Fathers and father-figures come in all forms, but before we get on to gifting ideas: why do some of them keep getting given the same old scent for any occasion? Very likely the one they’ve been using since they were first shaving?
Okay. Some dads do ‘like what they know’, but perhaps that’s because they’ve never found out what they actually like?
Let’s change it up…
Tell him that something exciting’s on the way, and treat him to a discovery box of new scents (you can always buy the full-size of the one he loves most, later!) The joy of a curated Discovery Set is an exciting olfactory voyage into the unknown with all the inherent fear removed – think of it as an opportunity to sniff new things, niche brands you may never have tried, but with someone holding your hand a little.
The Smelling Notes we present with each of our boxes (which you can find by scanning the VR code) guide your thoughts, detail some of the ingredients and give a little background information on the fragrance house and their inspiration. You can then take a deeper dive into each scent on our dedicated brand pages, if you wish. But it’s up to you (or your recipient). It’s an adventure you are in charge of, and a Discovery Box uniquely allows you to explore a whole world of possibilities without making an expensive mistake.
Our just-launched Scented Gent Discovery Box is THE perfect gift for dads who could do with shaking up their scent wardrobe – or for anyone who feels it’s about time they refreshed their fragrances for the season ahead. A stunning hand-picked selection of both classic and new fragrances crafted for the stylish gent offers the opportunity to try each in your own time, from the comfort of your own home…
The Scented Gent Discovery Box is priced £19 + p&p* to VIP Club Members & £23 + p&p* to everyone else – be sure to log into your account to take advantage of the special VIP Club price. This fabulous collection of fragrances for him is something to relish.
Montblanc Explorer Platinum 2ml eau de parfum
Brioni Éclat 1.8ml eau de parfum
Floris No.007 2ml eau de parfum
Parfums de Marly Percival 1.5ml eau de parfum
Shay & Blue Dandelion Fig 2ml eau de parfum
TUMI Continuum [12:00] 2ml eau de parfum
Floral Street Black Lotus 1.5ml eau de parfum
Jimmy Choo Man 2ml eau de toilette
Bvlgari Bvlgari Man Rain Essence 1.5ml eau de parfum
Kenzo Homme Intense 1ml eau de toilette
Bentley For Men 1.8ml eau de toilette
If you think he’s ready to explore more, maybe add the Men’s Must Have Discovery Box to your cart, too? For just £15 (or £12 for VIP members) it’s a specially put together collection of some masculine and unisex (to be worn by anyone) fragrances featuring globally adored best sellers and some recently-launched scents from brands such as THoO, Jeroboam, DSquared2, Paco Rabanne, Bentley, Jean Paul Gaultier, Versace & Initio!
Dsquared 2 Wood2ml eau de parfum (full size £59 for 50ml)
Paco Rabanne Phanthom 2ml eau de parfum (£55 for 50ml)
Bentley Momentum Unbreakable 2ml eau de parfum (£69.50 for 100ml)
Jean Paul Gaultier Scandal Pour Homme 2ml eau de toilette(£69.50 for 100ml)
Jeroboam Oriento1ml eau de parfum (£90 for 30ml)
Versace Eros 1ml eau de parfum (£65 for 50ml)
THoO Never Ending 2ml eau de parfum (£190 for 75ml)
Initio Oud for Happiness 2ml eau de parfum (£190 for 75ml)
And if you think he’s now fully immersed into the fabulous world of fragrance (or will be, by the time he’s explored those two), we suggest it’s time to embrace the world of Brand Boxes – these are collections the brands themselves have put together, showcasing some of their most iconic scents, with names from all-time classic houses and ultra-trendy indie brands alike.
Get extra ‘favourite child’ points by signing him up to get the FREE digital edition of the multi-award-winning magazine, The Scented Letter, sent straight to his inbox. If he’s more intellectually analogue-inclined and still loves print, we’re also thrilled to say you can buy an annual subscription to the print edition of The Scented Letter magazine to adorn his coffee table, which will be sent to him hot off the press.
However you choose for it to begin, get ready for him to be nearly as addicted to fragrance as you are (especially whem the compliments start flooding in!) And hey – if that also means you get to ‘borrow’ some of his scents, way after Fathers Day? Win-win!
How to choose a fragrance as a gift is something we get asked a lot – from those looking to treat the men in lives with a new scent, and from people just starting to explore the fragrant world themselves. Either way, those endless shelves of scented posibilities can seem daunting – especially if you’re shopping online.
With Father’s Day around the corner, fragrant gifts are much on our minds, but we wanted to create a guide that gets your started on your journey and, even better, can be used for any time you find yourself confused while pondering perfumes.
If you’re buying a scented present:
Don’t leave it to random chance – that could go wrong. Tell him that something exciting’s on the way and treat him to a selection box of new scents (you can always buy the full-size of the one he loves most, later!)
Take a look at some of the suggestions, below. But first, ask yourself this:
Can the man in your life (or you) still wear, with no shame, the same jeans he was wearing aged 17? We’re hardly ones to judge (especially after lockdown!) but we’re betting most could not – and even if they could, that it would be really quite inadvisable for them to do so.
Why, then, do some poor chaps keep getting given the same old scent they’ve been using since they were first shaving?
Let’s change it up… So, think about:
What type of a chap are you buying for?
