Times have indeed changed when it comes to men’s fragrance. In the past, American men were often discouraged from wearing cologne, as it was seen as feminine or overly perfumed. Thankfully, those outdated stereotypes have faded, and today’s man can confidently express himself through a variety of scents, from subtle to bold.
The fragrance industry, once dominated by men’s colognes, has evolved into a multi-billion dollar global powerhouse encompassing both gender-specific and unisex scents. The term “cologne” has given way to the broader categories of “perfume” and “fragrance.” Originating in 1709 Germany as an alternative to the potent French fragrances of the time, perfume was a symbol of status and luxury, reserved for royalty and nobility under King Louis XIV. These early perfumes were crafted exclusively from pure essential oils.
Following are our first three picks for this season from Ferragamo, Mugler and MCM. More will follow as we head into the spirit and sprits of the gift-giving season.
Step into the realm of timeless allure with Thierry Mugler’s A*Men Eau de Toilette. Originally launched in 1996, this iconic fragrance has stood the test of time, captivating generations of men. Its enigmatic blend of amber and wood evokes a sense of mystery and confidence, making it the perfect scent for the modern man. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a social butterfly, AMen’s bold and seductive aroma will leave a lasting impression. The sleek, rubber-coated bottle adds a touch of edgy sophistication, reflecting the fragrance’s daring character. Discover the allure of AMen, available at Macy’s and all fine department stores.
Shop online: MUGLER
Made in Italy and launched this year, Ferragamo Red Leather is a scent for the passionate artist at heart. This fragrance is tailored to the man who effortlessly blends artistic pursuits with refined taste. Whether he’s mastering a musical instrument, delving into literature, or exploring the world of visual arts, this scent complements his eclectic interests. Its top notes of Italian bergamot, mandarin pulp, and ginger invigorate the senses, while the heart notes of jasmine and vetiver inspire creativity. Ferragamo Red Leather is the perfect companion for his next gig, gallery opening, or literary soirée.
Check it out: FERREGAMO
A unisex fragrance that’s taken the world by storm, MCM Diamond is one of the hottest designer scents to hit the market in recent years. Its iconic bottle design and alluring fragrance have captivated both men and women. The scent itself is a delightful blend of cappuccino, juniper, lavender, and plum, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
I wore it to work the other day and not one but three of my colleagues identified the fragrance. This is the perfect gift for any gender on your list.
Read more here: MCM DIAMOND
Traditionally, fragrance choices have been gendered, with woodsy and peppery scents often marketed to men and florals to women. However, the fragrance industry is evolving to embrace more gender-neutral options, allowing people to share perfumes and colognes. Ultimately, the goal is to simply smell good, as a pleasant scent can leave a lasting impression. When you enter a room and catch someone’s attention, you’ve achieved this. A man who exudes a delightful fragrance is one who will be remembered favorably.
Note: A sprits or two is enough. The more you spray is cause for a collision. Less goes a long way.
