Disclaimer: This article about perfume is quite general and is primarily a major update to a 2018 guide, but focuses more on the selection.
It is intentionally a general selection, with a representative sample of the most well-known perfumes to allow you to quickly get an idea, wherever you live, of the different types of scents.
If the selection might seem a bit mainstream, remember that in tailoring, with few exceptions, it’s more logical to go through SuitSupply or Anthony Garçon to get an idea of the cuts you like rather than going directly for Neapolitan bespoke.
If you’re already somewhat familiar with the field, you’ll find a slightly more personal selection of more niche perfumes at the end of the article.
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What is the best men’s perfume in 2025?
Although choosing the best men’s perfume is subjective, there are criteria that can help find a fragrance that matches your tastes and personality. In 2025, men will be looking for fragrances that combine freshness and warmth, while being elegant and sophisticated.
To find the best men’s perfume in 2025, here are some criteria to consider:
- The type of perfume: Men’s perfumes are available in several types, such as eau de cologne, eau de toilette, eau de parfum, and extreme perfumes. Eau de colognes are light and refreshing, while eau de parfums and extreme perfumes have higher intensity and longevity. Select the type of perfume that suits your taste and needs.
- The olfactory family: Perfumes are classified into olfactory families based on the ingredients and notes they contain. Common olfactory families for men’s perfumes are woody, fougère, fresh, oriental, and leathery. Determine the olfactory family that best suits your personality and lifestyle.
Furthermore, consider your personal preferences regarding perfume, such as a preference for a soft or intense, sweet or spicy scent. Finally, don’t forget to consider the occasion for which you will wear the perfume. A fresh perfume is ideal for a hot day, while a warm and sensual perfume is better suited for an evening occasion.
The best-selling men’s perfumes in 2025
Discover the best-selling men’s perfumes in 2025! Whether you’re looking for a woody scent or a touch of freshness, there’s something for everyone. Here is a list of some of the most popular fragrances among men in France:
| Perfume | Brand | Main Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Le Male | Jean Paul Gaultier | Vanilla, mint, lavender |
| Sauvage | Dior | Bergamot, Sichuan pepper, ambroxan |
| Bleu de Chanel | Chanel | Lemon zest, ginger, incense |
| Acqua di Gio | Giorgio Armani | Orange, bergamot, patchouli |
| L’Homme Idéal | Guerlain | Almond, bergamot, spices |
These men’s perfumes are popular for their exceptional quality and broad appeal. Whether you’re looking for a perfume for a special event or for daily use, you can’t go wrong with one of these popular choices.
Warning, if you are looking for originality, however, I advise you to look elsewhere in our selection of the best perfumes (even if your skin will react in a very particular way to these perfumes)…
Woody perfumes and their timeless charm
Woody perfumes are classics of men’s perfumery: they are appreciated for their warm and comforting character, as well as for their true olfactory signature. Woody notes are often associated with spicy, smoky, or leathery scents, adding a level of sophistication and subtlety.
Woods used in men’s perfumes include sandalwood, cedar, patchouli, vetiver, and oud wood. These notes are often associated with scents of leather, tobacco, and spices to create deeper and more intense fragrances. Woody men’s perfumes are versatile and suitable for many occasions, from day to night, for work or for going out.
Woody notes are also used in oriental perfumes, which are often associated with notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and musk. Oriental woody perfumes are rich and luxurious, and can offer an interesting alternative to traditional woody scents.
The best woody notes for men’s perfumes
Here are some of the best woody notes for men’s perfumes:
| Woody Note | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Sandalwood | Warm, soft, slightly spicy |
| Cedar | Aromatic, dry, slightly woody |
| Patchouli | Earthy, smoky, slightly bitter |
| Vetiver | Herbaceous, earthy, slightly sweet |
| Oud Wood | Intense, balsamic, woody |
These notes can be combined with others to create unique and sophisticated perfumes. Woody perfumes can also be associated with fresh and fruity notes to create lighter and more modern compositions.
Woody perfumes are timeless and continue to be popular in 2025. If you are looking for a classic men’s perfume with a touch of sophistication, a woody perfume could be the perfect choice.
