How you smell matters — no one wants to be “that” person.
It’s universally understood, but let me back this up with some quick science to give myself a sense of credibility. Smells are processed by the olfactory bulb, a structure at the front of your brain that passes scent signals to other areas for further interpretation. These signals travel to the limbic system, the regions responsible for handling emotions and memories.
This means that if you’re someone with a particularly potent aroma, your scent likely triggers unpleasant recollections — think back to walking by open sewers or enduring sweaty nights in poorly ventilated frat parties.
In short, you are perceived as unclean.
If you smell pleasant, you’re unconsciously linked to things associated with comfort, like fresh air, flowers, or a warm loaf of bread. If you wear one scent enough the smell will be associated with you. This works in your favor in a myriad of ways.
For those with a vindictive streak, think of spritzing your perfume on an ex’s sweater before returning it. You’re not just leaving a trace — you’re planting a memory.
While I’m more than happy to help you haunt your ex’s olfactory bulb, here’s a list of fragrances for other date-related occasions. Keep in mind that while these scents come in a range of prices, dupes for the more expensive ones can always be found with enough determination. Try checking out Dapper Fragrances or Oil Perfumery, and thank me later.
If your goal is to impress someone on a first date, you don’t need to spend a lot of money — especially if you’re not even sure you like them yet. In general, men are simple creatures — smell like a sweet treat, and they’ll be leaning in for more. The good news is there are plenty of affordable gourmand fragrances that emulate that warm nostalgic vibe of walking into a bakery or biting into a slice of cake, all without crossing into cloying, overly-sweet territory.
Kayali Vanilla 28
Vanilla orchid, tonka bean, brown sugar and musk are the standout notes in this perfume, but to the untrained nose, it’s best described as vanilla sweet cream with a subtle hint of liquor. It’s addictive and irresistibly delicious without being too bold — a true crowd-pleaser. While the full bottle retails for around $150, Dapper Fragrances offers a competitive dupe at a fraction of the cost.
YSL Babycat
Save this leathery-vanilla gem for when you really want to make an impression. It’s cozy and sensual yet bold, with smoky and resinous notes that add depth. Perfect for a special night out, but perhaps not the best blind buy, as its stronger elements can be polarizing. If Babycat doesn’t suit your style, try exploring gourmand fragrances with an edgy twist — think smoke, leather, spices or musk. The key is the contrast: pairing sweet, sensual notes with darker, more complex undertones creates a seductive and unforgettable scent profile.
Choco Musk by Al Rehab
Less than $10, this vanilla-chocolate scent gives you the perfect bang for your buck. Why splurge on a date with someone you barely know when you can save your cash and still show up smelling like a sweet treat? Unlike many budget perfume oils, Choco Musk avoids the pitfall of being overly sweet or synthetic. Its creamy cocoa butter-vanilla profile is perfectly balanced, making it delightful on its own and an excellent choice for layering.
Angels Share Killian
While advertised as a gender-neutral scent, Angel’s Share strikes me as decidedly feminine. With intoxicating notes of vanilla, cinnamon, praline, and cognac, it’s an irresistible fragrance that feels both decadent and commanding. Perfect for fall and winter, its rich, warm profile is as indulgent as it is captivating, evoking apple pies, pastries, and various dessert liqueurs. It’s ideal for anyone looking to leave a lasting impression, but its undeniable allure feels especially suited to a confident, feminine edge.
If things go well on your date night, you might want to switch up your scent to something more fitting for when you’re sleeping next to someone or having a movie night in. While bold, seductive scents are perfect for adventurous nights out, a quiet evening at home calls for something more subtle. Skin scents cling close to the skin and are often described as “your skin but better,” enhancing your natural scent. Your date might not even realize you’re wearing perfume, but they’ll definitely feel an urge to get closer.
Diptyque L’eau Papier
Don’t let the notes of sesame, rice and mimosa scare you off. They’re blended so beautifully that the result feels like a warm hug, with a sweet, milky aroma akin to rice pudding. While it can smell differently depending on body chemistry, the perfume warms on your skin, becoming sweeter with a clean, cozy energy that’s hard to stop sniffing.
Dedcool Milk
I’ll admit, the name is a bit misleading, as there are no lactonic notes in this scent. It’s mostly amber and musk, with a touch of freshness from bergamot. But honestly, this scent is just good. It’s simple, comforting and warm — your date won’t be able to pinpoint why you smell so amazing.
Phlur Missing Person
The main notes of this scent include musk, sandalwood, jasmine and neroli, yet there’s something undeniably familiar about it. A soft and comforting unisex fragrance, Missing Person is woody, slightly jammy and delicately sharp. Subtle and understated, it lingers like a memory. Perfect for a romantic night in.
By now, you’ve got a curated arsenal of fragrances for most dating scenarios. If none of these recommendations feel like the right fit, I hope the suggested scent notes at least inspire you to start exploring and find the right match for you.