Men’s Fashion

Guerlain L’Homme Ideal EDP vs Extreme

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Ideal Extreme and Eau de parfum are two of the most popular and sought after colognes from this Guerlain line. The question is, which fragrance is really better? Which lasts longer? Which should you buy? In this post, I break down and compare each cologne based on my experience in testing each.

Tale of the Tape: L’Homme Ideal EDP vs. Extreme

Notes include: cherry, almond, lavender, vanilla, incense, rose, rosemary, leather, tonka bean, and more

Click here to try: L’Homme Ideal EDP at Selfridges (ships from UK)

Ideal Extreme

Notes include: plum, almond, tobacco, heliotrope, leather, cinnamon, bergamot, pink pepper, patchouli, cedar

Click here to try: Ideal Extreme from Selfridges

Read my review: Ideal Extreme

Opening

Ideal EDP opens with its natural cherry and almond blend. The opening features a slight spiciness, but it is overall a very smooth and refined opening act. Leather, vanilla, and other warmer hints are coming through from the base.

I actually get a nice dose of leather with Extreme early on in the wear. It’s not a total dominant note, but it is there. With that you get pink pepper and cinnamon spice in the background.

The dried fruit aroma of plum, with a dash of citrus at the very beginning, and the signature almond note. The mix isn’t a juicy fruit and that plum note adds a tart quality versus something sweeter like EDP.

Which is better? It is a very close call for me. The opening of each, is my favorite aspect of both scents.

Yet, I think that I slightly prefer the cherry, almond, and vanilla blend more so than that of the plum and leather ingredients.

Edge: EDP

Projection

Before trying each out, I would’ve thought Extreme would’ve been an absolute powerhouse, based on the name. Not so much.

Both of these are actually pretty moderate with the sillage. Strong openers, sure. After that, noticeable and solid, just nothing beast mode. No clear winner here.

Edge: Push

Longevity

The longevity with both of these fragrances is in the 8-9.5 hour range, on my skin. There’s no real difference in this category. Each provides a nice, albeit not elite amount of wear.

Edge: Push

Versatility

Both of these are autumn and winter wears. Each can be versatile within that time frame. Casual and nightlife options are about equal.

However, I think that Ideal Extreme is a bit better for something like the office, with less of the sweetness that the EDP can have. It might also be better for dates, as cherry can be hit or miss for some people.

Edge: Extreme

Overall Scent

Overall, which of these colognes do I actually prefer? This is really neck and neck between them.

With Extreme, I like that opening act. That leather note, the later tobacco, and the presence of the Ideal almond. Everything about the fragrance is at least good. There’s no particular flaw with the scent.

But, I do like Ideal EDP just a tiny bit more. I’ve long gone back and forth between them, but after this last round, I can safely say that I like EDP more.

The cherry note is what does it for me. Vanilla, almond, and the floral accords only further seal the deal.

The performance of each is about equal, so this one really does come down to which scent you prefer. For me, it’s EDP.

Winner: Ideal EDP

21 Best Smelling Fragrances for Men

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Another year is almost in the books and I am once again updating my list of the top fragrances for men. As of now, this isn’t an exhaustive list, and I probably could expand it to 50 colognes without much of a problem. But, I also don’t want to overwhelm and this total should suffice. I tried to get a balance of different styles, but really wanted to highlight the best of the best as a whole. 

What are the Best Colognes for Guys?

Gourmand Apple Brandy

Angels’ Share by Kilian– Angels’ Share was an instant love for me when I tested it out. So much so, I quickly grabbed a full bottle, and looks like it’s going to has a very long-term spot in my rotation.

This is a boozy gourmand and unisex perfume. It opens up with cognac, tonka bean, and oak. It’s sweet and has an apple brandy like aroma. The cinnamon note, plays a pretty big role here, and it will give off a booze-soaked apple cinnamon scent.

The dry down is sweet with vanilla/praline, though, the oak note really takes the lead. It’s not too heavy of a perfume, but the performance is great, as I get double digit hours worth of wear.

Is this going to be for everyone? Probably not, some don’t like cinnamon or sweetness or gourmands for that matter. However, this one gets plenty of complements and love. Angels’ Share is one the expensive end, also. Angels’ Share Full Review

angels review

Creamy Summer Citrus with Rum

Uden by Xerjoff– I’m a big fan of Chanel’s Allure Homme Edition Blanche, but the performance isn’t all that great. From my interest in that cologne, I was put on to Uden, which actually surpasses the Chanel.

The main difference between Uden and Edition Blanche, is that, Uden is smoother and includes a great rum note. The lemon and bergamot blend is great here, with a fantastic creamy vanilla, woody base, and that rum kick. 

