By Designer

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. 

Obsession for Men by Calvin Klein

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For this installment of my reviews of Calvin Klein colognes for men, we are going to hit the way back machine and take a look at Obsession, the classic CK scent from the 1980s. This is one of the scents which helped to put the designer’s fragrance line on the map and has been a very good seller ever since its release. Let’s take an opportunity to give this now classic fragrance an overview of what makes it so.

Update: I’ve update and edited this review, to expand upon, and give additional thoughts on this cologne. List of the best Calvin Klein fragrances for men!

What Does CK Obsession for Men Smell Like?

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Notes include: mandarin and spice, with low tones of musk, sandalwood and amber

Shop on Amazon: Calvin Klein OBSESSION for Men Eau de Toilette, 4 fl. oz.

My Full Wear Review

One of the first things that I have always noticed, about Obsession, is its warmth and notes of spice. It is a rather complex and rich fragrance and unlike a scent such as Opium Pour Homme, its spice is less Oriental and more of a fragrant cinnamon bouquet.

This scent is really interesting because it also has some fruity top notes like tangerine along with some more subdued floral notes which lend it an earthy or woodsy quality.

However, it opens up with mostly the cinnamon coming through as the main spice, as it will for the rest of the wear. In the beginning stages, it is joined by a variety of citrus notes from lime, mandarin, and the aforementioned tangerine.

To my nose, the citrus really doesn’t come across as juicy, more of an impression of dried fruit with lavender and the spice.

The fruity opening transitions away and a more floral heart begins to peak through. This is when obsession begins to feel warmer. This is when I really start to notice the woody notes, as well. It a blend of spice and sweetness, with a woodsy base.

Rosewood, nutmeg, jasmine, and sandalwood join the cinnamon and lavender (which will weaken, a bit later).

Finally, we get to what I mostly experience for the rest of the wear. It’s a cinnamon amber blend with vanilla highlights. That is the main attraction and it sits on a bed of sandalwood, random flowers, and spices. Very attractive and cozy, while still having a stylish feeling, after these ensuing decades.

Sillage, Longevity, Versatility

The warmth and the blend of herbal spice and florals lend credence to the fact that Obsession is a very nice cologne for the winter months. I think that anyone who says it doesn’t project well, might be wearing it in the wrong climate, as I think that it hangs beautifully in the crisp and cold air.

The sillage itself, probably isn’t going to take over a room, but you do get solid projection within the first few hours. After that, it is definitely respectable, and not weak at all. In my experience, it is much better in this regard, than many of the other CK fragrances.

Its longevity is average in my opinion, though, it can become overpowering when over-sprayed and have a tendency to permeate from clothing or skin. It is a moderate cologne to the extent that it is used in moderation.

It will seem to go on my skin, for anywhere between 5-7 hours, and this is the latest batch that I’ve gotten a hold of.

Most of the CK fragrances will fall into this range. Some less than that, but this is what the majority seem to be capable of nowadays.

Seasonally, save this one for the colder months, as I’ve written. It’s not too joyous of a wear in the heat and humidity. In the crisp air of autumn or winter, Obsession really comes to life between the warm comforting amber and the spiciness of cinnamon.

It actually is a versatile scent, in that, it can still be worn by any age group.

Obsession for Men can fit in a wide variety of situations, during the day, while pull double duty at night. Women like it, men like it…there’s a reason this was a best-seller and still moves units.

If you’re younger, you can wear this. It does have a different style than what you might be used to, but it’s worth a try. If you like Obsession, it’s one that you can get a lot of use out of in high school or college.

Overall Impressions of Obsession

Overall, I still think that this is one of the top fragrances by Calvin Klein and is simply a classic. There have of course been reformulations, over the years, but the newer batches seem to be on the right track.

Is it exactly the same as 1986? I doubt it. I wasn’t around for the original, but the newer editions, certainly hold up well. Plus, you can find bottles of this stuff at discounters for a good amount below retail. It can be a nice value play.

It is a mature fragrance for everyday wear, and is also inexpensive, so those are some definite pluses that Obsession has going for it. The complexity is still there and it has an interesting life cycle.

Yes, it is different from most of the more modern releases, but that doesn’t detract at all for me. In fact, I tend to dig this one, even more. It’s really delicious and a pleasant experience to wear. Pick up a bottle, Obsession is still, a damn good fragrance.

