Best men’s fragrances and colognes 2024: find your signature scent or a meaningful gift (2024)

last updated 28 June 2024

Spencer Hart

1. Tom Ford Noir

Best for:Sensual scent
Type:Eau de Parfum
Scent family:Amber Woody

+ Sophisticated
+ Long lasting
- Bottle doesn't stand out

Tom Ford Noir is the fourth signature fragrance launched by the American designer. He describes Noir as his most personal fragrance yet, designed for an “urbane sophisticate who the world gets to see and the intriguingly sensuous, private man they don’t”.We love the subtle yet distinctive fragrance packs warm notes of Italian Bergamot, Black Pepper and Patchouli, which are balanced with warm Vanilla, Amber and Nutmeg.

2. Dior Sauvage

Best for: Evening
Type:Eau de Toilette
Scent family: Aromatic Fougere

+ Modern classic
+ Interesting mix of notes
- Loved by many so not unique if you want to standout

Dior Sauvage has been designed to offer fresh top notes of bergamot as the dominant force; but as this distinctive scent begins to dry down on the skin, we found a subtle masculine, woody note left in its wake.Like its poster boy Johnny Depp, Sauvage is an intriguing mix of rugged manliness (vetiver, pepper, patchouli) and borderline feminine refinement (lavender, geranium) that’s hard to pin down, but there's no end of wearers complimenting its wondrous fusion of scents. A great fragrance to opt for if you are looking for an evening scent.

3. Chanel Bleu De Chanel

Best for:All seasons
Type:Eau de Toilette
Scent family:Woody Aromatic

+ Great brand
+ Classy bottle
- Could be stronger

Much like the iconic clothes Coco Chanel began designing almost a century ago, Chanel Men's fragrances are sophisticated and timeless. What's unique about this fragrance is that it combines aromatic-woody scents with the invigorating freshness of citrus. That makes it suitable for wearing in winter or summer months, which we really appreciate. The Eau de Toilette is designed to give you "untouchable confidence" and is sure to get plenty of compliments.

1. Paco Rabanne 1 Million

Best for:Winter
Type:Eau de Toilette
Scent family:Woody Spicy

+ Masculine scent
+ Ideal for clubbing
- Gaudy bottle

If you’re a gent (or you know a gent) who likes to rotate his fragrance wardrobe depending on the season, we think this warming, spicy fragrance is just the thing for when the nights draw in.It's inspired by warming autumnal scents, Paco Rabanne has created a scent which starts with fresh grapefruit, mandarin and peppermint, but soon evolves into rich rose absolute, cinnamon bark and musk, with an ultra-masculine leather base.Overall, this is a spicy fragrance so citrus lovers, avoid.

2. Boss Bottled by Hugo Boss Eau De Toilette

Best for:Fresh
Type:Eau de Toilette
Scent family:Woody Spicy

+ Classic bottle
+ Develops throughout day
- A little simple

Boss Bottled evokes the classic values of the successful, classic Hugo Boss man. The simple and clean lines of the bottle are stylish, and masculine, just like Hugo Boss tailoring. The fragrance contains fresh top notes including both apple and citrus fruits. In the heart of the fragrance lie the sweeter and warmer notes of geranium, cinnamon and cloves. At the smouldering base lie the notes of dry spicy scents of sandalwood, vetiver, cedarwood, olivewood, amber and musk create a distinctly masculine dry down. We're big fans of how this scent unfolds hour by hour – always taking on a different quality.

3. Moncler Pour Homme Eau de Parfum

Best for:Bottle design
Type:Eau de Parfum
Scent family:Woody Aromatic

+ Great gift
+ Long lasting
- Large bottle that's hard to travel with

Moncler Pour Homme captures the vibrant natural beauty of an alpine forest, with an unprecedented saturation of woody notes. Starting with the exclusive alpine green accord combined with the energising freshness of clary sage, lifts the fragrance through a leafy expanse of mountain pines. Warming directly through an overdose of Cedarwood, the Mountain Woods accord takes ultimate precedence in this bold scent, forming a cocooning, earthy dry-down of grand proportions when fused with the smoky magnetism of Vetiver. The fragrance is housed in a flask-shaped bottle, a nod to the brand's mountaineering roots, and features a digital screen you can personalise with your own message. This, we think, makes it a perfect gift.

