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!

Nautica Voyage vs Versace Eros Comparison

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Alright, in this cologne comparison post, it’s going to be a bit of an odd one between Eros versus Nautica Voyage. This seems odd to me because the Versace and the Nautica colognes are almost completely different, occupy different price ranges, and seem to serve different purposes. Whatever. There are those of you out there wanting to know the differences between these two scents, which one smells better, performs better, and is the better buy between them.

Tale of the Tape: Eros vs. Voyage

Versace Eros

Notes of Eros: mint, green apple, tonka bean, madagascar vanilla, vetiver, Italian lemon

Click here to try: Versace Eros Men Eau De Toilette Spray, 6.7 Fluid Ounce

My original Versace Eros Review

Nautica Voyage

Notes include: apple, musk, cedar, green leaf, amber, mimosa

Read my original review here

Try Nautica Voyage: Nautica Voyage By Nautica For Men. Eau De Toilette Spray 3.4 oz

Opening

Versace Eros comes right out of the gate as a powerhouse gourmand fragrance. It creates a sweet, warm, and smooth cloud of cologne around the wearer. There is a crisp apple note but it really comes across as sort of a chocolate-like scent at times.

Update: With newer bottles, I get a lot more of the lemon note up front. It was always there, but it seems stronger now.

Nautica Voyage is a really bright and summery cologne. It’s apple note, never really struck me as being apple. I guess it gets overwhelmed by mimosa and musk, as it truly smells more like orange to my nose.

Just on sheer pleasantry and as a more interesting opening, I’m going to have to give the nod to Eros.

Edge: Eros

Projection

Haha, this category isn’t even close. Nautica Voyage has light to moderate sillage and Eros is an absolute monster. Eros is quite heavy and as I mentioned, envelops you when you wear it.

Edge: Eros

Longevity

As an inexpensive fragrance, Voyage has always exceeded its price tag for me, in terms of performance. I can usually get 7 good hours of wear from it.

Again, though, Eros is just better in this regard. With this Versace scent, I can get double digit hours.

Update: With newer Eros bottles, I get like 8 or 9 hours. Still better than Voyage.

Edge: Eros

Versatility

Ok, while Voyage is much more of a summery scent, it can be worn year round. It may not have a winter ‘feel’ to it, but it will hold up in the climate. Eros is pretty much a cold weather warrior. It’s too much for the high heat and humidity.

So, is Voyage a winner in terms of versatility? Not quite.

Voyage is a casual scent. It’s not sexy and not a club beast and not really a work cologne (but wouldn’t be entirely out of place).

Eros can work casually, romantically, or in the club/bar scene. It’s probably too powerful for office wear.

Both also strike me as more youthful fragrances.

Ultimately, I think Eros has more uses, and I would definitely reach for it on more occasions than Voyage.

Edge: Eros

Overall Scent

So, this is a clean sweep for Versace Eros. I think it has the upper hand in every category versus Voyage. I like the smell better and even though it can be loud at times, Eros is more interesting.

That’s not to say that I dislike Voyage. It does smell nice. It is a very good choice for guys who need something for under $20. I mean, go check out all the reviews on Amazon, it’s a constant best seller.

It’s just that this is a weird comparison to do between two dissimilar fragrances. If I had to choose, I’d pick Eros to buy before Voyage, but I wouldn’t ever think to need to pick one versus the other.

Winner: Eros

Mon Paris EDP by YSL

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Mon Paris was released by Saint Laurent back in 2016. It has become the flagship of a pretty successful line of fragrances, though, not insanely so. I grabbed a few samples of these perfumes, to finally give them a proper review for the site, and will kick things off with the original Mon Paris EDP. How does it smell? When should it be worn? Is it worth a try?

What does Mon Paris EDP Smell Like?

