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The 12 Best Wedding Perfumes for Brides, According to Fragrance Experts
There's a pick for every type of bridal vibe, including beachy, floral, and ultra-romantic.
So you just got engaged—congrats! I know all the wedding planning books are telling you to focus on picking your venue, booking your vendors, and ordering your dress or suit. But as a beauty editor, I'm telling you that you should spend just as much deciding on the best wedding perfume. And the experts agree! "Your wedding fragrance isn’t just perfume—it’s part of the experience, woven into the rituals and emotions of the day," says Gustavo Romero, founder of the Fragrance Alliance Network. "And just like the perfect dress or the right suit, the perfect scent is this invisible thread that ties everything together, creating a sensory imprint of the day."
A really good wedding perfume will also help you remember your big day for years and years to come, says perfumer Gabriela Cheraliu. No pressure, right? If you're feeling a liiiiitle stressed out about your wedding day scent, we're here to make things easier for you. Below, find the 12 best wedding perfumes, like ever (picked by a hopeless romantic beauty editor and dating writer, along with insights from fragrance experts). I spent weeks testing options that embodied the feeling of romance so you can feel like your most beautiful self on your wedding day. Just take a sneak peek at these picks...
Our top picks for the best wedding perfumes of 2025:
Whether you want to smell like a fresh bouquet of flowers or are looking for something a little sexy and daring, there's something for every bride on this list. Keep reading to say "I do" to your perfect wedding perfume.
Pros
- This smells extra dreamy, like it was made for a special occasion
- Warm, sweet, and floral—it offers a little something for everyone
Cons
- It's limited edition at Sephora so stock up while you can
You could wear any old perfume on your wedding day...or you could spritz on this romantic scent that was created specifically for Kayali founder Mona Kattan's wedding day. Wedding Silk Santal feels celebratory and personal, opening with a hints of sparkling champagne and fresh freesia. This quickly becomes sweeter and more intoxicating as rich pink praline intertwines with juicy nectarine and orange blossom, before settling in a dreamy and inviting haze of sugared musk, sandalwood, and vanilla. TLDR: It smells like love. Amidst her thousands of fragrances, Kattan walked down the aisle doused in this. And that's when you know it's good.
- Key notes: Sparkling champagne, white freesia, sandalwood
- Sizes: 1.7 and 0.33 oz
One expert says: "The combination of sparkling champagne, a luminous white flower bouquet, addictive creamy vanilla, and sandalwood makes this fragrance perfect for such a festive moment. It’s full of happiness and optimism with facets that last long after the festivities end."—Cheraliu
Pros
- Ridiculously long-lasting—no need to reapply
- Sweetness isn't too intense or cloying
Cons
- The powdery notes might be a little polarizing for some
If you've dreamed about your wedding since you were a child—and have wanted every aspect to make you feel like a princess—Valaya Exclusif fits right in with that vision. The bottle looks like it was plucked straight out of a royal French ball.
This elegant, statement-making scent blends sweet almond with alluring white flowers, a touch of powder, and soft, creamy woods. And although the finished potion smells delicate, it has impressive lasting power. Two or three spritzes is enough to make this linger long after the reception ends. Trust: You'll still be catching whiffs of this as you make your way to the honeymoon suite.
- Key notes: Almond, white flowers, creamy white woods
- Sizes: 2.5 and 1 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "Can someone pls wife me up soon so I can wear this before everyone else does? As soon as I tested this—a slightly richer and sweeter version of the original fresh Valaya loved by the Cosmo staff—I knew it would be worn by many on their wedding days. It's yummy but in a soft, subdued way, and also lasts longer than most perfumes I own."—BETH GILLETTE, BEAUTY EDITOR
Pros
- Has a very strong projection and lasting power
- Very sexy, sweet scent
Cons
- Can feel a bit cloying if you spray too much
Some people save memorable fragrances for special occasions, but if you're anything like moi, you wear your most attention-grabbing scents on a daily basis. This is one of the most electric scents in my collection—which spans more than 250 bottles, NBD—and I'm fully convinced I'll meet my future husband while wearing it...which means I'll have to spritz it on my wedding day (naturally).
Airy neroli and orange blossoms mingle with sweet honeysuckle for a bright and dainty opening that turns enticingly sweet as hints of marshmallow and warm vanilla emerge. The dry down gives this scent a sexy edge, thanks to the rich, ambery base. Let's just say that once your lover smells Love, Don't Be Shy, the honeymoon phase will last a lifetime.
