Valentine’s Day gift shopping is a fine art. You want something thoughtful, luxurious, and just romantic enough—but not so over-the-top that it feels like you’re trying too hard. Flowers are lovely, but they’ll be in the bin within a week time. Chocolates are gone in an evening (especially if you “accidentally” keep them for yourself). But perfume? Now that’s a gift with staying power.
But with endless options, how do you pick one that feels personal rather than a last-minute panic buy? Thankfully, The Perfume Shop has done the hard work for you. Their fragrance experts have rounded up the scents that are set to be best-sellers this Valentine’s Day—whether you’re shopping for her, for him, or for yourself. From timeless classics to fresh new favourites, these are the perfumes that simply can’t go wrong.
For Her:
Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum
Shop here – from £75.00 (30ml)
A modern classic, Coco Mademoiselle blends fresh citrus notes of orange and bergamot with a heart of jasmine and rose. The warm base of patchouli and vanilla adds depth, making it an elegant yet versatile choice.
Carolina Herrera Very Good Girl Elixir Eau de Parfum
Shop here – from £78.00 (30ml)
This fragrance opens with playful redcurrant and lychee, followed by a floral heart of rose. The base of vanilla and tonka bean gives it a creamy, seductive finish. Perfect for those who love a bold yet feminine scent.
Burberry Her Intense Eau de Parfum
Shop here – from £75.00 (30ml)
Rich and fruity, this perfume combines notes of blackberry, jasmine, and benzoin for a deep, warm scent with a hint of sweetness. Ideal for those who love a statement fragrance.
For Him:
Dior Sauvage Eau de Parfum
Shop here – from £77.50 (30ml)
A fresh yet bold scent, Sauvage features bergamot and spicy Sichuan pepper, balanced with a base of vanilla and ambroxan. A strong choice for those who prefer something confident and long-lasting.
Montblanc Explorer Eau de Parfum
Shop here – from £38.00 (30ml)
This woody, aromatic fragrance combines bergamot, vetiver, and patchouli for a refined, adventurous scent. It’s a versatile everyday fragrance that works just as well for a romantic evening.
Hugo Boss Bottled Eau de Toilette
Shop here – from £47.00 (30ml)
A timeless favourite, this scent opens with apple and cinnamon, leading into a warm, woody base of sandalwood and cedar. It’s classic, masculine, and effortlessly wearable.
How to choose the right perfume
Karla Woolley, Head of Buying, gave us her top tips: “A great perfume reflects the wearer’s personality. For a romantic, opt for florals like rose or jasmine. For an optimist, go for vibrant citrus scents. Bold personalities might love woody or spicy notes like patchouli or cinnamon.”
The Perfume Shop also offers the Fragrance Finder, which recommends perfumes based on your loved one’s favourite scents. Plus, you can get an engraving service on a range of best-sellers, allowing you to personalise your bottle with initials, a date, or a short message. It’s an effective way to turn what could easily be perceived as a panic buy into a meaningful gift.
Whether you’re buying a perfume for a partner, a best friend, or yourself (and you should absolutely do that, whether you’re a single pringle or knee deep into your 10-year marriage), you can’t go wrong with the classics. And if the experts at The Perfume Shop say so, we will have to agree.