Character, hobbies and personal style are all pointers, but can never be an absolute guarantee of what he’ll prefer – he might just surprise you (and himself!) That’s why a selection of samples to try at home is the best bet. Masculine fragrances have moved on somewhat since the ‘splash it all over’ one-size-fits-all sporty-fresh-or-nothing days. Now there are ‘gender fluid’ fragrances categories, and men are offered opulent ambers along with sophisticated fougéres; addictive gourmands, bigger, bolder Colognes and even floral-forward scents that smell utterly incredible on a man’s skin.
Where to begin?
1: If you already know a fragrance they like
Have a look at matching products available, such as a gorgeously decadent grooming products like body/beard oils and shower gels or body lotions. It’s often possible to find travel-size versions of fragrances (which are always useful and well-recieved).
If you don’t want to get them the same old thing, then take a look at our genius Fragrance Finder – simply input the name of a scent they already wear, and it’ll give you SIX suggestions of new fragrances to try with similar notes, themes or ‘feel’ about them, all in differing price ranges. It REALLY works – just try it for yourself to see!
2: If you’ve no idea what they like / How to choose fragrance
Think about how they dress, or the way they decorate their home – this is an excellent indication as to their character, and therefore the style of scent they probably prefer. Are there particular materials they’re drawn towards, or colours they normally go for? Fragrance, texture and colour and have many qualities in common.
Look for scents packaged in those colours – huge amounts of time and money are spent ‘matching’ the juice to the mood evoked by those hues – or described with those words, such as ‘velvety’, ‘suede’ or ‘crisp cotton’ in the notes. Or consider their interests: sporty gym types might prefer fresher scents, artistic types might prefer a more opulent aesthetic.
But scent selection isn’t always a matter of joining the dots – some people like fragrances you’d never guess at! So the absolute best solution is to buy them a Discovery Box so they can try all manner of differing fragrances in their own time. They may even surprise themselves with their favourite!
With so many olfactive options, we had to split our Father’s Day gift guide into two parts (for the first fragrant list of suggestions, click here); this second-half focuses on curated selections that showcase the entire range from a single house, or perhaps highlight their all-time classic best-selling buys. With scents ranging from cool and contemporary to smooth and sophisticated – spanning new niche names to much-loved designer favourites – there truly is something for all tastes…
Utterly unique duos of these cult fragrances combine a man-made aroma-molecule with naturals that boost that main scent. Rebels of the perfume world, founded by maverick perfumer Geza Schoen; Escentric Molecules allow your lucky gift-recipient to share a journey of fragrant exploration via their brilliant Discovery Set. Try each of them in turn, compare the FIVE pairs, and find out why this continually innovative house are set to blow your mind…
The Escentric Molecules Discovery Set includes FIVE duos x 2ml samples.
Escentric 01 – the Iso E Super molecule features heavily, with the remaining formula using ingredients ‘designed to underscore its low-lit mood.’
Molecule 01 – the ‘partner’ to Escentric 01 contains nothing but Iso E Super – a single ingredient
Escentric 02 – vetiver, synthetic musk, Muscone plus powdery orris, elderflower extract and hedione
Molecule 02 – unadulterated Ambroxan
Escentric 03 – a tribute to the more familiar side of vetiver: its dark, slightly exotic woodiness.
Molecule 03 – Vertiveryle acetate, a refined vetiver note is celebrated at its purest
Escentric 04 – pink grapefruit, rose and pink peppercorns
Molecule 04 – a seriously room-filling sillage of smooth sandalwood
Molecule 05 – consists of the molecule Cashmeran pure and singular
Escentric 05 – dry, radiant, warm and woody with a touch of pine resin
Created in 1978 out of an intrepid travel-inspired couple’s dream, Banana Republic went on to become a GLOBAL FASHION BRAND. Now, they bring us an oh-so-cool, niche-inspired fragrance collection. Developed with perfumers such as Claude Dir and Patricia Choux, to mark significant dates and personal memories for the brand, though incredibly affordable, they certainly don’t compromise on quality, and have seriously impressed us at Perfume Society HQ!
Neroli Woods – with oodles of neroli and orange blossom, evoking holidays to the South of France (1.5mleau de parfum)
17 Oud Mosaic– a mosaic of internationally-beloved aromas
78 Vintage Green – leafy and green, it captures the fantasy of travel and freedom
90 Pure White – transparent yet sexy, with a blend of musk and lavender
Inspired by the exotic escapism of world travel and enjoying long summer evenings somewhere in the tropics, these unique fragrances capture the very essence of adventure (and the adventurous spirits of those who choose to wear their scents). Yes there are florals, but this niche house are unisex, and they’re composed with such a freshness, it’s as though the salty ocean air carries the fragrance on a scented, balmy breeze. And we happen to know they smell amazing on men’s skin!
Vanille & Tabac Noir – This alluring scent captures the magic of sunset evenings. Sensual notes of tobacco flower and vanilla blend with hints of patchouli, cardamon and basil in a scent that swirls with rich, delicate spices.
Frangipani & Neroli – A scent that will sweep you away to white, tropical sandy shores. This exotic fragrance blends smooth, honeyed notes of frangipani with the delicate freshness of neroli.
Tuberose & Wild fig – A rich, indulgent fragrance that captures soul-reviving sun-warmed evenings. Enchanting tuberose is combined with earthy notes of wild fig and hints of vetiver and cedar wood to create this inescapably romantic scent.
