Men’s Fashion

CK Be by Calvin Klein

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Calvin Klein was a major force in the fragrance world during the 1980s and 90s. From Obsession to Eternity to CK One and everything in between, this line of scents were constant best sellers, and still are in many ways.

In this post, I want to take a closer look at another unisex fragrance by Calvin Klein, CK Be. Is this fragrance still one to wear? What are its pros and cons? Is it worth a purchase?  Also see: CK One vs CK Be

What does CK Be Smell Like?

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Notes include: magnolia, peach, lavender, musk, sandalwood, bergamot, mint, vanilla

Click here to try: CK BE by CK Unisex Eau De Toilette Spray 3.4 oz.

My Full Review

The opening of CK Be is quite pleasant and doesn’t overpower you like some fragrances. It is a subtle blend of musk, lavender, peach, and citrus provided by the bergamot.

Again, this is a unisex scent, so don’t expect anything that screams masculine but it isn’t some ‘girly’ perfume either.

Be starts off with a fresh mix of notes like mint, lavender, and juniper. These are paired alongside the lighter fruit notes. Lavender strikes me as being stronger, up top, but there is a nice cleanliness to the supporting ingredients.

At this stage, it does have its soapy-like aroma, but it feels ‘greener’ than it will later on. Bergamot, peach, mint, and juniper bring it about during this time.

CK Be is warm and somewhat spicy and highlighted by that citrus vibe. It’s got a youthful energy that really reminds me of late spring and the early summer months.

It’s got such a clean and almost soapy quality when it settles on the skin and really starts to bring out the floral/woodsy notes that are blended in it. Lavender, musk, magnolia, and sandalwood with a fruity soap finish. It is sweeter and less ‘green fresh’, in the latter part of the wear.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

Projection wise, it isn’t a big bold scent but it isn’t completely weak either, at least at first. The longevity isn’t anything to write home about and that’s what sort of ruins this as a scent to me.

In totality, I’d call it a light to moderate projecting fragrance. It was never completely weak, on my skin, but never had that huge sillage.

About 4-5 hours of good use before you should probably reapply. CK Be is usually really inexpensive, so it really isn’t too much of a problem for the price, but it is pretty annoying to not have it be an all day performer.

Seasonally, CK Be is a warm weather fragrance for the spring/summertime. It’s probably best for those in their teens or twenties. Something that anyone could wear to class, a job, or just casually during the daytime.

This isn’t an extremely attractive or sexy scent. Though, it’s a smell that is quite popular, with its delightful aroma. CK Be can be sprayed on by men or women, who want to wear a non-intrusive and clean kind of perfume.

Overall Impression of CK Be

Overall, is this scent worth it? It is if you want something light and fresh at this price point. It is a really good option for either men or women that need something versatile and safe to wear on a day to day basis.

However, the longevity issue can be a problem, and if you aren’t in love with the smell one might as well get CK One instead. I’m not sure if this fragrance has been reformulated or discontinued, because I haven’t really seen it around recently.

CK be is a worthwhile purchase, at the right price, and I’d place that at under $30 or so. It’s going to give you a clean and versatile wear, that won’t offend, and is a pleasant experience all around. Is it amazing? To me, no. I like it, but it’s not something I’m particularly crazy about.

Armani Code EDT vs EDP

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Armani has done a great job keeping its two most popular fragrances alive, that being, Code and Acqua di Gio. Over the recent years, they have released a bunch of different flanker fragrances with these names, that have really raised the bar when compared to what others have come out with for their own popular colognes. The latest, is Code Eau de Parfum. How does it compare to the EDT version? Which lasts longer? Which is a better buy?

Tale of the Tape: Code EDT vs. Eau de Parfum

Armani Code

Notes include: citrus, lavender, apple, leather, tobacco, star anise, woods

Click here to try: Armani Code By Giorgio Armani For Men. Eau De Toilette Spray 4.2 Oz.