Notes include: peony, white musk, patchouli, and datura accord

Click here to try: Yves Saint Laurent Mon Paris Eau de Parfum Spray, 3 Fluid Ounce

My Full Review

Before we get into my personal review, let’s see how YSL describes this fragrance: An intoxicating white chypre to make you lose your senses. The sensuality of white petaled musk, enlightened by a vertiginous datura accord and balanced by the intensity of an exceptional patchouli. The trail of intense love.

YSL doesn’t mention it, but there are fruity notes in Mon Paris and actually are more prominent than the floral notes for much of the wear.

I mostly get berries, some pear, and a hint of citrus. Though, the latter two aren’t that powerful within the overall composition.

With the floral notes, I mostly get the datura and peony, and a very light jasmine some of the time. It’s fruity/floral and somewhat musky, with a patchouli notes creeping up from the base.

For the rest of the wear, what it develops into is a sweet floral with musky and patchouli highlights. The fruit notes become less distinguishable and it just feels like a generic smell of ‘sweet’. It’s not bad or unpleasant to me, however.

The datura pretty much takes over the entirety of the composition. Datura, sweetness, and musk. 

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

Mon Paris isn’t a complete beast, but it isn’t exactly weak, either. The sillage is above average and I can pick it up 4-7 feet away, when spraying on a t-shirt. Very respectable and one that will work well in most situations.

The longevity is also quite good, just not elite. On my skin, Mon Paris EDP will go 7-8 hours before it completely fades. Right around a full work day. If you need a longer wear, you’re probably going to have to reapply. 

 

Seasonally, this is a very versatile release from YSL. I’d say, outside of the absolutely hottest days of summer, you should be good to go. It’s fine when it’s warm out, but just that high heat and humidity could kill it.

It’s sweet and attractive. Not necessarily a sexy fragrance, but I enjoy the delicious smelling aspects of this perfume. Good for casual wear, daily wear, and can venture into the nightlife. Though, that’s not its main use. 

I wouldn’t really use Mon Paris for a more formal engagement. Also, probably best worn by those in their 20s.

My Overall Impressions of Mon Paris

Overall, do I like Mon Paris by YSL? I like it, but this perfume isn’t a love for me. It’s a very nice fruity floral, that does most everything well enough, but it isn’t an outstanding scent by any means.

I like Intensement better from this series. Lumiere is pretty decent too.

It’s more of a sweet fruity/floral fragrance, than what it seems to be marketed as. Mon Paris is not super sugary or candy-like sweet, but it might be one to avoid if sweetness is not your thing with perfumes.

I enjoy the berries, datura, and peony blend. It’s pretty and one that would be easy to grab for most any occasion. The later patchouli phase is also fairly enjoyable.

Mon Paris EDP is nice. That’s about what I can say about it. Nothing super special, but pretty basic, familiar, and nice. It skews toward the younger crowd, but isn’t a complete ‘teenager fragrance’. 

Lacoste Essential for Men

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When I think of Lacoste, I think of crisp and clean both in terms of the scents that they produce, as well as the clothing the make. The company with the famous little gator logo, is towards the higher end of things but not towards the more extreme price points of Creed and other design houses. Lacoste is sort of a high end moderate in that regard.

In this post, I want to take a closer look at Lacoste Essential and help determine whether or not it is a fragrance which should be considered for purchase. Also, check out my Best Lacoste Colognes post for further options.

What does Lacoste Essential Smell Like?

Notes include: sandalwood, citrus, black currant, black pepper, cassia, rose, tomato leaf

Click here to try: Lacosté Essential for Men 4.2 oz EDT Spray

lacoste essential

My Full Review

Lacoste Essential opens with a sweet, green, and slightly synthetic scent that is quite pleasant. It’s kind of hard to detect exactly which note is the most prominent, as they all sort of melt together into a fresh but indistinguishable scent.

The citrus notes, bergamot, and tangerine, do leave an impression on me but nothing is all that dominate in this mix.

What I think makes Essential unique from other mass marketed colognes is the inclusion of cassia and tomato leaf that gives it a sweetly green mix. I really like it when tomato leaf is included in scents, as I feel it doesn’t get used often enough, and presents something different and pleasant.

