Cologne Shopping: Sizes For Men's Fragrances

Men's cologne is a powerful tool that can complement one's personal style and leave a lasting impression. When it comes to the size of colognes, they typically come in a variety of options, ranging from small travel-sized sprays to larger bottles. The standard sizes for men's colognes are often found in the range of 1.0 oz to 3.4 oz, with some brands offering even larger or smaller sizes. Travel-sized colognes are usually around 0.3 oz to 0.5 oz, providing convenience for those on the go.

Travel-size colognes

There are many different sizes available for travel-size colognes, ranging from as small as 3ml or 0.1 fluid ounces up to 20ml or 0.68 fluid ounces. The most common size seems to be around 10ml or 0.33 fluid ounces, which is typically the size of a travel spray. These smaller bottles are perfect for trial and error, allowing you to find your signature scent without committing to a larger bottle.

Many well-known brands offer travel-size colognes, including Versace, Ralph Lauren, Giorgio Armani, Dior, Prada, and Yves Saint Laurent. These smaller bottles are often available as part of gift sets, making them perfect as a gift or to sample a range of fragrances.

You can purchase travel-size colognes from a variety of retailers, including Sephora, Ulta Beauty, Amazon, and Macy's. Prices can vary depending on the brand and size of the cologne, but they typically range from around $10 to $50.

Different types of colognes

Colognes are available in a range of sizes, from small travel-sized bottles to larger bottles of 100ml or more. The size you choose will depend on your personal preference, how often you use the cologne, and whether you plan to travel with it.

Now, let's delve into the different types of colognes available.

Eau Fraiche

Eau Fraiche (literally "fresh water") is considered a lightweight option by perfume connoisseurs. It contains the lowest concentration of oils, usually 1-3%, and is diluted mainly with water rather than alcohol. As a result, it only lasts on the skin for about 1-2 hours, making it ideal for a temporary post-shower spritz.

Eau de Cologne

Eau de Cologne is also considered fleeting, lasting around 2-4 hours, and has a low oil concentration of 2-4%. However, it is predominantly diluted with alcohol, giving it a more three-dimensional scent. It strikes the perfect balance between being understated yet present, making it a popular choice for summer fragrances. It's important to note that the term "cologne" is often used as a slang term for any masculine scent, so don't confuse it with Eau de Cologne.

Eau de Toilette

Eau de Toilette (EDT) is a step up in fragrance credibility. With an oil concentration of 5-15%, these scents can last you through the day but not into the evening. EDTs typically feature fresh top notes like citrus, with richer ingredients playing a supporting role. This makes them ideal for office wear.

Eau de Parfum

Eau de Parfum (EDP) formulas are becoming increasingly popular in masculine perfumery. With an oil concentration of 15-20%, they can last for 4-5 hours. Fuller-bodied ingredients like leather or woods are usually the stars of these fragrances, giving them a sophisticated edge. However, they tend to be pricier than EDTs.

Parfum/Extrait de Parfum

With the highest concentration of oil at 20-30%, parfum is considered the purest option by fragrance aficionados. These scents have a bold presence that lingers long after you've left the room and typically stay on the skin until washed off. Parfums are ideal for occasions where you want to make a statement, such as a wedding.

Aromatic Fragrances

Aromatic fragrances are primarily plant-based and have a mystical "woodland" quality. They feature herbal notes like rosemary, thyme, lavender, cumin, and clary sage, often paired with richer, musky notes. Traditionally, they have been restricted to masculine perfumery.

Chypre Fragrances

Pronounced "shee-pra," Chypre fragrances are considered the most sophisticated and rounded by perfumers. They have a woody-mossy base and are a precise blend of notes, including citrus (usually bergamot), patchouli, cistus labdanum, and animalistic oakmoss.

Hesperide Fragrances

The Hesperide family is a celebration of zesty citrus fruits like orange, bergamot, lemon, mandarin, yuzu, and grapefruit. These scents are often combined with the blossoms and leaves of citrus trees, such as neroli, petitgrain, and orange blossom, to create a delicate dry-down. Citrus scents are easy to wear and tend to settle into understated fragrances.

Floral Fragrances

The floral group is considered the most feminine, but it's also the largest and most diverse due to the vast selection of flower-based oils available. While jasmine and rose are the leading actors, other blooms like gardenia, tuberose, and magnolia also play supporting roles.

Fougère Fragrances

The Fougère family has a retro appeal, harkening back to the 1970s. It's the greenest of all fragrance categories, smelling like a punch of crushed grass and leaves. Fougère fragrances traditionally contain lavender, oakmoss, and coumarin (which smells like freshly harvested hay).

Leather Fragrances

Leather fragrances have powdery, mature, smoky, and deep qualities. Their origins can be traced back to the time when tanneries used smoke, wood, resins, tobacco, and even honey to disguise the foul smells of the tanning process. While many leather notes today are created from synthetic compounds, they still create instant classics.