This is a fantastic option for the summer months, if you want to escape the usual ‘blue’ aromas and various oceanic colognes. Uden is a citrus that actually lasts and provides a good ability to project to boot. Another higher end fragrance, in terms of price and quality. Uden Full Review

Well Put Together Prada

Prada L’homme Intense Eau de Parfum Spray for Men, 3.4 Ounce– Out of all of the fragrances of the amazing L’Homme line by Prada, Intense is my favorite. I get better performance and an overall denser and darker aroma from it than the others.

It opens up with that signature L’homme iris note, giving a powdery floral freshness. Add to that, amber and smooth leather.

Later on, there is a subtle base of patchouli and sandalwood, which add to the overall enjoyment and aren’t a distraction. The dry down is mainly iris and tonka bean, with the leather and amber, playing the background.

It has a rich and full aroma, with plenty of style. Great for the fall and winter months.  L’Homme Intense Review

My Favorite Tom Ford

Noir Extreme by Tom Ford– Noir Extreme is a fragrance that I’ve come back to pretty heavy over the past few months. I truly forgot how much I loved this scent.

It is led by a kulfi dessert accord of saffron, nutmeg, amber, vanilla, and pistachio. Spicy, warm, and very rich. Noir Extreme shines in the depths of late autumn and winter.

Very sexy and has a mass appealing scent. Good for nightlife and romantic wear and really so much more. I like the original in the black bottle the best. But, the new Parfum version is also nice, and I bought a bottle of it to supplement my Noir Extreme stash. Noir Extreme review

Sweet, Spice, and Smoke

Parfums de Marly Herod Men’s Edp Spray, 4.2 Ounce– 

Herod is going to be my selection from the Parfums de Marly line. I could also throw in Oajan and Layton, as they are also awesome fragrances. 

Herod is a blend of sweet, spicy, dark, and smoky. Vanilla, cinnamon, pepper, and incense are all playing defining roles within this French parfum. But, Herod is really led by the tobacco note, that smells like an uncured leaf rather than rolled tobacco.

Warm and creamy, with a spicy edge, and smoky undertones. This one has plenty of depth and all day longevity, that easily hits double digit hours. Read my full Herod Review

Tux Luxury

Tuxedo by YSL– I’ve arrived pretty late to the game with Tuxedo from Yves Saint Laurent. But man, is this an absolute gem of a fragrance.

Luxurious and rich. Tuxedo settles into a blend of amber, vanilla, and patchouli. However, it opens with a black pepper and coriander spice. Plus, has a enough rose to make an impact but not overwhelm the composition.

Softer on the sillage side of things, but with the right amount of sprays, one can easily stand out with this fragrance. It’s got the right balance of freshness, warmth, sophistication, spice, and sweetness. 

One

The One EDP– This is another fragrance that I’ve come back to and simply forgot how much I liked it. The One Eau de Parfum is always popular, but it does absolutely smell great.

It starts off with a blast of the grapefruit flanked by spices of coriander and basil. It’s a signature opening act, with the ingredients being heightened by the tobacco note and dipped into a sea of amber.

Sexy, refined, and one that will draw complements. There are several spice notes involved but the coriander and cardamom are the ones that stick around the longest and play the largest role.

The performance this one is fine, so long as you go pretty heavy with the sprays. That’s the only way I’ve gotten it to last long, but it’s worth it. The One EDP Review

That Top Sauvage

Sauvage Elixir at Macy’s– Sauvage Elixir is the latest flanker from Dior in this series. It is also the most distinct and expensive out of all of them. If you want a more affordable Sauvage, the Eau de Parfum is the next best.

Elixir starts out with its awesome spice blend of nutmeg and cinnamon, grapefruit, and the signature Sauvage lavender note. It’s spicy in the beginning, but gets sweeter and more focused on the lavender in the middle act.

That note is joined by a light licorice and amber note. This is all sitting on top of a blend of fresh woods. Sauvage is a monster with its performance. Powerhouse sillage and will hit 13-15 hours on my skin. Sauvage Elixir Review

So Bleu

Bleu de Chanel EDP- I was always going back and forth between my favorite Bleu de Chanel fragrance, but the eau de parfum is the one I keep coming back to. Though, both the EDT and Parfum have their strengths, respectively.

EDP opens up with a strong blast of its citrus notes, as well as the fresh spices of pink pepper and ginger. Grapefruit and lemon are the strongest aspects, sometimes it can come across sort of like lime. 

