Best Men's Colognes

Best Men's Colognes started back in 2013, as a way to share my learning experiences with the different fragrances that I've owned, as I dove head first into the hobby. Since then, that new hobby grew into a consistent passion, helping millions of readers along the way. I have personally written reviews for well over 800 perfumes and colognes for both men and women. This is along with writing hundreds of other in-depth fragrance guides. You can also follow me on: YouTube, Instagram, and Tiktok!

4 Fragrances that Smell Similar to Polo Blue EDT

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Polo Blue has been a massive hit for the brand over the past decade. That being the case, it is only natural that people start looking for scents that smell similar to this cologne. Either, to find a slightly better take on the composition or to provide a cheaper alternative which can come close to the Polo Blue smell. In this post, I am going to suggest some options which can do just that.

Colognes that Smell like Polo Blue

If we’re talking  fragrances with nearly the same aroma or cheaper options versus buying Polo Blue EDT, I’ve only come across one real alternative, that satisfies this question specifically. Update: I’ve found a few more that closely matches what we want.

The Inspired By Option

Another Blue Dua– The Dua Brand’s Another Blue Dua is your best bet if you want something that tries to match what you get from Polo Blue EDT. It’s inspired by the original vintage formula of Blue.

Eternity Aqua, listed below, is similar but ultimately a different fragrance. So, this is going to take over as the best option for a lot of people.

I haven’t tried Another Blue Dua, as of yet. I have owned 10 or so other inspired fragrances from Dua and they all hit very close to the mark. I can’t imagine that they don’t get Polo Blue correct. Very affordable and in a more concentrated Extrait de Parfum.

Melon Madness

Aromatic Watermelon– This is a newer entry to the list, as Dossier has now put out their interpretation of the Polo Blue DNA.

Aromatic Watermelon seems to take a bit of a different tact to accomplishing this. Noticeably, suede and cucumber are not listed in the notes here.

Instead, you’ll get cardamom, orris, and verbena in support to accomplish something that smells akin to the Ralph Lauren scent.

Does it accomplish this? I’m not sure, as I haven’t tested this fragrance out. But, I’ve tried Dossier in the past and they’ve done a good job with their versions of designer scents. It’s just another option for a good price to choose from.

The Best Alternate

Calvin Klein ETERNITY for Men AQUA Eau de Toilette, 3.4 Fl Oz– Eternity Aqua is the closest thing you will get to the aroma of Polo Blue EDT. Actually, it comes quite close to replicating it exactly, but there are a few differences.

Mainly, the opening act, is what is so similar to Blue. Eternity shares the cucumber note and that aquatic type of scent, but also features a plum note and citrus, to separate it from the Polo. It turns into a citrus spiciness with Sichuan pepper, with elements from the original Eternity for Men.

Is it better than Polo Blue? In terms of smell, they are really close, but I’m actually partial to Aqua. The longevity of Polo Blue is better, but I get 5-7 hours from this Calvin Klein. It would ultimately come down to price.

Right now, you can find full bottles of Eternity Aqua at some places for under $30, which is a saving versus Blue. If you can get one of the cheap bottles, go with this on over Ralph Lauren. Eternity Aqua Review

Tommy Bahama Option

Maritime Deep Blue– Maritime Deep Blue is one of the more recent releases from Tommy Bahama and it smells quite a bit like a batch of Polo Blue.
There’s not nearly as much of the aquatic-like elements and the citrus notes are toned down. Still present, just not with the same opening intensity.
It’s base has a certain dryness to it, with a really solid juniper note, which is the main distinction from the Polo Blue’s of the world.
As it dries down, it becomes a bit more unique with its cardamom and fresh juniper. It feels dry, fresh, and spicy. Plus, the nice floral and woody touches. Maritime Deep Blue Review

Any Other Alternative Choices?

There aren’t really any other choices for a one to one experience from cheaper brands. However, another option from just the popular EDT version of Polo Blue, is to go with the EDP. I actually enjoy the EDP Polo Blue more, as it has a spicier edge than does the EDT.

To me, it is underappreciated, and provides a similar yet different enough experience from the original to be a great alternative.

Alright, this is my list as it stands of similar men’s fragrances to Polo Blue. I will update this page, as needed, if I happen to come across any other options of colognes that could fit the bill.

10 Best Smelling Bvlgari Perfumes for Ladies

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When considering the top scents for women by Bvlgari, I wanted to both get the best smelling perfumes on the list but also to include some actually variety in the compositions. That way, there would be a list of different options based on one’s own personal tastes, as well as, based on the time of year or particular style you may be searching for. In the end, I have selected 10 perfumes from Bvlgari’s lineup which I think stack up as the top option.

