Best Colognes For Men: What Women Think

Women have varying opinions on what they consider to be the best men's cologne. Some popular choices include Bleu de Chanel, Dior Sauvage, Acqua di Parma, and Paco Rabanne One Million Parfum. Women also tend to prefer fresh and citrusy scents for daytime and muskier, more sophisticated scents for the evening and winter months.

Citrus scents

Acqua Di Gio by Giorgio Armani

This fresh and energetic fragrance blends crisp citrus notes with deep floral elements and masculine scents like musk and cedar. It's bold, refreshing, and exotic without being overwhelming. Acqua Di Gio is a timeless staple that will make you stand out from the crowd while still providing a discreet scent that's perfect for the office.

Luna Rossa Ocean by Prada

Luna Rossa Ocean is a stylish fragrance that surprises with its fresh and fruity top notes. As the day progresses, herbal and bold notes of sage and suede emerge, followed by traditional masculine base notes. It's a versatile fragrance that suits any man looking for a clean and modern scent.

The One for Men by Dolce & Gabbana

This warm and spicy cologne adds elegance and sophistication with its woody notes and grapefruit top note. It's a charismatic fragrance perfect for special occasions, balancing seductive wood notes with fresh citrus elements.

Classic Eau de Toilette for Men by Nautica

Nautica's Classic Eau de Toilette is a pleasant mix of citrus and earthy notes, offering a fresh, tangy, and masculine scent. It's an affordable option that's ideal for daily wear, with delicate notes that are easy to get used to.

Chrome Extreme by Azzaro

Chrome Extreme combines sandalwood, a common base note in perfumery, with fresh citrus scents to create a crisp and energizing fragrance. It's an affordable option that will make you feel like a million bucks, perfect for men with an active lifestyle.

Dylan Blue Pour Homme by Versace

Dylan Blue Pour Homme by Versace is a seductive and timeless fragrance that contrasts deep musk with crisp citrus. It's a sophisticated scent for the confident and sophisticated man, perfect for the colder months.

Drakkar Noir by Guy Laroche

Drakkar Noir is a long-lasting, iconic fragrance with delicate herbal and citrus notes. It's a versatile scent suitable for work, play, and everything in between, and is sure to turn heads and attract attention.

CK One by Calvin Klein

CK One is a unique, gender-neutral scent with bold citrusy accents and crisp wood notes. It's a classic, timeless fragrance that has stood the test of time, offering a fresh and clean scent that's not too overpowering and can be worn every day.

Touch by Burberry

Touch by Burberry is a blend of citrus and spice, with notes of mandarin, cedarwood, nutmeg, and white pepper. It's a refreshing and invigorating scent that's perfect for spring, with a lightness that won't weigh you down on warmer days.

Eau Sauvage by Christian Dior

Eau Sauvage is a great option for fall, balancing freshness and depth. The citrus notes are perfect for warmer fall days, while the woodsy and spicy notes add a cozy feel for cooler days. It's a subtle, sophisticated, and timeless fragrance.

Green Irish Tweed by Creed

Green Irish Tweed is a mature and sophisticated fragrance that may seem simple compared to other citrus colognes. However, its apparent simplicity gives it a timeless appeal, bringing out the key citrus and floral notes. It's a luxurious fragrance that's worth the investment, with a high concentration of perfume oils ensuring a little goes a long way.

Musky scents

Kiehl's Musk Eau de Toilette Spray

This cologne has stood the test of time, with a formula that remains largely unchanged since it was first developed by Kiehl's Apothecary in the 1920s. Known as "Love Oil" back then, this iconic musk-forward fragrance continues to enchant with its addictive aroma.

Chanel Bleu De Chanel

Chanel's Bleu De Chanel is a sophisticated take on the original, offering a fresh bite along with amber and woody notes for a deep, musky dry-down that's perfect for date nights. It's a versatile scent that can be worn during the day or at night, leaving a lasting impression.

