Attention all fragrance aficionados! Are you tired of smelling like everyone else? Ditch the generic scents and upgrade your aroma game with our top picks for some of the best colognes of the year. From bold and adventurous to refined and classic, I’ve got a cologne for every personality. So whether you’re hitting the club or closing a big business deal, make sure you leave a lasting impression with these sultry, sensational scents.
THE TOP 5 MENS COLOGNES
HOW I CHOSE THE BEST COLOGNES
I’ve been creating and updating our cologne reviews around here since 2016 and one of the biggest things I learned is that it is so hard to pick out a cologne online, especially when you don’t really know what it smells like. So in order for me to come up with a list that you’d trust and hopefully purchase I used the following criteria:
- Is it one that I’ve actually purchased myself and use?
- Are people buzzing about it on social media – Instagram, Facebook, TikTok.
- Does it make “best seller” lists from trusted retailers like Nordstrom, Sephora, Ulta, Saks, and Bloomingdale’s?
- Do the choices hit multiple budget points – not only just expensive?
The good news is that I’ve shortened this list to colognes I’ve actually purchased (or were gifted) in the past year and use (on rotation) regularly.
I’ve also cross-checked the top sellers on the above mentioned retailers and cross-referenced it on social media – mainly TikTok, where the cologne video views is currently at over 27 million!
Finally, I narrowed things down to a variety of price points ranging as low as only $15 and as high as $350.
Outside of “the notes” one of the biggest trends this year is surrounding ethical, cruelty free, and vegan colognes. One of my favorites is the “Clean” brand, which you’ll find below. This year I’m working towards including more vegan and cruelty free brands to add to my list!
Once I’ve narrowed down my selection I’ll do our best to try and help you figure out what each cologne actually smells like, how strong of a scent it has, what’s its sillage level is, and how long the scent lasts – on average. Plus, I’ll give you some pros and cons of each cologne as, let’s keep in mind, colognes are totally subjective and can smell different on each person based on skin-type, body chemistry, climate, and more.
DECODING COLOGNE NOTES
If you’re struggling to figure out what “the notes” mean, overall, the notes are the notes (if that makes sense), but the overall smell is going to differ person to person and how they truly interact with your own body’s chemistry. The notes are a good overarching guide so you know what you’re getting out of the cologne, but don’t be afraid if you see a note that you may not love, it doesn’t mean the entire cologne will smell like that. It’s just how they all work together.
TOP NOTES
- The initial scents that you smell when you first apply a fragrance.
- Typically the lightest and most volatile components of a fragrance.
- Tend to evaporate quickly.
- Top notes are what create the initial impression of a fragrance.
HEART NOTES
- Become apparent after the top notes have evaporated.
- Usually more rounded and less sharp than the top notes and can be described as floral, spicy, or sweet.
- Provide depth and longevity.
- They can take several minutes to fully develop and can last for several hours.
BASE NOTES
- The foundation of a fragrance and are the longest-lasting.
- They form the underlying scent and linger on the skin after the top and middle notes have evaporated.
- Help to balance and ground the fragrance, and contribute to its longevity and overall scent profile.
Whether you’re looking for something super seasonal like light and fresh or just something woodsy and warm I’ve rounded up some of the best-selling and must-smell men’s cologne picks for 2024. So many of these make classic gift ideas for any of the guys on your list too!
THE BEST COLOGNES (SO FAR) IN 2024
1.
Sauvage by Dior
One of the most popular and top selling men’s cologne picks for the year, Sauvage is powerful and noble and a genius mix of all things blue sky, rugged mountains, and soft grass. While a distinctive scent it’s perfect for those calming days and nights without being overpowering.
TOP NOTES
- Calabrian bergamot and pepper provide a bright and spicy opening to the fragrance.
- The bergamot adds a fresh citrusy edge.
- The pepper provides a sharp, spicy kick.
MIDDLE NOTES
- Sichuan pepper and elemi add depth and intensity to the fragrance.
- The Sichuan pepper provides a warm, spicy quality, while the elemi adds a fresh, resinous note.
BASE NOTES
- Ambroxan and vanilla provide a rich and masculine finish to the scent.
- The ambroxan gives a woody, amber-like quality.
- Vanilla adds a sweet and comforting note.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
- Timeless and sophisticated scent.
- Long-lasting, with a moderate sillage level.
- Perfect for both day and night.
