The Most Popular Scent In Cologne Revealed

The number one scent in cologne is a subjective matter, but there are some clear front-runners. Chanel Bleu de Chanel is a popular choice, with its fresh, clean, and sensual notes of citrus, labdanum, sandalwood, and cedar. It's versatile enough to transition from day to night and has that all-important musky undertone, making it perfect for a date. Another popular choice is Dior Sauvage, inspired by nature and raw materials. This scent is earthy and woody, with warm notes of bergamot, pepper, and amberwood. For something a little different, Le Labo's Another 13 is a hidden gem – a collaboration with Another magazine, it's a fresh take on a musky fragrance with notes of ambroxan, jasmine petals, moss, and woody, amber-y notes.

How to choose a cologne

Cologne is an invisible part of your personal style, and it has a powerful effect on how people see and remember you. It can increase your attractiveness and boost your confidence. So, how do you choose the right one?

Understand the Basics

First, it's important to know the basics. All fragrances consist of a mixture of synthetic or natural oils, often dissolved in alcohol to keep the scent strong. Every fragrance has three levels of smell: top notes, heart notes, and base notes. Top notes are the lightest and freshest scents and last for about 15 minutes. Heart notes form the core of the cologne and can last for 3-5 hours. Base notes are denser and usually include musky, masculine scents, lasting for 5-10 hours.

Know the Different Types of Colognes

There are several types of colognes, each with its unique scent profile. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Aquatic Fragrances: These colognes remind you of the beach and the sea. They are often referred to as "ozonic" fragrances and are perfect for summer days by the water.
• Floral Fragrances: While commonly associated with women's fragrances, floral scents are increasingly used in men's cologne. Look for notes like jasmine, tuberose, and magnolia.
• Oriental Fragrances: Oriental fragrances emphasize amber and often include notes of truffle, patchouli, and vanilla. They are considered seductive and are best worn at night.
• Spicy Fragrances: This is a sub-category of oriental fragrances, featuring notes like cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. Like orientals, they are best suited for winter evenings.
• Leather Fragrances: Leather colognes are the most formal type. They are perfect for business meetings or formal events and often include notes reminiscent of petroleum or asphalt.
• Gourmand Fragrances: These colognes evoke scents that you could almost eat, like chocolate, vanilla, and coffee. They are comforting and seductive and are ideal for winter.
• Chypre Fragrances: Chypre fragrances typically include oakmoss, labdanum, and bergamot. They are considered elegant and versatile and are best worn in the fall.
• Fougere Fragrances: Fougere colognes are associated with traditional masculinity and strength. They often feature lavender as a key note and are perfect for the fall season.
• Citrus Fragrances: As the name suggests, citrus colognes are composed of fruity smells like bergamot, tangerine, and grapefruit. They are perfect for summer days and should be used sparingly.
• Woody Fragrances: Woody fragrances remind you of nature and include notes like resin, cedar, patchouli, and vetiver. They are casual and best suited for fall.

Sample and Test Different Colognes

When choosing a cologne, it's important to sample and test different options. Department stores are great for this purpose, as you can try out a variety of scents. Spray one scent on each wrist and walk around the store, smelling the fragrances at various intervals. Take notes on which ones you like and why. Remember that fragrances can change over time, so give each one a few hours to develop before making a decision.

Consider the Occasion and Season

Different colognes are suited for different occasions and seasons. For example, aquatic and citrus fragrances are perfect for summer, while spicy and oriental fragrances are better for winter. Leather and woody colognes are more formal, while floral and gourmand fragrances are versatile and can be worn during the day or at night.

Understand Fragrance Families and Notes

Fragrances are typically categorized into four main families: warm, woody, oriental, and fresh. Each family is characterized by different combinations of fragrances. For example, fresh fragrances include citrus and aquatic notes, while oriental fragrances are warm and spicy.

Additionally, understanding fragrance notes can help you choose a cologne that suits your taste. Top notes are the initial smell of the fragrance and last for about 15 minutes to 2 hours. Middle or heart notes appear after the top notes clear and can last for 3-5 hours. Base notes are the boldest and longest-lasting scents, determining how long the fragrance lingers on your skin.

Choose a Concentration Level

Colognes come in different concentration levels, which affect their strength and longevity. Here are the main types:

• Eau Fraiche: Heavily diluted with a low concentration of perfume oil (1-3%). These fragrances last for about an hour or two.
• Cologne/Eau de Cologne (EDC): Typically associated with masculinity, with a concentration of 2-4%. They tend to be used for younger audiences and last for about 2 hours.
• Eau de Toilette (EDT): With a higher concentration of perfume oil (5-15%), these fragrances offer a quick burst of scent and usually last for 3-7 hours.
• Eau de Parfum (EDP): Genderless and with a high concentration of oil (15-20%), these fragrances are long-lasting and can last for up to 8 hours.
• Parfum/Extrait de Parfum: The most concentrated and expensive option, with a high percentage of perfume essence (15-30%). A single application can last up to 24 hours.

