Disclaimer: this article on perfume is fairly generalist and is mostly a big update of a 2018 guide, but one that focuses more on selection.
This is deliberately a generalist selection, with a representative sample of the best-known perfumes to give you a quick idea, wherever you live, of the different types of scent.
While the selection may seem a little mainstream, don’t forget that in tailoring, with a few exceptions, it makes more sense to go through SuitSupply or Anthony Garçon to get an idea of the cuts you like, rather than going straight to Neapolitan bespoke.
If you already know a little about the field, you’ll find a slightly more personal selection of more confidential fragrances at the end of this article.
2023 Best Cologne – What’s the best fragrance for men in 2023: colognes, eau de toilette or eau de parfum ?
Although the choice of the best fragrance for men is subjective, there are some criteria that can help you find a fragrance that suits your tastes and personality. In 2023, men will be looking for fragrances that combine freshness and warmth with elegance and sophistication.
To find the best fragrance for men in 2023, here are a few criteria to consider:
The type of fragrance: Men’s fragrances come in several types, such as colognes, eaux de toilette, eaux de parfum and extreme fragrances. Colognes are light and refreshing, while eaux de parfum and extreme fragrances have superior intensity and longevity. Select the type of fragrance that suits your taste and needs.
The olfactory family:Perfumes are classified into olfactory families according to the ingredients and notes they contain. Common olfactory families for men’s fragrances are woody, ferny, fresh, oriental and leathery. Determine which olfactory family best suits your personality and lifestyle.
Also, consider your personal fragrance preferences, such as whether you prefer a sweet or intense, sweet or spicy scent. Finally, don’t forget to consider the occasion for which you’ll be wearing the perfume. A fresh fragrance is ideal for a hot day, while a warm, sensual scent is better suited to an evening occasion.
2023 Best Selling Colognes For Men
Discover the best-selling men’s colognes of 2023! Whether you’re looking for a woody scent or a touch of freshness, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of some of the most popular fragrances for men in France:
Fragrance
Brand
Main notes
Le Male
Jean Paul Gaultier
Vanilla, mint, lavender
Sauvage
Dior
Bergamot, Sichuan pepper, ambroxan
Chanel Blue
Chanel
Lemon zest, ginger, incense
Acqua di Gio
Giorgio Armani
Orange, bergamot, patchouli
L’Homme Idéal
Guérlain
Almond, bergamot, spices
These men’s fragrances are popular for their exceptional quality and broad appeal. Whether you’re looking for a fragrance for a special event or for everyday use, you can’t go wrong with any of these popular choices.
If, on the other hand, you’re looking for originality, I’d 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 scents)…
Woody Fragrances For Men in 2023
Woody fragrances are classics of men’s perfumery: they are appreciated for their warm, comforting character, as well as for their true olfactory signature. Woody notes are often combined with spicy, smoky or leathery fragrances, adding a level of sophistication and subtlety.
Woods used in men’s fragrances include sandalwood, cedar, patchouli, vetiver and oud wood. These notes are often combined with leather, tobacco and spice scents to create deeper, more intense fragrances. Men’s woody fragrances are versatile and suitable for many occasions, from daytime to evening, for work or for going out.
Woody notes are also used in oriental fragrances, which are often combined with notes of vanilla, cinnamon and musk. Oriental woody fragrances are rich and luxurious, and can offer an interesting alternative to traditional woodies.
The best woody notes for men’s fragrances
Here are some of the best woody notes for men’s fragrances:
Woody notes
Features
Sandalwood
Warm, sweet, 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, sophisticated fragrances. Woody fragrances can also be combined with fresh, fruity notes to create lighter, more modern compositions.
Woody fragrances are timeless and continue to be popular in 2023. If you’re looking for a classic men’s fragrance with a touch of sophistication, a woody scent could be the perfect choice.
Fresh Fragrances For Men in 2023 (Acqua di Gio , Bleu de Chanel)
Fresh fragrances for men are a great option for those looking to feel revitalized and refreshed throughout the day. With their sparkling notes and energizing aromas, these fragrances are perfect forhot summer days or intense sports training. Fresh fragrances for men are also often associated with youth and vitality.
From scents based on fresh lime and crisp bergamot to fresh, woody blends of mint and cypress, there’s a wide variety of fragrance options for men who love fresh scents. Refreshing fragrances are often combined with citrus, herbal and botanical notes, as well as aquatic accords, giving them an invigorating feel.
Fresh fragrances for men can be worn daily or for special occasions such as outdoor weddings or sunny events. They’re perfect for active, sporty men looking to feel refreshed throughout the day. Fresh fragrances are also popular with younger men, as they evoke vitality and youthfulness.