It dries down with some fresh wood and amber notes, which really tie the whole thing together. Personally, I get around 8 hours of wear from this, which while not amazing is still quite good. All of the BdC fragrances are popular and easy to wear, jus this one is the best of them.

 

 

The Most Wanted

Azzaro The Most Wanted Eau de Parfum Intense | Cologne for Men 1.7 fl oz– Azzaro has made each successive Wanted release better than the previous one. As of now, The Most Wanted is their crowning achievement.

It kicks things off with a warm and slightly spicy cardamom note. However, the one they use here actually has a lemon-like aroma which gives The Most Wanted a fruity kick. The spice here is fresh with a warm profile and the overall fragrance is sweet.

It’s a tug of war between sweet and spice, with a delicious caramel note, and a balsamic finish. Really good performance with this one and a fragrance that is a solid choice for younger men (college age-twenties). The Most Wanted Review

Winter Beast

Viktor & Rolf Spicebomb Extreme Eau De Parfum Spray 50ml/1.7oz– Extreme is the absolute best of the Spicebombs. However, I will say that it is for use in colder weather, so you’ll need somewhere with a real winter. If not, I’d go with Spicebomb Infrared instead.

You’d think that Extreme would be heavier on the spices than the original, but that’s not the case. It’s actually more about tobacco, vanilla, and lavender. It’s somewhat spicy, but really smooth and sweet too.

Tobacco and vanilla are going to the main players, along with saffron and the cinnamon/cumin notes. Spicebomb has a very nice projection, though, it will last forever. It’s one of the longest lasting designer fragrances that I’ve tried. Spicebomb Extreme Review

Super Unique Rose Fragrance

MOSCHINO Toy Boy Eau De Parfume Spray for Men, 3.4 Ounce– Toy Boy is a masculine floral that I expected very little from before trying. Man, was it a shocker when I experienced first hand what a gem this one actually is.

Yes, I hate the name too. But this fragrance in the cutesy bear bottle is legitimately very good. It opens up with a juicy pear and bergamot citrus blend. This is joined by the floral notes of rose and magnolia, as well as, a warm pink pepper.

The rose is greenish, it features a light spice throughout, and a clean musky finish. This Moschino won’t be for every guy out there, but the brand really knocked it out of the park with this one. Toy Boy Review

My Favorite Tom Ford Leather

Ombre Leather- This is my personal favorite leather fragrance from Tom Ford, above the popular Tuscan Leather. 

Ombre Leather is dark, dry, and warm with the use of its signature note. It’s a high end and beautiful leather note, that is along with its other ingredients, supposed to invoke the desert landscape.

Jasmine is the main pairing here along with a touch of amber and base of patchouli and moss. It has an earthiness and slight spice. A neat mix of clean and dirtiness that deserves a spot on the list. Ombre Leather Review

Best Armani Code

Giorgio Armani Code Absolu EDP Eau de Parfum For Men 3.7oz– Code Absolu is replacing Code Profumo, on this list, as it has now become the definitive edition of this Armani fragrance. It is very similar to Profumo, but enhances that fragrances weaknesses.

Code Absolu opens up with nutmeg, rum, suede, and tonka bean. There is also a hint of citrus and crisp apple, in the background. The spice of the nutmeg is dominant for a few minutes, before the suede and tonka bean really take over.

The fresh spice here is great, nutmeg and rum, are surprisingly great together. The fruit notes, are also just strong enough, to prevent it being a completely dark fragrance.

This one is fresh, warm, with a nice sweetness from vanilla and tonka bean. The projection is strong, but not absurdly so, and the longevity consistently hits 10+ hours, on my skin. Code Absolu Full Review

Y

Yves Saint Laurent Y Eau de Parfum Spray for Men, 3.3 Ounce– A year round wear, this is a new addition to the best men’s colognes list, and I’ve really digging what Y EDP has to offer. The original EDT is just okay, but this stronger version, stepped it up big time.

It opens with apple and bergamot at the top, along with, the light and cool spice of ginger. It is crisp, refreshing, and smells amazing. Underneath that top layer is warm amber, creamy tonka bean, and a juicy juniper berry.

It’s stays super smooth, warm, with a nice sweetness that doesn’t go too far into candy-like territory.

As it dries down, you get a green herbal and woody base. Y EDP is a versatile cologne, which lasts all day, and has a strong but not overwhelming sillage. This is one that should be really popular for a long while. Y EDP Review

Rose and Earthy Truffles

Tom Ford Private Blend Noir De Noir Eau De Parfum Spray Edp 3.4 Fl / 100 Ml– Noir de Noir was another that I wasn’t expecting to really like when I first read the list of notes years ago. It also has a rose note, that is actually sweeter than the green one in Toy Boy.