Trust Your Instincts

While it's helpful to seek advice and recommendations, ultimately, you are the best judge of which cologne suits you. Don't be afraid to try something different and trust your instincts when making your choice.

Now that you know the basics of choosing a cologne, you can start exploring different options and finding the perfect scent that reflects your unique personality and style.

How to apply cologne

Applying cologne is an art form. If not done properly, it can lead to over-application or a scent that fades quickly. Here are some tips on how to apply cologne the right way:

• Apply to clean skin: Start with a fresh, clean canvas. This ensures that no sweat, sebum, or other buildup interferes with the perfume oils.
• Apply directly to dry skin: It is generally recommended to spray cologne on your skin rather than your clothes. Aim for areas like the neck, chest, pulse points (wrists), forearms, or inner elbows. The heat from these areas will help diffuse the scent throughout the day and allow it to meld with your body chemistry to create your signature scent.
• Hold the bottle 3-6 inches from your body: Holding the bottle any closer than 3 inches risks over-applying, while spraying from further than 6 inches away may result in under-application.
• Start with a light application: Choose one area, such as the neck or forearms, and start with one spray. If you notice the scent fading quickly, choose another area and spray there the next time you apply. You can always add more, but it's harder to fix over-application.
• Re-apply if needed: Depending on the type of cologne, you may need to re-apply, especially if you're going out in the evening. When re-applying, simply dab a little onto your pulse points.
• Avoid common mistakes: Spraying cologne on your clothes, rubbing it into your skin, or creating a mist cloud to walk through are all ineffective methods that can lead to waste or a flat scent.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you're applying cologne correctly and effectively, enhancing your personal style and confidence.

How to make cologne last longer

Application

• Apply cologne immediately after showering, directly onto damp skin. This allows the cologne to absorb and gives you a longer-lasting aroma.
• Hold the bottle 3-6 inches from your body when spraying.
• Apply cologne to heated areas of the body, such as the neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, and inner elbows. These areas help diffuse the scent throughout the day and allow it to meld with your body chemistry.
• Start with a light application. Choose one area, such as the neck or forearms, and apply one spray. If the scent fades quickly, choose another area and spray there the next time.
• Re-apply if needed, especially if going out in the evening. Dab a small amount onto your pulse points.
• Avoid spraying cologne directly onto your clothes, as this prevents it from mixing with your natural oils and can damage certain fabrics.
• Avoid splashing cologne onto your skin. Instead, place one finger over the opening of the bottle and gently tip it upside down before dabbing the scent onto your body.
• Avoid spraying a mist cloud and walking through it, as most of the cologne will end up on the floor.
• Avoid rubbing the cologne into your skin, as this can make the scent fade faster.
• Avoid applying too much cologne. Start with a light application and ask a friend if you need more or less.
• Apply cologne to the top of your ears, as the oilier your skin, the better it will hold the fragrance.
• Dab the cologne onto your pulse points instead of rubbing it in. This gentle application method won't break down the aroma and will help it last longer.
• Spray your comb or brush with cologne before styling your hair, especially if you want to avoid drying out your hair with the alcohol content in traditional colognes.
• Layer your fragrances. Apply the strongest, most potent fragrance first, then layer it with a milder one to create a unique, personalized aroma.

Storage

• Keep cologne in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as your nightstand or bedroom. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as fluctuations in temperature and humidity can shorten its lifetime.
• Store cologne in its original box, as light exposure can cause fragrances to deteriorate.

Other Tips

• Moisturize your skin before applying cologne. This provides a smoother base for the fragrance to adhere to, and cologne won't absorb as efficiently into dry skin.
• Apply petroleum jelly to your pulse points before spraying cologne. This will help the fragrance last longer.
• Spray cologne on your wrists, as these pulse points are warmer and help the scent remain strong and fully develop.
• Avoid rubbing your wrists together after applying cologne, as this can "bruise the scent," causing it to break down faster.
• Spray cologne on your clothes, especially sturdy fabrics like cotton, denim, or wool. The microfibers in your clothes can hold the scent in place.
• Avoid the "spray and walk" method, where you spray the fragrance into the air and walk into it. This wastes product and causes the scent to evaporate quickly.
• Use a travel-sized fragrance or a portable fragrance atomizer for touch-ups throughout the day.

The difference between cologne, eau de toilette, and eau de parfum

Cologne, eau de toilette, and eau de parfum are all types of fragrances that differ in terms of their concentration of oil in alcohol and water, which determines their scent intensity and longevity.

Cologne

Also known as eau de cologne, this is the oldest term for perfume, typically used for masculine scents in North America. It has a light, fresh, and fruity fragrance, usually composed of two to four percent perfume oils in alcohol and water. Cologne tends to be used in fragrances for younger people and has a lasting power of about two hours.

