You need to start seeing the fragrance you wear the same way as you see the car you drive or the watch you buy. This is an investment; it should be something that you’ll return to year after year and that people are always going to associate with you. Every gentleman should be beyond the stage where they pick something cheap and cheerful up without a care or thought towards it. It’s time to think seriously about the fragrance you wear, gentlemen – starting here.
Tom Ford
Take our word for it: you can never go wrong with Tom Ford. Black Orchid is one of the most iconic fragrances from the world-famous brand and is perfect for the gentleman looking for something a little more dark than his usual, lighter fragrance. Strong notes of orchid, patchouli and black plum are present, before gradually revealing a core of spice, wood and fruits.
Creed
This isn’t named the Royal Mayfair for nothing; it was inspired by King Edward VII the Duke of Windsor and is a rich, opulent and majestic fragrance fit for a gentleman.
Penhaligon’s
Penhaligon’s is one of the most iconic and well-known British brands in the world so it wouldn’t be right to not include them in this list. No. 33 pays tribute to the brand’s routes at No. 33 St James’s Street and creates the perfect mix between dark tobacco and light florals.
Floris
A beautiful fragrance should also be an iconic one, and Floris ticks all the boxes with No. 89 – the same fragrance worn by the incomparable Ian Fleming. The smell is sugar, spice and everything nice – with hints of bergamot, lavender and cedarwood running throughout.
Acqua di Parma
The Cedro di Taomina is Acqua di Parma’s newest fragrance (coming out this year), and in our eyes is set to become one of their most iconic. With a strong yet subtle, fruity yet spicy fragrance and a beautiful and classic undertone, this is undeniably a scent that you can’t go wrong with.
Acqua di Parma, £61 for 75ml & £87 for 150ml (www.johnlewis.com from Feb 22nd)
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Further reading
This is the one piece of luggage every modern professional should own
From vision to masterpiece: Charting the personalised journey of a bespoke Swaine creation