This rose is joined by moss, patchouli, and oud giving it an earthy and woody base to work from. If that weren’t enough, this Tom Ford scent also features truffle and vanilla to round things out.

Noir de Noir hits me slightly different each time I’ve worn it. It’s quite balanced, but has plenty of depth, and its own style. Unisex overall, maybe a slight feminine vibe, but with very nice performance. One of the best from this label, without question. Noir de Noir Review

Aventus

Creed Aventus Millesime Spray for Men– Aventus is a wonderful scent from the house of Creed, that is of course, on the higher end of the cost spectrum. Aventus is known for its layered use of fruit notes like French apples and pineapple and blending it with currant, birch, and jasmine to create a memorable yet masculine cologne.

The opening few minutes of Aventus is quite sharp and intense. I personally don’t like that starting aroma, but Aventus settles down, and becomes much more pleasant to wear. The pineapple note becomes less of a factor and that dry birch/oak moss combination takes better shape.

Even with the black currant and pineapple’s sharpness, Aventus, has a dry smoky quality to it throughout the fragrance’s life cycle. It is crisp, juicy, woody, and that dry earthy scent. I’ve likened the earthy aspects of this fragrance to walking alongside the woods, on a cold Fall day.

What I get for most of the day from this scent is pineapple, birch, and oakmoss. Black currant, vanilla, and amergris add a supporting layer to that main trio of notes.

I usually get 8-9 hours of wear from Aventus and the sillage, while not huge, is enough that you don’t need more than a few sprays. Quite a versatile cologne.

I like to wear it in the more moderate temperatures of spring or early autumn, but it works well almost year round. This is the type of cologne you could wear casually but also perfectly fits in on a more dressed up occasion.  Creed Aventus Review

Another Great Chanel

Allure Homme Sport Eau Extreme– Allure Homme Sport was a great fragrance in its own right. However, it seems weaker than it used to. Plus, I have come around to Eau Extreme being the better Chanel cologne of the two.

Allure Homme Sport Eau Extreme has much of the same fresh and attractive notes of the original, with a different opening act full of sage and cypress. It is cooled by mint with a generally herbal greenish quality early on. 

Underneath that is the same citrus, sea notes, and creamy tonka bean as the original. It does have better sillage and longevity, but it isn’t completely a powerhouse despite the name. Still, Eau Extreme is hard to go wrong with, as a daily wear. Allure Homme Sport Eau Extreme review

Top Gucci Guilty

Gucci Guilty Black– I wore this one back when it first came out years ago. I also really like Guilty Intense, but that got discontinued.

Guilty Black shifted a bit from the original Guilty releases, swapping out the citrus fruit notes for orange flowers. Neroli and orange blossom. These two give the impression of sweetness, blended with lavender, and a spicy coriander note.

It’s comes across a being clean and green with some light soapiness to it. Gucci Guilty Black is one that is extremely versatile and crowd pleasing. It’s a fragrance that almost anyone can wear and it has proven itself for years now. Is it the most complex or astounding scent ever? Nope, but it does its job well, and I still love it. Gucci Guilty Black Review

Louis Louis

Imagination– Imagination is an awesome fragrance from Louis Vuitton. Citrus with black tea and amber. Supremely fresh and mass appealing

For the opening act, you get the citron and other citrus notes, such as mandarin orange. The citron is the lead ingredient, but there is a definite neroli floral infusion in the heart. The pairing between that and the ginger note, creates a cold and dynamic scent, that’s a joy to be around.

Early on, it a greenish citrus blend. Then, you get the floral touches. But, ultimately tea and the lighter amber get surrounded by the remaining citrus to create an easy to wear gem. Full Review

Burberry Entry

Burberry London- London has been around for a long time now (I wore it in college). But, that’s for a good reason, it’s a terrific scent.

This is a spicy and leathery tobacco fragrance. Early on, it will hit with the punch of pepper and cinnamon, before giving way to leather and a hint of port wine. 

Later, London is dry, smooth, and woody with the tobacco still leading the way. It has a nice presence about it and stands out versus many of the other popular fragrances of today. It’s still better than all of the brand’s newer releases. London Review

Stronger With You vs. Absolutely

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Stronger With You is a seemingly ever expanding series from the Emporio Armani line. Absolutely is one of the more popular flankers from to spawn off of that original formulation. In this post, I want to compare the two: Stronger with You EDT vs. Stronger with You Absolutely. Which is the better cologne? Which lasts longer?