- Suitable for a variety of different occasions – from work to a night out.
- A versatile fragrance that can be worn all year round.
JUST A HEADS-UP
- May not be suitable for everyone’s personal taste in cologne scents
- Some people felt it could be a little strong, so less can be more.
- Larger bottles can be expensive compared to other fragrances.
We go into more detail when we reviewed Sauvage here.
2.
Creed Aventus
Aventus is actually the best selling colognes for the Creed brand in its unique history. A bit on the pricey side, it’s still totally worth it because, well, you’re worth it. It lasts long throughout the day without overpowering and you don’t really need many sprays so it’ll last a bit longer than some of your other favorite colognes. Plus: Find out where to buy the best Creed cologne brands for cheap!
TOP NOTES
- Pineapple: A sweet and fruity note that gives the fragrance a bright and lively opening.
- Blackcurrant: A tart and juicy note that adds depth and complexity to the scent.
- Apple: A crisp and fresh note that adds a touch of sweetness to the fragrance.
- Bergamot: A citrusy and slightly bitter note that adds a bright and invigorating quality to the fragrance.
MIDDLE NOTES
- Jasmine: A floral and sweetly fragrant note that adds a romantic and sensual quality to the scent.
- Birch: A woody and earthy note that provides a solid base for the fragrance and adds a touch of smokiness.
- Patchouli: An earthy and slightly sweet note that adds depth and complexity to the fragrance.
BASE NOTES
- Vanilla: A sweet and creamy note that adds a warm and comforting quality to the fragrance.
- Musk: A warm and slightly animalistic note that adds a sensual and intimate quality to the fragrance.
- Oakmoss: A woody and slightly earthy note that provides a solid base for the fragrance and adds a touch of freshness.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
- Complex and sophisticated scent profile.
- Long-lasting fragrance, with an average longevity of up to 10 hours.
- Well-balanced fragrance that is both fresh and warm.
- Made with high-quality ingredients and blended by hand.
JUST A HEADS-UP
- It’s definitely expensive – high cost compared to many other colognes.
- Some people may find it too strong or intense for everyday wear, so it could be better to save it for some special occasions.
We go into more detail when we reviewed Creed Aventus here.
3.
Scentbird Cologne Monthly Subscription Box
If you’re not ready to commit to an entire bottle of new cologne (guilty as charged) you can now sample the latest scents each and every month. Choose from more than 150 major cologne brands like Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Tom Ford, Acqua di Parma, Coach and so many more.
Each month you’ll receive your new fragrances (the first month they’ll even give you a reusable travel-friendly refillable case) for you to test out. They provide enough cologne so that it’ll last you the entire month (averaging around 3 sprays of the cologne per day). They also have some nice perfume options for the gals too!
4.
Tom Ford Vanille Tobacco
Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille is a rich, woody fragrance that evokes memories of warm, sunny days spent lounging in the shade of a big tree. The top notes of tobacco leaf and spice give way to a heart of creamy vanilla before drying down to a smoky, woody base. The result is a truly addictive scent that is sure to please any lover of sweet, woody fragrances.
It’s really one of those rare fragrances that manage to be both timeless and modern at the same time. The tobacco leaf and spice in the top notes give it a vintage feel, while the creamy vanilla in the heart keeps it feeling fresh and contemporary. The smoky, woody base gives the fragrance a bit of an edge, making it perfect for anyone who wants to smell different from the crowd.
TOP NOTES
- A warm and inviting blend of spices, including tonka bean and vanilla, that gives the fragrance an initial burst of sweetness and warmth.
- Tobacco leaf that provides a rich and earthy note for a solid foundation and gives it a distinctive smoky quality.
MIDDLE NOTES
- A blend of dry fruits, including raisins, dates, and prunes, that add a sweet and slightly bitter quality.
- The addition of tonka bean provides a warm and slightly sweet note that adds depth and complexity.
BASE NOTES
- Vanilla gives it a sweet and creamy note that provides a long-lasting and comforting quality.
- The cocoa gives it a rich and slightly bitter note that gives it a warm and indulgent quality.
- A blend of woods, including sandalwood and guaiac, that add depth and stability.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
- The tobacco and spicy notes give it a masculine and mature vibe.
- It’s known for having excellent longevity, lasting upwards of 8 hours.
- The scent is warm and cozy, making it perfect for the colder months.