Tom Ford Ombré Leather Eau de Parfum

This modern interpretation of classic masculine notes like leather, tobacco, and woods is a unique, wearable cologne with a smooth, musky finish. It blends florals like violet and jasmine with deeper notes for a lighter, yet sexy fragrance.

Molton Brown Milk Musk

For a more subtle approach to musk, Molton Brown's Milk Musk is an excellent choice. This eau de toilette blends musk with warm vanilla, amber, and white cedar for a subtle, yet attention-grabbing fragrance that's perfect for those who want to leave a lasting impression without being too overpowering.

Diptyque Fleur de Peau

If you're looking for a floral scent with a musky twist, Diptyque's Fleur de Peau is an excellent choice. It combines floral notes like iris and Turkish rose with musk for an earthy, sensual element, along with aldehydes for a clean, soapy quality. This versatile fragrance can be worn during the day or at night.

Frederic Malle Musc Ravageur

For a true musk powerhouse, Frederic Malle's Musc Ravageur is a must-have. With a double helping of musk in its heart and base notes, this iconic fragrance opens with fresh bergamot, mandarin, and lavender before settling into an animalistic and deeply seductive musk. It's sure to leave a lasting impression.

Ralph Lauren Polo Blue

This popular eau de toilette combines aquatic and fresh elements with deeper musky base notes, creating a versatile and iconic fragrance that's perfect for everyday wear. It's a well-balanced scent that's not too dark or carnal, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions.

Creed Aventus

Creed's Aventus is another iconic choice, blending fresh citrus with warm woods and earthy musk for a bold, masculine fragrance. It exudes confidence and power, making it a great choice for those who want to make a strong impression.

Dior Sauvage Elixir

Dior's Sauvage line has been a favourite among women, and the Elixir version takes it to the next level. With addictive notes of lavender, grapefruit, and sandalwood, along with a strong base of Haitian vetiver, it's a modern take on barbershop fragrances that's simply irresistible.

Nishane Hundred Silent Ways

Nishane's Hundred Silent Ways is a sophisticated and indulgent fragrance that every gentleman should have in his collection. It blends white florals with sandalwood and vetiver, creating a soapy vibe that's both addictive and elegant. It's a true masterpiece that's perfect for those in their 30s and beyond.

Bleu de Chanel EDP

Chanel's Bleu de Chanel is a timeless classic that continues to enchant women with its sharp, citrusy aroma and sweet woodsy vibe. It's mass-appealing yet embodies the true character of the gentleman wearing it, making it a versatile and inviting scent.

Acqua di Parma, Blu Mediterraneo Fico di Amalfi

This Acqua di Parma fragrance blends bergamot and sweet, delectable figs, leaving creamy woody fig vibes that are particularly pleasant on a man. It has decent longevity, so you can enjoy its unique scent throughout the day.

Ramz Lattafa Silver

Ramz Lattafa Silver is a masculine and alluring fragrance with strong mint vibes and sweet citruses. It settles into soft woods after an hour or so, making it a great choice for all seasons. It's sure to intrigue and captivate those around you.

Scandal Pour Homme

Scandal Pour Homme exudes seductive and sensual vibes with its gooey, sweet, and caramel notes. The caramel is balanced by the clean, airy vibe of vetiver, giving it a masculine edge. This scent is sure to turn heads and melt hearts, making it a great choice for close encounters.

Paco Rabanne One Million Parfum

Paco Rabanne's One Million Parfum is an interesting and eccentric scent with notes of cola, bright citrus, soft white florals, and distant salty vibes. It exudes confidence and charm, making it perfect for those who want to make a subtle yet memorable impression.

Hermès Terre d’Hermes Parfum

This Hermès fragrance is a wonderful twist on the classic Terre d'Hermes, opening with invigorating incense and earthy, green nuances. As it settles, it reveals bright citruses and spicy ginger nuances with woody vibes

Woody notes

Woody fragrances are a popular choice for men's cologne, offering a warm, earthy, and masculine scent. Here is an overview of some of the best woody colognes for men, as recommended by women and fragrance experts:

Tom Ford Oud Wood

This cologne by Tom Ford is a popular choice, featuring rare oud wood, sandalwood, and Chinese pepper. It has a versatile and distinctive scent that makes it a great signature fragrance. While it is on the expensive side, its earthy and woody notes create an elegant and sophisticated aroma.