Tuberose Absolute & Sandalwood – This is the scent of exotic and unforgettable nights. Intriguing tuberose combines with rich leather and sandalwood in this intoxicating, utterly addictive fragrance.
White Jasmine & Gardenia – An exquisite floral fragrance that captures a feeling of joyous freedom. Soft, white petals of rich jasmine, gardenia and peony come together to create this unforgettable scent
Founded in 1730, Floris is still operating out of its original premises, run by members of that same family, creating beautiful fragrances for men and for women…We have long adored Floris at Perfume Society HQ and with creations here ranging from crisp citrus to rich and woody, we are so excited to share this Discovery Collection containing five cult classic, completely timeless fragrances he simply has to try.
Special No.127 – a refreshing citrus blend of bergamot and orange with petitgrain introduces the heart of lavender and geranium.
Limes – a vibrant burst of the lemon entwined with lime blossom, neroli, and lily of the valley, sustained by a musky base.
Cefiro – crisp lemon and lime, punctuated with bergamot and mandarin, warmed by spicy notes of cardamom and nutmeg.
Neroli Voyage – opening with a citrus burst of neroli and lemon, complemented by marine notes and enlivened by spicy notes of ginger and aromatic fennel seed.
Leather Oud – the freshness of new leather compliments the smoky aspects of the oud oil and geranium at the heart.
Co-founders Sarah Blair and Jeffrey Darling have long collaborated in writing, design and film. For them it was a natural step to take that into fragrance – a wearable art form. With full-size bottles designed by the legendary Pierre Dinand, each fragrance resembles an anatomical model of the human heart, featuring Australian sandalwood as a signature written in scent. So let him dive in – and see which fragrance draws his heart closer.
Clear Heart v.1 – Australian summer: surfing, swimming, hot days, cool breezes and the salt that hangs in the air promising more.
Black Heart v.2 – Smoky. Impolite. Dangerous. It’s smoky heart of mysterious spices is shot through with shards of fresh eucalyptus and citrus to create an impolite mix of opposites.
Red Heart v.3 – Explosive. Seductive. Addictive. A composition of feijoa, tuberose and spices with sensual notes of musk and vanilla.
Gold Heart v.4 – Nurturing. Precious. Ancient. An exotic warm breeze that wraps around to protect and nurture.
Purple Heart v.5 – Brave. Instinctive. Triumphant. Inverying the olfactory pyramid by opening darker and then brightening
Pink Heart v.6 – Mingles on the skin with the spiciness of the sumac accord and cistus absolute for a mesmerising ride.
White Heart v.7 – The ethereal and sharp opening of French lavender, aldehyde and cardamom coolly invite us into the vast landscape of love.
Our sense of the smell is the most powerful emotional link we can trigger – and Memoize London set out to create a collection of scents that did much more than simply make you smell exquisite. As they explain, when smelling a fine fragrance, ‘the merest hint of something familiar can trigger a special memory or wonderful moment in our lives that we treasure forever.’ Using scent as a journey, the Light collection is an invitation to clear the mind and enhance the soul. One for stressed-out peace-seeking chaps, perhaps…?
Castitas – The essence of purity, honesty and innocence, to remind you of your purest moments.
Industria – The essence of strength and perseverance, the tenacity to fulfil your hopes and dreams.
Caritas – The essence of generosity, charity and kindness, to remind you of the goodness held within.
Temperantia – The essence of calmness, modesty and great wisdom, reminiscent of that moment of pure calm and tolerance.
Patientia – The essence of patience and tranquillity, the endurance and resilience to stand firm and strong.
Humanitas – The essence of kindness and compassion, wraps itself around you like an old friend.
Humilitas – The essence of modesty, humility and grace, aware of your greatness, without the need to prove it to the world.
White Castitas – The essence of great honour and integrity, your body and soul are cleansed, your mind is clear.
Asking the simple question ‘how do you feel today?’ is the starting point of this personality-led, unisex perfume collection. This collection beckons him to ‘go within’ and celebrate his complexities through scent. Face up to dark and provocative thoughts or dare to daydream, using his emotions as a guide. But, say the house, we are complex beings, and we do not always feel one emotion at one time; so artistic types are especially drawn to expressing themselves by layering these intriguing fragrances.
Devious – inspired by the poisonous effect you can have on your own mind when over-indulging in dark and devious thoughts
Fantasist – a fantasia of delectable treats and mystical promises from distant and otherworldly lands
Infatuated – an ode to the all-consuming feeling and whirring thoughts of a lovelorn teenager endlessly daydreaming of unrequited love
Libertine – imagining a palazzo in Venice, home to Casanova – the most famous libertine of all time, with a note evoking his favourite exotic tipple, known as ‘cordial orgeat’
Nonchalant – inspired by Josephine Baker, the first black film star, world renowned dancer, bisexual, wartime spy and American expat living in Paris, who is still the epitome of timeless, glamorous cool
Realist – follow a monk’s journey up a mountain and capture his enlightened spirit by inhaling the smell of the crisp mountain air and forest trees
Sincere – inspired by the sincerity of a mother’s love
Virtuous – taking its inspiration from the words of Dante: ‘Beauty awakens the soul to act’
Offering close encounters of the fragrant kind, wannabe astronaut or space-mad dads will go on journeys further than they ever dreamed possible with this unique collection! Planetary Scientist, Astrobiologist and perfumer Marina Barcenilla created four transportive fragrances, combining her love for science and skills as a perfumer, each of them existing in their own scent universe. Showcasing this way of travelling the solar-system with our sense of smell, these are undeniably quirky yet utterly wearable scents that are bound to be a talking (and sniffing) point.