JUST A HEADS-UP
- It’s another expensive cologne, with the cheapest we found coming in at almost $200 for the smallest size.
- Some felt the scent isn’t good for warmer months like spring and summer, which we agree with.
We go into more detail when we reviewed Tobacco Vanille here.
5.
Maison Margiela Replica Jazz Club
Through the brilliance of Maison Margiela, they’ve truly captured the energy and atmosphere of a jazz club with notes that are carefully blended to create a unique and nostalgic aroma.
We actually can’t love this cologne any more than we do. It’s somewhat strong, but in a good way, so you really only need one or two sprays (max) and you’ll be smelling fresh-to-death all day long.
Like with all Replica scents, you can layer this cologne with some of their other options to really make your own signature fragrance. You can’t go wrong.
TOP NOTES
- In a surprising twist, the top notes include lemon, bergamot, and pink pepper.
- These notes help create a bright and fresh opening.
MIDDLE NOTES
- Heart notes include vetiver, tobacco, and cypriol oil.
- When combined, these help add a warm and smoky quality to the scent.
BASE NOTES
- Classic base notes consist of tonka bean, vanilla, and white musk.
- These help provide a smooth and creamy finish to the cologne overall.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
- It’s truly a unique, distinctive, and memorable scent.
- A total warm and inviting aroma.
- It has a decent longevity level, lasting upwards of 6 to 7 hours.
JUST A HEADS-UP
- Some may feel it’s too strong, so stick to just one or two sprays at most.
- Not overly suitable for spring or summer, but you do you.
6.
Spicebomb by Viktor & Rolf
Tried and true on our list since 2017, Spicebomb is a versatile and sophisticated fragrance that balances fresh, spicy and warm notes to create a unique and captivating scent that is both energizing and calming. Totally recognizable at first sniff, it makes a perfect everyday scent or the perfect gift for that special guy on your list.
TOP NOTES
- Pink pepper, bergamot, and grapefruit, which provide a citrusy and invigorating opening to the scent.
MIDDLE NOTES
- The spicy middle notes consist of cinnamon, paprika, and saffron, which give the fragrance its warm and aromatic character.
BASE NOTES
- Tobacco, leather, and vetiver, which provide depth, richness and a musky, masculine character.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
Versatile: Spicebomb is a versatile fragrance that works for a variety of occasions, from casual to formal.
Bold and Masculine: Highly masculine, with a mix of warm, spicy, and slightly sweet notes that create a bold and sophisticated fragrance.
The bottle is cool as hell and looks great on your nightstand.
JUST A HEADS-UP
Some people may find it to be too strong or overpowering for their liking.
As the fragrance is designed to be highly masculine, it may not be suitable for everyone – especially those that may like a lighter and more subdued scent.
We go into more detail when we reviewed Spicebomb here.
7.
Jo Malone Oud & Bergamot
If you’re a fan of woody, earthy scents, then Oud & Bergamot cologne is definitely worth checking out. This fragrance features top notes of bergamot and lemon, middle notes of oud and cypress, and base notes of vetiver and amber. Together, these create a scent that is both masculine and elegant.
TOP NOTES
- Bergamot: This citrus fruit provides a fresh, bright, and slightly bitter edge to the scent that makes it instantly recognizable.
- The saffron spice adds a sweet, spicy, and slightly floral touch to the fragrance that helps to balance the bitterness of the bergamot.
MIDDLE NOTES
- Oud: This agarwood provides a warm, rich, and woody aroma that is the star of the show.
- The cedarwood adds a grounding effect that helps to balance the sweetness of the saffron and the warmth of the oud.
BASE NOTES
- Patchouli: This plant has a rich, earthy, and slightly sweet scent that helps to balance the other notes in the fragrance and gives it a slightly bohemian vibe.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
- This cologne can be layered with other Jo Malone scents.
- It can be smelled from a few feet away without overpowering those around you.
- Known for its luxurious and complex scent that is both sophisticated and alluring.
JUST A HEADS-UP
- It can be a bit pricey.
- We’ve had a hard time finding it in stock at some of the top retailers we researched.
- Some men may not like a unisex fragrance.
8.
Bleu De Chanel
This is one of the latest best-selling men’s colognes this year. Bleu de Chanel is a woody, aromatic cologne that was released by Chanel in 2010 and it features top notes of lemon and bergamot, middle notes of vetiver and pink pepper, and base notes of cedar and amber.
