Launched in 2007, Love, Don’t Be Shy was created by perfumer Calice Becker for Kilian Paris. It’s one of the brand’s most popular fragrances, known for its gourmand sweetness and playful charm. Full bottles run in the $200+ range, but samples are available if you’d rather test before committing.

And yes, if you think that sounds pricey, join the chorus of others who share this sentiment. We know some of you are likely to stop reading now, but for those of you interested, just know we do have Love, Don't Be Shy samples that reduce your financial risk. 

About the Fragrance: Love, Don’t Be Shy

Kilian Paris is known for creating perfumes that feel indulgent, almost like little luxuries you wear on your skin. Founded by Kilian Hennessy (yes, from the cognac family), the brand leans into bold storytelling and rich ingredients, often blurring the line between scent and art.

Love, Don’t Be Shy, launched in 2007, quickly became one of the house’s cult favorites. The nose behind it is Calice Becker, a master perfumer with an impressive resume that includes fragrances for Dior, By Kilian, and Tom Ford. Becker is celebrated for her ability to create luminous, memorable scents with a strong emotional pull.

With Love, Don’t Be Shy, she crafted a gourmand that feels both playful and decadent. The marshmallow accord is the star, layered with orange blossom and vanilla for a sweetness that is unapologetic and instantly recognizable. It’s a fragrance that doesn’t whisper — it declares itself.

The Bottle

The bottle is elegant and clean. The juice inside is tinted a soft peach-pink, and the glass flacon is accented with a reflective gold plate on the front. A square gold cap finishes the look. It’s minimalist yet luxurious, giving off the impression of a modern collectible piece.

What Does Love, Don’t Be Shy Smell Like?

This perfume is famous for its marshmallow accord, which immediately sets the tone: soft, sweet, and powdery. On most wearers, it’s a rush of sugar and vanilla with hints of orange blossom.

Reactions vary widely, though. Some describe it as conversation hearts candy, others as sugary cereal milk or even Fruity Pebbles. A few people mention it comes across as juvenile or overly sweet, while others love its playful pastel vibe.

Notes include:

• Top: Neroli, bergamot, pink pepper, coriander

• Heart: Orange blossom, honeysuckle, rose, iris, jasmine

• Base: Marshmallow, vanilla, caramel, musk, civet

It’s a loud gourmand—less cozy dessert, more Valentine’s candy store. Longevity is strong, and projection is noticeable, which adds to its reputation as a bold, sweet fragrance.

Perfume reviewer, The Santa Maria, who compares it to Marly's Oriana, Memo Paris's Sintra, and Mancera's Velvet Vanilla.

Final Notes

Love, Don’t Be Shy is one of those perfumes that people either adore or find overwhelming. Its marshmallow sweetness and orange blossom core make it instantly recognizable and undeniably playful. Some wearers get candy hearts, others get cereal milk or powdery sugar.

That split reaction is part of its charm. It’s not trying to be understated or subtle — it’s a bold gourmand that lives up to Kilian’s reputation for drama and indulgence.

If you’re curious, the smartest move is to try a sample first. At over $200 a bottle, it’s the kind of fragrance you want to test on your skin before deciding if it’s a forever love or a short fling.