Unveil the best bridal scents & how to make them last
From finding your dream dress to choosing the perfect make-up, there’s a lot to think about with weddings. But the biggest question (after the one where you said ‘I do’) – have you thought about your bridal perfume?
Whether you want something scent-imental like your first date perfume, or you feel more comfortable with your signature fragrance, it’s key to creating an unforgettable day.
That’s because smell and memory are closely linked, and choosing a new perfume is a great way to be whisked back to the altar with every spritz – two, ten or twenty years down the line.
But there’s a lot to learn about perfume – especially wedding perfume – so we caught up with Cathy, one of our Boots customer advisors and fragrance gurus, to chat bridal scents.
Which perfume should I wear for my wedding?
“A good wedding scent should make you feel confident on your big day,” Cathy says. And, really, that’s all that matters.
But if you want to make a more considered choice, think about your preferences, the season, your wedding theme, and – if you like – how it might work with your partner’s scent.
If you’re searching for romantic florals perfect for summer, look for perfumes with heart notes like rose or jasmine. For something more wintry and sensual, keep your eyes peeled for fragrances with base notes of amber or musk.
Consider how the smell will develop, too. Fragrances react differently to everyone’s body chemistry and, while you might love its top notes, this initial scent will give way to the heart notes then the base notes, so you need to like these parts just as much.
How can I match my bridal perfume to my look?
Think about your dress, hair and make-up.
If you’re going classic bridal, a timeless floral scent will pair perfectly with soft, fresh make-up and loose, wavy locks. You’ll look stunning and sophisticated, and you’ll smell it too.
If you’re going all-out with a dramatic dress, a gorgeous up-do and bolder make-up, try using a richer scent to pull out those opulent vibes.
For an outfit that’s lighter and more floaty, a delicate, airy fragrance will match, especially if you’re choosing a shimmery eye for that ethereal feel.
How do I make my perfume last?
Choose an Eau de Parfum for a more concentrated scent. Then, it’s all in the perfect application.
“I would recommend using a complementary body lotion to wear under the fragrance. This will stop the scent being lost so quickly,” Cathy says.
Layering scents is a great way to keep your fragrance lingering throughout the day. Just make sure the moisturiser and body wash have the same notes as your perfume.
“Always hold the bottle away from the skin and spray your perfume in warm areas – on the torso, behind the ears and the chest,” Cathy recommends.
“The best way to get an all-over smell is to spray the fragrance in the air and walk into it.” Just don’t spray too close to your dress!
Whether you’re the bride-to-be or a gorgeous guest, check out Cathy’s recommendations below and find the one for you.
For a classic bride
Try: DIOR Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet Eau de Toilette
• Size: 50ml
• Fragrance family: Floral
“The delicate floral notes mix with the white musk to create a beautiful scent that represents the bridal bouquet,” Cathy says. “I recommend layering this fragrance with the Miss Dior Moisturizing Body Milk as it increases the wear of the perfume.”
For a winter bride
Try: Rabanne Olympea Eau de Parfum
• Size: 50ml
• Fragrance family: Ambery & woody
“The perfect winter wedding perfume, this is an elegant fragrance with a blackcurrant accord. It creates a spicy and warm fragrance that captures the beautiful aromas of a bouquet wrapped in the warmth of winter comforts.”
For a winter wedding guest
Try: Carolina Herrera Good Girl Eau de Parfum
• Size: 50ml
• Fragrance family: Ambery & woody
“Fun and uplifting, this fragrance is perfect for any wedding guest,” Cathy says. “The vanilla and rose create a delicate warmth that makes it perfect for winter. And, with it being an Eau de Parfum, it lasts longer too, so you don't have to worry about it wearing off throughout the day.”
For a summer bride
Try: Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau Fraîche Skinscent
• Size: 50ml
• Fragrance family: Solar floral
A coconut-infused fragrance, this smells like summer in a bottle! “It’s perfect for a bride looking to capture the pure joy of their wedding day wrapped in a summer breeze,” Cathy says.
For a summer wedding guest
Try: Rabanne Fame Eau de Parfum
• Size: 50ml
• Fragrance family: Chypre floral fruity
“A cocktail of mango and creamy incense, this fragrance is sweet and joyful. There’s a floral note going through the fragrance too, which gives an elegant feel for any summer wedding guest.”
