His birthday has rolled around again this year and you’re absolutely stumped – socks just won’t cut it, a business shirt screams b-o-r-i-n-g, and a bottle of whiskey is too impersonal.
In a situation like this, a fragrance is the way to go; it’s intimate, a complete necessity, and a total luxury at the same time. Here’s our guide to the latest scents for him…
If He’s Adventurous
Your weekends are spent doing cliff walks, venturing out into the country and exploring vineyards. He looks forward to nothing more than a boys camping trip every Spring. He’s even got his eye on the latest Range Rover.
“Spicy fragrances are warm, and are generally perceived as exotic or sensual,” says Erica Moore, Fragrance Evaluator from Fragrances of the World. “They aren’t shy, so are usually the domain of confident people who have a strong sense of their own style.”
This light and zingy buy loaded with cardamom, sandalwood and ginger is a top choice for everyday wear. Try Givenchy Gentlemen Only Casual Chic EDT, from $85
For something more invigorating, this mix of leather, ginger and coffee could be your calling. Try Ralph Lauren Polo Red Intense EDP, from $99
A beautiful blend of basil, lavender and sandalwood – just divine. Try Dolce & Gabbana Intenso, from $64
If He Loves To Cook
The Williams-Sonoma cooking lessons you got for him last Christmas scored you big brownie points. He’s got a micro-herb garden on the balcony that he meticulously grooms every Sunday. Duck ragu is his specialty.
“Aromatic fougere fragrances are deemed the ‘universal’ family as they borrow elements from all of the other families, such as citrus, floral and woods,” continues Moore. “These fragrances will generally appeal to those who have broad tastes, and a preference for classical, timeless scents.”
The delicious notes of pear, brandy and salt will win you over. Try Calvin Klein Reveal Men EDT, from $80
Love the best-selling scent 1 Million? This new launch takes citrus, rose and leather to a whole new level. Try Paco Rabanne 1 Million Cologne, from $85 (Available from August)
You’ll be absolutely hooked after one spritz of this pomelo, coriander and patchouli scent. Try John Varvatos Artisan Acqua EDT, $55
If He Loves A Morning Run
His alarm clock goes off at 5:50am everyday. Your washing basket is an overflowing accumulation of ankle socks and singlets. He sure doesn’t mind working up a sweat and pushing his body to new boundaries.
“Aquatic fragrances are perfect for guys who love to feel fresh, clean and not overly perfumed,” says Moore. “Outdoorsy, beachy and sporty are other ways to describe the type of person who might prefer these types of fragrances.”
Sweet honeydew melon and aromatic rosemary makes this one a true crowd-pleaser. Try Burberry Brit Splash EDT, from $74
Coconut water, ylang-ylang and marine notes will keep him mentally hydrated and grounded. Try L’Artisan Parfumeur Batucada EDT, $186
Inspired by Tea Clipper Ships, this oceanic buy filled with juniper berry and geranium will push him to new limits. Try Penhaligon’s Lothair EDT, $279
If He Loves To Read
He read Game of Thrones books way before they became popular. His coffee-stained mug at work is one from Penguin, and boasts ‘The Invisible Man’ across the body. You frequently debate whether literature looks better in hardcover or on Kindle.
“Woody fragrances are currently increasing in popularity, and they could be considered to be the choice of trendsetters or early adopters,” says Moore. “They can sometimes defy convention, they are also often chosen by someone who doesn’t mind being a bit different. They are ultimately very masculine in effect, yet still elegant.”
It may seem like a bitey scent on first impressions, but this black pepper and neroli scent is carefully balanced with bitter orange. Try Versace Pour Homme Oud Noir EDP, $165
This rich and heady scent of pine tree, nutmeg and leather will win him over. Try Bottega Veneta Pour Homme Extreme EDT, from $115
Bright scents of lemon and bergamot are gently balanced with grounding sandalwood and musk – just how men should be. Try Creed Millesime Imperial EDT, $319
What’s your favourite men’s fragrance, and why? Tell us in the comments below…