Tale of the Tape: Stronger With You vs. Absolutely

Stronger With You

Notes include: vanilla, mint, cardamom, chesnut, amber, pink pepper, sage, violet leaf

Click here to try: Emporio Armani Stronger With You for Men Eau de Toilette Spray, 1.7 oz

My Full Review: Stronger With You

Stronger With You Absolutely

Notes include: glazed chestnut, rum, lavender, cedar, vanilla, elemi

Read my Full review: Absolutely

Opening

Stronger With You opens up fresh and with its spicier notes out front. To me, the cardamom really stands apart from the other notes, it really has a significant weighting in the mix

Beyond that, it’s: pink pepper, mint, sage. The vanilla and chestnut notes are there also, but will gain strength a bit further in. Early on, it’s cardamom and the others.

With Absolutely,  the opening act gives me a blast of the very short-lived bergamot and some of the other fruity sweetish notes, that are associated with the lavender accord.

The difference is the resinous qualities, along with the spicy booziness here. Elemi or the ‘glaze’ of the chestnut note is something that is really distinct versus the other Stronger fragrances

The Armani website mentioned cinnamon in addition to the rum accord. Yes, there is some warm spiciness and booziness , but this is a lot smoother composition than a heavily spiced boozy rum note.

Which is better? I’ve always been pretty indifferent to Stronger EDT’s opening act. Absolutely is more interesting, has greater depth, and just smells better.

Edge: Absolutely

Projection

Both of these are on the stronger side, especially for designer fragrances. Stronger with You EDT is very good with its ability to create a scent trail and project off of the skin. From the first time that I tested it out, I wasn’t disappointed.

Is Absolutely better? Not really. But, it also isn’t worse. To me, these have been about equal to one another with how they project.

At least in this aspect of their performances, these Emporio Armani colognes are equals.

Edge: Push

Longevity

The original Stronger With You lasts for at least 9 hours on my skin. However, it can go above 10 hours at times, as well. It just sometimes fails to hit that double digit hour mark.

Absolutely is better on this front. I routinely get 11 or 12 hours of wear from this one. Both of these fragrances have great staying power for mainstream colognes.  But, the flanker is a notch above the original.

Edge: Absolutely

Versatility

Both of them are best in the autumn and winter months. Though, each can sneak into the early spring, especially if you’re planning on using them for evening wear.

Neither is a formal wear or one that is built for offices. Casual, nightlife, and romantic wear would be better uses.

I think Absolutely has a slight edge versus the original in this department. The aroma is more mature, even while being sweet. The scent is just put together better in a more refined presentation.

Edge: Absolutely

Overall Scent

So, which one of these fragrances is the better one to try?

With SWY EDT, it was always a fragrance that I liked aspects of, but was never really blown away by. There’s nothing much to complain about with the performance aspect of the scent, but the smell is a good one which never approaches great.

It actually made me be not too inclined to try out the rest of the series, since I thought it was ‘fine’ rather than being anything spectacular.

Absolutely, on the other hand, is either the second or third best scent that Emporio Armani has released thus far under this banner. I like Intensely more and Leather depending on the day.

The opening resinous elemi, the cinnamon/rum, the fruitiness and the chestnut coming in later on make this one a better option.

It’s not any heavier, but you do get a few more hours of performance out of it. It’s not overwhelming better, but this is still an easy choice for me.

Winner: Stronger With You Absolutely

Nautica Voyage vs Voyage N-83 Cologne Comparison

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Now, that I have completed reviews for both Nautica Voyage and its N-83 flanker fragrance, I thought that I’d do a comparison post and lay out which cologne I think is better and why. Nautica specializes in aquatic themed scents and especially one’s that are great for the warmer weather months. In this post, I want to take a look at each cologne and determine which is the better candidate for purchase for most men and how each scent performs as a daily wear.

What Smells Better Nautica Voyage or N-83?

Nautica Voyage Tale of the Tape

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

NAUTICA-VOYAGE

Read my original review here

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

Nautica Voyage N-83 Tale of the Tape

Notes include: cardamom, petitgrain, mint, lavender, sandalwood, nutmeg, sea notes

Read my original review here

Opening

The difference in the opening between Voyage and N-83 is a matter of the sea notes contained in N-83 and how it has less of a fruity quality. N-83 is much more oceanic/salty than Voyage, which while semi-aquatic, is highlighted by apple/citrus notes that seem rather juicy.

If you want an actual aquatic, then N-83 is a potential play. Outside of that, I’d give the opening act to the original Nautica Voyage.

It does have a greenish and refreshing quality thanks to the mint. A classic clean, with the lavender note. But, it doesn’t have anything that is all that intriguing. Nice enough, though.