Fresh perfumes for men, a touch of liveliness
Fresh perfumes for men are an excellent option for those looking to feel revitalized and refreshed throughout the day. With their sparkling notes and energizing aromas, these perfumes are perfect for hot summer days or intense sports workouts. Fresh fragrances for men are also often associated with youth and vitality.
From perfumes based on fresh lime and crisp bergamot to fresh and woody blends of mint and cypress, there is a wide variety of scented options for men who love fresh fragrances. Refreshing fragrances are often associated with citrus, herbal, and plant notes, as well as aquatic accords, giving them an invigorating feel.
Fresh perfumes for men can be worn daily or for special occasions such as outdoor weddings or sunny events. They are perfect for active and sporty men looking to feel refreshed throughout the day. Fresh fragrances are also popular among younger men, as they evoke vitality and youth.
Among the most popular fresh perfumes for men in 2025 are names such as Bleu de Chanel, Acqua Di Gio by Giorgio Armani, Light Blue by Dolce & Gabbana, and Aqua by Jo Malone. These perfumes have been specially created to evoke feelings of freshness and vitality, making them perfect for men looking to feel reinvigorated and vivified.
Our selection of fresh perfumes for men in 2025
| Perfume | Brand | Main notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bleu de Chanel | Chanel | Lemon, ginger, sandalwood |
| Acqua Di Gio | Giorgio Armani | Lime, bergamot, jasmine |
| Light Blue | Dolce & Gabbana | Lemon, green apple, jasmine |
| Aqua | Jo Malone | Mint, cypress, cedar |
The selection of fresh perfumes for men in 2025 is a combination of timeless classics and modern, innovative fragrances. Sparkling citrus notes, aquatic accords, and fresh woody blends are all represented in this selection of fresh perfumes for men.
Whether you’re looking to feel invigorated after a workout or add a touch of vitality to your day, fresh perfumes for men are an excellent choice. With their vibrant energy and stimulating notes, these perfumes are sure to make you feel refreshed and ready to face the day with a smile.
Sensual perfumes for men, captivating elegance
Sensual perfumes for men are designed to captivate and seduce. Their captivating elegance attracts attention and creates a sophisticated atmosphere. Sensual fragrances are often associated with warm and woody notes, as well as spicy and oriental notes.
In the world of men’s perfumes, sensual fragrances are a popular choice for special occasions or romantic evenings. These perfumes are also sought after for their longevity and ability to last all day.
The top notes of sensual perfumes for men are often composed of bergamot, cardamom, or grapefruit. These initial notes are light and sparkling, but they quickly give way to warmer and spicier middle notes. The base notes of sensual fragrances are often woody, with sandalwood, cedar, and patchouli. These base notes create a warm and enveloping ambiance.
Sensual perfumes for men are available in a variety of styles and brands. Some of the most popular perfumes are Tom Ford Noir Extrême, Dior Homme Intense, and Yves Saint Laurent La Nuit De L’homme. These fragrances are recommended for the man looking to add a touch of captivating elegance to his personal style.
Men’s perfumes with captivating top notes
Top notes are the first scents perceived when applying a perfume to the skin. They are therefore essential for creating a first impression and attracting the attention of those around. Men’s perfumes with captivating top notes are thus highly appreciated for their immediate power of seduction.
Top notes can be diverse, ranging from fresh citrus to pungent spices and aromatic herbs. Some men’s fragrances combine these different elements for a stunning and captivating result.
An example of a men’s perfume with captivating top notes is the iconic Bleu de Chanel, which blends notes of lemon, mint, and pink pepper to create a scent that is both fresh and spicy. Other perfumes, such as Dior Homme Intense, add floral touches, like lavender, to create more complex and intriguing top notes.
It is important to note that top notes do not last as long as heart or base notes. That is why it is essential to choose a perfume that also offers lasting notes for a complete fragrance experience.
Men’s perfumes with warm base notes
The base notes of a perfume are essential for creating a lasting and warm impression. Men’s fragrances often use woody, amber, musky, and spicy notes to create an intense and captivating scent.