4. Diesel Only The Brave Tattoo

Best for:Strength
Type:Eau de Toilette
Scent family:Woody Spicy

+ Distinctive
+ Long lasting
- Ugly bottle
- Too sweet for some

This bold fragrance promises to be pure fruit on the nose, coming in straight away with a hit of zesty-sweet apple and mandarin before mellowing to a sage and bourbon pepper middle.Finally, there’s a distinctive patchouli and tobacco base, which adds a dark and dangerous note to an otherwise uncomplicated fragrance. Those in search of a refined classic would be better off looking elsewhere, but for the brave (see what we did there?) it appears to be a real standout scent – strong, long-lasting, and good value for money. An ideal gift for younger guys.

5. Penhaligon's Juniper Sling

Best for:'20s glamour
Type:Eau de Toilette
Scent family: Woody Spicy

+ Complex
+ Fun
- Need liberal application

Penhaligon's Juniper Sling pays tribute to the indulgence and forbidden delights of London in the roaring 1920s. The fragrance is inspired by the most iconic and atmospheric spirits – dry gin – and has been created by master perfumer Mr Olivier Cresp. The perfume is made with gin berry juniper freshness mixed with measures of angelica and brandy and develops into a heart of black pepper, cardamom, leather and orris. It has a warming base of brown sugar, black cherry and amber. We think it's ideal for Christmas parties, but also works all year round.

6. Jo Malone London Huntsman

Best for:Winter
Type:Cologne
Scent family:Spicy Woody

+ Mature
+ Easy to mix
- A little heavy

Part of a collaboration with Huntsman, Savile Row, Jo Malone London's cologne blends sweet woody notes that recreate the aroma of good whisky, making it a top pick for traditionalists. Designed to go with a sharp suit, the fragrance is very masculine and grown-up, with invigorating spicy pimento and cedarwood for a rich, hearty smell. The fragrance comes in a stylish and sturdy bottle, making it a winner for throwing in a weekend bag or just looking good in your bathroom.

1. Creed Aventus Eau de Parfum

Best for:Luxury
Type:Eau de Parfum
Scent family:Citrus Fruity

+ A classic
+ Cool and smokey
- On the expensive side

This scent was launched in 2010 to celebrate Creed’s 250th anniversary. It celebrates strength, power, vision and success, and is a luxury scent for individuals who saviour things in life. Aventus is inspired by the dramatic life of a historic emperor who waged war, peace and romance with equal magnitude. It opens with tantalising top notes of blackcurrant and Italian bergamot, blended with Calville Blanc apples and pineapple. A woody and heady centre is complemented with notes of roses, jasmine blossom and patchouli, while a rich base of oakmoss, ambergris and a touch of vanilla provide a final flourish to this sophisticated scent.

2. Tom Ford Neroli Portofino Eau de Parfum

Best for:Summer
Type:Eau de Parfum
Scent family:Citrus Aromatic

+ Uplifting
+ Great bottle
- Cheaper options

If you're looking for summer in a bottle – this is the answer. Tom Ford’s Private Blend Neroli Portofino is inspired by the luxurious Italian Riviera resort, and like the glamorous destination, it’s expensive, but a little goes a long way. A reinvention of a classic eau de cologne, it features Tunisian neroli, Italian bergamot, Sicilian lemon, winter yellow mandarin, lavender, orange flower, rosemary and amber, which makes for an uplifting citrus aromatic scent. If that wasn’t enough, the bottle, which evokes the Mediterranean Sea, is to die for. It’s a real taste of luxury you can enjoy every day.

