Psst (or should that be spritzzz?) we’ve got the lowdown on the seven must-have scents for men; you know, the ones that we all get a whiff of and have to ask “oooh what fragrance are you wearing?”. Whether you’re looking for a new scent, topping up an old favourite, buying for a special someone or want to know which fragrances are hot at Boots right now, we’ve got something scent-sational for everyone.
We take a look at each fragrance’s top (the lightest and first to fade), middle (the heart of the fragrance) and base notes (the ones that leave a lasting scent) and also recommend similar smells from the same fragrance family. So get ready to add these gorgeous aftershaves to your dressing table, bathroom shelf and desk drawer (come on, we all have that scent stashed away!).
The fougère (pronounced foo-jair) family of fragrances features lavender, geranium and bergamot to name a few, and this classic men’s fragrance is woody with base notes of vanilla and musk, and top notes of apple and citrus fruit. If you want a fresher option then go for Boss Bottled Tonic Eau de Toilette, or if you’re after a more intense scent then try Boss Bottled Intense Eau de Parfum.
This classic scent features delicate touches of bergamot and lemon, and has a touch of musk coming from the Guaiac Wood top note which helps to bring the whole fragrance together. If you’re after a fresher scent then Armani Code Colonia Eau de Toilette is the one for you, or if you prefer even more musk then opt for Armani Code Absolu Eau de Parfum which features a pop of cardamom.
This is a fragrance for those who love a full bodied and impactful scent, and with top notes of ginger and base notes of leather you’re looking at one that ticks the box. But if you want your fragrance to pack even more of a punch, then give Boss The Scent Intense Eau de Parfum a try. Or if you’re looking for a similar scent from the same family then Boss The Scent Private Accord Eau de Toilette is a sweeter version.
Often referred to as the ‘scent of success’, this fragrance staple is billed as a fresh scent with notes of spicy leather. It’s a perfect blend of leather base notes mixed with peppermint and blood mandarin top notes. Fancy a fresher version? Give Paco Rabanne 1 Million Lucky Eau de Toilette a spritz, or if you want to up the intensity then Paco Rabanne 1 Million Privé Eau de Parfum is definitely worth a try.
The scent was inspired by all the things Ralph Lauren loves about a powerful car, so prepare to have your senses awakened with top notes of lemon, bergamot and juniper, and base notes of cedar wood and vanilla. Want to rev up the intensity? Ralph Lauren Polo Red Intense Eau de Parfum puts pedal to the metal with notes of ginger and leather.
If fresh fragrance is the one for you then this citrusy scent is worth adding to your bathroom shelf. The citrus notes are subtle, and come through thanks to coriander, leather and amber to name a few. If you’re feeling a little braver and want a stronger version of this scent, then try Diesel Only The Brave Extreme Eau de Toilette, with patchouli and tonka bean.
This signature scent is instantly recognisable with lavender and vanilla notes, and has serious staying power. The mint top note helps to bring the freshness alive; prepare to be asked “oooh, what’s that you’re wearing?” at least three times a day. If you can’t get enough of this fragrance and want a more intense scent then give Jean Paul Gaultier Ultra Male Eau de Toilette Intense a try.