Polo Blue Eau de Parfum by Ralph Lauren

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I couldn’t remember exactly why I had ordered a sample of Polo Blue. After all, I’d already used it before and reviewed it on this site: here. Eventually, I pulled it back out of the box and it dawned on me that I had done so because this was the Eau de Parfum version of the fragrance and not the original release that I’d already went over.

Cool. I was excited to see if there were many differences between this EDP version and the original Polo Blue by Ralph Lauren.  As usual, I want to cover how it smells, performs, when it should be worn, and if it is worth a buy or not.

Update: I’ve come back to add things a few times to my initial review from 2016 for additional thoughts and clarity.

What Does Polo Blue Eau de Parfum Smell Like?

polo blue edp

Notes include: suede, bergamot, cardamom, basil, sea notes, sage, vetiver, woods

Click here to try: R.L. Polo Blue 4.2 oz / 125 ml Eau De Parfum EDP for Men

My Full Wear Review

I haven’t smelled the original Polo Blue in a while and only have a slight memory of how it was, so I also have to rely on my posted review, to make comparisons between the two. However, this EDP, definitely feels different.

Actually, the opening really reminds me of Acqua Di Gio Profumo, because of the citrus aroma provided by the bergamot. I still have a sample of that Armani scent and it does share the bergamot, aquatic notes, sage, and patchouli with Polo Blue EDP.

Update: Having had a full bottle of Profumo and trying EDP multiple times since this review, the sage is much heavier in Profumo. But, this is still like a mix of Polo Blue and AdG Profumo, in the early stages, especially.

As a side note, Polo Blue EDT smells a lot like, Eternity Aqua by Calvin Klein.

It opens up with a sharp bergamot, spices, and its oceanic notes. The spices are sage, cardamom, and basil. Each of those notes, seems to have its turn as the main spice, before falling back into the ranks. Cardamom starts off in the lead.

Very aquatic and citrusy at the top, then, the suede comes in to give it an almost leathery feeling. Coming back to Polo Blue EDP, it noticeably has the same style as, Fan di Fendi Acqua during the middle.

Both aquatic, spicy, with smooth notes (actual leather in the Fendi fragrance). Not the same smell, but that cologne also reminds me of this one with how it comes across.

The final dry down, is much more woody/earthy than it had been up to that point. You do still get some basil/sage, but it isn’t nearly as spicy. Wood and patchouli at the base, with suede, sea notes, and some citrus. Much smoother and not as sharp, I really dig the latter stages.

That’s what this fragrance is to me, a blend of Acqua Di Gio Profumo and the original Polo Blue. You would of course have to minus the melon and cucumber notes from the Polo Blue original but that is essentially what this EDP is.

Honestly, I like it. It’s not super exciting but I do think that it is better than the original, which I thought smelled nice but was just bland as hell. Though, it has a lot of similarities to how this smells during that dry down. Still, this is better.

Polo Blue EDP once it settles down, loses a bit of the similarity it shares with ADG Profumo, and begins to emerge more as the original Blue but with more defined notes.

It’s second half takes on a smoother aquatic/woodsy feel with the sea notes and suede, that is noticeably boosted in this version.

Sillage, Longevity, Versatility

Projection wise, it’s pretty good. Not overly loud but not a skin scent either. On the longevity end, it might be a little bit better than the original but really, not by much. It’s definitely in the realm of average, in that regard.

That initial burst is pretty strong, but it never matched the intensity of the original bottles of AdG Profumo.

I would say that this is a good casual wear for warmer weather and not much of a club or date night scent. Although, I think it’d be okay for the latter. It’s attractive enough, but not necessarily something that will really draw someone in.

Wearing it more often, I’ve been getting in the 5-7 hour range, pretty consistently. Definitely towards the higher end of that range, but sometimes, it doesn’t hold up as well.

In the summertime, this is the type of perfume that I can wear anywhere, and not feel out of place with it on.

Overall Impression of Polo Blue EDP

Overall, is Polo Blue Eau de Parfum a buy? It is better than the original, in my opinion. So, if you liked that, then think of this as an upgrade. It does everything well and as a casual scent, I don’t think you could go wrong owning this one.

It’s pleasant and should garner complements, which is essentially everything most guys want from a fragrance. If you don’t like aquatics or citrus based scents, you should probably look elsewhere.