Bleu de Chanel

Chanel's Bleu de Chanel is a well-loved fragrance that seamlessly blends freshness and masculinity. It features notes of aromatic cedar and New Caledonian sandalwood, creating an elegant and refined woodiness. This cologne is a popular choice and is suitable for both day and night.

Terre d'Hermes Parfum

This cologne by Hermes has a strong following among fragrance collectors. It offers an addictive woody and spicy accord with notes of vetiver, flint, and oak moss. The parfum option provides better longevity than the EDT, ensuring the scent lingers for a longer duration. It is a great affordable option that smells fantastic and often receives discounts.

Gucci Guilty Eau Pour Homme

Gucci Guilty is a woody aromatic cologne that exudes masculinity. With notes of lavender and lemon, complemented by a base of cedarwood and patchouli, it strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and darkness. It is a great choice for those who want to convey a mature and romantic impression.

Tom Ford Grey Vetiver

Tom Ford's Grey Vetiver is a bright and clean fragrance with a sophisticated edge. It combines vetiver, an earthy aromatic scent, with salty notes, woods, and citrus. This cologne is perfect for any occasion, be it day or night, and has a moderate to long-lasting projection.

John Varvatos Artisan Black

Artisan Black by John Varvatos is a captivating fragrance that blends citrus and neroli with darker notes like patchouli and leather. It is a longer-lasting and woodier interpretation of the classic Artisan, making it perfect for both day and night. Its rich, dark, sensual, and sexy aroma is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Amouage Reflection Man

Reflection Man by Amouage tops the list as a great niche cologne. It is a sweet and smooth woody floral musk built from old-fashioned fragrance combinations often found in fine-milled soaps and barbershops. Its elegant, classy, romantic, and old-fashioned scent, paired with high-quality ingredients, creates a natural and approachable fragrance.

Honorable Mentions:

• Le Labo Santal 33: A trendy and unisex fragrance with a rich, spicy scent and warm woody notes.
• Jo Malone London Wood Sage & Sea Salt: A subtle and minimal scent evoking the sea with notes of minerals, ambrette seeds, sage, and sea salt.
• Burberry Hero: An earthy and woody fragrance with notes of cedarwood, pine needle, and benzoin.
• Maison Margiela Replica 'By the Fireplace': A nostalgic and sweet woody scent capturing the warmth of lying by the fireplace.

Spicy fragrances

Dolce & Gabbana The One

This cologne is a popular choice for date nights and clubbing. It has a sweet, spicy, and aromatic oriental scent with a masculine and classic appeal. The top notes include grapefruit, coriander, and basil, followed by cardamom, ginger, and orange blossom at its heart. The base notes of cedarwood, ambergris, and tobacco add a warm and spicy touch to the fragrance.

BVLGARI Man in Black

BVLGARI Man in Black is an intense and mature fragrance, often compared to Viktor & Rolf Spicebomb. It combines spices, rum, and leather, creating an alpha male fragrance that is warm, comforting, and sweet. The top notes feature rum, cardamom, and cinnamon, followed by tuberose, iris, and leather in the heart. The base notes include benzoin, tonka bean, guaiac wood, and black amber, leaving a long-lasting impression.

Tom Ford Noir

Tom Ford Noir is a sophisticated, spicy oriental cologne with a unique blend of flowers and woods. It has a sweet and powdery scent with a masculine edge. The top notes include bergamot, verbena, caraway, pink pepper, and violet, while the heart reveals black pepper, nutmeg, Tuscan iris, geranium, Bulgarian rose, and clary sage. The base notes of opoponax, amber, Indonesian patchouli leaf, vetiver, civet, and vanilla round off this complex and mysterious fragrance.