3. Montblanc Explorer Ultra Blue Eau de Parfum

Best for:Summer
Type:Eau de Parfum
Scent family:Citrus Aromatic

+ Stong, long lasting
+ Marine vibes
- Blue isn't for all

Montblanc claims Explorer Ultra Blue is an invitation to embrace the explorer’s adventurous spirit and embark on an epic olfactory journey. The Eau de Parfum's top notes awaken the senses with a zesty fusion of Italian bergamot, citrus and the addition of a touch of pink peppercorn. Marine accord is the beating heart of the fragrance. The fresh, aquatic notes contrast with the depth of grey amber notes. We commend the ethical sourcing that continues to be a priority at Montblanc, with the main ingredients of Explorer Ultra Blue coming from Givaudan’s Sourcing for Shared Value program.

4. Calvin Klein CK One Eau de Toilette

Best for:Youth
Type:Eau de Toilette
Scent family:Citrus Aromatic

+ Cult classic
+ Unisex
- Getting on a bit

In case you didn’t get the memo, the Nineties are cool again and classic fragrances like CK One are smelling fresh. While that old pair of jeans you had (and Kate Moss) might have aged a little, this fragrance still smells young and is incredibly easy to wear for both sexes, making it a useful option to keep at hand in the bathroom. Bringing together refreshing notes of green tea, papaya, and bergamot, we found it balanced with soft accents of nutmeg, violet, cardamom, and rose. This means it’s a little bit musky and floral, and a lot citrusy and refreshing.

5. Clinique Happy for Men Cologne Spray

Best for: Budgets
Type:Cologne
Scent family:Citrus Aromatic

+ Bright and zingy
+ Great value
- Could last longer

Packed with joyful notes of lime, lemon, mandarin and ultra-fresh sea spray, backed up by armfuls of delicate white flowers, we love this classic Clinique fragrance and its fresh, summery scent, making way for its chirpy name.With a woody base for structure, a pleasing floral heart, and the brightest, zestiest citrus tones up top, this is highly rated as a wonderfully 'happy' fragrance that seems to be loved by men and appreciated by women.

6. Missoni Wave

Best for: Freshness
Type:Eau de Toilette
Scent family:Citrus Aromatic

+ Affordable
+ Versatile
- Not the strongest

Missoni Wave Eau de Toilette for men is a fresh and bright fragrance that opens up your sensory experiences. It’s the type of scent that gives you the confidence to be able to handle anything the world throws at you. It’s a masculine scent made of crystal clear colours, delicate aromas and a magical quality reminiscent of a sea breeze. A great choice for someone you know who loves the scents of the Mediterranean.

1. Jean Paul Gaultier Le Male Eau de Toilette

Best for:Classic
Type:Eau de Toilette
Scent family:Amber Fougere

+ Distinctive bottle
+ Long lasting
- A little dated

A classic scent first introduced in 1995, you’ll be hard-pushed to find any faults with this magnetic Eau de Toilette. It opens with a fresh hint of mint and is followed by warming lavender, masculine cinnamon and cumin. To compliment the amazing fragrance is a striking bottle, which from our experience, will really stand out on a dressing table or bathroom counter.

2. Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo Mandorlo di Sicilia

Best for:Outdoors
Type:Eau de Toilette
Scent family:Amber Floral

+ Light and fresh
+ Summery
- Too sweet for some

After originally striding onto the market in 1916 with their original Colonia, it seems that Acqua di Parma has perfected a new set of classics with their Blu Mediterraneo range. Reminiscent of a sun-drenched stroll through the almond groves of Sicily, this fresh, green, citrus-laden scent is just the thing to evoke that holiday feeling. We really commend its surprising amount of staying power for an eau de toilette, which makes it an equally as fresh, but better value alternative to Creed’s Original Vetiver. A true holiday scent.

3. Penhaligon's The Tragedy of Lord George Eau de Parfum

Best for:Masculine scent
Type:Parfum
Scent family:Amber

+ Fine mist applicator
+ Decadent
- The bottle isn't for everyone

The Tragedy of Lord George is one of the key stable scents in the Penhaligon’s collection. It was created as a tribute to the English spirit. This fragrance is masculine and elegant with woody notes. The key ingredients signing through are Brandy, Tonka Bean and shaving soap. It’s an incredibly powerful and rich perfume that comes in an aesthetically pleasing bottle. Although it’s on the pricier side, it’s a great investment as it will last a very long time.