Ground Control – black hemlock, cedars, spruce and fir trees. The heavy smell of sap hangs in the air.
Moon Walk – the serene landscape in fragrance form – a world of sparkling dust and silvery mountains.
We are the Martians – the alien, metallic and dusty smell combined with home comforts astronauts crave.
Out of this World – from planet Earth to the heart of the Milky Way via saffron, raspberry and rum.
Hailed for their strong visual aesthetic and their portfolio of award-winning skincare formulations, MALIN+GOETZ made a natural progression into the world of fragrance via a range of hand-made candles, long-lasting perfume oils and progressive fragrances for us to enjoy on our skin. Experience the entire collection of eau de parfums in one beautifully packaged discovery set which includes the following six fragrances…
Bergamot – a citrus orchard in bloom, with the spice of bitter fruit, bell pepper and ginger, with undertones of earthy musk and woody notes.
Cannabis – rich and herbaceous, with soft, floral notes of muguet and magnolia, on a base of earthy cedarwood, patchouli and sandalwood.
Dark Rum – a refreshing dark and spicy aroma, sweetened with plum and bergamot, with notes of leather, rum and creamy milk.
Leather – a formula of muted florals with smooth leather while rustic wood notes call to mind the softness of a well-worn vintage find.
Stem – luscious notes of green hyacinth, muguet, mandarin leaves, and green elements from wild freesia, all softened by a trio of modern musk molecules.
Vetiver – a combination of fresh citrus peel twists that are warmed by savoury celery seed, amber and guaiacwood.
The options for a Father’s Day gift haven’t exactly kept apace with the vast array of more meaningful presents proffered for Mother’s Day, so maybe this year you’d like to consider giving something really special this year in the form of a specially selected fragrance?
But it can be difficult enough to select a new perfume for yourslf to wear, so when it’s a gifting occasion for a wonderful man in your life – be that a dad, father-figure or perhaps the father of your own children, where do you begin?
We’ve curated a fragrant toolkit of a gift guide be a starting point for your favourite chap(s) to explore fragrances. These Discovery Boxes have been chosen to encompass a wardrobe of scent styles, with something to please every age – or occasion. Because you don’t only have to buy these for giving on Fathers Day, do you? Why not consider purchasing ahead of time for other occasions. Especially considering we have an extra special promotion to announce…
Running until June 8th, we’re delighted to offer you all 20% off Men’s Must Have, Suave Scents and Niche VI Discovery Boxes to treat your papa to perfume for Father’s Day!
Use the Code: FATHERS22 at the checkout to redeem!
The perfect treat or gift filled with all the fragrances men simply must have! This collection of male and unisex fragrances features globally adored best sellers and just launched scents from THoO, Jeroboam, DSquared2, Paco Rabanne, Bentley, Jean Paul Gaultier, Versace & Initio. Delve into the collection and get ready to be truly addicted to your new favourite fragrance….
A stellar line up of globally adored perfume houses, here: Creed Viking Cologne to celebrate the explorer, Parfums de MarlyGreenley for a burst of green freshness, and Comme des Garçon Rouge for an earthly and elegant spritz. Showcasing the incredible Floral Street Black Lotus (10ml)! And even more loved names including Bentley, Eight & Bob, JUSBOX,Mercedes Benz,Molton Brown, Paco Rabanne,Salvatore Ferragamo and Versace. We also bring you two fabulous grooming products! The divinely scented Molton Brown Re-Charge Black Pepper Body Wash (100ml), and Ultrasun Lip Protection 30spfto keep you, you guessed it, effortlessly suave…
Help him prep for a perfume ‘holiday’ with these newly launched and cult classic niche unisex fragrances – that really are some of the best in the world. Escentric Molecules Molecule 01, we believe, should be part of everyones perfume wardrobe, so we’ve included a generous 7.5ml to spritz and layer, alongside the decadent classic 24 Old Bond Street from Atkinsons! Also including the newly launched Brioni, Lalique Noir PremierPlume Blanche 1901 and Sånd from ånd fragrance.
We’ve also included trailblazing and frankly exquisite fragrances from some of our best-loved brands; J.U.S Parfums Sexycrush, Paco Rabanne Pacollection Strong Me, St Giles The Writer, Initio Addictive Vibration, Eight & Bob Annicke 1 and this addictive extra from A’Kin with the cooling Cleansing Micellar Water. Spray away!
Still stuck for ideas? Searching for any fragrance gift (or treat yourself!) – our Find a Fragrance tool is here to help. Simply type in the name of a scent you know they (or you) already like, and our so-clever database will present you with six new fragrance options to try, with several budgets in mind. Scented and sorted!
Choosing a fragrance for Fathers Day (or, you know, whenever) can seem overwhelming, but the best way to match a particular chap to a certain scent is think about their personalities. So, ditch the old-fashioned ‘pipe and slippers’ image still portrayed on many a Fathers Day card and consider his character. Is he…
Timelessly Stylish?
If he fancies himself as rather dapper and wouldn’t dream of stepping outside the house in joggers and an old t-shirt, we think he’s likely to favour a classic but characterful fragrance. This collection was designed with such men in mind, but here at Perfume Society HQ we implore everyone to explore this divine collection and discover the timeless aromas loved by the stars of old Hollywood.