Men’s perfumes with warm and captivating base notes are ideal for special occasions and elegant evenings. Base notes are often the last impression left by a perfume, making them an important choice to consider when purchasing a perfume.
| Warm base notes in men’s perfumes | Men’s perfumes with warm base notes |
|---|---|
| Sandalwood | Armani Code Profumo by Giorgio Armani |
| Cedar | Bleu de Chanel by Chanel |
| Vanilla | La Nuit de L’Homme by Yves Saint Laurent |
| Tobacco | Tobacco Vanille by Tom Ford |
| Musk | A*Men Pure Malt by Mugler |
These perfumes have warm and rich notes, thus creating a memorable and elegant scent. Men’s perfumes with warm base notes pair well with dressy outfits and special occasions.
However, it is important to note that base notes can vary depending on the body chemistry of each individual. It is therefore recommended to test the perfume on your skin before buying it to ensure that the base notes suit you.
Essential men’s perfumes from major houses
The major perfume houses are full of olfactory treasures for men, with perfumes that have spanned decades without losing their charm. These fragrances have become icons and continue to seduce generations of men.
| Perfume Name | Brand | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Chanel Pour Monsieur | Chanel | This classic Chanel perfume is a blend of fresh and spicy notes that evokes sophistication and elegance. A timeless fragrance for a confident man. |
| Azzaro Pour Homme | Azzaro | Azzaro Pour Homme is a woody and aromatic fragrance that combines the freshness of lavender and lemon with warm notes of wood and musk. A masculine and sensual perfume suitable for all occasions. |
| Dior Homme | Dior | This perfume from the house of Dior is a subtle blend of floral and woody notes, with a hint of cocoa. The result is a sophisticated and elegant perfume suitable for a modern gentleman. |
These perfumes are safe choices for men looking for classic and timeless fragrances. They were created by renowned perfume houses known for their expertise and creativity, ensuring superior quality and special attention to detail.
Elegant bottles that enhance men’s perfumes
Besides the scent, the presentation of a perfume is just as important. With bottles carefully designed to reflect the diversity of the fragrances offered, brands seek to seduce consumers not only with their nose but also with their eyes.
Some bottles are designed to embody luxury, with elaborate designs and precious materials. Others, however, are minimalist and sleek, highlighting simplicity and sophistication. Bottles can also reflect the history and heritage of the brand, bringing a touch of tradition and authenticity.
Ultimately, the choice of the perfect bottle will depend entirely on your personal tastes. If you are looking for an elegant bottle that will enhance your favorite perfume, here are some of my recommendations:
| Brand | Bottle |
|---|---|
| Dior | The bottle of Sauvage by Dior is a true work of art, with a sleek design and masculine lines. The thick, transparent glass holds a midnight blue liquid which, combined with its magnetic cap, provides a sense of luxury and modernity. |
| Chanel | The bottle of Bleu de Chanel is incredibly elegant, with its clean lines and midnight blue color. The black magnetic cap adds a touch of sophistication and class, reflecting the very essence of this iconic men’s fragrance. |
| Guerlain | The bottle of Habit Rouge by Guerlain is a timeless classic, with its elegant and timeless design. The amber hue of the liquid perfectly captures the warm and sensual spirit of this fragrance. |
These bottles are just a few examples of the meticulous attention paid to the details of the presentation of each perfume. Whether you prefer a minimalist design or something more elaborate, there will undoubtedly be a bottle that will enhance your favorite fragrance in 2025.
The different perfume concentrations: eau de toilette, eau de parfum, etc.
Perfumes are not just a simple pleasant fragrance randomly sprayed on our wrists. They are organized according to a real hierarchy of concentrations, each bringing its own characteristics, personality, and ideal moment of use. This olfactory architecture deserves a bit of attention, as it determines the investment you will make and how you will wear your perfume.
The Perfume Extract: absolute luxury
A true aristocrat of the fragrance world, perfume extract contains an impressive concentration of 20% to 40% essential oils diluted in a very high-quality alcohol at 98°. It is the purest and richest expression of a fragrance, which explains its presence in small bottles equipped with a dropper.