What are the Best Bvlgari Fragrances for Her?

High-End Beauty

Baciami by Bvlgari– The Allegra line is one of Bvlgari’s latest offerings over the past few years. At a higher price point then their usual mainstream perfumes, they create something special for those looking for a scent that is more niche.

Baciami might be the best of the bunch. To me, it’s certainly in the top three thus far (along with the two others on this list).

This one gives you a creamy/milky sort of vanilla blend with a rich use of gardenia, that will all settle into a more powdery aroma. It kind of hits like a coconut, but not quite. It’s sweet with a great amber base note and the vanilla blend.

The gardenia will go back and forth with the vanilla, as to which is more dominant. Sometimes, it feels balanced, while others one will really come through off of the skin. Very nice to wear. Expensive, but worth trying.

A Lovely Myrrh 

Spettacolore by Bvlgari– A second Allegra fragrance. Though, I might go with Riva Solare before this one, Spettacolore is also worth a spot on the list.

This one is about the myrhh and iris notes. Early, you get an earthy and powdery iris note, that has a light citrus brightness to it. Not a complete powdery overload or anything, there also might be violet here, especially early on.

This has a great warmth, some sweetness, but a really fresh and interesting use of the myrrh note. Like a cooling freshness kick emerging from that warm pool of amber. It’s got such a great balance and it’s completely clean in the dry down, once that earthy aspect has faded completely.

Probably going to be one that will only interest a small percentage of people, but give it a try if you can.

Floral Bouquet

Bvlgari By Bvlgari For Women. Eau De Parfum Spray 3.4 Ounces– The brand’s namesake fragrance which features a floral bouquet of rose, iris, violet, and others. A very soft and feminine perfume yet still retains really good staying power (over 8 hours).

I’m personally not that into the smell, as I don’t particularly enjoy the heavier floral based perfumes. However, for those who do, Bvlgari Pour Femme is a solid choice. It opens with iris and violet leaf, then, you get more rose and violet during the drydown.

There are lighter fruit notes, in the background, but are none too strong. Again, this one is more for floral lovers, but it hits the mark in that category. Bvlgari Pour Femme Review

Beautiful Unisex Fragrance

Bvlgari Au The Blanc Unisex Eau De Cologne Spray, 2.5 Ounce– Au The Blanc from Bvlgari is an herbal, musk, and tea blend that is highlighted by a fresh spiciness. The opening act features pepper and artemisia for a bold and unique aroma.

Yet, this one doesn’t overpower, and has a more soothing aroma. The white tea and ambrette really play well off of the top notes and the musk ties it all together. It ends up warm, freshly clean, and a bit sweet.

Truly a unisex fragrance, that will give a change of pace from the usual perfumes.

Best Fresh Spicy Scent

Bvlgari Omnia Eau de Parfum Spray for Women, 2.2 Ounce– Omnia changes up the pace and brings the spice (but not too much) with notes like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It’s a unique experience that isn’t overpowering but still very good.

You get the warm and comforting spices, joined with a chai tea note, and some sweet almond and chocolate notes. The base is quite woody and supports the cardamom, ginger, and other assorted spices. The spices aren’t too sharp nor are they very powerful.

It’s a lighter scent, that wraps you in its warm coziness, versus beating you over the head with its projecting ability. Nice casual pick for the colder months.

Jasmine Blend

Jasmin Noir By Bvlgari Eau-de-toilette Spray, 3.4-Ounce– Jasmin Noir is a different kind of floral fragrance. While it opens up with jasmine and gardenia, these notes are surrounded by, almond and licorice. With a bit of patchouli, for good measure.

It’s floral, sweet, and slightly spicy. Jasmin Noir features a woody base, with a creamy tonka bean note, adding to its sweetness. It’s well put together, and the jasmine note, isn’t overwhelming within the composition. It’s quite moderate in its performance and a versatile pick for the autumn and winter months.   Jasmin Noir Review

Fresh and Powdery

Bvlgari Blv By Bvlgari For Women. Eau De Parfum Spray 2.5 Ounces–Very no frills, simplistic, and unique. Fresh, powdery, with a nice spice to it, and enough sweetness to intrigue. Blv opens up with a citrus bergamot note, joined by the main attraction of ginger.

No worries, the ginger isn’t completely dominant, and is tempered by the soft floral notes like wisteria. A light musk adds a bit more to the overall composition, but you still ultimately, get a clean powdered spice with a soft disposition.

Note: The women’s version seems to be discontinued now, as of this update.