Read my review: Armani Code

Code Eau de Parfum

Notes include: lavender, tonka bean, cedar, lemon, vanilla, suede 

Read my review: Code EDP

Opening

Code EDT opens up with some fruity top notes, consisting of citrus and some apple. The citrus is the main attraction, but quickly joined by tobacco, star anise, and leather. It is freshly spiced with a powdery quality. This is all, while it still has that citrus aroma, which gets progressively weaker.

EDP, on the other hand, strikes me as if you took the original Code and blended it with Luna Rossa Sport by Prada. Tonka bean and lavender are both overlaps between those two fragrances. Also, you get the citrus opening and suede in lieu of leather.

Which do I prefer? I like Code EDP’s opening act more. It is difficult for me to recall what older formulations of EDT smelled like, but Code eau de parfum is a nice approximation, but ‘remixed’.

Edge: EDP

Projection

Eau de parfum has the greater concentration and therefore the stronger sillage, correct? Yes. However, it isn’t actually a powerhouse and is a fairly moderate fragrance overall. It projects better than the modern EDT, but it’s not miles better.

Edge: EDP

Longevity

With the current bottles of the original Code, it will last on my skin for 5-6 hours. It used to go 8 hours. Meanwhile, 7-8 hours is what Code EDP will get me. Neither is amazing, but there is a clear difference.

Edge: EDP

Versatility

These two colognes, essentially occupy the same space, as you’d expect. Both are best worn when the temperatures are cooler and are great as nightlife scents. Yes, the both have an attractive and sexy scent. No clear winner, here.

Edge: Push

Overall Scent

Armani Code is a classic fragrance, there’s no doubt about that. However, it has been surpassed in terms of smell and performance by its flanker fragrances. I personally prefer Absolu and Profumo versus either of these two.

That being said, if you want something that’s closest to the original formulation of Code EDT, the EDP is going to give you that…with some changes. It doesn’t have the star anise spice, which is disappointing, but EDP is inherently smoother with a very nice vanilla finish.

For me, Code EDP is the clear winner. Frankly, I don’t see why you would even bother with EDT any longer. It had it’s day in the sun and the newer releases are just better than what is left. Code Eau de Parfum is a worthy successor.

Winner: Code EDP

Adidas Deep Energy Cologne Review

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Most of the colognes which I have reviewed thus far on this site have been of the more expensive variety. Designer fragrances do come at a premium price and while you do sometimes get what you pay for, there are still great colognes at inexpensive prices. One cologne that I want to highlight today is Adidas’ Deep Energy.

This eau de toilette, sells for right around $10 and can provide a great value for guys looking to smell good. While it isn’t the best cologne on the market, Deep Energy is surprisingly pleasant for something so inexpensive. Update: It’s discontinued.

What does Adidas Deep Energy Smell Like?

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Deep Energy Notes: mandarin, bergamot, green apple, cardamon, lavender, musk and woods

My Full Review

I first got my bottle of Deep Energy in a gift set of 3 Adidas fragrances. I didn’t particularly care for the other two scents, but I did find Deep Energy to be a relative steal at the price.

This cologne is a sporty one, and not one that will necessarily, be the best choice for going out on a date or something like that. Although, I suppose you could if you had no other options.

It opens up with a citrus blast of mandarin orange and bergamot, with a crisp green apple, putting itself within the mix. From the start, there is a musky undertone that is present, but it never struck me as being too heavy.

As it dries down further, it can become more difficult to distinguish between the individual fruit smells, because they do sort of blend into one.

After a quick opening act, the lavender note really starts to kick in, and is joined by a cedar wood base. It’s soothing and fresh, while still retaining that sporty edge, which Adidas is known for.  I really like how it smells at this stage, as the blend isn’t overly fruity, but does have a nice crisp and pleasant aroma.

Energy is in the product title and it definitely lives up to the moniker. The mandarin and green apple notes within this fragrance, help to make it an invigorating choice.

While many other cheaper colognes, can tend to overpower, Deep Energy is one that is subtle yet stands out as a unique and pleasant experience.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

Projection wise, it is pretty moderate for the opening hour, and then the sillage is closer to the skin. It isn’t completely weak, but a cologne that is more light and refreshing, than constantly demanding attention.