Created by Albert Fouquet, a member of the French aristocracy, who would surprise his loved ones with exquisite homemade perfumes, blended lovingly with the help of his family butler, Philippe. One evening in 1937, Albert met an American student named John F. K. mesmerised by Albert’s scent, John persuaded him to leave him a sample. The rest, as they say, is history…
Now you can get set to feel truly special by spritzing these timeless and decadent scents, six true icons in fragrant history ready for you explore.
Okay so he might not exactly be a caped crusader but he tries his best, and he’s your hero. If his taste mightbbe described as ‘changeable’ or he’s not really sure which style of fragrances he likes, this discovery box is your scent saviour! Filled to the brim with something to suit all, it’s for super men everywhere.
We’ve included independent perfume houses making their mark: recently launched ånd fragrance with sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients at the forefront, decadent Italian niche with Laboratorio Olfattivo and Jovoy with their new creation based on the Mayfair store 21 Conduit St. Also including newness from loved names including St Giles, Parfums de Marly, Ruth Mastenbroek, Floris, Caron,Initio, Atelier Des Ors, Kierin NYC and Anima Vinci.
We also bring you TWO GROOMING PRODUCTS! FISH Memory Fish Flexible Gel (50ml), and the divinely scented beard savour WELEDA Skin Food (10ml). Up, up and a-spray…!
If he’s still firmly attached to his skinny jeans and faded band-t-shirts (or can sometimes be lost for hours playing along to vinyl rarities) chances are he’s not going to want to smell hum-drum and ordinary. Offering a true sense of olfactory rebellion, dance into this so-sassy collection, all of which should be worn with a devil-may-care attitude.
ROOK PERFUMES are the perfect meeting place between art and science – with more than a little rock ‘n roll in their DNA. They were launched by a frontline doctor/actor (yes, really), Nadeem Crowe, who became enraptured with the world of perfumery, who says ‘I feel totally comfortable with pipettes, beakers and weighing scales. The outcome, though, is a piece of art.’
Discover ALL THREE UNISEX FRAGRANCES, Undergrowth, Forest and ROOK. The latter was created by Nadeem for himself, inspired by his Middle Eastern roots, and described as a ‘diplomat dressed up as a punk rocker’. Nadeem loves to hear the stories of how his fragrances transport others – so let us know which transported you…?
If he’s slightly eccentric, obsessed by science or futuristic technology and always ahead of his time, he’s bound to appreciate the loving fragrance nerd-ery behind this iconic cult house. Perfumer and founder Geza Schoen is, himself, a bit of a maverick. If you’re new to the Escentric Molecules world, you should know that Geza was dedicated to trying something new – and it was seen quite shockingly brave, but caused a scent storm of interest.
The reason? Schoen shook up the perfume world by creating a scent with one ingredient – an aroma-molecule non-existent in nature, called Iso E Super. Now this molecule has been expertly blended with other ingredients to really ramp up the individuality.
Geza says: ‘I’ve used two qualities of patchouli here. The biggest chunk is Patchouli Coeur which is a very clean, soft patchouli oil fraction with the camphor-like topnote removed. I have also included a patchouli oil from Indonesia to round it out with a little bit of a topnote. The result is a sophisticated, clean patchouli that pairs fantastically well with Molecule 01.’
Geza says: ‘Mandarin is all about the instant hit. It’s so alive, the way it radiates off the skin with that citrus zestiness. But there’s more to mandarin, it’s very fruity and aromatic as well. It’s a beautiful ingredient. Its transparency means that it vanishes quickly. I’ve touched it up with a little extra shading to extend it, adding a mandarin ingredient used in flavourings to give it super-juiciness.’
Our 3 top tips to choosing a fragrance take all the worry and confusing out of selecting a scent – be that a gift for someone else or as a treat for yourself.
With Father’s Day around the corner, fragrant gifts are much on our minds, but we wanted to create a guide that gets your started on your journey and, even better, can be used for any time you find yourself confused while pondering perfumes…
1: If you already know a fragrance they like
Have a look at matching products available, such as a gorgeously decadent grooming products like body/beard oils and shower gels or body lotions. It’s often possible to find travel-size versions of fragrances (which are always useful and well-recieved).
If you don’t want to get them the same old thing, then take a look at our genius Fragrance Finder – simply input the name of a scent they already wear, and it’ll give you SIX suggestions of new fragrances to try with similar notes, themes or ‘feel’ about them, all in differing price ranges. It REALLY works – just try it for yourself to see!
2: If you’ve no idea what they like (or want to get them something new)
Think about how they dress, or the way they decorate their home – this is an excellent indication as to their character, and therefore the style of scent they probably prefer. Are there particular materials they’re drawn towards, or colours they normally go for? Fragrance, texture and colour and have many qualities in common.
Look for scents packaged in those colours – huge amounts of time and money are spent ‘matching’ the juice to the mood evoked by those hues – or described with those words, such as ‘velvety’, ‘suede’ or ‘crisp cotton’ in the notes. Or consider their interests: sporty gym types might prefer fresher scents, artistic types might prefer a more opulent aesthetic.
But scent selection isn’t always a matter of joining the dots – some people like fragrances you’d never guess at! So the absolute best solution is to buy them a Discovery Box so they can try all manner of differing fragrances in their own time. They may even surprise themselves with their favourite.
3: How do I know if a fragrance suits me?