Most Popular/Best Seller

Bvlgari Omnia Crystalline for Women Eau De Toilette Spray, 2.2 fl oz– Another from the Omnia series, Coral is another good scent, from that line. Crystalline is a light fragrance with lotus, tea, bamboo, and musk being the highlight notes.

It’s a simple and straightforward wear, that is a good pickup for daily use. It’s a clean blend of the lotus, tea, and a pear-like aroma. Quite clean, with a light soapy quality. Bamboo and musk sit at the base, but Crystalline, is headed up by the lotus flower.

Omnia Crystalline is a choice for those who want something to wear casually or to the office, that won’t offend or overwhelm, but smells fresh and delightful.

Sheer Rose Perfume

Bvlgari Rose Essentielle by Bvlgari 3.4oz 100ml EDT Spray– A must-have for rose lovers. Soft, sweet, and deliciously feminine. The two rose ingredients are paired with juicy blackberry, musk, and violet. A sandalwood base, adds a smooth creamy quality, that pairs well with the floral notes.

The rose smells freshly cut and not overpowering, the blackberry does a magnificent job at balancing things out. It isn’t too powerful, but, helps the rose and violet feel even more beautiful.

Rose Essentielle has a sheer and clean aroma, with good performance, that’s never too in your face about it.

Great Newer Bvlgari Perfume

Riva Solare by Bvlgari– Riva Solare Allegra is described by the brand as an Italian Vacation. It’s easy to understand why, when you get top notes of mandarin orange, and Calabrian bergamot. Along with, a lovely neroli note.

With that neroli, you get orange blossom, and osmanthus to round out the floral notes. Obviously, this is going to be a summertime citrus wear for the most part, but it is an absolutely beautiful one.

However, it really turns light and musky after that opening, with the impression of the bergamot really sticking around. To me, this felt very clean and just a complete vibe of being on the coast. It definitely captures those moments. The performance isn’t amazing, so you may want to try before you buy.

Eau de Lacoste L.12.12 Jaune (Yellow)

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One of the few things that I actually like about being in airports ,is the proliferation of duty free shops and luxury retailers, from which I can test out a few sprays of new colognes.

Today, while at El Prat in Barcelona, I got to sample Eau de Lacoste L.12.12 Jaune and thought that I’d post a one-time wear review of this fragrance. Update: I’m coming back to this one years later, with more on Jaune.

Now for those of you who don’t know French, this is the yellow bottle of the series, and was released back in 2015.  As usual, I’m going to give my thoughts on how it smells, performs, and whether or not I think that it is worth a purchase.

What does Lacoste Yellow (Jaune) Men’s Perfume Smell Like?

Notes Include: grapefruit, pink pepper, cyprus, tonic, golden delicious apples

Click Here to try: Lacoste Eau de Lacoste L.12.12 Jaune Eau de Toilette for Men, 3.3 fl. oz.

My Full Review

Upon first spraying Jaune, I immediately identified the first note as grapefruit. There is a slight spice to it, which when combined with the citrus overtones, creates an energetic and lively fragrance.

The opening is rather bold and instantly reminds one of a summer day with a hint of woodiness provided by the cyprus note, gives Jaune a somewhat unique feeling for this type of citrus fragrance.

There is a tonic note which gives this Yellow cologne, that slightly fizzy and upbeat kind of aroma. It’s like a cold drink paired with a peppery bite, with a fresh woodsy overtone consisting of cypress/vetiver.

One thing that I noticed about Jaune, is that, it doesn’t particularly develop beyond its initial scent. It’s very simplistic and straightforward. That initial burst is really quite good but this cologne lacks any real character, other than what it first shows you.

That in itself, wouldn’t be a problem. However, it becomes much more noticeable, when its other weakness is put front and center. Coming back to this perfume, multiple times, I still never really get any development so to speak of on my skin.

Jaune is sweet and citrusy, with a pleasant freshness that permeates the wear.

Sillage. How Long does it Last? Versatility.

The longevity of this one, like the other Eau de Lacoste scents I have reviewed, leaves much to be desired. Again, it starts off bold and seems like it’ll be a welcome addition to your cologne collection, but then fades relatively fast and is relegated to a skin scent.

It does project very well for the first 30-45 minutes of wear…which just ain’t enough. I also sprayed Polo Red Extreme, on my other arm at the same time, and that Ralph Lauren fragrance is still going strong. The difference is very noticeable in terms of performance.

As a weaker fragrance, it will stick around for maybe 4-6 hours, depending on the day. Not great for the retail price, but at a discount it could be a nice pick up, for those warmer days.