The longevity has always been good for me. Well, I mean, good for something at this price point. It’ll go for up to 6 hours or so, before fading. That’s not bad at all, when you consider that re-application won’t cost a bunch of money.

I’ve mostly worn this fragrance at work or out around town while running errands. Due to its price, Deep Energy is a good choice as an everyday cologne, that can be worn on days where you don’t want to use up the more expensive designer fragrances you might own.

It’s sporty and light enough for gym wear. Most of all, it’s a nice choice for younger guys who are still in school, and need something simple and fresh.

Deep Energy has a bit of spice to it which helps to give it a comforting warmth, from a very light cardamom note, which is persistent throughout.

Unlike something such as Opium Pour Homme, this Adidas cologne has its subtle spice paired with woodsy notes and fruity notes like green apple.

Overall Impressions of Deep Energy

I rather like Deep Energy as sort of a starter cologne or one that can be worn in casual situations because it is a overall nice smell. I have gotten plenty of complements while wearing it, and it is also fairly long-lasting, which is even a better value.

Is it amazing? No, but, it is a nice little fragrance that you don’t really need to think about before applying. It isn’t offensive, it is clean, and gets the job done.

If you’re in the market for an inexpensive cologne, definitely check out Deep Energy, again it’s only $10 or thereabouts, so it won’t break the bank.

Update: This has been discontinued for years now. The secondary market, seems to have sold off most of the excess bottles and the price has shot up. Don’t pay insane prices for this.

Artisan by John Varvatos

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There are many scents out there that can be overbearing and heavy, however, us guys (and our girls) would prefer something a bit lighter and more inviting. Artisan by John Varvatos is just such a fragrance. It was introduced in 2009 and has a unique vibe to it, that I feel is almost perfect for the summer months.

On the other hand, I am not completely sold on this fragrance and its use within my rotation of scents because it does have some issues with its performance. Read on, as I break down what makes this scent one of interest.

What does Varvatos Artisan Smell Like?

artisan

Notes include: Tangelo, Marjoram, Thyme, Murraya, Lavandin, Kephalis, Ginger Absolute, Serenolide, Belambre, Orange Blossom, Clementine, Purple Ginger, Ginger root, Mandarin Orange, Georgywood

Click here to try: John Varvatos Artisan Eau De Toilette Gift Set, 4.2 Oz.

My Full Wear Review

The first thing that I note about this cologne is how light and airy of a fragrance it is. It is warm and inviting and definitely one that has a bit of sexiness to it. This is the type of fragrance that will have women wanting to draw closer to get a whiff.

It’s pleasant citrus notes highlight a layer of complexity to the scent and give it a very fresh opening.

The citrus notes here, are tangelo and mandarin orange, much like in Artisan Acqua. However, this one is much more of a citrus fragrance than a citrus aquatic. These top notes are joined by herbal ingredients and floral notes.

I get orange blossom, neroli, and ginger, mostly. The initial citrus blast is gradually taken down a notch by the underlying floral notes, and the light spiciness.

I want to write more about the dry down and the other notes that came out of the fragrance as it wore on but I honestly didn’t get the chance. After an hour or two, it’s pretty much an orange and neroli blend, which I have to press my nose against the skin to really pick up on.

While this scent smells great, it has two distinct problems. First, while it is light and airy, it’s also pretty weak and people have to be pretty close to you in order to detect it (or you have to spray a ton of it).

Secondly, it loses whatever strength it may have had really quickly. This cologne doesn’t last long at all…which is insanely disappointing because I like it.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

The sillage at the start, is light to moderate, but at least you know it’s there. A short time later and the ability to project is non-existent. Then, it’s essentially gone from the skin. What a bummer, because I like the aroma.

Maybe 2 hours of wear on my skin. Terrible

Why is this such a common theme with Varvatos fragrances, that I’ve tried? My skin is pretty good at keeping fragrances on it, for a max time, but this brand’s colognes just evaporate it seems.

