The Ultimate Guide To Styling Your Cologne

Choosing the right cologne is an important part of a man's personal style. A good cologne can make you feel more attractive and confident, but it's important to apply it correctly to avoid over-application or a scent that fades too quickly. The best time to apply cologne is after a shower, as the heat and steam open up your skin's pores, helping the scent absorb. When applying, hold the bottle 3-6 inches from your body and target heated areas such as the neck, chest, and pulse points. It's also important to consider the concentration of fragrance oils in your cologne, as this will determine how long the scent lasts. Cologne typically contains 2-4% fragrance oil and lasts for around two hours, while an Eau de Parfum has a concentration of 15-20% and can last for up to eight hours. When choosing a cologne, it's worth testing how it reacts with your body chemistry, as everyone's skin consists of different chemical compounds that will create a unique, individual scent. You should also consider the season when selecting a cologne, opting for lighter fragrances with citrus and floral notes in spring and summer, and heavier fragrances with spicy, woody, and sweet notes in autumn and winter.

What to wear with cologne

When it comes to what to wear with cologne, it's important to consider the occasion, the season, and your personal style. Here are some tips and suggestions on what to wear with cologne:

For Work

A classic work outfit for men can be elevated with a tailored navy blazer, a white button-down shirt, khakis, and stylish leather shoes. To complement this look, opt for a light and classy fragrance like Calvin Klein's Eternity for Men, which is a fresh fougère.

For a Casual Weekend

For a relaxed yet stylish weekend look, pair a leather motorcycle jacket with sweats and Adidas Sambas trainers. Fragrances like Dior Homme Sport, which has a subtle woody scent, can help set the mood for relaxation without being too overpowering.

For an Evening Out

Evening wear can range from formal to jeans, so it's a great opportunity to express your personality through both your style and scent. A combination of dark wash denim, a trim navy blazer, and brown suede Chelsea boots is a versatile and stylish choice. For the fragrance, try something bolder like John Varvatos Vintage, a sensual, warm, and spicy scent with a touch of edge.

For Winter

During the cold winter months, a good neutral coat that goes with everything is key. Layer with tailored pieces to avoid looking shapeless. As your sense of smell changes in the cold, you can opt for stronger and bolder fragrances without worrying about overwhelming others. Burberry London for Men EDT is an excellent choice for this season, with its warm and confident oriental woody fragrance.

For Summer

In the summer, casual and lightweight outfits are a must. A striped tank top, drawstring shorts, and a Panama hat will keep you cool and stylish. To match the summer vibe, go for light aquatic and citrus scents like Creed's Virgin Island Water, which has coconut and lime notes for a beachy feel.

Remember, the most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable in what you wear and how you smell. These are just suggestions, and you can always experiment and find your unique style.

How to apply cologne

Applying cologne is an art form. Done properly, it can make you feel more attractive and confident. Done incorrectly, and you risk over-application or a scent that fades too quickly. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply cologne correctly:

Step 1: Choose the Right Cologne

The first step to applying cologne is to choose a scent that complements your natural body chemistry and fits your lifestyle in terms of how long the scent lasts. Consider the different types of fragrances available, such as cologne, Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, Eau Fraiche, and perfume. Each type has a different concentration of fragrance oils, which affects the intensity and longevity of the scent.

Step 2: Test the Cologne

Before purchasing a cologne, it is important to test it to see how it reacts with your body chemistry. Use scent blotters or order fragrance testers to try out different colognes at home. When you find a few that you like, test them on your skin by spraying one type on each wrist. If you are testing more than two, spray them onto your inner elbows as well. Give the scent about 30 minutes to develop and interact with the oils on your skin before making a final decision.

Step 3: Prepare Your Skin

Cologne should be applied directly to dry skin, preferably immediately after showering. The shower will cleanse your body of any other scents and open your pores, helping the cologne absorb better. Make sure to completely dry your skin before applying the cologne.

Step 4: Apply the Cologne

Hold the cologne bottle 3-6 inches away from your body and spray it onto heated areas of your body, such as your neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, or inner elbows. The heat will help diffuse the scent throughout the day and allow it to develop your signature scent as it interacts with your body chemistry. Start with a light application—choose one area and apply one spray. If you notice that the scent fades quickly, choose another area and apply a spray there the next time. You can also ask a friend or family member for their opinion on whether the application is appropriate.

Step 5: Re-apply if Needed

Depending on the type of cologne you are using, you may need to re-apply it during the day, especially if you are going out in the evening. When re-applying, simply dab a small amount onto your pulse points.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are several mistakes that people commonly make when applying cologne:

• Spraying it on clothing: This prevents the cologne from mixing with your natural oils and developing your unique scent. It can also stain or damage certain fabrics.
• Splashing it on the skin: This can lead to over-application. If your cologne does not have a spray nozzle, place your finger over the opening and gently tip the bottle to dab the scent onto your skin.
• Spraying a mist and walking through it: This method wastes your cologne as most of it ends up on the floor instead of your body.
• Rubbing the cologne into the skin: Rubbing the cologne can break the molecular bond in the fragrance, causing the scent to fade faster.
• Applying too much: A subtle enhancement is best. Less is more when it comes to cologne.

How to choose the right cologne

Choosing the right cologne is a very personal decision and can be a fun process of experimentation. However, there are some key things to keep in mind to ensure you pick a scent that suits you and your lifestyle.

Know the Different Types of Fragrances

First, it's important to understand the different types of fragrances available. While cologne is a term often used as a catch-all for masculine fragrances, it is actually a specific classification based on the percentage of fragrance oils used, typically containing 2-4% fragrance oil. Other types of fragrances include perfume (or parfum), Eau de Parfum, Eau Fraiche, and Eau de Toilette, each with different concentrations of fragrance oils and lasting power. Knowing the difference between these will help you make an informed decision about which type of cologne is best for you.