Polo Blue EDP honestly grew on me, the more that I wore it. It’s still not an absolute love or must buy, but it has such an appeal on certain days, that I want to spray it on.

Update: I’ve also enjoyed Deep Blue from this series. Polo Blue Parfum is also nice. I’d say this one or Deep Blue are my favorites from the line.

10 Best Smelling Dolce & Gabbana Colognes

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Dolce & Gabbana is an Italian luxury house that doesn’t have a whole lot of options in terms of men’s colognes but there sure do have some really good ones available. Their top perfumes are generally fresh and masculine without ever being overbearing.

I have chosen what in my opinion are the ten best options for men, looking for a D&G fragrance to start wearing. On this list, there should be something for everybody to check out, from the more popular fragrances for him to the lesser known.

What are the Best Dolce & Gabbana Fragrances for Him?

The Classic D&G Scent

Dolce & Gabbana Dolce & Gabbana By Dolce & Gabbana for Men 6.7 Oz Eau De Toilette Spray, 6.7 Oz– The company’s namesake fragrance. For a man who knows what he wants and carries himself with a calm confidence. It contains citrus notes of lemon and orange that blends with softer notes like lavender and the more heavy tobacco notes.

Brilliant fragrance for the right guy. It does have a unique profile while feeling completely familiar. I think it is the way that the lavender and tobacco fill up the heart of the fragrance.

This one is really sexy and masculine. The sillage on D&G Pour Homme was great, as well as the longevity. Lavender and lemon, with clean sandalwood, and a lovely tobacco heart.

Find an older bottle if possible, as that was when it was at its absolute best. D&G Pour Homme Review

dolce

Best The One Fragrance

The One Luminous Night– So, Dolce has developed a ton of these The One fragrance flankers. Luminous Night was one for 2021 and seems kind of limited in its production run. Though, it might very well be the best of the bunch…you just need to track down a bottle.

Update: Dua now has their inspired by take on this: 1 & Only Luminous.

Luminous Night is a sweeter fragrance, with the same amber appeal, and a smokier base than some of the others in the series. What’s great here is the addition of dates, as the fruity sweet note, sitting within that sea of amber.

Some basil and black pepper spices up top, but it isn’t too intense with it.

Also, has a woody base to go with that thicker sweet fruity top. It’s actually not super heavy, but still reserve it for cooler to moderate temperatures. Luminous Night Review

One Winter Cologne

The One EDP– I loved the original The One EDT, and it’s listed below. The problem with it was the longevity. It would fade quickly on my skin. However, The One EDP, not only boosted the performance; but also delivers a great smell…without changing too much.

Still. though, it isn’t a powerhouse. The One eau de parfum, is still however, a great warm fragrance featuring cardamom, amber, and tobacco.

It’s also become one of the best selling D&G fragrances for him. A fantastic wear in the colder months. The amber really leads the way and you give bits of spice throughout from basil, coriander, and fresh ginger.

My Other Light Blue Wear

Light Blue Sun Pour Homme– I’m replacing the original Light Blue on this list, with this flanker. Light Blue Sun has been one that I’ve been wearing here in the late spring and early summer months and I really quite enjoy it.

To me, it sort of splits the difference between the original EDT and Intense, while having a few unique touches of its own. Light Blue Sun kicks off with an ozonic sea breeze, frozen grapefruit, and a fresh ginger note.

There is a lighter rosemary and the spice isn’t as intense as the original. Citrus and a cooling sensation, that is later joined by the hint of a creamy coconut. Very smooth and slightly sweet, but an awesome choice for when it gets hot outside.

I do go back and forth between Light Blue Sun and Eau Intense, there is overlap, and each has its merits. I do like wearing this one around when I’m out and about, during the daytime. Light Blue Sun Review

Best Summer Fragrance

Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Intense Eau de Parfum Spray for Men, 1.6 Ounce– I actually prefer the Intense version of Light Blue over the original. Like Light Blue, Eau Intense, starts out with a citrus opening; this time minus the bergamot note that is so prevalent in the original.

Grapefruit and mandarin this time around, but the grapefruit is ‘frozen’ and produces a wonderful chilled feeling. In that regard, it is sort of like Versace Man Eau Fraiche, but with a different structure.