4. Emporio Armani Stronger With You Intensely Mens Eau de Parfum

Best for:Lasting power
Type:Parfum
Scent family:Amber Fougere

+ Gets lots of compliments
+ Great sillage and longevity
- Too overpowering for some

Emporio Armani Stronger With You Intense fragrance for men is based around a warm vanilla heart and vibrant ambery woods accord, with a contrast of pink pepper notes. The aged cognac colour perfectly embodies the intense character of the new fragrance. It smells warm, and cosy, and brings about a nostalgic feel. The perfume has an incredible price point with such great lasting power. It makes the perfect present for your partner as it’s super addictive, with its signature sugar-coated chestnut accord in overdose. The warm and spicy notes of cinnamon are enough to get you hooked into staying loyal to this scent and buying more.

5. Prada L'Homme Intense Parfum

Best for:Autumn and Winter
Type:Parfum
Scent family:Amber Woody

+ Very professional
+ Great for colder months
- Intense iris note

The L’Homme Prada collection is beloved by gentlemen around the world for its sophisticated yet unapologetically masculine scents. Adding to that line-up, the Intense Eau de Perfum captivates in its marriage of traditional with classic fragrance notes, boasting hints of aromatic cardamom alongside woody patchouli and warming amber.

6. Mugler A*Men Pure Havane Eau de Toilette

Best for:Tobacco fans
Type:Eau de Toilette
Scent family:Amber Vanilla

+ Quality ingredients
+ Lovely dry down
- Bad atomizer and bottle

Mugler A*Men Pure Havane is a masculine scent inspired by the world-famous Cuban cigars and the country’s capital city Havana. It’s a super light fragrance and small enough to put into your carry-on bag depending on the bottle that you get. This classic perfume makes an incredible gift for someone you know that likes aromatic notes of honeyed tobacco. If you can’t just make it to Havana, you can certainly bring Havana to you with this scent.

1. Tom Ford Rose Prick Eau de Parfum

Best for:Floral fans
Type:Parfum
Scent family:Chypre Floral

+ Genderless
+ Fresh scent
- Too feminine for some

Tom Ford’s Private Blend Rose Prick portrays the beauty of the rose through its wild aspect, a symbol of grace and beauty wrapped within the sharp point of a thorn. Sichuan pepper and turmeric make for an opening rich in spice and warmth. The heart comprises a three-piece suite of roses; May rose, Bulgarian rose, and Turkish rose. Patchouli and tonka bean form a duet in the base. This scent can also be a unisex perfume and one that is great for laying. The versatility of the perfume makes it a great buy.

2. Diptyque Do Son Eau de Toilette

Best for:Unisex
Type:Eau de Toilette
Scent family:Floral

+ Unisex fragrance
+ Excellent sillage
- A bit linear

Spritz the skin with Diptyque Do Son Eau de Toilette for a sophisticated and complex aroma from a world-famous French perfumery. This fragrance fuses bold musky tones with exquisite floral notes of tuberose to compose an intricate scent that intoxicates the olfactory sense. Top notes of pink peppercorn and orange leaves combine for an aroma that dances on the skin and compliments your natural scent.

3. Louis Vuitton Fleur Du Désert

Best for:Luxury
Type:Parfum
Scent family:Floral Amber

+ Smooth
+ Long lasting
-On the expensive side

Fleur Du Désert by Louis Vuitton has such great depth. It carries memories of an oasis with lush vegetation in the middle of the Saudi Arabian desert. This scent screams sophistication and elegance and the many reviews online point to the classy nature of the perfume bottle and the distinct honeyed tones in this scent that is described as a nectar of flowers. Although this perfume is on the pricier side, it’s definitely one that is going to make someone smile.