Eau de Toilette

This is a unisex term for fragrances with a light spray composition, containing five to 15 percent perfume essence dissolved in alcohol. Eau de toilette usually lasts for about two to three hours, making it suitable for daywear. The term originates from the French phrase "faire sa toilette," which means "getting ready."

Eau de Parfum

Historically genderless, eau de parfum, or simply parfum, is used to describe both men's and women's fragrances. It has a higher concentration of 15 to 20 percent pure perfume essence, resulting in a richer scent and longer-lasting power of about five to eight hours. Parfum is the most concentrated and expensive fragrance option and is slightly oilier due to its higher perfume essence content.

In summary, the key differences between cologne, eau de toilette, and eau de parfum lie in their fragrance concentration, intensity, and longevity. Cologne has the lowest concentration and is typically lighter and less long-lasting, while eau de toilette offers a moderate concentration and longevity. Eau de parfum, on the other hand, has the highest concentration, resulting in a stronger and more enduring fragrance.

The different types of cologne

There are several types of cologne, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal. Here is a detailed guide to help you understand the different types of cologne:

Aquatic/Water Fragrances:

These colognes are reminiscent of the seaside, capturing the essence of a beach vacation or a stroll by the ocean. They are often referred to as "ozonic" fragrances and are perfect for summer days spent by the water. Armani Acqua di Gio and Davidoff Cool Water are classic examples of aquatic fragrances, offering a masculine and timeless scent.

Floral Fragrances:

Although typically associated with feminine fragrances, floral notes are increasingly being used in men's cologne. These scents evoke the aroma of flowers, gardens, and blossoms, with common notes including jasmine, tuberose, and magnolia. Floral fragrances are ideal for spring and summer days and should be applied sparingly, as the heat amplifies their projection. Dior Homme and Acqua di Parma Colonia are popular choices in this category.

Oriental Fragrances:

Oriental fragrances are characterised by their emphasis on amber, truffle, patchouli, and vanilla notes. They are considered the most seductive type of fragrance, perfect for evenings out. Tom Ford Black Orchid and Serge Lutens Ambre Sultan are excellent examples of oriental scents, with the former being a unique blend of truffle and orchid, and the latter focusing on amber.

Spicy Fragrances:

This category falls within the oriental family but deserves its own spotlight. Spicy colognes feature notes such as cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg, creating a warm and sensual aroma perfect for winter evenings. Tom Ford's Noir Anthracite and Dolce & Gabbana's The One for Men are daring choices in this category, with Noir Anthracite featuring a smoky aroma from its Cypriol ingredient.

Leather Fragrances:

Leather fragrances exude power and formality, making them ideal for business meetings or formal events. They replicate the scent of leather using bitter-smelling isoquinolines or smoky birch molecules. Dior Fahrenheit, a classic 80s fragrance, combines leather with notes of honeysuckle and violet, while 1740 Marquis de Sade by Histoires de Parfums embodies masculinity and pleasure with its blend of leather and immortelle.

Gourmand Fragrances:

Gourmand (pronounced gaw-muhnd) fragrances are indulgent and tempting, featuring notes of chocolate, vanilla, coffee, and other dessert-like aromas. They are a popular choice for winter, evoking a sense of comfort and seduction. Mugler A*Men blends chocolate and caramel with a space-inspired tar scent, while Absolutio Parfum by Navitus tempts with notes of cherry, almond, and coffee.

Chypre Fragrances:

Chypre fragrances are elegant and versatile, often containing notes of oakmoss, labdanum, and bergamot. The name is derived from the French word for Cyprus, and these scents are said to be mature and sophisticated. Ralph Lauren's Polo Green, a well-known fragrance, combines coriander, basil, juniper berries, and bergamot with leather, rose, and tobacco for an old-school yet masterful composition.

Fougere Fragrances:

Fougere colognes are associated with traditional masculinity and strength, often described as embodying a man who is cool under pressure. These fragrances typically include notes of lavender, oakmoss, coumarin, and tobacco. Burberry Touch and Le Male by Jean-Paul Gaultier are excellent examples, with the latter offering a unique blend of strong and mild scents.

Citrus Fragrances:

As the name implies, citrus colognes feature fruity notes such as bergamot, tangerine, grapefruit, and neroli. They are perfect for summertime and should be used sparingly during the day, as the heat intensifies their projection. Tom Ford Neroli Portofino and A*Men Ultra Zest are excellent choices in this category, offering a refreshing blast of citrus.

Woody Fragrances:

Woody fragrances capture the essence of nature with notes of resin, bark, cedar, patchouli, and vetiver. They are casual scents, perfect for rugged men and autumn weather. Lalique Encre Noire Pour Homme and Dolce & Gabbana Pour Homme Intenso are excellent examples, with the former offering a woody aroma with vetiver and cashmere wood notes, and the latter combining aquatic and woody notes with a creamy texture.

Frequently asked questions