The Allure Of Scents: Women's Perspective On Cologne

Women have varying opinions on men's cologne. While some women like men to wear cologne, others are indifferent or dislike it. Some women believe that cologne is sexy and a turn-on, while others prefer body wash, deodorant, or shampoo over cologne. Most women agree that cologne should be used sparingly and that too much cologne is unattractive. Women also have different preferences for cologne scents, with some preferring outdoorsy, woody, aquatic, or citrusy notes, and others favouring fresh and musky scents. Additionally, the application of cologne is important, with the neck, chest, back, behind the ears, and wrists being recommended areas.

Women like men to wear cologne, but in moderation

Women generally like men to wear cologne, but opinions vary on the type of cologne and how much should be applied.

The amount of cologne matters

Most women agree that cologne should be applied sparingly. It should be "just barely noticeable" and act as a "lovely surprise" for those permitted into a man's personal space. One woman describes the ideal amount of cologne as being able to "only smell [it] when [she's] close enough to kiss". Another says that cologne should be "discovered, not announced".

The type of cologne matters

Women's preferences for cologne type vary. Some like outdoorsy colognes with woody, aquatic or citrusy notes. Others prefer fresh and musky scents, or body washes, deodorants and shampoos over cologne. Some women like leathery scents, while others prefer soft scents like sandalwood or vanilla.

Cologne is memorable

Many women say that they remember a man who smells good. One woman says that if she smells a cologne she likes on a stranger, she will "turn to find where the smell is coming from". Another says that she is constantly reminded of ex-boyfriends when she passes a stranger wearing the same cologne.

Cologne shows effort

Some women see cologne as a sign that a man takes care of himself and values his appearance. One woman says that cologne "shows you make an effort to stay fresh, that’s what counts".

Cologne is sexy

According to a survey by Scentbird, 97% of women think cologne is sexy. One woman says that cologne is a "turn on". Another says that she finds cologne intoxicating.

Cologne can be off-putting

Some women are sensitive to scent and get headaches or migraines from cologne. Others dislike cologne and prefer the natural scent of a man.

The right cologne can be a turn-on

It's true: 97% of women think cologne is sexy. But the key word here is "right". The wrong cologne, or too much of it, can be a major turn-off. So, how do you find the right cologne and apply it correctly?

Firstly, it's important to know that women like a man to have very little scent. Your cologne should be just barely noticeable. It should be discovered, not announced. As one woman puts it, "Cologne should be discovered, not announced". Another says, "You shouldn't smell cologne unless you're close enough to kiss". The idea is that your cologne should be a nice surprise for whoever is permitted into your personal bubble.

So, how do you choose the right cologne? Well, it's a very personal thing. What one woman loves, another might hate. However, some types of cologne tend to be more popular with women than others. Outdoorsy colognes with woody, aquatic, or citrusy notes are often considered sexy. Fresh and musky scents are also a good option if you want to smell like you've just stepped out of the shower.

When it comes to specific brands, five classics that women love are Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gio, Chanel Bleu, Davidoff Cool Water, Gucci Guilty, and Dior Sauvage. But remember, it's important to find a scent that suits you. As one woman says, "Take your time testing and find one you love based on the season! The same scent doesn't work year-round".

Finally, where you apply your cologne matters. Avoid spraying it onto your shirt. Instead, spritz it onto your neck, chest, back, behind your ears, or your wrist.

Cologne should be applied to the neck, chest, back, behind the ears, or the wrist

Women have varying opinions on cologne, but a few themes emerge. Firstly, women generally like men to wear cologne, with 97% of women in one survey reporting that they found cologne sexy. However, it's important to apply sparingly; a little goes a long way. Cologne should be discovered, not announced, and women tend to prefer a light, subtle fragrance that they can only smell when they are close to you.

Where you apply your cologne is important. Avoid spraying it onto your shirt, and instead, spritz it onto your neck, chest, back, behind your ears, or your wrist. These areas are ideal as they are close to the pulse and generate heat, which helps to project the scent. Applying cologne in these areas will ensure that your lady is enveloped in your fragrance when she is close to you, without overwhelming those around you.

The key to wearing cologne is to find a signature scent that suits your taste and personality. Opt for a high-quality cologne with notes that you enjoy, such as woody, aquatic, or citrusy scents, or go for a fresh and musky fragrance if you prefer. It's worth taking the time to test out different colognes and find one that you, and perhaps your partner, love.

Lastly, remember that less is more. A single spray or a few dabs of cologne on your neck, chest, back, behind the ears, or wrist will be enough to leave a lasting impression.

Women like a signature scent

Women like it when a man has a signature scent. It shows he cares about his appearance, and that's always attractive. A man with a signature scent is memorable, even if it's only something you notice when he's up close and personal.

The Right Amount

It's important to remember that less is more when it comes to cologne. Women like a man to have very little scent—it should be just barely noticeable. You don't want to be that guy who wears too much cologne and ends up with people taking evasive action to avoid your personal space! A light touch of cologne is far more appealing and seductive.

The Right Type

Women have their own preferences when it comes to the type of cologne a man should wear, and it's often something unique and not too common. It's a turn-off if a woman can smell your cologne from across the room, and it's also off-putting if you're wearing the same scent as her ex. It's best to avoid cheap colognes and go for something well-suited and fresh. Outdoorsy colognes with woody, aquatic, or citrusy notes are popular, as are fresh and musky scents.

The Right Places

Where you apply your cologne also matters. Spritz it on your neck, chest, back, behind the ears, or your wrist. Avoid spraying it on your shirt.

The Right Cologne

Some classic colognes that women love include Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gio, Chanel Bleu, Davidoff Cool Water, Gucci Guilty, and Dior Sauvage.

Fresh, woody, aquatic, and citrusy notes are appealing

Women have varying opinions on whether they like men to wear cologne, and if so, which type. However, a few common themes emerge. Firstly, women generally prefer men to wear a very small amount of cologne. It should be subtle and only noticeable at close quarters. Secondly, women like men to smell fresh, and a cologne is not a substitute for showering and using deodorant.

When applying cologne, men should spritz it on their neck, chest, back, behind the ears, or wrists. This allows the woman to discover the scent rather than being overwhelmed by it.

It is worth noting that women's preferences for cologne are highly individual, and what one woman loves, another may hate. Additionally, some women are too shy to compliment a man's fragrance, so he might not always know what they think.

Frequently asked questions