The Best Cologne for Men – Our Fragrance Guide

Men have been wearing cologne since the early 1700s, and who can blame them? A well-chosen fragrance makes a great impression. Whether it’s a special occasion, a night out on the town, or just a day at the office, the right cologne can boost confidence and complement any outfit. 

When choosing the best cologne for yourself - or for the man in your life - it helps to know a bit about different types of scents. Fresh, floral, woody, or oriental? 

No idea? No problem! Here’s our quick guide to the best cologne for men.

Understanding types of scents

Like all fragrances, colognes are defined by four distinctive “scent families”: floral, oriental, woody, and fresh. Each family has its own characteristics, so it's important to figure out which type you gravitate towards when choosing a cologne. 

• Floral: Although floral is traditionally associated with women’s perfumes, many colognes now embrace this softer scent. Florals may include tones of jasmine, rose, or gardenia and branch out into fruitier aspects of berries or peach. Great for spring or summer. 

• Oriental: Sensual, rich, and exotic! Oriental scents range from spices to dry, powdery resins. A heavier oriental fragrance may include notes of musk, or softer notes of amber and vanilla. 

• Woody: Woody fragrances are often the most masculine. They generally feature aromatic sandalwood, cedar and vetiver, or smoky, leathery scents. Fresh notes of citrus or floral may be incorporated to help tone down the strength. 

• Fresh: A fresh fragrance refers to grassy, citrusy scents and sea breezes. Think clean, zesty, and herby. This may include aromas of orange and lemon to water notes of sea spray or rain.

What is a fragrance “note”?

Fragrances are made up of three different notes: top, medium, and base.

• Top note: This is the first scent that hits your nose and usually lasts anywhere from 15 minutes to 2 hours. Top notes usually range from light and fruity to powdery and spicy.
• Middle note. The main element or “heart” of the fragrance, the middle note develops after the top note, lasting 3-5 hours. These might be green, earthy scents or heavier florals such as jasmine. Spices or fruits are also popular. 
• Base note. The final scent and often the most bold, lasting 5-10 hours. Typical base notes in men’s perfumes include musk, sandalwood, vetiver, vanilla, leather, and smoke. 

Now that we’ve cracked the code on fragrance identification, let’s take a look at the best perfume for men at Bargain Chemist! 

BVLGARI BLV Pour Homme EDT 100ml for Men

This woody, spicy fragrance features notes of ginger alongside the softer tobacco flower. Cardamom and sandalwood add warmth and spice, evolving into a harmonious blend of juniper and galanga. A woody base of ginkgo, green leaves, and grey teak complete this seductive scent. 

Armani Code Eau De Toilette 75ml

This seductive blend of fresh lemon and bergamot combines soft notes of olive tree blossom and warming guaiac wood. 

Iconic Armani ingredients include Tonka bean, which adds intensity to the fragrance, along with a sensual heart of rosemary and Provençal lavender.  Vanilla adds multifaceted and irresistible depth for a sensual finish.   

Burberry Brit Splash EDT 50ml

Inspired by summer and "the electric energy of London”, Burberry Brit Splash is a sharp and refreshing aquatic scent. Featuring top notes of rosemary, galbanum, and melon, it opens with an invigorating burst and moves into middle notes of violet and cyclamen. The aquatic heart is balanced by a base of musk, vetiver, and moss. The perfect cologne for the coming spring. 

Hugo Boss BOSS Bottled Tonic EDT 50ml

Perfect for the office and everyday wear, Hugo Boss BOSS is a woody fragrance with a fruity, spicy appeal. This zesty tonic opens with apple and bitter citrus which makes it instantly recognisable. With warm middle notes of ginger, cloves, cinnamon, and geranium and a signature base of woody vetiver, BOSS is an earthy but elegant fragrance designed for the ‘modern man’. 

Azzaro Chrome Pure EDT

Created by master perfumers Olivier Pescheux and Jacques Huclier, this citrusy cologne was inspired by the Mediterranean sea and the father-son bond (which makes it a fantastic gift for dads!)

Chrome Pure features top notes of orange, mandarin, and bergamot. The aquatic middle notes contain hints of orange blossom and akigalawood, a scent made from patchouli oil known for its spicy, woody, floral notes. Rich tonka bean and white musk finish this oriental fragrance off with a pure and distinctive freshness. 

Of course, the best way to choose a cologne is to try it yourself! Check out the top men's colognes in-store at Bargain Chemist.