Woody Fragrances

Woody fragrances conjure up memories of old books, pencil shavings, and campfires. They are one of the most emotive and nostalgic fragrance families. Dry, warm, and rich woods like sandalwood, cedarwood, patchouli, oak, and vetiver give these fragrances a macho edge.

Oriental Fragrances

Oriental fragrances are opulent, hedonistic, and sensual. They feature spices and resins like frankincense, oud, and myrrh from East India, Turkey, and the Middle East, making them among the most expensive. These scents are often worn in the evening and can be a little overwhelming.

How to apply cologne

Colognes are typically sold in sizes ranging from 0.5 oz/15 mL to 3.4 oz/100 mL. The most common sizes are 1 oz/30 mL, 1.7 oz/50 mL, and 3.4 oz/100 mL.

Now, here is a guide on how to apply cologne:

Firstly, it is important to apply cologne directly to the skin, rather than clothing. This is because fragrances are designed to interact with the oils and pH of the skin, enhancing and prolonging the scent. Additionally, applying cologne to the skin helps to prevent staining or damage to clothes. Aim to spray cologne on pulse points such as the wrists, neck, and chest, as these areas generate heat and help diffuse the fragrance.

When applying cologne, hold the bottle 3-6 inches away from the body. This distance ensures that the scent is focused on a specific target without being over or under-applied. Start with one or two sprays and build up if needed, keeping in mind that cologne should complement your natural scent rather than overpower it.

It is also recommended to apply cologne immediately after showering, as the pores are open, which helps the scent absorb. Additionally, showering first ensures the skin is free of other scents that may interfere with the cologne.

When choosing a cologne, it is important to consider the concentration, which determines the strength and longevity of the fragrance. The concentration is usually indicated on the bottle, with common categories including Eau Fraiche, Eau de Cologne, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, and Parfum, ranging from 1-30% perfume oil concentration.

To test a cologne, it is advisable to try it on the skin rather than clothing, as the scent may react differently to individual body chemistry. Spray the cologne on the wrists and neck to target the pulse points, and allow it to dry before putting on a shirt, as body heat will activate the scent.

Remember, cologne should be discovered, not announced. It should be subtle enough that people can smell it during a hug, rather than a handshake.

Popular men's colognes

There are many popular men's colognes on the market, with new fragrances being released all the time. However, some colognes have stood the test of time and remain firm favourites. Here is a list of some of the most popular men's colognes:

Dior Sauvage

One of the best-selling colognes for men, Dior Sauvage is renowned for its fresh and magnetic allure. This fragrance combines invigorating notes of bergamot with the spicy essence of pepper and rich woody accords. It leaves a lasting impression and has earned widespread acclaim, making it a top choice for those seeking a sophisticated fragrance experience.

Creed Aventus

Aventus by Creed is an exceptional fragrance that epitomises luxury and sophistication. With its captivating blend of pineapple, birch, and musk, this scent exudes confidence and charisma. It has gained a dedicated following for its crisp, birch-tinged, pineapple-esque zeal.

Acqua di Gio by Giorgio Armani

Acqua di Gio is a renowned best-selling cologne that perfectly captures the essence of the sea. It combines invigorating marine notes with refreshing citrus undertones, providing a revitalizing and enduring olfactory experience. Its fresh and energizing composition has made it a timeless classic and a top choice for fragrance enthusiasts.

Chanel Bleu de Chanel

Chanel Bleu de Chanel is a happy-go-lucky, iconic fragrance with key notes of citrus, resin, and sandalwood. Its pleasant omnipresence tends to conjure happy memories for those who smell it, especially in passing. It's the kind of scent that you might not be aware of at first, but then can't forget.

Ralph Lauren Polo

There's a reason why Ralph Lauren Polo has stood the test of time, nearly half a century after its launch. This versatile woody-aromatic scent works in almost every context, managing to be both sexy and professional at the same time. It's a great choice for a signature scent.

Le Labo Thé Matcha 26

Le Labo Thé Matcha 26 is a sophisticated and playful scent that is the perfect platonic signature scent. It's smart, sexy, and has just the right amount of subtlety and depth. It's an excellent choice for someone who wants their cologne to leave a lasting impression without being too overpowering.

Tom Ford Beau de Jour

Tom Ford Beau de Jour is a long-lasting cologne that makes the wearer feel like the best version of themselves. It's an elegant and genteel fragrance that is perfect for those who want to feel like a genteel man-about-town or a cool account manager at a fancy marketing agency.

Escentric Molecules Molecule 01

This subtle scent might be the most famous "no-fragrance fragrance" on the market. Its Iso E Super molecule expresses itself differently on each wearer, allowing you to layer it with another fragrance or let it mix with your skin's natural chemistry. It's a great choice for those who want a subtle, understated fragrance that won't be too overpowering.

Calvin Klein CK One

Calvin Klein CK One is the ultimate unisex cologne, great for couples who share scents. It's a versatile fragrance that can be worn on weekends, lazy Saturdays at home, or any day you want to feel relaxed and comfortable.