Voyage is just much more noticeable and pleasant. From the start, you get that crisp and watery apple note, with added sweetness. Then, the unique addition of mimosa, cedar, and musk really set Voyage apart.

Greenish, floral, musky, but refreshing. Voyage is usually interesting, despite not being among my favorite fragrances to wear.

Really, it’s quite amazing how such an inexpensive fragrance like Voyage, has set itself apart from almost anything else on the market. Nothing smells exactly like it and even its flankers, don’t strike the same chord.

Edge: Voyage

Projection

N-83 has a tendency to be rather on the weak side, it isn’t completely a fade away in five minutes cologne but it isn’t strong either, and it has a limited range.

Voyage isn’t super powerful but it is noticeable and projects pretty well. I’ve noticed that a lot of the Nautica flankers don’t match up to even the decent sillage of Nautica Voyage. Which is a shame, because some of the better smelling ones could be nice cheapies.

N-83 isn’t one of the worst offenders, but doesn’t match what Voyage provides. It’s going to be sticking rather close to one’s skin for much of the duration.

Edge: Voyage

Longevity

Again, Voyage takes the cake. N-83 has a tendency to fade and turn completely into a skin scent. Voyage holds up and performs well on a summer day. If it’s between the two, Voyage wins.

With Voyage, I max out with 7 hours. It will usually fall into the 5-7 hour range. N-83 can be in the 3-6 hour range, on my skin. That’s what I’ve found it capable of with more testing.

Usually, it’s closer to the lower end. If it could hit that higher end with a bit more power, it could be a much more useful scent. Really, I’d expect 83 to reliably hit 4, and maybe you get an extra boost.

Edge: Voyage

Versatility

Both of these are great casual fragrances that can be worn to work, school, or wherever. I wouldn’t put either as a date night cologne really, though Voyage would get the edge.

Actually, N-83 is less intrusive, so it might actually serve as a slightly better office cologne. However, since Voyage isn’t a beast, it would be perfectly fine. As far as cheapies go, both have a good deal of use. No, neither are super high end in quality, but they can be useful.

Edge: Push

Overall Scent

N-83 is a good scent don’t get me wrong, it just pretty linear and not anything all that special. It has a nice and clean scent that is oceanic/soapy/smooth, especially from the lavender note.

Voyage is an aquatic that has a great citrus aroma and has been a long time favorite and best seller. For the price, Voyage, is a great addition to anyone’s collection, while N-83 probably isn’t even one of the best Nautica colognes.

Voyage seems to be Nautica’s high water mark. It’s a fragrance that they can’t seem to outdo. Even when they use its name, the flanker never really holds up to a comparison. It’s usually outright disappointing. Honestly, both of these are cheap enough, that you could just get both for some variety. If only one, it’s gotta be Voyage.

Winner: Voyage

14 Sexiest Colognes for Men

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So, you’re looking for the right seductive cologne to wear out to bars or on dates? Well, there’s an almost endless line of men’s fragrances, which could potentially fit the bill.

It would just take a bunch of time and testing to figure out which parfum or eau de toilette, actually seem to attract the ladies, or at least make them take notice.

Fear not, I’ve done the leg work for you. On this site, I’ve reviewed and field-tested hundreds of scents for guys (and ladies). This list isn’t guess work, these are scents that not only I find to be incredibly attractive, but have gotten called sexy by women time and time again.

Plus, there’s a fragrance to fit pretty much any style or taste out there. So, if you’re looking for a gift for your boyfriend or husband, you should be good to go.

What are the Sexiest Smelling Fragrances for Men?

The Refined Classic

Christian Dior Dior Homme Intense Eau de Parfum Spray for Men, 1.7 Ounce– The opening minutes of Dior Homme Intense, are probably my favorite ever from any cologne (for sure top 3). While I do, very slightly prefer wearing the original Dior Homme, I think this one has a bit more sex appeal.

Cedar and vetiver notes lead the way to be paired with a powdery iris floral. Then, a cacao note comes along to give Dior Intense, a gourmand sensibility.

It’s almost like powdered chocolate, in my mind, at one point during the wear. The name suggests it will be loud but it’s not overly so and the longevity of this fragrance is absolutely great.

Dior Homme Intense both on its own and when used with the original has gotten me a lot of female interest and just basic complements, even from Uber drivers taking me to the bar. This one has become a classic already, it smells great, and is quite refined. My Full Dior Intense Review

Valentino Leather Floral

Valentino Uomo FOR MEN by Valentino – 3.4 oz EDT Spray– The Uomo line from Valentino has a lot of overlap with the Dior fragrances listed above.

