The Scent Of A Man: Uncovering Hidden Personalities

Choosing a cologne is about more than just smelling good. Scent is deeply intertwined with our memory, and certain fragrances can say a lot about our personality. For instance, citrus-based colognes like Dior's Eau Sauvage are often favoured by sporty types, while woody fragrances like Gucci Pour Homme are seen as representing a solid, reliable, and easy-going kind of masculinity. Oriental fragrances with their warm, spicy, and musky notes are chosen by those who are naturally sensual and explorative, while aquatic fragrances are often worn by free-spirited, cool, and composed individuals.

Woody scents: You're a high achiever, perfectionist, and outdoorsy

Woody fragrances are a staple in men's grooming. They are not too strong, nor too subtle, offering a warm and earthy scent. They are derived from woods, leaves, roots, and often feature other natural aromas like spices or minerals. This makes them a balanced choice, and an outdoorsy happy medium.

Woody scents are a popular choice for married men, and are also favoured by 'men's men'. They are popular with other men, reinforcing their general acceptability. They are a safe choice, and are often chosen by those who want to project a personality that is solid, reliable, and easy-going.

However, there is an ancient, primal element to woody fragrances, too. They can hark back to the way our forefathers perfumed themselves at the altars of the old gods. There is something of the Green Man and the Sacred Grove about them. Woody scents are also a good choice for those who want to be seen as high achievers. They are often chosen by perfectionists, and those who excel in academia and athletic pursuits. Woody fragrances can also suggest a love of the outdoors, with wearers attracted to the smell of fresh-cut grass, pine trees, and the atmosphere after a thunderstorm.

Woody fragrances can be spicy, earthy, or aquatic. There is a woody fragrance for every taste, day or night, fruity or floral, or plain and simple. Popular woody fragrances include Tom Ford's Oud Wood, Hermes' Twilly Eau de Parfum, Jo Malone London Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne, and Le Labo Santal 33 Eau de Parfum.

Citrus scents: You're a natural leader and sporty

If you're a fan of citrus scents, you're likely a natural leader with a sporty streak. Citrus fragrances are often chosen by those who are confident, flirty, and in tune with their feminine side. These scents can be a great way to boost your mood and cognitive performance, making them perfect for important meetings or interviews. The sharp, clean, and energetic freshness of citrus notes like lemon, orange, and grapefruit create a vibrant and positive atmosphere.

Citrus colognes, such as John Varvatos Artisan, with its blend of tangelo, Sicilian clementine, and mandarin, or CK One, with its citrusy blend of mandarin orange and lemon, are ideal for the hardworking artisan or the free-spirited fitness buff. These colognes strike a perfect balance, exuding a strong, masculine scent without being overbearing.

Citrus fragrances are versatile and can be worn in any season. They are the perfect choice for those who want to stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression. These scents are often associated with individuals who are well-organized, confident, and ready to take on the world each day.

Citrus notes also have therapeutic benefits, providing a balance between refreshment and calm. They can improve your mood and cognitive performance, as found in a Northumbria University study, which showed that the smell of lemon balm can enhance both these aspects.

Citrus colognes are a great choice for those who want to convey a sense of cleanliness and positivity. The citrus family includes a wide range of notes, from the crisp and zesty lemon to the sweet orange and tangy grapefruit. These scents are versatile and can be layered with other fragrance families, such as floral or woody notes, to create a unique and memorable signature scent.

Floral scents: You're friendly, down-to-earth, and calm

If you're a floral scent kind of person, you're likely to be a friendly, outdoorsy type with a carefree nature. You're probably someone who is down-to-earth, quick to smile, and difficult to displease.

Floral fragrances often include notes of jasmine, lily, and gardenia, and those who wear them are usually feminine and friendly. They love spending time outdoors and are almost certainly cheerful, optimistic people.

Gardenia, in particular, is a floral scent that demonstrates stability and a sense of being someone's "rock". If this is your scent, you're likely a team player, a follower rather than a leader, and a people-pleaser. You're the type of person who maintains friendships for decades and is always reliable.

Floral fragrances are not just limited to women, though. Men who love florals are adventurous and uninhibited, with a bold, self-confident attitude, and a secure sense of their sexuality. Of all the floral notes, rose is the one that men go for the most. This preference may be due to the association of rose with ancient civilizations and modern Arab cultures, or the blend of rose with leather, woody, or tobacco notes, which add an air of drama and strength.

Aquatic scents: You're free-spirited, cool, and intellectual

If you love aquatic scents with marine and salty notes, you're likely to be free-spirited, cool, and intellectual.

Aquatic fragrances are reminiscent of windswept coastlines and sea spray, and are the perfect scents for dreamers. People who love aquatic fragrances tend to be balanced and nature-loving, and their idea of a perfect holiday is a remote island with a state-of-the-art library. They tend to shy away from the urban jungle.

Aquatic perfume fans are spontaneous and are more than willing to go with the flow. They are fit and energetic and possess a love for water.

These fragrances are often inspired by water, most usually the ocean, and are sometimes called "oceanic" or "marine" fragrances. They use "saltier" ingredients such as seaweed, oakmoss, or cedarwood to achieve a marine freshness.

Some popular aquatic fragrances include:

• Acqua Di Gio by Giorgio Armani
• Nautica Voyage by Nautica
• Wood Sage and Sea Salt by Jo Malone
• Polo Blue by Ralph Lauren
• Eternity Aqua by Calvin Klein
• Allure Homme Sport by Chanel
• Seductive Homme Blue by Guess
• Aqva Pour Homme Marine by Bvlgari

Oriental scents: You're sensual, bold, and a night owl

Oriental fragrances are perfect for those who like to embrace their sensual side. Warm and spicy, these scents are bold and intense, and are often chosen by those who are unafraid to let their sensuality show. Oriental fragrances are usually chosen by night owls, and the people who wear them tend to be artistic, creative, and impulsive.

Oriental fragrances are a popular choice for evening wear and the winter months. They are long-lasting and warming, with a rich and sensual combination of notes. They are often inspired by fragrances from ancient Arabia and India, and can smell indulgent and luxurious. Oriental scents can be woody or floral, with floral options being lighter and less intense. Woody oriental fragrances have an earthy and warm base, adding depth to the scent.

Oriental fragrances for men tend to focus on woody scents, with less emphasis on floral notes. Joop! Homme is a great example of an oriental fragrance for men, with notes of orange blossom, bergamot, jasmine, cinnamon, sandalwood, and vanilla. Another option is Spicebomb Night Vision by Viktor & Rolf, which combines green apple, grapefruit, cardamom, red chilli, clove, nutmeg, sage, tonka bean, and almond.

For women, Donna by Valentino is a floral-oriental perfume with notes of Italian bergamot, Bulgarian rose, iris, patchouli, leather, and vanilla. Other options include Paco Rabanne Pure XS and Jean Paul Gaultier Classique.

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