The Men’s Perfume Guide
From cologne confusion to signature scent success, this is your cheat sheet to men’s fragrance.
Scent isn’t just part of a grooming routine, it’s part of your presence. The right fragrance can boost your confidence, set the tone for your day, or turn a casual encounter into something unforgettable. Whether it’s a clean spritz before your morning meeting, something bold for a big night out, or a scent that just feels like you, finding your go-to fragrance is a modern must.
But let’s be real: the world of men’s perfume can be a bit of a minefield. What’s the difference between cologne and aftershave? Which notes actually last? And how many sprays is too many?
That’s where this guide comes in. We’re breaking down scent families, explaining the lingo, and spotlighting the best long-wearing men’s fragrances from brands like Dior, Creed, Chanel, and more. Think of it as your cheat sheet to smelling great, with zero guesswork.
Written By: Dawn Rajah - Published: 12.08.25
Cologne, Perfume, Aftershave: What’s the Difference?
It’s a common point of confusion: Is cologne just for men? Is perfume only for women? What even is aftershave anymore?
The truth is, these terms mostly refer to the concentration of fragrance oils in a product, not the gender of the wearer.
Here’s how they break down:
Perfume (Parfum / Eau de Parfum)
These have the highest concentration of fragrance oils. They tend to last longer (6–10 hours or more), with richer, more complex compositions. For men, Eau de Parfum (EDP) versions of classics like Sauvage, Baccarat Rouge 540, or Bleu de Chanel offer depth and staying power.
Cologne (Eau de Cologne / Eau de Toilette)
The lightest of all, aftershave contains the lowest amount of fragrance and is designed primarily to soothe skin post-shave. While it may smell nice, it won’t last long and shouldn’t be your only scent layer if you want longevity. As for where to apply aftershave, men should focus on freshly shaved areas like the cheeks, chin, and neck, gently patting it on to avoid irritation.
Aftershave
The lightest of all, aftershave contains the lowest amount of fragrance and is designed primarily to soothe skin post-shave. While it may smell nice, it won’t last long and shouldn’t be your only scent layer if you want longevity.
So, what should you wear?
If you want something that lasts through the day (or night), go for an Eau de Parfum. For a crisp, everyday feel, an Eau de Toilette or Cologne can work beautifully. Use aftershave purely as a grooming step, not a standalone scent.
What's Trending?
Men’s fragrance has undergone a quiet revolution. What was once a spray-and-go step in the grooming routine has become a more deliberate, expressive ritual—part of the daily armour, right up there with good tailoring and skincare. The old one-scent-fits-all approach has been replaced with a desire for individuality, craftsmanship, and scents that tell a story.
One of the biggest shifts? The rise of genderless fragrances. Perfumes are no longer confined to “his” and “hers”—instead, the most sought-after scents are those that simply smell incredible. Take Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s Baccarat Rouge 540, a cult favourite that defies labels. It’s luxe, luminous, and utterly unforgettable—whether you’re wearing cufflinks or a leather jacket.
Nature has also made a strong comeback. Scents like Bvlgari Man Terrae Essence bring the outdoors in, blending notes of sun-warmed earth, mineral stone, and dry wood. These grounded, elemental fragrances tap into a rugged elegance that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern.
Then there’s the rise of layering. No longer just for fragrance aficionados, layering has gone mainstream—encouraged by brands like Jo Malone and MFK. Think of it as building a scent wardrobe: something fresh and citrusy for day, a deep leather or amber for night. It’s playful, a little experimental, and endlessly customisable.
The takeaway? Scent is no longer just an accessory.
Understanding Scent Families
Fragrances are often grouped into families based on their dominant character. Think of these like genres in music; some are fresh and clean, others warm and sensual. Getting to know them helps you understand what suits your style, personality, and even your skin chemistry (yes, that’s a thing).
Here’s a breakdown of the main scent families for men, along with standout picks:
1. Woody
Warm, grounded, and quietly confident, woody fragrances are built around earthy ingredients like cedarwood, vetiver, and sandalwood. They’re often softened by spices, citrus, or leather, making them incredibly versatile.
Best for: Daily wear, autumn layers, effortless sophistication.
2. Amber (Oriental)
Often considered the most sensual of scent families, amber fragrances are layered, warm, and rich. Amber perfumes usually combine resins, vanilla, and spices, with lingering musks or incense-like finishes.
Best for: Evenings, colder months, date nights that last until morning.
3. Fresh (Citrus, Green, Aquatic)
If you’re wondering what is a summer fragrance for men? Then this is the category to start with. Fresh scents are crisp, clean, and energetic, think lemon zest and citrus, sea breeze, or freshly cut grass. Fresh perfumes often feel light and invigorating, ideal for everyday wear or warmer climates.
Best for: Summer, office wear, low-key elegance.
4. Aromatic/Fougere
Fougere (French for “fern”) scents are traditionally masculine and often centre around lavender, oakmoss, and herbs. Today’s aromatic fragrances might also include spices, fruits, and woods, giving them a modern edge
Best for: Smart-casual days, tailored style, transitional seasons.
5. Leather
Deep, smoky, and unapologetically bold, leather fragrances are rich and textural. Some lean rugged, and raw; others feel polished and refined.
Best for: Winter, after dark, a mood that says “I’ve arrived.
Unlocking Your Signature Scent
The best scent for men over 40? The most attractive perfume for a first date? Wondering which perfume is best for men? The truth is, there’s no single winner: it depends on you.
Your signature scent should reflect who you are, how you dress, and even where you spend your time. Want something classic? Try woody or aromatic notes. Crave boldness? Look to amber or leather. Need something office-friendly? Fresh fragrances are your friend.
It also comes down to skin chemistry. A scent that smells incredible on a friend might fall flat on you, or vice versa. That’s why testing is key. Spray it on your skin, not just paper, and let it evolve over a few hours. Not sure how to apply men’s perfume? Target pulse points like the wrists, neck, and behind the ears—places where body heat will help the scent develop and project.
And remember: you don’t need to commit to just one. Build a small fragrance wardrobe: one for daytime, one for evening, one for when you want to be noticed. Like your personal style, scent should evolve with you.
Because the right fragrance doesn’t just leave a trail — it leaves an impression.
FAQs
How to apply men's perfume?
Applying men’s perfume is as much about technique as it is about quantity. For best results, target pulse points—areas where blood vessels are close to the skin, such as the wrists, neck, and behind the ears. The natural warmth here helps the fragrance evolve and project throughout the day. Hold the bottle about 10–15 cm away from the skin, give a quick spray, and avoid rubbing your wrists together, as this can break down the fragrance molecules and alter the scent profile. For longer-lasting impact, you can also mist your chest or the inside of your jacket for a subtle, lingering effect. Remember, less is more: 2–4 sprays are usually plenty, especially with Eau de Parfum concentrations.
What is the best aftershave for men?
Look for one that soothes skin with ingredients like aloe or witch hazel, and offers a light scent that complements (not competes with) your main fragrance.
What is a popular aftershave for young men?
These tend to lean towards fresh, vibrant scents that feel clean and energising rather than heavy or overly mature. Light citrus blends—think lemon, bergamot, or mandarin—are perennial favourites, as are marine-inspired fragrances that evoke sea air and crisp water. Aromatic herbs like rosemary, mint, and basil can add a modern, sporty twist.