It starts off with a juicy and slightly sour bergamot that is paired with gianduja cream (smells like hazelnut), along with some myrtle. Cedar, floral, with leather highlights.

This one was kind of more toward Dior Homme, but also has aspects of Intense, while doing its own thing. It’s attractive and will get attention, even if it doesn’t have a super strong sillage. Gorgeous stuff. Valentino Uomo Review

Delicious Extreme

Tom Ford Noir Extreme Men Eau De Parfum Spray, 3.4 Ounce– Noir Extreme is one that I’ve always enjoyed and never got a full bottle of. However, I recently grabbed another sample to retry this Tom Ford cologne, and immediately ordered a gift set.

Noir Extreme is warm, sexy, and delicious. It is led by an accord of kulfi, a type of Indian dessert similar to ice cream. Cardamom, saffron, nutmeg, and pistachio give this one an initial spiciness of the warmth of amber.

Then, it dries down into something with a lovely creamy/milky aroma to it that is an absolute joy to wear and be around. Performance is actually better than I remember it, but I still like to give it an extra spray or two. Noir Extreme Review

noir extreme ford

Still Draws Attention

Yves Saint Laurent La Nuit De L’homme Eau de Toilette Spray, 3.3-Ounce– La Nuit de L’homme is a long time staple in the fragrance game. The reason? It smells awesome and people always seem to react well toward it.

Sexy? Yes, it’s been a date night cologne for me off and on, over the years. The performance isn’t as good as it used to be. But, you can just spray more, since the cost usually isn’t bad.

Now, the secret here really comes with the cardamom note. That with the citrus bergamot early on sets the stage. Then, you get a great powdery and woodsy finish, which just smells classy.

It’s a permanent best seller. La Nuit Review

Rum-Soaked Spice

Bvlgari Man in Black Eau de Parfum Spray for Men, 3.4 Ounce– So, Blvgari’s Man in Black, isn’t always thought of when it comes to seductive sort of fragrances; but it most certainly is one from my experience.

It’s not a super intense bomb or one that lasts all night (roughly 4-6 hours), but that’s more than enough for when I use it.

Man in Black has become for me, a nightlife wear on cooler evenings. Why? Because there is a certain percentage of women, who go nuts for this scent. Not kidding. I’ve had multiple random women stop me at a bar and just flat out tell me how sexy I smell.

I’ve also worn it on a few dates and pretty much been mauled by my companion, while repeating how much they love my cologne. At times, this has been that mythical ‘panty dropper’, scent that often gets talked about on fragrance forums and YouTube videos.

So, while it’s not universally as popular as some of the other scents on this list, Bvlgari’s dark and boozy fragrance can do work when out in the field. It starts off with rum and cinnamon spices that is tempered by a smooth leather note. Man in Black Full Review

Sweet Apple, Tobacco, Spice

Paco Rabanne 1 Million Prive Eau de Parfum Spray for Men, 3.4 Ounce– When I wrote my initial review of Prive, I theorized that this would be one that would get noticed while wearing it out. Many wears later, I can confirm my suspicions.

1 Million Prive opens with cinnamon spice and the familiar fruity appeal of crisp apple. It’s always kind of reminded me of cinnamon applesauce, in that regard.

Then, notes of myrrh of tobacco are added, and I think that this is what separates this one from it’s Paco Rabanne brethren. The dry down period I get the cinnamon note and the sweet tobacco, as the main attractions.

Not a brash or loud as the original. However, Prive isn’t weak, and I consistently get it to last for 10 or so hours with no problem. I wore this a lot last winter and will probably do so again, this time around.

Sweet Vanilla Apple Luxury

Parfums de Marly Parfums de Marly Layton by parfums de marly for men – 4.2 Ounce edp spray, 4.2 Ounce– Apple and vanilla are some common notes found in the sweeter sexy fragrances. They always seem to work pretty well in almost anything.

I really enjoy the crisp apple note that is found in Layton. It has a more naturalistic aroma to it versus the more candy-like type.

Layton is delicious and works well on the skin. It is long-lasting, but again, this one is really sweet. A bit spicy, with creaminess from sandalwood and vanilla. Been a complement machine for me, though. My Layton Review

Luxury Tobacco 

PARFUMS de MARLY Herod, 4.2 fl. oz.– Herod is one of the best fragrances from the luxury Parfums de Marly brand, and I’d say, probably the sexiest of the lot (although there are plenty of contenders…Oajan, also comes to mind).

I’ve said in my initial review of this one, that it has similarities to the aforementioned Man in Black, and colognes like Pure Havane or Burberry London.