Among the most popular fresh fragrances for men in 2023 are names such as Bleu by Chanel, Acqua Di Gio by Giorgio Armani, Light Blue by Dolce & Gabbana and Aqua by Jo Malone. These fragrances have been specially created to evoke sensations of freshness and vitality, making them perfect for men looking to feel invigorated and invigorated.
The selection of fresh fragrances for men in 2023 is a combination of timeless classics and modern, innovative scents. Sparkling citrus notes, aquatic accords and fresh woody blends are all represented in this selection of fresh fragrances for men.
Whether you’re looking to feel invigorated after a workout or to add a touch of vitality to your day, fresh fragrances for men are an excellent choice. With their vibrant energy and stimulating notes, these fragrances are sure to make you feel refreshed and ready to face the day with a smile.
Sensual Colognes For Men in 2023 (Dior Homme, Yves Saint Laurent, Tom Ford)
Sensual fragrances for men are designed to captivate and seduce. Their bewitching elegance attracts attention and creates a sophisticated ambience. Sensual fragrances are often associated with warm, woody notes, as well as spicy and oriental ones.
In the world of men’s fragrances, sensual fragrances are a popular choice for special occasions or romantic evenings. These fragrances are also sought-after for their longevity and all-day staying power.
The top notes of sensual fragrances for men are often composed of bergamot, cardamom or grapefruit. These initial notes are light and sparkling, but quickly give way to warmer, spicier middle notes. The base notes of sensual fragrances are often woody, with sandalwood, cedar and patchouli. These base notes create a warm, enveloping ambience.
Sensual fragrances for men are available in a variety of styles and brands. Some of the most popular fragrances 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.
Top Colognes For Men With Captivating Top Notes in 2023
Top notes are the first scents perceived when a fragrance is applied to the skin. They are therefore essential for creating a first impression and attracting the attention of those around you. Men’s fragrances with captivating top notes are therefore highly appreciated for their immediate seductive power.
Top notes can range from fresh citrus to pungent spices and aromatic herbs. Some men’s fragrances combine these different elements for a surprisingly captivating result.
An example of a men’s fragrance with captivating top notes is Chanel’s iconic Bleu, which blends notes of lemon, mint and pink pepper to create a fresh, spicy scent. Other fragrances, such as Dior Homme Intense, add floral touches, such as lavender, to create more complex and intriguing top notes.
It’s important to note that top notes don’t last as long as heart or base notes. That’s why it’s essential to choose a fragrance that also offers long-lasting notes for a complete fragrance experience.
Warm Base Notes For Men’s Colognes in 2023 (Armani, Tom Ford, Yves Saint Laurent)
A fragrance’s base notes are essential for creating a warm, lasting impression. Men’s fragrances often use woody, amber, musky and spicy notes to create an intense, captivating scent.
Men’s fragrances with warm, bewitching base notes are ideal for special occasions and elegant evenings. Base notes are often the last impression left by a fragrance, making them an important choice to consider when buying a perfume.
Warm base notes in men’s fragrances
Men’s fragrances 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
Tabac
Tobacco Vanille by Tom Ford
Musc
A*Men Pure Malt by Mugler
These fragrances have warm, rich notes, creating a memorable, elegant scent. Men’s fragrances with warm base notes go well with dressy outfits and special occasions.
However, it’s important to note that base notes can vary according to each individual’s body composition. It is therefore advisable to test the fragrance on your skin before purchasing it to ensure that the base notes are right for you.
Top Colognes from the Big Houses for Men in 2023 (Azzaro, Dior Homme)
The major perfume houses are brimming with olfactory treasures for men, with fragrances that have stood the test of time without losing their charm. These fragrances have become icons and continue to seduce generations of men.
Fragrance name
Brand
Description
Chanel Pour Monsieur
Chanel
This classic Chanel fragrance is a blend of fresh, spicy notes that evoke sophistication and elegance. A timeless fragrance for a confident man.
Azzaro Pour Homme is a woody, aromatic fragrance that combines the freshness of lavender and lemon with warm notes of wood and musk. A masculine, sensual fragrance for every occasion.
Dior Homme
Dior
This fragrance from the house of Dior is a subtle blend of floral and woody notes, with a touch of cocoa. The result is a sophisticated, elegant fragrance suitable for the modern gentleman.
These fragrances are safe choices for men looking for classic, timeless fragrances. They have been created by perfume houses renowned for their expertise and creativity, guaranteeing superior quality and attention to detail.