- Key notes: Orange blossom, vanilla absolute, marshmallow
- Sizes: 3.4, 1.7 and 0.24 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "Ever since I found out Rihanna loves this perfume, I've felt sexy wearing it. Sure, the scent alone evokes some serious sensuality—marshmallow, sugar, and caramel will do that—but there's a pep in my step that wasn't there before. Smelling like Rihanna will also do that."—BG
Pros
- White bottle screams bridal
- Very light, so great for those with sensitive noses
Cons
- The scent fades away very quickly
Weddings can be grand and showy, but when it comes down to it, the day is about you and your partner. No one else. With this in mind, choosing a soft, musky scent that lays close to your skin can help you recenter yourself. That's pretty much what The Blanc was made for. This airy perfume—which features a chiffony blend of white tea, woods, and sheer musk—feels light yet memorable. Only those who get very close (aka, your spouse) will be able to catch a whiff. The lightness also makes this a great pick for brides who tend to get headaches from fragrance.
- Key notes: White tea, white musks, woods
- Sizes: 2.5, 5 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "I wish I had this fragrance when I got married back in 2021. The scent is soft, fresh, and uplifting without being overpowering, which is exactly what a wedding day perfume should be IMO. And the bottle is so luxe and bridal-looking too.”—LAUREN BALSAMO, BEAUTY DIRECTOR
Pros
- Light while still memorable
- The bottle looks like it was made for weddings
Cons
- This scent doesn't project far—it's much more personal
There's something so magical about saying "I do" with the sand between your toes and a deep turquoise ocean behind you. If your dream wedding is seaside, Jo Malone London's Beach Blossom will make your nuptials even more enchanting. This smells like the beach bottled, courtesy of sparkling lime and fresh coconut water. The dry down takes a cozy, romantic turn as hints of tonka, vanilla, and vetiver wrap you in a warm embrace.
- Key notes: Lime, coconut water, vanilla
- Sizes: 3.4, 1.7, and 0.34 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "I find that beach-inspired scents can lean a bit too tropical (and juvenile) for my liking. This strikes a perfect balance between fun, bright, and sexy. The solar quality keeps it airy while the sweet, warm base notes give this a surprising intimate twist that smells truly addictive."—MARY HONKUS, CONTRIBUTING BEAUTY EDITOR
Pros
- This feels uplifting and grounding at the same time
- Great to share with your partner
- Could be your something blue!
Cons
- Only available on Ranavat's website
You should feel 100 percent sure of the person you're marrying (duh). Still, the pre-wedding jitters are totally normal. Spritzing on Spiritual Awakening can calm your nerves and give you a sense of peace as you walk down the aisle toward your forever.
Inspired by angel numbers—you know, those sequenced numbers that essentially confirm you're on the right path—this features a cocktail of notes that are proven to ground you and designed to help tap into your emotions. Spicy saffron intertwines with sensual jasmine, vetiver, and sandalwood for a luxurious, elevated scent that will transport you back to your wedding day for years to come.
- Key notes: Saffron, jasmine, sandalwood
- Sizes: 1.7, and 0.2 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "I'm not a religious person, but there's something about this fragrance that feels spiritual. I spritz it when I'm trying to ~manifest~ something into my life...and if I'm wearing this when I meet my future husband, you best believe I'll be wearing it on my wedding day."—MH
Pros
- Very strong scent that's great in cold weather
- Bottle would look stunning in vanity photos
Cons
- Might be too overpowering for some noses
Peak wedding season falls between April and October, and the warmer weather typically calls for lighter scents. If you're a bride who want to say "I do" in the winter, consider this bold scent. It's sexy, glamorous, and rich—perfect for colder weather.
Black cherry marries spicy red peppercorn for a seductive, sumptuous first spritz. As Suite 302 wears, deep florals, including violet and rose centifolia, materialize before settling in steamy blend of tobacco and leather. Be warned: Your hubby will be dying to take off your bridal gown the second he catches a whiff of this.
- Key notes: Black cherry, rose, tobacco leaves
- Sizes: 3.4 and 1.7 oz
One Cosmo reader says: "This perfume is beyond amazing. such a unique, different and captivating scent. I am constantly asked 'what are you wearing?' ...who doesn't love that?"
Pros
- The fine mist spritz is ~so satisfying~
- I love the romantic and airy scent
Cons
- Not widely available
The soft sensual moments you share with your loved one are often the most meaningful (and memorable). I'm talking the touch of your first kiss, a flirty whisper in your ear, the feeling of them pulling you closer as they sleep. This ethereal scent somehow replicates each of these sensations.