Its longevity is exceptional – sometimes over 12 hours – with a sillage that will accompany you all day. A true olfactory signature that justifies its high price and parsimonious application. A few touches on pulse points are more than enough: wrists, neck, behind the ears…
The Eau de Parfum: refined yet practical
Eau de parfum is often the best compromise for those seeking a characterful fragrance without investing in a pure extract. With a concentration ranging from 15% to 20% aromatic extracts, it offers excellent value for money and remarkable longevity of 6 to 8 hours.
I particularly appreciate this concentration for evenings or important days, when you want your fragrance to accompany you without having to reapply it constantly. Eau de parfum generally highlights the heart and base notes, those that reveal the true personality of a fragrance.
The Eau de Toilette: the versatile option
The most common concentration contains between 5% and 15% perfume essences. Its moderate longevity of 4 to 6 hours makes it a particularly suitable option for daily use, especially professional.
In my experience, eau de toilette offers that right balance between presence and discretion – present enough to be noticed by those nearby, but never overwhelming in a confined space like a meeting room. The top notes are often more developed, offering that first vivid and bright impression that characterizes a good daytime perfume.
The Eau de Cologne
Historically the oldest of modern formulations, eau de cologne contains a modest concentration of 2% to 7% aromatic extracts. Its lightness and freshness make it the perfect ally for hot climates and summer mornings.
Its limited longevity of 2-4 hours explains the tradition of those large eau de cologne bottles that were applied generously, almost by splashing. I always keep an eau de cologne in my bathroom for those scorching days when even light clothing feels like too much – a refreshing ritual to be repeated throughout the day without fear of note accumulation.
Choosing the right concentration is therefore just as important as selecting the fragrance itself. Your lifestyle, the occasions for which you intend your perfume, and even your budget will naturally guide your choice towards one or another of these formulations, each having its reason for being in contemporary perfumery.
Top 10 Best Men’s Perfumes in 2025
You will find in this list the 10 most well-known men’s perfumes on the market. While they are certainly a bit mainstream, it is still necessary to know their characteristics well before becoming interested in more niche perfume artisans.
1. Bleu de Chanel
This men’s perfume is a timeless classic. Launched in 2010, Bleu de Chanel is a safe bet that ranks among the best-selling men’s perfumes. This eau de toilette for men opens with fresh and hesperidic notes, featuring grapefruit and pepper. The floral heart blends jasmine with geranium, then woody notes of cedar, sandalwood, and patchouli perfect this iconic perfume. Fresh, elegant, and timeless, Chanel Bleu is a must-have.
2. Acqua di Giò by Armani
Giorgio Armani created the Acqua di Giò perfume in 1996, quickly becoming a reference in the aquatic and aromatic family. This eau de toilette for men opens with marine freshness with citrus notes. At its heart, we find rosemary and clary sage. The woody base blends notes of cedar and musk. Fresh, aromatic, and sensual, this perfume is perfect for sunny days.
3. 1 Million by Paco Rabanne
1 Million by Paco Rabanne is a bold perfume, created in 2008. This eau de toilette for men has a woody, spicy, and leathery fragrance. At the top, mandarin bursts with cinnamon. The heart accord is an explosion of spices, with nutmeg and clove. In the base, amber and leather bring sensuality and character to this addictive perfume.
4. L’Homme by Yves Saint Laurent
Saint Laurent is an iconic brand, and L’Homme YSL has been a sophisticated perfume since 2006. This woody eau de toilette starts with the freshness of ginger combined with cardamom. The floral heart mixes lavender with violet. The base is woody, with notes of vetiver and cedar. Fresh, clean, and elegant, this perfume perfectly suits the modern man.
5. Boss Bottled by Hugo Boss
Hugo Boss offers with Boss Bottled a woody and aromatic men’s perfume launched in 1998. This eau de toilette opens with hesperidic citrus notes, before a floral heart composed of geranium and blackcurrant. The base accord is woody, on cedar and sandalwood. Fresh while being rich, Boss Bottled is a great classic of men’s perfumes.
