Hanae Mori EDP Men’s Cologne Review

Hanae Mori is a Japanese designer, that really hasn’t been known as, someone with a large line of men’s fragrances. In fact, there’s only been a few releases. However, Hanae Mori EDP, has become a go to option for many guys since its release in the late 1990s because of its light price tag and great features. But, how does it actually stack up? What does this cologne smell like? Is it even worth a try?

What does Hanae Mori Cologne Smell Like?

Notes include: vanilla, lemon, chocolate, cedar, lavender, tonka bean, iris, jasmine, amber, cedar, sandalwood

Click here to try: Hanae Mori By Hanae Mori For Men. Eau De Toilette Spray 3.4 Oz.

My Full Review

Hanae Mori EDP opens up with a strong blast of lemon and black currant. It is sharp citrus affair, the can really take you aback, but no worries because it will settle down.

Some folks don’t really like this opening 15-20 minutes, but I dig it, even if it can feel somewhat harsh. I don’t think it has the same effect, as something like Aventus’ opening act.

I believe that the reason for this, is the prominence of sweeter notes like vanilla and chocolate, even towards the start of the wear. Plus, the fact of a strong lavender ingredient, which is later joined by some other light florals.

After the initial opening, Hanae Mori EDP, becomes a bit drier and much more woody in its presentation. The citrus dies down somewhat, vanilla really comes through, and sandalwood peaks through with tonka/amber. It still feels sweet and gourmand, but in a more refined way, as the aroma smells smoother with a creamy undertone.

This stuff is so interesting in how it develops. I get fruitiness, then a floral stage, then a forest stage, and all the while it is gourmand.

About an hour in, the was a nice powdery iris note, with what I suspect is rose, not strong but present. After that, it shifted toward having a more robust cedar/sandalwood combo.

The point is, that Hanae Mori EDP, is going to develop and really interact with your skin chemistry. This just seems like one of those scents, that gives each individual a slightly different take.

Ultimately, what I get is: a sweet citrus/woody fragrance with floral notes and a slight spice. It’s actually very appealing.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

The sillage is strong at first, with that citrus opening. You think that it’s going to be complete beast mode throughout, but it actually is quite moderate. You’ll notice that you’re wearing this fragrance, but it isn’t going to overwhelm, past the first half hour.

On my skin, I can get up to 9 hours with the EDP. Usually, it’ll be in the 7 hour range, but depending on the situation, this will go an extra few hours.

This is a very versatile scent. I’d probably avoid wearing it during the hottest days of summer, but outside of that, it is fair game. It’s a good everyday wear, for men who want something inexpensive. While it can function as a date night cologne, this isn’t a club beast or anything like that.

Hanae Mori EDP is highly wearable for all ages of men, and honestly, some women could rock this without issue. It’s not a hyper-masculine sort of cologne, but one that smells attractive, and is just pleasant to be around.

Overall Thoughts on Hanae Mori EDP

Do I like Hanae Mori cologne? I do. This is such a great value buy for men, who want a do everything sort of scent. The fragrance is both unique and attractive, while having familiar elements. It doesn’t try to do anything weird, but still manages to have its own style and aroma.

I love how this stuff develops and gives me something different, throughout the wear. It’s got an awesome smell, with really good performance, at a super affordable price point. You could do way worse with $30, but you’re not going to do much better.

Best Men's Colognes

Best Men’s Colognes started back in 2013, as a way to share my learning experiences with different fragrances, as I dove head first into the hobby. Since then, I have written hundreds of reviews and other pages about perfumes and colognes.