Elegant Bottles That Enhance Men’s Colognes in 2023 (Dior Sauvage, Bleu de Chanel)
In addition to the scent, the presentation of a fragrance is just as important. With bottles carefully designed to reflect the diversity of fragrances on offer, brands seek to seduce consumers not only with their noses, but also with their eyes.
Some bottles are designed to embody luxury, with elaborate designs and precious materials. Others, meanwhile, are minimalist and uncluttered, emphasizing simplicity and sophistication. Bottles can also reflect the brand’s history and heritage, adding a touch of tradition and authenticity.
Ultimately, choosing the perfect bottle will depend entirely on your personal tastes. If you’re looking for an elegant bottle that will enhance your favorite fragrance, here are some of my recommendations:
Brand
Bottle
Dior
Dior’s Sauvage bottle is a true work of art, with a sleek design and masculine lines. The thick, transparent glass houses a midnight-blue liquid which, combined with its magnetic cap, lends a feeling of luxury and modernity.
Chanel
The Bleu de Chanel bottle 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
Guerlain’s Habit Rouge bottle is a timeless classic, with its elegant, timeless design. The amber hue of the liquid perfectly captures the warm, sensual spirit of this fragrance.
These bottles are just a few examples of the meticulous attention to detail that goes into the presentation of each fragrance. Whether you prefer a minimalist design or something more elaborate, there’s sure to be a bottle that will sublimate your favorite fragrance in 2023.
Top 10 Best Men’s Colognes in 2023
In this list, you’ll find the 10 best-known men’s colognes on the market. While they may be a little mainstream, it’s important to be familiar with their characteristics before turning your attention to more confidential artisan perfumers.
This men’s fragrance is a timeless classic. Launched in 2010, Bleu de Chanel is one of the best-selling colognes for men. This eau de toilette for men opens with fresh citrus notes of grapefruit and pepper. The floral heart blends jasmine with geranium, followed by woody notes of cedar, sandalwood and patchouli to complete this iconic fragrance. Fresh, elegant and timeless, Chanel Bleu is a must-have.
Giorgio Armani created Acqua di Giò fragrance in 1996, quickly becoming a benchmark in the aquatic and aromatic family. This eau de toilette for men opens with a marine freshness and citrus notes. The heart notes include rosemary and clary sage. The woody base blends notes of cedar and musk. Fresh, aromatic and sensual, this fragrance is perfect for sunny days.
1 Million by Paco Rabanne is a bold fragrance created in 2008. This eau de toilette for men has a woody, spicy and leathery fragrance. In the top note, mandarin explodes 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 fragrance.
Saint Laurent is an iconic brand, and L’Homme YSL has been a sophisticated fragrance since 2006. This woody eau de toilette opens with the freshness of ginger and cardamom. The floral heart blends lavender and violet. The base is woody, with notes of vetiver and cedar. Fresh, clean and elegant, this fragrance is perfect for the modern man.
With Boss Bottled, Hugo Boss offers a woody, aromatic men’s fragrance launched in 1998. This eau de toilette opens with citrus citrus notes, followed by a floral heart of geranium and blackcurrant. The base accord is woody, with cedar and sandalwood. Fresh yet rich, Boss Bottled is a classic men’s fragrance.
Another fragrance 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 note is fresh, with tangerine and bay laurel. The heart is fruity, with petit grain de bigarade and an aquatic accord. The base is ambery and musky. Fresh, invigorating and sensual, Invictus appeals to active men.
Sauvage by Dior appeared in 2015 and has established itself as a new classic in men’s fragrance. This woody eau de toilette displays a wild, modern character. Up top, citrus fruits like bergamot explode. The heart combines lavender with spices. The base is amber, with notes of vanilla and cedar. Powerful and addictive, Sauvage is a modern fragrance.
Montblanc Explorer is an aromatic woody fragrance launched in 2018. This eau de parfum for men opens with citrus like bergamot combined with peppery notes. In the heart, guaiac wood and vetiver add character. In the base, ambergris and musk create an addictive woody sensuality. Explorer is a modern woody fragrance, perfect for adventurers.
Released in 2004, Armani Code is a woody, oriental eau de toilette. The citrus freshness of bergamot contrasts with the spicy guaiac wood at the heart. The base is suave
Released in 2004, Armani Code is a woody, oriental eau de toilette. The citrus freshness of bergamot contrasts with the spicy guaiac wood at the heart. The base is suave and sensual, with leather and sandalwood. Code is a charismatic fragrance with bewitching woody notes.
Spicebomb appeared in 2012 under the Viktor & Rolf brand. This spicy eau de toilette has an explosive character. It opens with a tangy freshness of lemon and bergamot. In the heart, a spicy accord of saffron, pepper and cumin. In the base, tobacco, vanilla and amber bring warmth and sensuality. For men who love bold fragrances!