6. Invictus by Paco Rabanne
Another perfume from the Paco Rabanne brand, Invictus was launched in 2013. This eau de toilette for men is distinguished by its marine and fruity notes. The top accord is fresh, with mandarin and bay leaf. The heart is fruity, with petitgrain from bitter orange and an aquatic accord. The base becomes ambery and musky. Fresh, tonic, and sensual, Invictus appeals to active men.
7. Sauvage: the Dior Homme perfume
Sauvage by Dior appeared in 2015 and established itself as a new classic in men’s perfumery. This woody eau de toilette displays a wild and modern character. At the top, citruses like bergamot explode. The heart combines lavender with spices. The base is ambery, with notes of vanilla and cedar. Powerful and addictive, Sauvage is a modern perfume.
8. Montblanc Explorer
Montblanc Explorer is a woody aromatic fragrance launched in 2018. This eau de parfum for men opens with citruses like bergamot combined with peppery notes. At the heart, guaiac wood and vetiver provide character. In the base, ambergris and musk create an addictive woody sensuality. Explorer is a modern woody perfume, perfect for adventurers.
9. Armani Code by Giorgio Armani
Released in 2004, Armani Code is a woody and oriental eau de toilette. The citrusy freshness of bergamot contrasts with the spicy guaiac wood at the heart. The base becomes smooth and sensual, with leather and sandalwood. Code is a charismatic perfume with captivating woody notes.
Available here for €160 per 100ml
10. Baccarat Rouge 540 by Maison Francis Kurkdjian
Baccarat Rouge 540 is an emblematic perfume created by Francis Kurkdjian in 2014 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the famous crystal works. Its name very cleverly evokes the transformation of crystal at 540°C when 24-carat gold powder is added, a process that gives birth to the iconic Baccarat red color.
This unisex perfume is distinguished by its particularly complex and balanced composition, marrying notes of jasmine, saffron, cedar, and ambergris. This subtle alliance creates a sillage that is at once warm, slightly sweet, spicy, and woody, which quickly won over a global audience.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian was founded in 2009 by Francis Kurkdjian, a French perfumer of Armenian origin, and Marc Chaya, a Lebanese-French businessman. Before creating his own house, Kurkdjian had already made a name for himself by designing « Le Male » for Jean Paul Gaultier in 1995, one of the world’s best-selling men’s perfumes.
The added value of this house lies in its free creative vision, its exceptional craftsmanship, and a particularly careful customer experience. Initially a limited edition of only 250 bottles, Baccarat Rouge 540 became a global bestseller, propelled notably by rave reviews from perfumers and influencers on TikTok.
My favorite niche perfumes
State of Mind
State of Mind is a French luxury perfume house founded by Katia Balandina, also known as Catherine Laskine-Rostovsky, in the beauty industry. The brand was created in 2017 and focuses on associating perfumery and tea, offering a unique olfactory experience. The State of Mind perfume range was developed in collaboration with perfumer Karine Dubreuil-Sereni and currently includes 13 perfumes. Each perfume is accompanied by a matching tea, as well as a candle and a diffuser.
State of Mind perfumes are inspired by the idea that scents generate emotions and that these emotions influence our state of mind[5]. The collection explores this idea through tea-inspired perfumes, which are designed to have a positive influence on the mood and energy of those who wear them[6]. The perfumes of this brand have been rated an average of 7.3 out of 10.
Among the State of Mind perfumes are notably Aesthetic Turbulence (2017), Butterfly Mind (2017), Creative Inspiration (2017), Fanfarone Italiano (2025), French Gallantry (2019), L’Âme Slave (2017), Modern Nomad (2017), Natural Elegance (2017), Open Mind (2021), Secret of Success (2017), Sense of Humor (2017), and Spontaneous Generosity (2017).
In addition to perfumes, teas, candles, and diffusers, State of Mind also offers Hermès quality silk scarves, measuring 90 cm x 90 cm, which feature magnificent illustrations inspired by Art Deco and jazz music. The brand is sold in 40 countries and is internationally recognized, although it does not use traditional advertising and relies instead on word-of-mouth and the perfume and tea ceremonies organized by Catherine Laskine-Balandina.