The tobacco note found in Herod, is utterly amazing. Playing off of that are spices and a sweet vanilla note. So, like Man in Black, we have cinnamon spice but also a dark pepper note.

It’s spicy but smooth and there is a smoky aroma provided by incense, which permeates that composition. It dries down into a rich and resinous cologne, that is captivating and sexy.

Unisex Cognac Love

Angels’ Share at Sephora– Kilian’s Angels’ Share has become one of my personal favorite fragrances ever. Wearing it over the winter, has gotten me a ton of complements, especially in the first two hours after spraying.

Cognac, tonka bean, and oak are the stars early on. The cognac has a fruity/apple aroma that is divine, blended with a baked good scent of cinnamon and praline.

Yes, this is a unisex perfume and might not appeal to everyone’s tastes. Though, it is super popular. But, women especially seem drawn to this one. In the cold confines of a skating rink, for example, I probably got 4 complements about Angels’ Share.

Long lasting and gourmand type of sexy. Angels’ Share Review

Dark Aquatic

Giorgio Armani Aqua di Gio Profumo, 4.2 Fluid Ounce– Acqua di Gio Profumo is a cologne that performs very well in the warmer weather. To me, this one is a summer scent through and through.

Although, it’s not entirely out of place during the rest of the year. Profumo is a salty aquatic, who’s marine profile, has a citrus lead from the bergamot note.

What I really liked about ADG Profumo is how it is a darker oceanic cologne, like a deep dive into the sea. Profumo is refreshing and spicy. What sets is apart from other scents in its category, is the incense note which provides smoky elements that blends very well with the citrus notes.

This one is both a highly attractive complement getter, while also having the versatility of being fine for everyday wear, or in casual situations. ADG Profumo Review

Become the Most Wanted

Azzaro The Most Wanted Eau de Parfum Intense | Cologne for Men 1.7 fl oz– I wasn’t too high on the Wanted line, based on the first release. But, they’ve only gotten better, and The Most Wanted is a great release.

Yes, this is going to be more for younger guys (Try The Most Wanted Parfum, for something a bit more mature). But, it is certainly a sexy fragrance to break out for the nighttime.

Cardamom leads the way, this one is a bit lemony. It is joined by caramel and bourbon vanilla to sweeten things up.  Warm, sweet, and a bit spicy. Very nice performance and one that can absolutely attract those around you. The Most Wanted Review

The Sauvage Entry

Sauvage by Dior Eau de Parfum Spray 100ml– Yes, you can go with the original EDT, as it is the best seller. Everyone has it and it does get complements.

However, when Dior released the EDP version of Sauvage and changed up the composition, everything I disliked about the EDT went away. This one is sexier, better performing, and better all around. (Sauvage Elixir is pricier and spicier, but also a great choice).

The ambroxan led opening is smoother and the citric harshness is gone. It feels more refined, clean, and more pleasant to wear.

It is joined by a dark and somewhat smoky vanilla note and a much quieter lavender, which add to the clean creaminess of Sauvage EDP. The Sichuan pepper is also toned down and joined by lighter spices like anise and nutmeg.

It also lasts for over 10 hours and can be worn in a variety of climates in situations. This one is sort of an all-purpose fragrance. Really great job from Dior on this variant of a popular scent. Dior Sauvage EDP Review

The Other Kilian Option

Straight To Heaven Extreme by Kilian/1.6 oz.– You could also go with the original Straight to Heaven, which is awesome. But, Extreme is the better of the two.

Rum, is a star here. Vanilla, dried fruits, and patchouli. Sweet, but mainly boozy with a masculine woody finish. Throw in some earthiness with the patchouli and you’ve got a nightlife winner.

Expensive, but it lives up to the extreme title, as the projection is awesome. It gets smoother as it settles, less of a rummy punch to it. Sexy. Always got me complements when I bought and wore samples of it.

The One

The One EDP by D&G– I revisited or tried the entirety of Dolce & Gabbana’s ‘The One’ line, this year. The eau de parfum version is far and away the best of the bunch and a fragrance that I had forgotten how much I loved.

Naturally, I ordered a full bottle for myself. Man, does this stuff work. Best-seller? Sure. Crowd pleaser? Absolutely. Still, it is a nighttime gem and an easy one to spray on and feel sexy.

The One is highlighted by it’s warm blend of amber and tobacco. It’s dark and rich, with ginger and cardamom spice. Plus, a nice grapefruit opening which gives it an addition dose of zest.

One you’ve got to spray pretty heavy, but it is totally worth it. The One EDP Review

the one edp review