Also, since the citrus isn’t overwhelming it gives these other notes (along with peppery spice) a bit of a chance to present themselves once it dries down.

This fragrance isn’t rich, heavy, or all that complex. It is fresh, clean, and has a soapy quality found in other scents such as Eternity. This is a good thing in many respects, as the simplicity seems to make it hold up well during these warmer months of the year.

It is light and perfect as a daily cologne during the spring/summer. It does have a freshness and herbal spice quality to it, that gives it, that masculine edge. Still, it all comes together as being clean, and not ‘in your face’ with the power.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

Now, projection wise it isn’t a beast, but it isn’t totally weak either. It’s pretty much, right dab in the middle of the strength spectrum. The first few hours are going to be decently powered, before it settles into being a lighter type of fragrance.

Lacoste Essential, also, isn’t an amazing long-lasting performer. I get 6 hours on average of solid wear and maybe more, depending on the circumstances.

The most is usually around 7.5-8 hours, in some lower humidity circumstances. I find that if the humidity is running high, I’m going to get about 6 hours of wear from this one.

Seasonally, as I’ve already said, spring and summer. If you live in a warmer or tropical climate, it will have a year round availability. Again, I like to wear it as a casual scent or something for semi-formal or office situations.

Is it a date night fragrance? Not really. I wouldn’t call it a ‘sexy’ cologne, but it will draw some complements, so it wouldn’t be out of place really. Essential is not a club beast or something for when you really want to stand out in the crowd.

Overall Impressions of Lacoste Essential for Men

Is Essential worth a buy? That depends. It is an above average scent and if you need a casual, daily wear fragrance during the warmer months, this might be your go to.

However, if you’ve got that covered, you could definitely skip it since you aren’t missing out on anything amazing. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a very nice scent, but it won’t blow anyone away.

I like the tomato leaf and citrus. It does have a rather unique profile, but still isn’t crazy good. I do enjoy wearing Essential and for the right price, wouldn’t be opposed to having a bottle.

Essential is very fresh with a blend of woods and herbal notes, in the dry down. Nice spice and it is very versatile. Better than many scents, but not elite.

10 Best Smelling Chocolate Scented Perfumes

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Chocolate is a favorite aroma of so many people around the world. It is no wonder, that this note is included in a lot of different fragrances. Yet, it is often not the lead note, and usually just comes in for a bit of support. In this post, I want to explore some options for women, who are looking for a chocolate scented perfume. I gathered up 10 names, which I feel, can fit the bill well. 

What are the Best Chocolate Perfumes for Women?

Citrus & Chocolate

Symphonium by Xerjoff– Kicking things off here, we have a higher end perfume with a great chocolate heart, Symphonium.

This Xerjoff scent utilizes orange, vanilla, and the warmth of cardamom to surround and amplify our target note. But, while it seems like it would be one big sweet bash, there is also a significant amount of oud giving it a further density and smokiness.

So, it’s a chocolatey perfume with fresh orange, spiciness, and an underlying oud base. Later, it gets creamier and more edible with how it comes across.

Might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but this is a unique blend that should have fans among those who love chocolate.

 

 

Dark Chocolate Blend

Kilian Black Phantom- Memento Mori Perfume Refillable Spray 1.7 fl. oz– Black Phantom is a sweet gourmand early on, which really shines when its cold out. You get boozy slightly spiced rum, chocolate caramel, and coffee. Yep, it’s going to be warm and delicious.

Upon opening the chocolate note really comes through, along with almond, some of the rum and a sugary sweetness. As it moves along Black Phantom becomes a blend of chocolate, caramel, and coffee. The chocolate is darker and the scent is less sweet overall, during the latter stages. 

A very nice dark chocolate, with nutty elements, and a warm embracing coffee note. This can be worn by anyone, without issue. 