TOP NOTES
- Some top notes consist of fresh and citrusy lemon, orange, and grapefruit.
- Combined, these help provide an invigorating start to the cologne itself.
MIDDLE NOTES
- Heart notes consist of floral and spicy accords of rosemary, ginger, and incense.
- Together, these help add depth and warmth to the scent.
BASE NOTES
- Woody and musky accords, including sandalwood, cedar, and white musk.
- These give the fragrance its lasting power and leave a trail of sophistication.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
- It’s one of the longest lasting colognes on our list – up to 9 hours.
- Totally masculine, but versatile at the same time.
- Well-balanced, with fresh, citrusy top notes, warm, spicy heart notes, and long-lasting, woody base notes.
JUST A HEADS-UP
- Some may feel like its scent isn’t all that unique, smelling like some other similar colognes from the past.
9.
Maison Margiela Sailing Day
Sailing Day is a fresh and invigorating fragrance that’s characterized by its marine notes. It has a crisp and clean scent that is reminiscent of the ocean and the open sea, but more relatablely it’s like a mini tropical vacation in a bottle.
TOP NOTES
- Lemon and bergamot, which give this cologne a bright and zesty start at first spray.
MIDDLE NOTES
- The heart notes consist of sea salt, fig, and juniper, which add depth and dimension to the scent.
BASE NOTES
- Smooth cedar, musk, and amber provide a warm and comforting finish.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
- Fresh and clean scent that evokes the feeling of being on the best beach vacation ever.
- Versatile and suitable for both casual and formal settings.
- Suitable for both men and women.
JUST A HEADS-UP
- The scent may not be strong enough for some people.
- Not as long-lasting as some other fragrances.
- If you prefer heavy sillage, this may not be for you.
We go into more detail when we reviewed Sailing Day here.
10.
Byredo Eleventh Hour Cologne
Byredo’s Eleventh Hour cologne is a unisex fragrance that was released in 2018 – so it’s still a little new.
The carefully crafted blend of fresh, floral, and woody notes come together to create a scent that is both bold and refined.
Part of the popular Byredo brand, which is known for its high-quality fragrances that are inspired by memories and emotions – the name “Eleventh Hour” speaks to the idea of making the most of every moment even when you’re rushed at the very last minute (hence “eleventh hour”), and the cologne itself is a perfect embodiment of this spirit. Whether you’re heading out for a night on the town or simply want to make a lasting impression you should totally check it out.
TOP NOTES
- The pink pepper, cardamom, and bergamot are fresh and invigorating providing a bright and energetic start.
MIDDLE NOTES
- Middle notes consist of juniper berries, lavender, and iris create a floral and herbal heart.
BASE NOTES
- The cedarwood, tonka bean, and benzoin certainly add a warm and woody foundation to this signature scent.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
- Long lasting – up to 7 hours on average.
- It’s a bright and energetic cologne that’ll turn some heads, but won’t overpower you or anyone else around you.
- It feels high-end without being obnoxious.
JUST A HEADS-UP
- The price is definitely on the higher side (upwards of $200) just for the regular sized bottle.
- Some many find the scent fades a bit faster when the temperature outside if high and/or when it’s humid.
11.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 is a luxurious and sophisticated fragrance that’s become a cult classic among fragrance obsessed enthusiasts and is widely regarded as one of the best fragrances in the world. It’s known for its long-lasting and captivating scent that is both elegant and sensual as a totally unisex fragrance characterized by its warm, sweet, and spicy notes.
TOP NOTES
- The top notes of bergamot, saffron, and red fruits provide a fresh and vibrant start that helps awaken the senses.
MIDDLE NOTES
- Jasmine, cedarwood, and amberwood add depth and richness.
BASE NOTES
- The musk, tonka bean, and vanilla notes create a warm, sensual finish that lingers on the skin.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
- Complex and sophisticated scent profile.
- Long lasting cologne with decent longevity – upwards of 8 hours.
- Strong sillage can be easily detected from a distance.
JUST A HEADS-UP
- This is not a cheap cologne by any means with a starting price at $325.
- May be too strong for some people or in certain situations.
- May not be suitable for everyday wear, especially at that price point.
12.