Etat Libre d’Orange
Etat Libre d’Orange is a French perfume house founded by Etienne de Swardt in 2006. Before creating his own brand, Etienne de Swardt worked for seven years at Maison Givenchy. The brand takes its name from the former 19th-century Boer republic, the Orange Free State, located in South Africa. The name symbolizes independence, creative freedom, and cultural diversity.
Etat Libre d’Orange is distinguished by its audacity, originality, and freedom of expression. The brand offers surprising olfactory compositions without any limits in terms of creativity, raw materials, or cost. Currently, Etat Libre d’Orange presents a collection of over 30 perfumes, some of which are considered provocative, ironic, subversive, and elegant.
The perfumes of Etat Libre d’Orange are often based on contrasting ideas and unusual raw materials, resulting in original and unprecedented formulas. The brand respects the traditions of artisanal perfumery while bringing a contemporary touch that breaks the rules and abolishes conventional stylistic exercises.
Etat Libre d’Orange uses a unique and iconic bottle for all its perfumes, stamped with a blue, white, red cockade. The tricolor cockade symbolizes the freedom and difference claimed by the brand.
Among the most popular perfumes of Etat Libre d’Orange are « Hermann A Mes Côtés Me Paraissait Une Ombre », « You Or Someone Like You », « Putain des Palaces », and « Divin’Enfant ». The brand has also collaborated with celebrities, such as actress Tilda Swinton, to create perfumes: here the Like This.
Among the most popular perfumes of Etat Libre d’Orange, here is information on the two you mentioned:
Hermann à mes Côtés : This perfume is a woody aromatic composition for men and women, launched in 2015 and created by Quentin Bisch. It is described as having a unique lightness and freshness at the top, followed by a woody and earthy sillage. The main notes include spices and chypre accords. This perfume is often considered a gothic and eternally seductive fragrance
Tokyo Milk
History of Tokyo Milk
Tokyo Milk is a brand of perfumes and body care products created by Margot Elena. Margot Elena is an independent designer and entrepreneur who has developed several luxury beauty and bath product brands, including Tokyo Milk, Lollia, Infinite She, Library of Flowers, and The Cottage Greenhouse. Tokyo Milk is one of Margot Elena’s perfume libraries and was launched during the 2000s.
Particularities
Tokyo Milk is a brand distinguished by its originality and attention to detail. Tokyo Milk perfumes are designed to captivate, intrigue, and inspire. The brand offers a range of perfumes and body care products presented in decorated and enticing glass bottles.
Tokyo Milk perfumes are often described as sophisticated and mysterious, with brilliantly paired fragrance notes. The Tokyo Milk Dark collection, for example, offers unexpected essences that create a remarkably unusual sensory experience.
Among the popular perfumes of Tokyo Milk is « Contemplation », a woody aromatic perfume for women and men, with notes of fresh herbs, exotic teak, citrus, and cedar. Another popular perfume is « Le Petit », a floral fragrance for women, composed of lily, peony, violet, and vanilla
The Tokyo Milk Dark Everything & Nothing No. 10 perfume
This perfume is characterized by a luminous burst of citrus and layers of sweet, soft bloom. The perfume notes include sweet orange, pressed petals, desert moss, and tea leaves. This perfume is described as romantic and optimistic, creating an enchanting sensory experience.
Which perfume to choose?
As you’ve understood, there is a wide variety of perfumes to find the one that best suits you. Eau de toilette, eau de parfum, woody, aromatic, or spicy notes… It’s up to you to choose the men’s perfume that reflects your personality.
Do not hesitate to test several fragrances directly in-store before opting for the one that suits you. Take the time to let the olfactory notes develop on your skin.
And remember that a perfume is meant to be worn! It will reveal all its facets and its persistence throughout the day, reacting with your pH. It will become your olfactory signature.
So, ready to adopt your next signature perfume? With this selection, you will surely find the men’s perfume that corresponds to you.
Pour bien s'habiller, il faut comprendre le vêtement, mais aussi la marque et sa stratégie.