When a man tells a woman she smells good, it’s more than just a casual comment — it’s often a compliment filled with attraction, appreciation, or gentle flirtation. For many women, the moment can feel sweet, surprising, or even a little awkward, depending on the context. Knowing how to respond warmly and thoughtfully helps keep the interaction natural, respectful, and emotionally intelligent.
This article is designed to help readers express themselves with confidence, care, and grace. Drawing from real-life communication experience, social nuance, and conversational psychology, these responses are easy to use, emotionally aware, and socially appropriate.
1. “Thank you, that’s really kind of you.”
This response uses appreciation and politeness to acknowledge the compliment without overthinking it.
- Best use: In professional or semi-formal settings
- Not to use: If the moment is clearly playful or flirtatious
- Other ways to say: “That’s so nice of you to say.”
- Example: “Thank you, that’s really kind of you.”
2. “I’m glad you noticed.”
This reply subtly signals confidence and awareness, without sounding boastful.
- Best use: When you want to sound self-assured
- Not to use: If you want to keep things very formal
- Other ways to say: “I was hoping it would be noticeable.”
- Example: “I’m glad you noticed — I like this scent.”
3. “That means a lot, thank you.”
This response adds emotional warmth, showing the compliment mattered.
- Best use: In personal or meaningful interactions
- Not to use: In rushed or casual exchanges
- Other ways to say: “I appreciate that.”
- Example: “That means a lot, thank you.”
4. “You’re very sweet.”
This reply gently returns kindness, often perceived as soft flirtation.
- Best use: When the tone is friendly or romantic
- Not to use: In strictly professional environments
- Other ways to say: “That’s so sweet of you.”
- Example: “You’re very sweet — thanks.”
5. “I always try to smell nice.”
This response shows intention and self-care, without arrogance.
- Best use: Casual conversations
- Not to use: If modesty is preferred in the setting
- Other ways to say: “I put thought into it.”
- Example: “I always try to smell nice — glad it worked.”
6. “Thank you, I just put it on.”
This keeps the reply light and conversational, opening space for more talk.
- Best use: When conversation is flowing
- Not to use: If you want to end the interaction
- Other ways to say: “It’s fresh today.”
- Example: “Thank you, I just put it on actually.”
7. “You made my day with that.”
This response deepens emotional connection, making the compliment meaningful.
- Best use: With someone you trust or like
- Not to use: In neutral professional settings
- Other ways to say: “That made me smile.”
- Example: “You made my day with that, thank you.”
8. “I appreciate you saying that.”
This shows emotional maturity and gratitude.
- Best use: Almost any setting
- Not to use: When humor is expected
- Other ways to say: “I really appreciate that.”
- Example: “I appreciate you saying that.”
9. “It’s one of my favorites.”
This response invites conversation about fragrance and taste.
- Best use: Social or friendly interactions
- Not to use: If you prefer short replies
- Other ways to say: “I love this scent.”
- Example: “It’s one of my favorites actually.”
10. “That’s good to hear.”
This reply is calm and composed, ideal for reserved personalities.
- Best use: Formal or neutral situations
- Not to use: Romantic moments
- Other ways to say: “Glad to know.”
- Example: “That’s good to hear, thank you.”
11. “I’m happy you like it.”
This response acknowledges the other person’s feeling, creating connection.
- Best use: Friendly or personal settings
- Not to use: When you want to stay distant
- Other ways to say: “I’m glad you enjoy it.”
- Example: “I’m happy you like it.”
12. “You have a good sense of smell.”
This playful reply adds light humor.
- Best use: Casual and relaxed moments
- Not to use: Serious environments
- Other ways to say: “You’re very observant.”
- Example: “You have a good sense of smell.”
13. “That’s such a nice compliment.”
This response reflects emotional awareness.
- Best use: When sincerity matters
- Not to use: Quick passing remarks
- Other ways to say: “That’s very nice of you.”
- Example: “That’s such a nice compliment, thank you.”
14. “I put some thought into it.”
This shows intentional self-expression.
- Best use: Conversations about style or grooming
- Not to use: When modesty is preferred
- Other ways to say: “I chose it carefully.”
- Example: “I put some thought into it.”
15. “I love when people notice.”
This signals openness and confidence.
- Best use: Friendly social settings
- Not to use: Professional environments
- Other ways to say: “It’s nice when it’s noticed.”
- Example: “I love when people notice.”
16. “You’re making me blush.”
This response is gently flirtatious.
- Best use: Romantic or playful moments
- Not to use: Workplace interactions
- Other ways to say: “That’s flattering.”
- Example: “You’re making me blush.”
17. “That’s very thoughtful of you.”
This emphasizes emotional intelligence.
- Best use: Respectful conversations
- Not to use: Fast-paced chats
- Other ways to say: “That’s very considerate.”
- Example: “That’s very thoughtful of you.”
18. “I take that as a compliment.”
This response sets clarity and confidence.
- Best use: When tone is uncertain
- Not to use: Clear romantic situations
- Other ways to say: “I appreciate that.”
- Example: “I take that as a compliment.”
19. “You’re too kind.”
This classic reply shows humility.
- Best use: Formal or polite contexts
- Not to use: Playful flirting
- Other ways to say: “That’s very kind of you.”
- Example: “You’re too kind.”
20. “I was hoping it wasn’t too strong.”
This shows consideration and self-awareness.
- Best use: Professional or public spaces
- Not to use: Intimate moments
- Other ways to say: “I didn’t want it overpowering.”
- Example: “I was hoping it wasn’t too strong.”
21. “It’s nice to hear that.”
This response is balanced and neutral.
- Best use: Everyday conversations
- Not to use: When enthusiasm is expected
- Other ways to say: “That’s nice to hear.”
- Example: “It’s nice to hear that.”
22. “I enjoy wearing it.”
This emphasizes personal comfort and confidence.
- Best use: Self-expression discussions
- Not to use: When brevity is needed
- Other ways to say: “It feels like me.”
- Example: “I enjoy wearing it.”
23. “That’s a lovely thing to say.”
This highlights emotional appreciation.
- Best use: Meaningful exchanges
- Not to use: Rushed interactions
- Other ways to say: “That’s lovely of you.”
- Example: “That’s a lovely thing to say.”
24. “You noticed — impressive.”
This playful response adds charm.
- Best use: Light-hearted moments
- Not to use: Formal environments
- Other ways to say: “Good attention to detail.”
- Example: “You noticed — impressive.”
25. “Thank you, that’s very flattering.”
This response balances politeness and confidence.
- Best use: Universal situations
- Not to use: Highly casual chats
- Other ways to say: “That’s flattering, thank you.”
- Example: “Thank you, that’s very flattering.”
Why People Pick These Responses
People choose these responses because they are emotionally intelligent, socially appropriate, and adaptable. From personal experience working with communication coaching and conversational writing, I’ve seen how the right response builds comfort, confidence, and connection. These replies avoid awkwardness, respect boundaries, and allow individuals to express warmth without pressure.
In everyday interactions, how we respond matters as much as what we say. These responses help women stay authentic while navigating compliments with grace — a skill that never goes out of style.