Hermès Terre d'Hermès Eau Intense Vétiver

This woody cologne is an invigorating and head-turning masculine scent that is perfect for all scenarios and seasons. It's a reliable choice that offers excellent value for money, and it should be triple the price. It's a great option for those who want a versatile and long-lasting fragrance.

Burberry Hero Parfum

Burberry Hero Parfum is a strong woody fragrance with a shy, intellectual vibe. It's extremely smart and undeniably masculine, perfect for those who want to let their fragrance do the talking. It's a great choice for anyone who wants to make a subtle yet powerful impression.

Parfums de Marly Perseus

This citrus cologne is like a sunny spring afternoon or the first day of a cloud-free vacation. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to add a touch of happiness and positivity to their fragrance wardrobe. It's perfect for spring and summer and will brighten up any gloomy day.

Diptyque Eau de Minthé

No scent is fresher than Diptyque Eau de Minthé. Wearing it is like stepping out of the best shower of your life, wrapping yourself in a plush robe, and ordering room service at a five-star hotel. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to feel refreshed and luxurious.

Frédéric Malle Musc Ravageur

This musky cologne evokes musk-infused sex appeal while remaining playful and polite. It's a great choice for a date night or any situation where you want to suggest a little complexity without coming on too strong. It's a subtle yet captivating fragrance.

Adidas Team Force

Adidas Team Force is an excellent choice for those who want a fresh and invigorating scent at an affordable price. With its energetic and vibrant fragrance, it's perfect for everyday wear or for those who want to feel lively and dynamic.

These are just a few examples of popular men's colognes. There are many other options available, and the best cologne for you will depend on your personal preferences, the occasion, and the impression you want to make.

How to choose the right cologne

Cologne is an invisible part of your personal style, and it can have a powerful effect on how people see and remember you. It can increase your attractiveness and your confidence. However, 80% of men do not wear cologne regularly. This may be due to a lack of basic information and education, or a fear of overusing cologne and becoming known as "that guy".

Know the Different Types of Fragrances

Cologne is a generic term used for masculine scents. It is usually light, fresh, and fruity, composed of 2-4% perfume oils in alcohol and water. It tends to be used for fragrances aimed at younger people and usually lasts for about two hours.

Other types of fragrances include:

• Eau Fraiche: The most diluted version of a fragrance, with 1-3% perfume oil. It usually lasts for less than an hour.
• Toilette (Eau de Toilette): A light spray composition with 5-15% perfume essence. It usually lasts for about three hours.
• Perfume (Eau de Parfum): Historically genderless, this type of fragrance contains 15-20% pure perfume essence and can last for about five to eight hours.
• Parfum: The most concentrated and expensive type of fragrance, with 20-30% perfume essence. It can last up to 24 hours.

Understand Fragrance Families and Their Seasonality

Different fragrances are more suitable for different seasons. For example, fragrances with notes of warming tobacco, leather, or spice are ideal for winter, while green and aquatic notes are more suited to summer. In fall, fragrances with patchouli, musk, and vanilla are popular, while spring calls for floral or citrus scents.

Know the Classics

Knowing the classic scents gives you a framework from which to pick your own fragrance. It also provides you with a killer roster of scents to choose from.

Weigh Mass Appeal Against Niche

If you choose a mass-market fragrance, you may find yourself smelling like your colleagues. However, these fragrances tend to be "safe" and not too overpowering. Niche fragrances, on the other hand, are made from more expensive and higher-quality ingredients and are designed for a more selective customer who wants something unique.

Consider Your Motives

What is your goal with a signature scent? How will it impress itself upon your colleagues, partner, and friends? These are all questions you should ask yourself when choosing a cologne.

Try Before You Buy

Don't commit to a fragrance without trying it first. Most brands offer sample-size testers, and you can also purchase small amounts from websites like LuckyScent.

Rules for Fragrance Application

• Spray perfume on dry skin, preferably right after a shower.
• Hold the spray nozzle 3-6 inches from your skin while applying.
• Start with one spray on your chest, and then branch out to a few more sprays in different areas as you become more comfortable.
• Apply fragrance to heat areas of your body, such as your chest, neck, lower jaw, wrist, forearm, and inner elbow.
• Re-spray only when required, usually in the second half of the day.
• Avoid rubbing the perfume into your skin, as this breaks the molecular bond and weakens the scent.
• Don't spray and walk through the mist—most of the fragrance will drop to the floor.
• Don't spray fragrance on your clothes, as it won't mix with your natural oils or go through the different stages of notes.

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is over-spraying. You don't want everyone to smell your cologne—it's tacky and shows ignorance about cologne, style, and social manners. Start with one spray and see how long you can smell it on yourself, then adjust the number of sprays accordingly.

Choosing the Right Size

Fragrances come in many different bottle sizes, typically ranging from 1 oz. to 3.4 oz. If you are new to fragrances, it is recommended to buy smaller bottles as you may not know how often you will be wearing it, and your tastes are likely to change as you get the chance to smell different scents.

Frequently asked questions