Ave Maria opens with a bouquet of gardenia, jasmine, and neroli that smells like it was freshly picked after a rainstorm. This aquatic hint makes it feel more intimate than your average floral perfume. Then, the bases notes add an intoxicating, unexpected depth thanks to a red wine accord and oakwood.
If the ~little details~ are important to you, the opalite cap also has a special meaning that can add to your wedding day—the stone is said to promote purity and fidelity.
- Key notes: Gardenia, rain drops, merlot wine
- Sizes: 2.5 and 1.4 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "Florals are not my jam, but this scent is something special. It was automatically giving me 'bride' from the first spritz, and just imagine how pretty the bottle would look in photos! "—MH
Pros
- Not too powdery
- Even the travel size is gorgeous—which is kind of a rarity
Cons
- Doesn't have the best lasting power, so be prepared to spritz throughout the day
Colette isn't your average floral perfume. I mean, it does feature jasmine, which our experts say is a wonderful note for wedding scents, but the feathery white floral smells more heady, sweet, and frankly, memorable when mixed with violet and cyclamen. A bit of pink peppercorn adds a little spice, while the musky vanilla dry down feels extra intimate.
Not to mention, the bottle is one of the most beautiful we've ever seen—and, yes, the travel-sized bottle is just as intricate. If you're having a destination wedding and can't bring a full-size bottle, the mini will still look amazing in your wedding flat-lay pictures.
- Key notes: Pink peppercorn, jasmine, violet
- Sizes: 3.4, 1.7, and 0.68 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "Tocca is totally underrated, IMO, and when my friends ask me to help them pick out a wedding perfume this is the first thing I show them. I love how Colette smells sweet yet musky. This is one of those rare scents you could totally blind buy and fall in love with. Plus, I love the idea of matching your floral arrangements to the notes in the perfume—you'll smell amazing and have the prettiest bouquet with this!"—MH
Maison Margiela Replica Coffee Break Eau de Toilette
Pros
- This is warm, inviting, and memorable
- Replica is perfect for scent-matching
Cons
- Since it's an eau de toilette, it doesn't last super long
Romero says matching scents from the same fragrance house is a symbolic way to commemorate your special day. And Replica has about a gazillion to choose from. Coffee Break flies relatively under the radar, though. This special fragrance transports you to a comforting coffee shop with hints of freshly brewed coffee paired with a creamy milk accord. Plus, a touch of lavender and spearmint add a bit of freshness. Replica Jazz Club, a warm spicy fragrance with notes of tobacco and rum, would be an excellent pairing with this. Consider the combo a match made in heaven—just like you and your partner.
- Key notes: Coffee, lavender, milk mousse
- Sizes: 3.4 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "A friend of mine chose this exact combo for her nuptials. She wore Coffee Break while her Husband wore Jazz Club. They went shopping and picked out each other's scents. How freaking adorable?!" — Honkus
Pros
- Smells very unique for a jasmine-centric perfume
- Has very long lasting power, so you won't have to reapply
Cons
- Not as widely available as others on this list
Romero says that jasmine is one of the most popular wedding perfume notes because it inherently smells romantic. This solar floral scent incorporates the note while still differentiating itself from the most well-known jasmine perfumes. (So, don't worry, wearing this for your special day will make you feel one of a kind.)
J'ai Trois Amours—which translates to 'my three loves'—gets a tropical twist from banana flowers along with an unexpected zing from pink pepper. Combined, these dazzling notes create an effervescent, mood-boosting scent that will enhance your entire wedding day.
- Key notes: Banana flower, jasmine, pink pepper
- Sizes: 3.4 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "This scent just feels joyful. For me, it feels the same as watching the sunrise, enjoying your favorite pancakes on a Sunday morning, or just uncontrollably laughing with friends. It's sweet, bright, and fresh, and I've recommended it to a few of my friends who are getting married soon."—MH
Pros
- Very rose-centric scent
- Perfect for those who like a subtle fragrance
Cons
- Since it's an eau de toilette, you might have to re-spritz throughout the night
Rose is, indisputably, the most romantic flower of all time. Seriously, when I think of love, I immediately picture a bouquet of roses or rose petals leading up to an extravagant proposal. So, if you want to smell like pure romance, wear this scent from Chloe. Freshly picked roses may be the main note, but a dash of bergamot gives it a sparkling quality before it dries down to a soft ambery musk.