Understand Fragrance Notes

All fragrances consist of top notes, middle notes, and base notes, which work together to create the unique scent profile of a cologne. Top notes are usually light, fresh, and fruity or floral, and they evaporate quickly. Middle notes are warm and soft, featuring spices, florals, and green aromas. Base notes are intense, heady, and rich, giving the fragrance its longevity. Knowing the different notes in a cologne will help you understand how it will evolve throughout the day.

Consider the Season

The time of year can also play a role in choosing the right cologne. Opt for heavier fragrances with spicy, woody, or sweet notes for fall and winter, and lighter fragrances with citrus or floral notes for spring and summer. Fall fragrances might include sandalwood, amber, patchouli, and oakmoss, while winter scents could be cinnamon, vanilla, amber, or incense. For spring, choose something crisp and fresh, and for summer, opt for light and refreshing citrus or floral scents.

Match Your Fragrance with Your Style

Your clothing style can also influence your choice of cologne. Subtler scents often pair well with a laid-back look, while spicier fragrances complement formal attire. Ultimately, the fragrance you choose should complement your personal style and make you feel confident.

Test Different Colognes

When choosing a cologne, it's important to test how it reacts with your body chemistry. Fragrances combine with the unique chemical compounds in your skin to create a scent that's unique to you. Therefore, it's essential to try a fragrance on your skin rather than just smelling it on paper. Spray a small amount on your wrist and wait at least 15 minutes to get an accurate idea of how it will smell on you.

Ask for a Second Opinion

Bringing a trusted friend or significant other to help you choose a cologne can be beneficial. They can give you an honest opinion about how a fragrance smells on you and whether it suits your personality. However, don't be afraid to trust your instincts and go with a cologne that evokes a positive emotional response, even if it's not what you usually go for.

Storage and Shelf Life

Finally, when you've chosen your cologne, it's important to store it properly to ensure its longevity. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Fragrances should be stored in their original containers, and the cap should always be kept on to prevent evaporation. Most fragrances will last three to five years if stored correctly.

When to wear cologne

While cologne can be a great finishing touch to your personal style, there are certain times when it's best to avoid wearing it. Here are some guidelines on when to wear cologne and when to skip it:

The Best Times to Wear Cologne

• After a shower: Applying cologne after a warm shower is ideal as the steam and heat open up your skin's pores, helping to better absorb the fragrance. This also helps maximize the impact and longevity of the scent.
• On pulse points: Spraying cologne on pulse points such as the neck, wrists, behind the ears, and elbows is recommended. These areas generate heat, making the fragrance more aromatic and noticeable to others.
• In the morning: Since cologne typically lasts for a few hours, applying it in the morning will ensure that you smell fresh throughout the day.
• In the evening: Evening fragrances tend to be bolder to balance the cooler air and make a personal statement.
• During the colder months: Our sense of smell changes in the cold, and we are less perceptive of scents. This means you can wear stronger, bolder fragrances without overwhelming others.
• When dressing up: Fragrances can elevate your style and make you feel more confident. It's a great way to complete your look, especially for formal or special occasions.
• For a date: If you already know the person and they are familiar with your scent, you're likely in the clear. However, if it's a first date with someone new, it's best to keep it lighter than usual or skip the cologne altogether.

Times to Avoid Wearing Cologne

• Job interviews: It's generally advised not to wear cologne to a job interview as you don't know how the interviewer will react to your fragrance. It could potentially evoke negative emotions or cause physical reactions such as headaches or coughing fits.
• To mask another smell: Using cologne to cover up body odour or other unpleasant scents is not recommended. Mixing fragrances can create an unpleasant aroma.
• On long flights: In tight quarters with strangers, it's best to skip the cologne. No one wants to be stuck next to someone wearing a heavy dose of fragrance, especially if it's not to their taste.
• At the gym: Fragrances are likely to be too strong by the end of the workday for those working out after office hours. It's best to avoid wearing cologne to the gym as it can be off-putting to those around you.
• Funerals: Your clothing, demeanour, and scent should be subdued when attending a funeral out of respect for the occasion.

Remember, the key is to be considerate of others and their potential reactions to your fragrance. Less is often more when it comes to cologne, and you should aim for a subtle enhancement of your image rather than an overwhelming presence.

How long cologne lasts

Cologne is a very lightly perfumed fragrance. Typically, cologne contains a concentration of fragrance oils between 2% and 4%. Due to the low percentage of fragrance oils, a cologne's scent usually lasts for about two hours. However, this can vary depending on the type of cologne, the way it is applied, and individual body chemistry.

Factors Affecting Cologne Longevity

• Type of Cologne: Not all colognes are created equal; some are designed to be longer-lasting than others. More expensive colognes tend to have higher concentrations of fragrance oils and thus may last longer.
• Application Technique: The way cologne is applied can impact its longevity. Applying cologne directly to the skin, especially to heated areas like the neck, chest, and pulse points, can help the scent last longer.
• Body Chemistry: Everyone's body chemistry is unique, and this can affect how long a cologne scent lasts. Factors such as skin type (oily vs. dry), body temperature, and individual body odour can influence how a cologne interacts with the body and how long it lasts.
• Storage and Age: Proper storage of cologne can help extend its shelf life and potency. Storing cologne in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, can help maintain its quality and longevity. Over time, cologne can lose its potency, and its scent may change or fade.

Tips for Making Cologne Last Longer

• Apply cologne directly to the skin, especially to heated areas like the neck, chest, and pulse points.
• Apply cologne immediately after showering, as this helps open pores and allows for better scent absorption.
• Store cologne properly in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Reapply cologne throughout the day if needed, especially if you are going out in the evening.

Frequently asked questions