Slight Spice with Chocolate Sweetness

Jo Malone Blue Agave & Cacao Cologne for Women 1 oz Cologne Spray–Blue Agave & Cacao takes spicy cinnamon melds it with vanilla and chocolate sweetness. Under that is an additional citrus accord, giving the entire profile a yummy appeal.

The opening gives you a blend of the chocolate note with warm cardamom spice and the cinnamon. The spice isn’t too intense, but does add to the gourmand flavoring of this perfume, it’s a sweet spicy mix.

Under that there is a bit of vetiver, with orchid, lily, and the blue agave. Awesome and unique.

Pure Cacao Perfume

Cacao Dreams 55 ML (Alexandria Fragrances)– This is a pretty straightforward perfume, but delivers exactly what many will be looking for, nearly pure chocolate. Yes, there is some additional notes, like vanilla and a hint of orange.

However, they are background players to the chocolatey goodness found in Cacao Dreams. Not too heavy or synthetic smelling, with pretty good performance. 

White Chocolate with Powdery Finish

Britney Spears Fantasy the Naughty Remix Eau De Parfum Spray, 1.7 Ounce– You could also go with the original Fantasy, but this one brings something a bit different to the table, with how it uses its white chocolate note. Plus, the base notes are less sweet and it feels a bit darker.

It is joined by the sweetness of cupcake frosting, with powdery, and spicy elements. The orris root, is fairly strong, and brings a solid dose of powder. As such, this version won’t be for everyone, but it can be a great pick up for the right type of woman. 

It’s getting harder to come by, as it was discontinued, though well worth wearing if you can get a good price.

Chocolate and Hazelnut Cream

THIERRY MUGLER Angel Muse Eau de Parfum for Women, 1.7 Ounce– This Angel fragrance, gives you cacao, with hazelnut cream for the sweeter part of the scent. With that, comes a healthy hit of patchouli.

Angel Muse is long-lasting with a creamy middle act, due to the tonka bean. This isn’t a pure chocolate scent, but it is a very nice example of using the ingredient, in conjunction with others.

The patchouli and woody notes, do give it that bakery-like aroma. Again, not a straight up chocolate blast, just a great blend. Angel Muse Review

Chocolate Bakery

MONTALE Chocolate Greedy Eau de Parfum Spray, 3.4 fl. oz.– Chocolate Greedy gives you a lovely chocolate aroma, that is supported by vanilla, and a hint of coffee. The coffee is mostly around, at the start, but gets overtaken by a bitter orange.

Honestly, not personally a fan of the bitter orange note, but it ultimately isn’t too much of a distraction. As it dries down, it takes on more of a scent of chocolate baked goods, with its warmth. 

Very good performance here. The aroma goes from baked goods to a creamier feel during the middle act. Not super sweet or sugary.

Chocolate Cake with Fruity Syrup

Comptoir Sud Pacifique AMOUR DE CACAO EDT,1 fl. oz.– Quite similar to Chocolate Greedy above, but has a better array of fruit notes. The orange here is just standard orange and not bitter. Also, you get a starfruit ingredient, which is bright and inviting.

Beyond that, the cacao and vanilla mix, up pretty much in the same way. Get this if you want slightly more fruit, included, with less powdery finish. If you want a syrupy layer of fruit notes, on top of your chocolate cake…get this one instead of Greedy.

 

Earthy, Spicy, and Floral

Paco Rabanne Black Xs By Paco Rabanne For Women. Eau De Toilette Spray 2.7-Ounces
Very fresh and sexy scent with floral and gourmand notes such as cacao and vanilla. It’s somewhat sweet, but Black XS is also is centered by a hint of spice and a woody/earthy middle.

It opens up with the tart cranberry and patchouli, before it is brought together by our cacao note and some rose. However, as it moves along, Black XS does indeed get darker.