Compared to the other options on our list, Roses de Chloe is much more intimate and lies close to skin—it's like a little treat that will only be enjoyed by you and your partner.
- Key notes: Bergamot, damascena rose, amber musk
- Sizes: 2.5, 1, and 0.33 oz
One Cosmo reader says: "Such a beautiful perfume and the smell is amazing. I’ve gotten stopped a few times now and asked what I’m wearing."
Should my wedding perfume be different from my every day scent?
Yes, all of our experts agree that your wedding perfume should feel extra special and be unique from what you wear daily. "Weddings aren't ordinary—just as a groom’s tux stands out from his groomsmen's and a bride’s makeup is always distinct from (and better than) her bridal party's, the fragrance should also feel elevated and unique," says Emma Vernon, host of the Perfume Room podcast. "The couple should feel like they're the best-looking and smelling people in the room."
Romero adds that scent is deeply tied to memories, so choosing a specific perfume for your special day will can add a sentimental touch. "Years from now, catching a whiff of your wedding fragrance can transport you back to the excitement of getting ready, the nerves before walking down the aisle, and the way your partner looked at you during your first dance. It’s an invisible keepsake bottled forever," he says.
What should my wedding perfume smell like?
You still want the perfume you wear on your wedding day to feel like you, but with a little ~razzle dazzle~. "If you love fresh florals, go for a richer, more opulent version. If warm, woody scents are your thing, find one with a luminous quality that lingers," says Romero. "The goal is to have something that feels like you, just with an extra touch of magic."
What are some popular notes for wedding perfumes?
Receiving a bouquet of flowers is one of the most romantic gestures, so it's no surprise that many perfumes used for weddings include floral notes. "I find that brides often gravitate toward rose, peony, or jasmine scents layered with soft musks and creamy vanilla," says Romero. "Citrusy notes add brightness, while warm sandalwood or amber creates depth and sensuality."
In addition, Cheraliu mentions that woody notes, like sandalwood, feel intimate and sensual. "Musk is also well known for its trail and lasting power, but more particularly for a wedding, they are very comforting," she adds. She recommends taking the season into account too. Airier, floral scents complement spring and summer weddings, while more ambery, gourmand notes can enhance the cozy vibes of a fall or winter wedding. Remember, it all comes down to your personal preferences. All our experts emphasize the importance of wearing what makes you feel the most beautiful.
How to choose a wedding perfume:
Test it on your skin first.
Scents can smell completely different on your skin than they do in the bottle, so be sure you actually like how it mixes with your body chemistry. Do a full wear test in the weeks leading up to your wedding to see how it lays on your skin over the course of the day. Weddings are not the occasion to make a blind buy.
Testing it on yourself will also give you the opportunity to see how long it lasts. "You need a fragrance that lasts from 'I do' through the last dance, without constant reapplication," urges Romero.
Consider what your fiancé will be wearing.
"Don’t underestimate the power of coordinating scents with your partner," says Romero. "Whether it’s subtle, echoing notes or matching their bottle, fragrance can be another shared experience that brings your day together," he adds.
We suggest either choosing complementary scents from the same fragrance house, or you could try to evoke harmonizing moods. "Maybe one of you could smell light and ethereal while the other's aroma is more grounded and intense," says Romero. Or you could both wear the same scent, if you're into matching. You've got lots of options here.
Assess the bottle.
While not a total necessity, a beautiful bottle is always a nice touch. Imagine how well the perfume will look in photos if it meshes with your entire wedding aesthetic. Vernon even mentions that it could make for a perfect boudoir shot too.
Meet the experts:
- Gustavo Romero is the founder of the Fragrance Alliance Network. He's also a fragrance consultant, a freelance fragrance creator, and a member of the American Society of Perfumers.
- Gabriela Cheraliu is a principal perfumer at dsm-firmenich. She's worked with brands including Kayali, Phlur, and Brown Girl Jane.
- Emma Vernon is a fragrance consultant and host of the Perfume Room podcast where she reviews perfumes, interviews other experts, and shares hot takes on fragrance.
Why trust ‘Cosmopolitan’?
Mary Honkus is a contributing beauty editor at Cosmopolitan with over seven years of experience researching, writing, and editing fragrance stories, including rounding up the best floral fragrances and explaining the strawberry perfume trend. She’s an authority in all beauty categories but an expert when it comes to fragrance. Her scent wardrobe is ever-expanding and she regularly rotates through a collection of over 200 perfumes (including all of the options in this article).
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