Update: Yep, right in that 4-6 hour range, is about what to expect from this one. This whole series from Lacoste, had pretty mediocre performance.

I don’t know that I like the scent of the Yellow bottle of Eau de Lacoste better than the White, but it might have the edge (or be tied) with Red.

Jaune is a bit different than the others, it’s a casual spring/summer scent, but I’d categorize it more towards the sporty end of the spectrum.

Again, it’s a simple scent. I’d say that it’s more geared toward younger guys, up through their 20s. It’s light enough to wear professionally. Smells nice, but isn’t sexy, nor does it have the power of a club beast.

Overall Impression of Lacoste Jaune

Overall, is it worth a buy? Maybe. If you can get a hold of a cheap bottle of Jaune, then, I would consider having a bottle. The scent is a really nice and energetic citrus, if that’s your thing, than this Eau de Lacoste edition is worth a look.

Again, I wish Lacoste would’ve beefed up the longevity of these scents because they are good casual colognes for the warmer months. Good smell, not so great performance.

I enjoy the grapefruit and the tonic, there are other summer colognes which do more of the straight lemonade vibe, so this was a slightly different take. An intense version would’ve been great, but that’ll probably never happen.

Update: This is still around on discounter sites, as of now, even if Lacoste discontinued it. I’m pretty sure they did, anyway. Jaune was one of the better editions of the L.12.12. lineup, in terms of smell.

The performance while not great, was also better than some of the others. Very pleasant, fresh, fizzy, and sweet. I just saw it for under $60 and somewhat cheaper with a promo code. In that $40-50 range, it might be worthwhile for some, while the stock of Jaune dwindles.

Polo Double Black by Ralph Lauren

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Another of my recent sample colognes that I received is Polo Double Black. I certainly enjoy my fair share of Ralph Lauren produced fragrances and have a certain familiarity with them.

Having said that, I had yet to experience Double Black and was excited to see how it stood up to the rest of the Polo lineup and indeed if it would become a part of my regular rotation of scents. This one was released in 2006.

Please read on to see my full opinion on this scent and if it’s worth a buy. Note: I have updated this page, years after the initial review.

Also check out: Best Polo Scents for Men, Polo Red Review, Polo Blue Review

What does Double Black Smell Like?

Polo Double Black

Notes include: coffee, mango, juniper berry, nutmeg, cardamom, pepper, woods

Click here to try: Polo Double Black on Amazon

Double Black Full Review

Polo Double Black is certainly a ‘dark’ and masculine fragrance.  While you will notice that it contains mango and juniper berry notes, it is not a fruity scent, really at all.

The opening is noticeably spicy, with the pepper note taking the lead and you definitely get the emergence of this cologne’s overall warmth with the blend of coffee and woods. Also, this warm spicy feeling is solidified by the nutmeg, which peaks through at times.

Double Black opens up with the warm spice, which is a different look from the fruitier Polo Black. The same frozen mango exists at the top, along with the aforementioned juniper berry, but each has been subdued to the coffee, pepper, and nutmeg notes.

As it settles, you do start to get the sweetness to come out but I really don’t get much of a mango note here, but maybe that’s just my nose not picking it up. I can see this being a pretty decent choice during the winter months, as the warm spiciness should work well.

It does have almost a chocolate scent to it at some point, I guess I would call it mocha, with the coffee and maybe the sweetness is the mango note at work to create this aroma.

The more times that I wore the sample, the more that I appreciated this unique smell. It takes elements of the original Polo Black and then adds smooth spices to the mix. Double Black really began to charm me.

Longevity, Sillage, and Versatility

Which brings me to the performance issues. Polo Double Black, isn’t a scent which will go all day long, and into the night. In fact, it might not even go half the day. I got 4-5 hours of solid performance and maybe another hour in which I could somewhat detect it.

Sometimes, it was even worse than that. I might go 3 hours, not even bothering to stick around as a skin scent.

The projection is moderate in my opinion and not overwhelming at all. This is a huge problem, because the aroma itself it really quite captivating, but it just won’t last very long and has pretty bad sillage.

The projection will be in the 2-3 foot range, max, past the first hour or so. It has a good initial burst, but Double Black falls apart thereafter.

It does have good versatility, I could definitely wear this during work or out on the town, as it is quite attractive and warm. It seems more like a ‘dressy’ casual type of scent.

If it actually lasts on your skin and people can smell it, I’m almost certain that Double Black would be a draw for complements.

Double Black is better in the colder seasons. I wouldn’t wear this in the hot and humid weather, but during autumn and winter, it really comes out smelling great.