Give it TIME on your skin. So many of us spray, sniff immediately (that’s just the alcohol you’re smelling, with perhaps a mere whiff of top notes) and either make a snap purchase or walk away. Those opening notes can disappear in mere minutes, you really need to let it settle for twenty minutes or more to smell the middle or ‘heart’ notes. The ‘base’ notes are made from ingredients with the heaviest molecules, so these can take several hours to warm and then evaporate on the skin.
If possible, try the fragrance on a blotter first (also known as a perfume ‘spill’); these used to be available with testers on perfume counters, but because of new Covid-19 safety measures, many stores don’t allow these now. (We always tend to take our own – and include a handy pack in each of our Discovery Boxes).
Allow a few minutes for the alcohol and the top notes to subside, and then smell the blotters. At this stage you may be able to eliminate one or more, if they don’t appeal – but it is really the heart notes and the lingering base notes which you will live with, and which are crucial. Remember: blotters are a useful way of eliminating no-hopers and lining up possibilities, but they’re not really enough to base a perfume purchase on. You really need to smell a scent on your skin.
Don’t try more than about four or five at a time. Your nose will become overwhelmed. Just sniff a sweater or a patch of your own bare skin to ‘re-set’, or go outside and get some fresh air – smelling coffee beans is a fallacy, it’s just filling your nose with another smell!
Jot down a few words to describe how you feel about each fragrance. These should be emotional words or things it reminds you of (a fabric / musical instrument / colour / place / time of day). They might sound abstract, but are a true reflection of how a fragrance is melding to your personality (or otherwise). Come back to the blotters several hours later and smell again – see if those words have changed.
The best way to find a new fragrance – as a gift or for yourself – is to try several samples at home in a Discovery Box, a curated selection of scents from a large number of houses; or a BrandDiscovery Set, showcasing the entire range of fragrances from a single house. With time to let them develop, zero pressure and scents you may have overlooked in-store (or never even heard of before), it’s the perfect way to find that new perfume love…
With Father’s Day fast-approaching, our thoughts turn to finding a special treat for our dads – and father-figures or special men in our lives. And we have TWO bundles of fragrances worth over £300 to giveaway!
Each of these fragrances effortlessly evokes the balmy air and blue seas of much-loved destinations we’re desperately missing right now. Oh we can practically feel the sun on our skin and the sand beneath our toes just imagining smelling these – fragrance truly is the most incredible way to travel with your nose…
‘Versace Dylan Blue is a highly distinctive fougere with a fragrant woody aroma based on the unique olfactory properties of precious natural ingredients and the latest generation of molecules. Natural citrus notes of bergamot and grapefruit combine with modern hints of fig leaf to give an incisive Mediterranean freshness while aquatic notes lend depth and round off the citrus tang. Woody notes of ambrox, papyrus and organic patchouli form the perfume’s powerful, pulsating heart.’
‘For a thoroughly modern take on the Mediterranean theme DSquared2 Wood For Him, opens with the freshness of Calabrian bergamot, mandarin and lemon from Sicily, enriched with ginger, violet and cardamom. Ambrox and a modern blend of white woods intensify the elegance of vetiver, resulting in a scent that is strong, sturdy, unique and inimitable!’
‘Our fathers are our heroes and Versace Eros is the stuff of legend! So take a journey to ancient Greece with the intense and vibrant freshness of mint leaves, lemon zest and green apple. Enveloping notes of tonka bean,
Ambroxan (Amber), geranium flower and Vanilla open into a medley of woods including cedarwood from Atlas and Virginia,vetiver and oak moss. Intense and unforgettable!’
‘For a warmer, spicier alternative the delightfully vivacious Versace Eros Flameis full of fresh, juicy Italian hesperidic fruits such as lemon, tangerine and bitter orange warmed with notes of black pepper from Madagascar and enveloped in aromatic wild rosemary. The base resonates with notes of precious woods such as Texas cedar, patchouli coeur, Haitian vetiver, mountain oak moss accord and sandalwood subtly blended with the tonka bean and vanilla.’
How to enter: All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning ALL of these fragrances, is head to our Instagram account and tag TWO people who you think deserve this wonderful scented surprise. Imagine how thrilled they’ll be when you tell them! And even if we can’t travel with loved ones somewhere wonderful, at least we can plan for the future and send them a fragrant reminder of Mediterranean dreaming…
Prize draw closes on Sunday 21st June 2020 T&Cs: Due to shipping restrictions we are only able to accept entries on the UK mainland and in Northern Ireland.
Around the world, people are working out how best to celebrate Father’s Day – be that with a birth father, stepdad or any special man in their lives – in a safe, socially-distanced or ‘virtual’ way.
We have ideas for the perfect gifts to show how much you care, with no gift-wrapping or travelling to the post office to worry about – all available at the click of a button – and no matter what his age/personality/preferences may be!
So, do book in a Zoom meeting, catch up with a phone call, or even safely wave from the bottom of a garden (heartbreaking though that can be) if you’re able; but how about a scented treat to boost his spirits and (let’s face it) perhaps nudge him away from that years-old bottle of fragrance he’s had festering away on a bathroom shelf for years. So is he…
Not sure what he likes? This is the answer!
Our Everyman Discovery Box was put together with men in mind (though we know many female friends who love the more ‘masculine’ vibe of these scents!) and it’s the perfect way to gently introduce a whole new wardrobe of options into your special guy’s life.