Salvatore Ferragamo F by Ferragamo Black

This cologne is a spicy aromatic fragrance designed as an elegant and intense evening version of the original F by Ferragamo. It has a bold and powerful scent often associated with a "bad boy" image. The top note is lavender, followed by black pepper and coriander in the heart. The base notes of labdanum and tonka add a spicy and aromatic touch to the fragrance.

Dior Sauvage

Dior Sauvage is a strong and confident fragrance with fresh, spicy, and musky notes. It blends Calabrian bergamot, Sichuan pepper, and ambroxan, creating a unique and classy scent. This cologne is perfect for making a lasting impression, whether at a 5-star restaurant or any special occasion. It is a popular choice among women, exuding success and charisma.

Chanel Allure Homme Sport

This Chanel cologne is a sporty, fresh, and sexy fragrance. It has a unique blend of mandarin, sea spray, blood orange, pepper, cedar, and white musk. The scent is versatile, perfect for daytime or summer, leaving a memorable trail that will have women wanting more.

Fresh, clean fragrances

Women have varying preferences when it comes to men's cologne, but fresh and clean fragrances are often cited as appealing. Here are some examples of fresh and clean fragrances that women find attractive:

Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue

A light, fresh, aquatic cologne with citrusy notes and a hint of rosewood. It's a versatile scent suitable for casual daytime wear in spring or summer. Women appreciate its youthful, energetic, and mood-boosting aroma, which is sweet without being overpowering.

BVLGARI Man in Black

This cologne exudes spices, rum, and leather, reminiscent of Viktor & Rolf's Spicebomb but with a drier and smoother finish. It's an alpha male fragrance that's warm, comforting, and sweetly masculine, like James Bond. Women find it sexy, mature, and classy.

Tom Ford Grey Vetiver

A sophisticated blend of citrus, spice, and vetiver, this cologne is clean, bright, and sunny, yet also sophisticated and mature. It's a versatile scent suitable for both day and night and all seasons except winter. Women appreciate its elegance and classic masculinity.

Salvatore Ferragamo F by Ferragamo Black

A spicy aromatic cologne that's intense and elegant, perfect for evening wear. It conveys a 'bad boy' image, suggesting a man who wears a black leather jacket and rides a motorbike. Women find it powerful and seductive.

Chanel Allure Homme Sport

A sporty and casual fragrance with notes of mandarin, cedar, and white musk. It's a daytime, summer scent that leaves a lasting impression. Women are drawn to its freshness and sensuality, reminiscent of Old Spice but without the locker room undertones.

Ralph Lauren Polo Red Rush

A refreshing citrus scent with top notes of pineapple, orange, and grapefruit, complemented by mid-notes of spearmint. It's an energizing and crisp fragrance, perfect for everyday wear, and is especially appealing to women during the spring and summer seasons.

Creed Aventus

A luxurious, fruity, and woody fragrance with notes of apple, bergamot, pineapple, birch, jasmine, and pink berries. It's a versatile scent suitable for special occasions and everyday wear, with an appealing earthy undertone. Women find it attractive and classy.

Issey Miyake L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme

A unique and classic cologne with a mix of citrus, soapy notes, and a clean, fresh vibe. It's perfect for daytime and warm-weather wear, leaving a subtle and unobtrusive impression.

Louis Vuitton Imagination

A luxurious and deceptively simple citrus-forward cologne with a hint of sweetness and spice, complemented by a subtle base of amber and wood. It's suitable for both day and night and leaves a lasting impression.

Ralph Lauren Polo Eau de Toilette

A traditional and versatile fragrance with a fresh, herbal, and slightly spicy character. It has stood the test of time since its debut in 1978. Women appreciate its timeless, masculine appeal.

Hermes Terre d'Hermes Eau de Toilette

A sophisticated, bright, and nostalgic fresh and woody cologne with notes of citrus, woods, and patchouli. It evokes a timeless, confident, and relaxed elegance, perfect for a well-tailored linen suit.

Frequently asked questions