoke and sandalwood are downright intoxicating, in the best way.
NARS Audacious Fragrance, $, available at NARS
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Hermès’ First Lipstick Line Is So Instagrammable
Essie Dropped Valentine’s Day Nail Polish
Bath & Body Works Full Valentine’s Day Assortment
