Last Updated on 26th January 2024
Many men aim to smell incredible, both for special occasions and to gain more self-assurance. Nevertheless, it can be tricky to select the correct aftershave fragrance among the numerous options available. To assist you in making the correct choice, we have created a list of the top perfumes for men to look out for in 2023.
What is the difference between perfume, aftershave and fragrance for men?
While colloquially we reference perfume as being feminine and cologne masculine, neither are gender specific and the terms refer to the concentration of perfume oils. Aftershave however is aimed for men as it is intended to be applied after wet shaving. Fragrance is just the term for a pleasant smell.
There is also a clear classification on the level of perfume oil and still named in French internationally.
- Parfum – 20-30% (lasts up to 8 hours)
- Eau De Parfum – 15-20%
- Eau de Toilette – 5-15%
- Eau de Cologne – 2-4%
- Aftershave – 1-3% (lasts less than 2 hours)
The higher concentration levels mean higher prices, so Eau de Toilette, Cologne and aftershave will always be cheaper than perfume but not last as long. The fragrances then are classified by smell category often by using an electronic nose.
From timeless classics to modern aromatic scents, these fragrances are sure to make you stand out in any crowd. Whether you’re looking for something to wear to a special occasion or just an everyday natural scent to feel good in, there’s something for everyone on our list.
Creed – Aventus Eau De Parfum
Aventus Creed has a modern, bold aroma that was crafted to honour the legacy of a legendary leader who was well-known for his courageous military campaigns, diplomatic activities, and romantic relationships.
This masculine fragrance is suitable for men who are daring, spirited, and confident, and it starts with a stimulating combination of blackcurrant, Italian bergamot, Calville Blanc apples, and sparkling pineapple.
The base of this alluring smell is a woody and fragrant essence, which is intensified with a suggestion of roses, jasmine and patchouli. The smell is completed with a luxurious base of oak moss, ambergris, and a delicate addition of vanilla. Is testament to master perfumer Olivier Creed that it tops our list as the must-have for this year.
Dior – Sauvage Eau De Parfum
The signature scent of Dior Sauvage is a powerful and invigorating one, with an enigmatic and refreshing combination of elements. The Calabrian bergamot adds a juicy, lively element that gives an extra burst of flavour and vibrancy. While the woody notes of ambroxan are enveloped in the smoky vanilla absolute from Papua New Guinea to enhance the potency of the aroma.
François Demachy, the Perfumer-Creator at Dior, drew his inspiration for a fine fragrance from the desert landscape as the sunset began.
Chanel – Bleu De Chanel Parfum
Bleu De Chanel is an aromatic-woody scent formulated for men. It carries an attractive aroma and is stored in a container of rich, dark blue. This is a complete blend with a bold, clear personality.
It starts with an intense, invigorating scent, which then slowly spreads into a luxurious blend of New Caledonian sandalwood. This combination of aromas is exquisite and sophisticated, and its intense fragrance lingers.
Gucci – The Last Day of Summer Eau De Parfum
Alberto Morillas collaborated with Alessandro Michele to create a line of perfumes featuring exclusively organic plants and flowers combined with modern molecules. This scent is a combination of zesty and woody aromas including cedar, cypress, nutmeg, patchouli, and vetiver.
It is reminiscent of the end of summer when the warmth of the season is being replaced by the chill of autumn – with scents of cedar, trees, foliage, nutmeg, and woody, earthy fragrances like patchouli and vetiver.
Maison Margiela – Replica Jazz Club Eau De Toilette
Jazz Club’s aromatic fragrance has a captivating, masculine aroma. The deep scent is created by a combination of Vanilla, Tonka Bean, Vetiver, and Tabaco, which together evoke the sensation of spirits and leather.
A combination of pink pepper, neroli oil, and lemon combine to create a sharp yet sweet aroma, while earthy, leathery scents of claryage oil, rum absolute, and the Grasse rose give it a deeper depth. Finally, the base notes of vanilla and tobacco leaf essential oil counteract the alluring, suggestive aroma.
Ralph Lauren – Polo Black Eau De Toilette
Polo Black is a distinct, scented woody aroma that is designed for the stylish and self-assured man who has an elegant, metropolitan way of life. This men’s cologne starts off with a zesty burst of icy mango.
It then develops an aromatic and confident essence due to the inclusion of the herbaceous Silver Armoise. The concluding notes of the fragrance are a combination of the robust Patchouli Noir and the exotic Tonka bean, giving it an alluring and addictive depth and a place as one of the best perfume for men.
Giorgio Armani – Acqua di Giò Eau De Parfum
Giorgio Armani has created a groundbreaking perfume with the launch of the Acqua di Giò Eau de Parfum which is encased in a refillable bottle and made of eco-friendly components. It is a powerful mix of salty, aromatic, and woody aromas that capture the essence of the sea.
It comes in all sizes and can be refilled as per the needs of the customers. Furthermore, the production of this perfume is in line with the company’s commitment to protecting the forests.
Byredo – Bibliothèque Eau De Parfum
Byredo’s Bibliothèque was designed after their well-known candle with the same name. The scent of this fragrance begins with delicate and pleasant hints of peach and plum, which then transitions into a floral medley of peony, musk, and violets.
The composition is completed with patchouli, leather, and vanilla as the finishing touches. Its overall effect is reminiscent of stepping back in time to a classic, old-fashioned library with its shelves of books and cosy armchairs.
Le Labo – Another 13 Eau De Parfum
AnOther Magazine requested Le Labo to produce an exclusive fragrance in 2010 due to a partnership that was formed between Le Labo and Jefferson Hack, the editor-in-chief at AnOther Magazine. The production of Another 13 is the product of a joint effort, and it is an original aroma.
It is created with ambroxyde, a manufactured animal musk, forming Another 13 into an irresistible, impure concoction mixed with other specifically chosen ingredients like jasmine and moss – which add sharpness and lustre.
Hugo Boss – Boss Bottled Eau De Toilette
Boss Bottled has launched the next phase of the Man of Today campaign to motivate men to present themselves to the world by their deeds and the standards they adhere to. The complex and contrasting composition of the renowned men’s perfume has a luxurious and woody scent.
With hearty notes of geranium and cinnamon topped off with the freshness of apple and fresh citrus fruits.
As time passes, the aroma develops and becomes something new, giving the man wearing it a feeling of inspiration that lasts throughout the day.
What fragrances are for men?
Some scents are considered more masculine and often used for male products, and these include:
Ambrée (amber): Sweet scents intertwined with balsamic, caramel, or fruity accords.
Ambrée (spicy): Ambrée base fused with warm exotic spice.
Aromatic: Herbs and spices such as anis, clove, mint, rosemary, sage and thyme.
Chypre (woody): Moss, patchouli and fresh citrus.
Chypre (leathery): Dry, smoky or warm balsamic leather aromas.
Citrus (fresh): Bergamot, lemon, mandarin, orange, petitgrain.
Citrus (floral): Floral mix of citrus, woods and spices.
Fougere: A mix of bergamot, geranium and oakmoss.
Fougere (marine): Ozonic and marine elements.
Lavender: Lavender blended with woods or floral.
Tobacco: Flowers, woods and balsam.
Woody: Ceder, Patchouli, sandalwood and vetyver.