This scent has so much potential, if it only lasted longer and could project better, I would probably wear it quite often. Much like, The One by Dolce & Gabbana, it’s beauty is tarnished by performance issues.

Overall Impressions of Artisan

I want to be able to wear and recommend it, but I just simply can’t. Maybe if you can find a really cheap bottle, you might have better luck with the performance, but paying full price here? Nah.

The aroma itself is really great. I love the citrus notes and summertime vibe. Super fresh with a great ginger touch. It just falls apart completely.

Apparently, other people have had a bit more success with how long it lasts for them. For me, this one has just always completely disappeared in short order. Artisan is a cologne that smells really good, that just doesn’t save it in the end, though.

Mont Blanc Legend Spirit vs. Legend Night

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For this edition in the head to head men’s fragrance match ups, I want to do another comparison between, two Mont Blanc fragrances: Legend Night vs. Legend Spirit. Which of these descendants from the original popular cologne, smells better? Which has a better performance? Which is overall the better buy?

I have worn, tested, and reviewed each of these scents. Now, I will break them down by category, before ultimately declaring a winner.

Tale of the Tape: Spirit vs Night

Legend Spirit

Notes include: grapefruit, pink pepper, bergamot, musk, aquatic accord, lavender, cardamom, oak moss, wood

Click here to try: MONTBLANC Legend Spirit Eau de Toilette, 3.3 Fl Oz

Read my review: Legend Spirit

Legend Night

Notes include: candied apple, cedar, vanilla, cardamom, vetiver, sage, mint, bergamot, fir, lavender, violet, patchouli, and musk

Click here to try: MONTBLANC Legend Night Eau De Parfum, 1 fl. oz.

Read my review: Legend Night

Opening

Legend Spirit opens up with a citrus and aquatic blend of notes. Beyond that, is a warm and slightly spicy blend of cardamom and pink pepper. It is a nice scent, clean, and that cardamom note really helps to prevent it from settling into a standard issue aquatic.

Legend Night starts off with bergamot and candied apple. The citrus is the same as Spirit, but Night goes in an entirely, different direction. The second layer is of vanilla, sage, cardamom, and cool mint.

You get plenty of creamy vanilla and apple mix, with the warm spicy undertones.

Which is better? To me, Legend Night, has the better start. The initial juiciness of the fruits, the cool and warm contrast in spice, and then the vanilla note. It’s great.

Edge: Night

Projection

So, Spirit is a moderate with its sillage, but on the lighter end of that spectrum. Legend Night is also moderate overall, but has a strong start, and can be quite noticeable for a while, at a distance.

It’s also just a heavier fragrance versus Spirit, which can be used into the spring and summertime, whereas Night isn’t a hot weather wear.

Edge: Night

Longevity

Legend Spirit gives me 5-6 hours of wear and that’s about it. Pretty consistent with that range. Legend Night will get me 7 hours, but when I double spray each side of my neck, it goes for 9 hours.

Spirit doesn’t get any more time, with double sprays. I don’t think either of these are amazing with their longevity. Pretty standard for most Montblanc colognes. Night, has just worked better for me, over many times testing them.

Edge: Night

Versatility

Legend Spirit gets the edge in versatility. It is a warm weather fragrance but can do well year-round. It can go casual to work to a date with ease. Legend Night, is great in cold weather, and fine in the moderate temperatures.

It is also more geared toward casual and nightlife, as the name suggests. So, probably not the best business fragrance, but neither really is.

Edge: Spirit

Overall Scent

There is a lot to like about Legend Spirit. It’s got a clean and aquatic citrus aroma, with nice touches of spice. It’s pretty average in its longevity and sillage, but I do really enjoy the cardamom note in this one. Nice overall cologne.

Legend Night is better and it’s one that I wear on a pretty regular basis. It too has the cardamom, but an overall, warm and enveloping scent. It’s sweet, fruity, spicy, and has sex appeal.

I’ve gotten complements with Legend Night from ride share drivers to women to random folks at the bar. I really dig this type of scent and when it’s in the right environment, it can be amazing.

To me, it’s a fairly easy win.

Winner: Legend Night