 

Overall Impressions of Polo Double Black

Overall, I don’t hate this fragrance. Actually, I’ve had to come back here and edit my original thoughts somewhat because I started to really like it more and more.

My main problem with it is the longevity, like Polo Red (which I also like a lot), Double Black has some longevity issues. Yet, Polo Red EDT can definitely outdo Double.

If this were an all-day trooper, I’d probably pick up a small bottle at least, for my collection.

There just seems to be much better bets out there for the price. The sweet/spicy coffee aroma is highly appealing, however. It’s also not as good as the original Polo Black.

It is an interesting take on the formula, just doesn’t have the execution to make it worthwhile. The aroma is nice, just no performance to back it up.

Update: I’m pretty sure that this is discontinued. Though, I still see bottles floating around for sale, at times. However, those bottles are usually pretty richly priced. While this is a likeable fragrance with how it smells, Polo Double Black isn’t worth paying nearly $100 for. 

Versace Pour Femme (Signature) EDP

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Versace Pour Femme (aka Versace Signature) was released back in 2007, by the brand. I had yet to do a review of this perfume, on the site, so I grabbed a sample to do some testing. In this post, I’m going to share my thoughts about what works or what doesn’t. How does it perform? Does Versace Signature smell good at all? Is it worth a try?

What does Versace Signature Pour Femme Smell Like?

Notes include: guava, lilac, jasmine, lotus, orchid, azaleas, wisteria, musk, cedar, vetiver

Click here to try: Versace Signature by Gianni Versace For Women. Eau De Parfum Spray 3.4-Ounces

My Full Wear Review

The opening of Versace Pour Femme is fairly balanced between the floral notes and the guava fruit, which keeps this one from going into full bouquet mode. I immediately get a lot of lilac, jasmine, and what I suppose it wisteria.

I’m not too familiar with that flower’s aroma, but that’s my guess as to what that scent is. Nonetheless, the wisteria isn’t sticking around much, from what I can tell.

I really like the guava inclusion here, it plays very well off of the light dewy floral notes, and adds a great tropical sweetness. That, with a small part of black currant, makes Signature a really refreshing kind of wear.

A few minutes in, the lilac, is the dominant note for me. It stays that way for the rest of the wear, but lotus is also coming in, along with the jasmine. Floral, watery, with a great fresh cleanliness. 

Versace Signature is just a very pretty fragrance, overall. I’m really drawn to how balanced and fresh, this whole composition smells.

This is a fairly simple perfume, however, the base notes in the dry down do add some depth. Fresh cedarwood, vetiver, and musk. The vetiver and musk are fairly light. Though, I do pick up on a decent amount of cedar, later on in the wear.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

Projection wise, the sillage isn’t super powerful. It is a lighter sort of fragrance, but don’t mistake that for being weak. It’s just not a bomb, which is a good thing, as this excels as a daily wear perfume.

The longevity is good, and seems to be in that, 6-8 hour range. Not spectacular, but great for most purposes. Really, unless you absolutely have to have a bomb that goes double digit hours, it isn’t going to be an issue.

Seasonally, you can wear this anytime. I happen to think that it smells amazing in the spring and summer months. The fresh floral notes, don’t have that ‘green’ quality to them, and the guava is the star of the show.

That note, really holds everything together, and gives this perfume life. When I first tested out this fragrance, Versace Pour Femme was really great hanging around in the warm air of the outdoors. 

Versace Signature will work as a casual or slightly more formal perfume. It’s not really ‘sexy’, but it is definitely attractive, and a joy to smell. It’s not going to feel out of place, using it while dressed up, but it also isn’t a stuffy or overtly formal type of wear.

Overall Impressions of Versace Pour Femme

Overall, do I like Versace Pour Femme? Yep. This is a great choice for those wanting a floral dominant, daily wear fragrance. The guava sets the tone and makes this much more enjoyable.

The lilac, lotus, jasmine combination (along with lighter flowers) is really quite fresh and dynamic, when paired together. The performance is also good. It’s not a really unique or bold scent, but it does what it was designed to do very well. It’s a pretty safe blind buy.

I enjoy the pairing of the floral notes and the watery (semi-aquatic) aspects of this scent. For an easy to reach for daily wear, this is one of the best from the more popular designers. 

Update: This perfume has been discontinued and is getting more difficult to source an affordable bottle. So, unless it was already one that you loved or you’re a collector, it’s not likely worth it to pay up for Versace Pour Femme.

Nice perfume, though. This stuff had a uniqueness among the mainstream designer fragrances of the time and even up to today. Not something completely out of left field, but it had its particular nuances that made it distinct.