Robert Pattinson claims he smells like crayons. No one can confirm this because, as they—Zendaya and Jimmy Fallon—lean in to smell him, they can only remark that he smells nice with a hint of vanilla. No one expects any less from Robert Pattinson in his tailored suit, but it just goes to show: how we smell is a big part of our identities, whether it be how we perceive ourselves or how others see us.
From pheromone compatibility to the science of body chemistry, one thing’s for sure: smelling good is the goal. Alongside a fresh haircut and neatly shaven face, scenting yourself with something alluring is an unskippable part of a good grooming routine. There are the dependable profiles: sandalwood, musk, vetiver, but sometimes, an unexpected note—like pineapple or black pepper—injects enough intrigue to yield an unforgettable concoction. More than how you look, it’s also about finding the fragrance that matches your essence and personality. Sometimes, you just want something that matches your mood for the day. For precisely that reason, having a scent wardrobe at your disposal is a must for the modern man—below, peruse the scents that deserve a spot on your personal dresser table or bathroom shelf.
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Bvlgari Man Wood Essence Parfum
From Bvlgari comes an effortless day-to-day staple. A medley of resinous woody accents— cedarwood and guaiac wood—finds harmony in patchouli, translating to a soft musk that perfumes your skin and clothes with restraint. It’ll set the mood for date nights, important meetings and everything in between.
Bvlgari Man Wood Essence Parfum, $227 for 100ml, available at Sephora
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Dolce & Gabbana The One Homme Parfum
There’s one way to shroud yourself in mystery, and it’s with the latest addition to Dolce & Gabbana’s lineup. Spicy black pepper mingles with fresh tarocco orange to create a magnetic opening, before being enveloped in amber and smoke. The result is sultry and sophisticated, like basking in a resplendent cigar lounge with a worldly collection of whisky.
Dolce & Gabbana The One Homme Parfum, $230 for 100ml, available at Sephora
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Jean Paul Gaultier Scandal Pour Homme Elixir
Distill the allure of dark maraschino cherries, and you’ll get the Scandal Elixir Pour Homme. Infusing patchouli with bergamot sets the stage for intensity, complete with a glistening cherry on top. As it warms up on the skin, it leaves behind a smooth vanilla trail—presenting an intoxicating blend that’s certain to make an impression.
Jean Paul Gaultier Scandal Pour Homme Elixir, $205 for 10ml, available at Selfridges
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Chloé Atelier des Fleurs Sous Les Pins Eau De Parfum
Recalling to mind a sun-drenched hike on a Mediterranean holiday, Sous les Pins opens with a gust of camphorous eucalyptus, before settling into a resinous reserve of pine. Fresh, clean, yet adventurous, it’s a calming daytime scent that will pair perfectly with your linen sets and sunnies.
Chloé Atelier des Fleurs Sous Les Pins Eau De Parfum, $215 for 50ml, available at Sephora
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Carolina Herrera 212 VIP Black Cab Eau de Parfum
A night out at the bar is beckoning tonight, so you want a spritz of something that will linger. Tangy pineapple cuts through herbaceous absinthe, before melting away into a sensuous cloak of patchouli. Sweetening the deal is caramel, which culminates in a truly addictive concoction. The limited edition bottle also features a yellow lacquered exterior, which pays homage to a cosmopolitan icon: the taxicabs of New York.
Carolina Herrera 212 VIP Black Cab EDP, $171 for 100ml, available at Metro
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Panpuri Andaman Sails Extract Perfume Oil
For the minimalists, it’s all about finding the right balance. In Andaman Sails, bergamot punctuates fresh green tea with a citrusy twist. Creamy sandalwood rounds out the composition, imparting a calmness that follows you everywhere. You’ll catch whiffs of it all throughout the day, courtesy of the 25 to 30 percent concentration found in Panpuri’s alcohol-free formulation.
Panpuri Andaman Sails Extract Perfume Oil, $185 for 50ml, available at the Panpuri boutique