State of Mind is a French luxury fragrance house founded by Katia Balandina, also known as Catherine Laskine-Rostovsky, in the beauty industry. The brand was established in 2017 and focuses on the combination of perfumery and tea, offering a unique olfactory experience. The State of Mind fragrance range was developed in collaboration with perfumer Karine Dubreuil-Sereni and currently features 13 scents]. Each fragrance is accompanied by a matching tea, candle and diffuser.
State of Mind fragrances 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 fragrances, which are designed to have a positive influence on the mood and energy of those who wear them[6]. The brand’s fragrances received an average score of 7.3 out of 10.
State of Mind fragrances include Aesthetic Turbulence (2017), Butterfly Mind (2017), Creative Inspiration (2017), Fanfarone Italiano (2023), French Gallantry (2019), L’ me 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 fragrances, teas, candles and diffusers, State of Mind also offers Hermès-quality silk scarves, measuring 90 cm x 90 cm, featuring beautiful 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 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 Boer republic of the 19th century, the Orange Free State, located in South Africa. The name symbolizes independence, creative freedom and cultural diversity.
Etat Libre d’Orange stands out for its boldness, originality and freedom of expression. The brand offers surprising olfactory compositions with no limits in terms of creativity, raw materials or cost. Currently, Etat Libre d’Orange presents a collection of over 30 fragrances, some of which are considered provocative, ironic, subversive and elegant.
Etat Libre d’Orange fragrances are often created using contrasting ideas and unusual raw materials, resulting in original, never-before-seen formulas. The brand respects the traditions of artisan perfumery while adding a contemporary touch that breaks the rules and abolishes conventional stylistic exercises.
Etat Libre d’Orange uses a single, emblematic bottle for all its fragrances, stamped with a blue, white and red roundel. The tricolor cockade symbolizes the brand’s claim to freedom and difference.
Among Etat Libre d’Orange’s most popular fragrances 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 fragrances: here, Like This.
Among Etat Libre d’Orange’s most popular fragrances, here’s information on the two you mentioned:
Hermann à mes Côtés: This fragrance is an aromatic woody 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, earthy trail. Main notes include spices and chypre accords. This fragrance is often referred to as gothic and eternally seductive
Tokyo Milk is a fragrance and body care brand created by Margot Elena. Margot Elena is an independent designer and entrepreneur who has developed several luxury beauty and bath brands, including Tokyo Milk, Lollia, Infinite She, Library of Flowers and The Cottage Greenhouse. Tokyo Milk is one of Margot Elena’s fragrance libraries and was launched in the 2000s.
Special features
Tokyo Milk is a brand distinguished by its originality and attention to detail. Tokyo Milk fragrances are designed to captivate, intrigue and inspire. The brand offers a range of fragrances and body care products that are presented in enticing, decorated glass bottles.
Tokyo Milk fragrances are often described as sophisticated and mysterious, with brilliantly combined fragrance notes. The Tokyo Milk Dark collection, for example, features unexpected essences that create a remarkably unusual sensory experience.
Among Tokyo Milk’s popular fragrances is « Contemplation », an aromatic woody scent for women and men, with notes of fresh herbs, exotic teak, citrus and cedar. Another popular scent is « Le Petit », a floral fragrance for women, composed of lily, peony, violet and vanilla
Tokyo Milk Dark Everything & Nothing No. 10
This fragrance features a luminous burst of citrus and layers of soft, sweet florals. Fragrance notes include sweet orange, pressed petals, desert moss and tea leaves. This fragrance is described as romantic and optimistic, creating an enchanting sensory experience.
As you can see, there’s a wide variety of colognes to choose from, so you’re sure to find the one that suits you best. Eau de toilette, eau de parfum, woody, aromatic or spicy notes… It’s up to you to choose the fragrance that reflects your personality.
Don’t hesitate to test several colognes in-store before choosing the one that suits you best. Take the time to let the olfactory notes develop on your skin.
And remember, perfume is meant to be worn! It will reveal all its facets and persistence over the course of the day, reacting with your pH. It will become your olfactory signature.
So, ready to adopt your next signature fragrance? With this selection, you’re sure to find the men’s cologne that’s right for you.
Choose based on fragrance type and olfactory family.
Fondateur de JamaisVulgaire, j'aime trouver des marques novatrices, au bon rapport qualité/prix et me demander en quoi elles apportent quelque chose dans le marché de la mode masculine.
Pour bien s'habiller, il faut comprendre le vêtement, mais aussi la marque et sa stratégie.