Yves Saint Laurent Y Eau de Parfum For Men
First introduced in 2018, Yves Saint Laurent Y Eau de Parfum is a woody, aromatic fragrance for men that has a clean, crisp and fresh quality to it. It really works well in both casual and formal situations, so feel free to wear it to work, out for drinks, or just bumming around on the weekends. It’s really clean, fresh, and exciting.
TOP NOTES
- The notes of ginger, bergamot, and mint. provide a bright and refreshing opening, giving the fragrance a crisp and energizing quality.
MIDDLE NOTES
- The lavender, patchouli, and pink pepper add depth and complexity to the cologne, giving it a spicy, masculine quality.
BASE NOTES
- The cedarwood, ambrox, and vetiver help provide a warm and long-lasting finish, making the scent last for several hours and leaving a memorable impression.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
- It’s a great pick-me-up with a fresh, clean, and crisp scent.
- The scent lasts for a decent amount of time without having to reapply it.
- Perfect for everyday use.
JUST A HEADS-UP
- It’s doesn’t really have the most unique scent as we feel like we’ve smelled this before.
- Some felt the scent itself could be a bit too light.
13.
Kilian Paris "Moonlight in Heaven"
A little off the beaten path, this amazing cologne from Kilian is truly like someone bottled up the essence of a tropical paradise and sprinkled it with a little bit of magic.
First off, the scent is heavenly – pun intended. It’s got this perfect balance of sweet and fresh notes that just make you feel like you’re on a beach, sipping on a cocktail, and living your best life.
TOP NOTES
- These top notes provide a fresh and citrusy opening to the fragrance.
- The lemon and grapefruit notes are bright and zesty, while the pink pepper adds a subtle spiciness.
MIDDLE NOTES
- Heart notes add a creamy and tropical aspect to this scent.
- The coconut milk note is rich and velvety, while the rice note gives a soft and powdery texture. The mango note adds a sweet and juicy fruitiness all at the same time.
BASE NOTES
- The base notes provide a warm and earthy foundation.
- The tonka bean note is sweet and vanilla-like, while the vetiver note adds a woody and smoky quality.
- The patchouli note is earthy and slightly herbal, giving the fragrance a grounded and masculine edge.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
- Unique and complex scent profile.
- Long-lasting fragrance that can last up to 10 hours (but averages around 7)
- Not overpowering, making it suitable to wear at work or out for fun.
- Blends well with other scents and can be layered with other fragrances for a personalized scent.
JUST A HEADS-UP
- It’s pretty expensive, especially when compared to other colognes on my list.
- Sillage level may not be strong enough for those who prefer bold fragrances
- If you’re not a fan coconut and mango notes you may find this slightly too sweet.
14.
Le Labo Santal 33
First introduced in 2011, Le Labo Santal 33 has quickly become a cult favorite and is widely known for its warm, woody, and spicy scent.
Overall it’s created around the main note of sandalwood, which gives it its name. Go figure! Other notes include cardamom, iris, violet, ambrox, cedarwood, leather, and musk.
The fragrance is designed to be long-lasting, with a sillage that is moderate to strong. Even cooler is its minimalist glass bottle, which has a simple label that shows its name, batch number, and date of production. Each bottle of Santal 33 is hand-blended and individually numbered, making each one a unique creation!
TOP NOTES
- Santal 33 has a spicy opening with notes of cardamom and papyrus.
- This gives the cologne an initial burst of freshness and warmth.
MIDDLE NOTES
- The middle notes include iris and violet, which add a floral and powdery touch to the spicy opening.
BASE NOTES
- The base notes are woody, musky, and have leather scents.
- The main base note is sandalwood, which gives the fragrance its name and signature scent.
- It’s complemented by cedarwood, leather, and musk, which add warmth, depth, and sensuality to the fragrance.
NUMBERS & LEVELS
How Long It Lasts
Sillage Level
PROS & CONS
WHAT I LOVE
- It’s known for its unique scent, which combines woody, spicy, and floral notes to create a distinctive aroma.
- Decently long-lasting, ranging anywhere from 8 – 10 hours.
- The scent is versatile and can be worn by both men and women, making it a popular pick for just about anyone.
- Le Labo is made using traditional, artisanal techniques, which adds to its uniqueness and appeal.
JUST A HEADS-UP
- The scent can be pretty strong, depending on how much you use. Regardless, if you like a very light and airy scent, this one may not be for you.
- Outside of Nordstrom and Saks, it’s hard to find Le Labo in some other top retailers I usually shop at.