The rose note dissipates and the cranberry begins to get superseded by the other ingredients. The final product is cacao, vanilla, patchouli, pink pepper, and some musk..   Black XS Review

Sweet and Cozy Cocoa

Prada Candy Night by Prada Eau De Parfum Spray 2.7 oz Women– The flanker fragrance to the original Prada Candy, Night steps up the sweetness, with the addition of cacao. Candy Night is warm with undertones of its caramel note, and the musk, found at the base.

The chocolate note comes across, as somewhat dry, and powdery (a little bit like cocoa powder drink mix). However, there is a nice juicy orange note up top, which prevents it from being totally dried out. It ends up being a nice, cozy performer.

5 Best Smelling Lemon Scented Colognes

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Lemon is a note that gets used often in fragrances, but it really isn’t the main focus, in many of those scents. It can be a great note, provided it is actually utilized properly. Other times, it just comes across as too tart. In this post, I want to highlight five cologne options for men that strongly feature lemon, not necessarily just a pure lemon squeeze.

What are the best smelling Lemon Colognes for Men?

Lemon and Vanilla

Chanel Allure Homme Edition Blanche– Allure Edition Blanche is absolutely one of my favorite lemon scented fragrance. Honestly, I think that the discontinued EDT Eau Concentree is the better version of this, but the EDP is still great.

Lemon, tonka bean, and vanilla. With a great pure citrus opening, that finishes with a delicious creamy finish. It smells like a lemon cake of some sort, but it’s not heavy and actually is one to wear during the summer months.

The sillage isn’t huge and the overall performance isn’t amazing, but passable. Nonetheless, this scent smells fantastic.

Spicy Lemon and Cocoa

Guerlain L’instant Pour Homme Eau de Toilette Spray, 3.3 Ounce – L’Instant Guerlain is an interesting use of a lemon note. It kicks off with that and a spicy star anise, as the opening act. Then, it is herbal and dry, and finally sweet with the introduction of the cocoa note.

It’s got a somewhat floral heart of mostly jasmine with some hibiscus. However, most of the main thrust of this cologne is about lemon, cocoa, and sandalwood. It’s something different from most other scents out there and a great use of our target ingredient. L’Instant Guerlain EDT Review

instant guerlain pour homme

Chanel Blend of Citrus

Bleu De Chaneⅼ Eau De Parfum Pour Homme Spray 1.7 Fl. OZ. / 50ML.– I tend to go back and forth between Bleu EDP and the Parfum version. But, if you’re looking for lemon, this is the best of the line.

Now, it’s not pure lemon and is blended with grapefruit and bergamot. The thing is, the citrus notes smell terrific with one another and the lemon plays a major part of that. Underneath that, are the fresh notes of mint, ginger, and pink pepper.

Finally, the dry down of citrus, amber, and incense. It’s clean, attractive, and Bleu de Chanel EDP has nice performance with 8+ hours of wear. Bleu EDP Review

Best Seller for Winter

Versace Eros for Men 6.7 oz Eau de Toilette Spray– Eros has always had a strong lemon note. In newer bottles, this seems to be even truer than it once was. It is paired with the mint note up top, plenty of tonka bean and vanilla to boot.

Eros is and has been a best seller for many years now. To me, the newer bottles don’t seem to have the same power, but this is still a plenty strong cologne. More for the autumn and winter months, as it will melt in the heat.

If you want a bold lemon gourmand sort of scent, Versace Eros can still fit the bill. Versace Eros Review

Guilty Lemon

Gucci Guilty Intense Eau De Toilette Spray for Men, 3 Ounce– Guilty Intense is my second favorite from the Guilty line (behind Black), but the best one with a solid lemon note. Now, the original Guilty has the strongest use of lemon, it’s just as good of a fragrance.

Underneath the citrus, is a great floral heart with lavender, orange blossom, and neroli. All of this sits on top of a lot of amber. It isn’t a super complex scent, but Guilty Intense is a beautiful and versatile fragrance to wear.

It’s got pretty good sillage and it lasts for 7-8 hours, on my skin. Gucci Guilty Intense Review