There’s independent perfume houses making their mark: Goldfield & Banks from Australia, decadent French niche with Atelier Des Ors, and Kierin NYC fresh from the streets of New York. Also more loved names and newness from Jimmy Choo, Montblanc, Eight & Bob, Yardley (18ml!), Salvatore Ferragamo, Banana Republic, JUSBOX and Lalique. And: TWO FULL SIZE GROOMING PRODUCTS! Fish Soho Original Fish Shape Texturising Cream (100ml) – just in case their at-home haircut didn’t go to plan – and the fab, pampering, Super Facialist for Men Vitamin B3 Deep Cleanse Face Mask (125ml).
Treat him to something classy and practical with this fab ‘twist and spray’ travel set (we’re sure he’ll appreciate the irony of ‘travel’ right now – but hey, a trip to the supermarket is travelling, right?!) He’s sure to fall in love with the immaculately blended dry cedar and warm sandalwood shot through with aromatic citrus (and with two back-up bottles included, hey maybe you could ‘borrow’ one…?)
Chanel Bleu de Chanel Travel Spray £69 for 60ml (3 x 20ml) eau de toilette johnlewis.com
Such a unique, yet instantly memorable, fragrance this one. Overlapping shades and textures of leather and suede are rendered in scented form, shot through with a trio of citrus – tangerine, mandarin and elemi – then softened by powdery iris and a snuggle of cashmere with the wet earth coolness of vetiver misted over smoky drifts of birch and incense for a touch of ‘grunge bar chic’.
Miller Harris Étui Noir £80 for 50ml eau de parfum millerharris.com
Intellectual dad? This one’s ideal for deep-thinkers!
Inspired by classical Greek myth, this surprisingly complex take on mint swirls herbs into the dappled shade of a traditional fougère structure, then infused with a contemporary edge of thorny rose oxide. Cool as a long cold drink on a hot day, crisp asfrost on green leaves, the verdant notes swoon to skin-warmed whispers of soft muskiness that intrigue the whole day through.
Wishes he was Italian? Get him groomed & smelling good!
If his #LockdownBeard has got a bit out of control, why not hint with this super-stylish kit that he’ll be positively flaunting in the bathroom? Containing a shaving brush, the Shaving Cream and the Aftershave Emulsion in 40ml size, for us it’s all about that iconic Colonia in a dinky 20ml size (suave freshness personified – as worn by Cary Grant!)
‘Embracing modernity’ kinda dude? Update his scent style with this!
Now look, we know all dads aren’t fuddy-duddy and some don’t need any style tips whatsoever… while others could perhaps do with dusting down and bringing into the light. Either way, this charismatic take on Mediterranean charm fuses blood orange and Sicillian lemon with green herbs, fiery pimento and cool woods will boost his spirits.
Dolce&Gabbana K £55 for 50ml eau de toilette boots.com
A gift to make him chuckle (that genuinely smells lovely!)
Now here’s something to put a smile on their faces (and relief all-round in the family home, perhaps?) with a ‘before you go’ spray of pure eucalyptus and spearmint natural oils, ‘that helps eliminate bathroom odours before they begin’, as they tastefully put it. And you know what? It really works! Think of it as your present to whomever has to live with him…
Dad, it’s time to step away from the Cologne Auntie Brenda gave you when you were 19: we’re staging a scent intervention for Father’s Day…
Today, June 11, is our last cut-off day for posting before Father’s Day on June 16 – but you can use these tips whenever you’re buying a fragrant gift!
Buying a fragrance for your father – or the father-figure in your life – can be tricky. You want to gently ease them away from the one they’ve been drenching themselves in for decades because the scented landscape has (mercifully) changed; but where to begin on their new fragrant adventure?
We specially curate a selection of our Discovery Boxes with men in mind (or anyone who prefers more traditionally ‘masculine’ leaning fragrances), as well as stocking a superb selection of Brand Boxes from new niche houses and the more unusual, already established names.
Discovery Boxes/sets really are the best gifts: you’re not imposing your own taste or guessing at theirs, and with a plethora of perfumed delights to explore, the chances of scented success are greatly increased!
Choosing a new fragrance deserves time and space to properly see how they develop on your skin, and something we know you love is the chance to try things you’d perhaps never heard of before. When given as a gift, these boxes also represent the chance to gently move someone you love out of a fragrant rut…
Bringing brand new releases, much-loved classics and niche perfume houses, with an unprecedented SEVENTEEN FRAGRANCES to explore, there’s something for all to fall for in this bumper selection! Including FIVE fragrances from the Elements of Man line-up by ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA, a zing for your step from TOM DAXON Sicilian Wood, the power of the just-launched CREED Aventus Cologne – alongside classic ACQUA DI PARMA Colonia, inviting you to dip your toe in summer waters… We’ve also thrown in TWO GROOMING PRODUCTS! The evocative Milano Cento Body Wash 30ml, to pair with the same fragrance in the box, along with Jack Black Double Duty Face Moisturiser SPF20.
And if you buy this box before 28th June, you’ll be entered into a prize draw to win a full-sized fragrance or grooming product. Which you can choose to give as a second gift, or well, *cough* just keep for yourself.
If he’s something of a rebel or always up for trying the latest technology – we’d steer him toward the incredible, ground-breaking fragrances of Escentric Molecules. Creating unique duos that combine a man-made aroma-molecule with naturals, try each of them in turn, compare the four pairs, and find out why this continually innovative house are set to blow your mind. What’s more, feedback tells us these fragrances last the whole day through, and smell utterly unique.