Also, this one doesn’t have the same spice or aquatic note. The pepper is replaced with a great juniper and the aquatic aroma, is much closer to fresh water, than a sea note.

I think that this one is much more refreshing and fun to wear, the whole chilled vibe is great on a warm day. The sillage is strong and I get around 9 hours of use, on my skin. Light Blue Eau Intense Review

Most Popular D&G Cologne

The One By Dolce and Gabbana for Men, 3.3 Ounce
One of my personal favorite smelling fragrances ever, but it doesn’t last as long as I would hope. Maybe, it’s just me because, other reviews claim it lasts all day.

However, there are other folks with the same longevity issue, that I have with The One EDT.

It still makes the list, because it is so darn attractive. The One is super warm with an enveloping amber note, spicy cardamom and fresh ginger. Near total overlap with the EDP, just with less performance. So, just get the Eau de parfum version.

Like D&G Pour Homme, it features a smooth tobacco that gets paired with a citrus grapefruit and floral orange blossom. Fresh, spicy, warm, and then smooth…then disappears for me. The One EDT Review

the one for men review

Under the Radar Scent

D & G 21 LE FOU by Dolce & Gabbana EDT SPRAY 3.4 OZ (UNBOXED)– Not a well known fragrance from D&G, but it is a really good one. I got this as a sample on a whim and have worn it around at time during the past month or so. It is a masculine fragrance that is warm and spicy.

Update: I don’t believe that they make this one any longer, so, you’ll have to get a bottle online. I wouldn’t pay too high of a price for it. However, if it is pretty cheap, it can be worthwhile.

Starts off with warm boozy cognac, coriander, juniper, and some underlying floral notes. Not too heavy of a fragrance, but one the more interesting scents, that I tried from their Anthology Collection. I reviewed here.

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Best K Release

Dolce & Gabbana K for Men Eau de Parfum Spray, 5 Ounce/150ml– K EDP is a very unique and interesting scent, that followed on the heels of the EDT version. I could’ve gone with Light Blue Forever, as another new release, but how many Light Blue’s do you actually need? K gives you a new direction.

Pimento, fig, and cardamom really kick things off from the start of this scent. Really, how many other scents have anything like that trio? It’s spicy and earthy with a light and juicy citrus sitting just underneath the surface, in the very beginning.

Finally, you get the woody and somewhat bitter drydown. Fig, cedar, and vetiver are the last of the notes that still hang around. It’s quite a journey.

Now, I wasn’t totally blown away by K eau de parfum, but I appreciate D&G taking some risks and not just doing another flanker of a flanker. And…it’s a good scent, going to have a more niche fanbase, but K will still have its core group of folks who will love it. K EDP Review

Another Great Light Blue

Light Blue Pour Homme Italian Love– I wasn’t that much of a fan of Light Blue Forever, which preceded and shares a lot of overlap with Italian Love.

However, I do like this 2022 release more. Personally, I’d still pick Eau Intense over this, but I enjoy the realistic grapefruit (toned down from Forever) and the bergamot citrus adding a more rounded opening.

I need to spend some time with it, since I’ve only smelled it once, at this point. But, it’s a very nice summertime cologne. Less of the grapefruit intensity and violet leaf. Which is a big plus for me.

Update 2025: Both Italian Love and Forever are discontinued. Dua has their version of the Forever formula: Sky Blue Homme. But, not Italian Love, as of this update.

Update: Coming back to this one, it’s for sure better to me than Forever, even with all of the similarities. Italian Love’s bergamot note and the ozonic aspects are great. The bergamot combo with the grapefruit makes this one. Italian Love Review

Incenso

Velvet Incenso– Incenso is a unisex release from D&G’s Velvet fragrance lineup and more of a niche scent than something for everyone. Nevertheless, Velvet Incenso is a great perfume.

It’s a blend of resinous notes: amber, labdanum, elemi, benzoin with smoky incense, vanilla, and some cashmere wood. It’s not overly smoky, but has a great sweetness and balsamic embrace that makes Incenso a cozy wear during autumn and winter.

It’s also not completely flat, as it has a slight peppery kick up top and some further spice from a few other notes. Yet, it’s tame and utterly wearable.

The incense note is the star, but the balance here is too good, for it to be solely about that.

This is going to be more expensive than the usual mainstream releases from the brand. Velvet Incenso, in particular, is becoming more difficult to find as well. Incenso Review