Despite its low chart placement, "Oh l'amour" has proven to be one of Erasure's signature songs, due to its popularity in dance clubs.

The original artwork of the "Oh l'amour" single featured illustrations from The Railway Series of characters Percy, Rheneas, Agnes, Ruth, Jemima, Lucy, and Beatrice.

Ned Raggett from AllMusic wrote, "A lovely a cappella opening and instantly catchy hook, not to mention sprightly performances from Clarke and Bell both (the latter wisely undersings rather than pushing the flamboyance, letting loose more on the chorus), ensured its classic status.

[6] Everett True from Melody Maker stated that "it takes some kind of fool genius to create fast songs of the scope and emotional rush" of the "dramatic" "Oh l'amour".

[3] Darren Lee from The Quietus noted the "effete hormonal cravings" of the song, praising it as one of "the most gloriously effervescent pop anthems ever recorded".

In the United States, the song's biggest impact was on the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart, where it hit number three on 26 July 1986.