The Escentric Molecules Discovery Set includes four duos x 2ml samples.
• Escentric 01 – the Iso E Super molecule features heavily, with the remaining formula using ingredients ‘designed to underscore its low-lit mood.’
• Molecule 01 – the ‘partner’ to Escentric 01 contains nothing but Iso E Super – a single ingredient.
• Escentric 02 – vetiver, synthetic musk, Muscone plus powdery orris, elderflower extract and hedione
• Molecule 02 – unadulterated Ambroxan
• Escentric 03 – a tribute to the more familiar side of vetiver: its dark, slightly exotic woodiness.
• Molecule 03 – Vertiveryle acetate, a refined vetiver note is celebrated at its purest
• Escentric 04 – pink grapefruit, rose and pink peppercorns
• Molecule 04 – a seriously room-filling sillage of smooth sandalwood
It’s time to switch up their scent game and move from heavier fragrances to a fresher wardrobe. We curated this selection especially for chaps looking to find something new, so there’s something for every man (and plenty of ‘borrowable’ finds) – including Bentley, Parfums de Marly, Cristiano Ronaldo and TWO duos from cult brands – Escentric Molecule and Clive Christian – among others. This is a thrilling collection to sniff your way through, and with two added extras from Penhaligon’s and Aromatherapy Associates, this box is worth over £40 to begin with, and priceless when you help them discover a new favourite…
Not all dads and father figures are fuddy-duddy, and if yours is more hipster than has-been, this box is the way to go. Featuring 14 truly exclusive niche fragrances, there are an incredible THREE LUXURY-SIZE SAMPLES perfect for travelling – the new addictive Anima Vinci Sesame Chān (7ml), fabulously fresh Tom DaxonLaconia (4.5ml) and the exotic Merchant of Venice Blue Tea (5ml). Showcasing scents from very exciting perfume houses – including decadence from Juliette Has a Gun and exquisite naturals from Prosody and Parterre – he’ll be among the first to smell BDK Parfums with the so-French Rouge Smoking and Parle Moi De Parfum’s delectable celebration of rose. And yes, men smell utterly fabulous in florals – take it from us. All of these fragrances are totally sharable and higly desirable for those who want something more unique.
If he wants ultra luxury and something we’re sure none of his contemporaries will already have, we’re delighted to introduce a very exciting new brand – Memoize London – and invite you to delve into this treasure trove Discovery Set, which includes eight wonderful new fragrances. Memoize celebrates the importance of creating a harmonious balance between fragrance and emotion.
Tristitia – the essence of calm, relaxation and pure leisure. Reminiscent of of a lazy Sunday morning, cocooning you in floral and vanilla scented sheets, no need to rise, the amber is keeping you warm…
Avaritia – the essence of insatiability, opulence and unquenchable desire. The first time you dare to think you can have exactly what you want, the need for something that is all yours.
Era – the essence of passion, provocation and power. Lose control of your emotions with this powerful fragrance; reigniting the fire within you, evoking deep seated memories within.
Luxuria – the essence of lust, seduction and intoxication. Memories of the first moment of interaction, where desire and passion consumes you. Your skin will tingle with luscious blackcurrant, tuberose and the warmth of musk will captivate you.
Superbia – the essence of self-confidence, self-love and self-worth. An overwhelming feeling of pride, joy and delight. Recalling a first day of school, the pruned rose bushes, games in the woods, the leather strap of a satchel, a mother’s proudest moment…
Gula – the essence of pleasure-seeking and self-indulgence. A fragrance of sumptuous vanilla, absorbing orange, rich clove and delicate lavender. Gula is an immeasurable mix of thought provoking scents providing unrestrained gratification for your appetites, desires, or whims.
Invidia – the essence of insatiable desire to want, to have, to be who you want to be. Envious and aspirational, your mind takes you on a sub-coconscious journey through the memories from your childhood; always wanting what you can’t have – sweet vanilla ice cream, caramels, tobacco….
Black Avaritia (Limited Edition) – the essence of indulging all of your wants and needs in abundance. Travelling through the rich and woody tones, takes you back on a journey to a foreign land. The warmth on the skin is reminiscent of the sun kissing your skin.
Knowing a lot of niche-loving chaps who want to look their best are out there, may we also suggest the second Niche box – it includes a 7.5ml of Anima Vinci Neroli Wisdom which basically smells like a Moroccan summer in a bottle. Alongside treasured houses such as Amouage and Atkinsons we’ve included exciting newness from Parterre, Stories by Eliza Grace, Memoize, The Modernist, Tom Daxon. But it doesn’t stop there… WE’VE ALSO ADDED SOME SKIN LOVING TREATS! Yes, dads need pampering, too. Keep his face glowing with the recent GOLD AWARD winning skinSense ANTI-AGING Overnight Leave on Mask (WORTH £8.50) which he can slap on overnight for minimum fuss – and ensure his hands are looked after with the wonderful bestselling Balance MeSuper Moisturising Hand Cream (WORTH £10). When you consider the value of the two grooming items alone is worth £18.50 – you’re basically getting the rest free!
Socks. Cufflinks. Slippers. Perhaps a ‘novelty tie’. The options for Father’s Day presents haven’t exactly kept apace with the vast array of gifts for Mother’s Day, so maybe you’d like to consider giving something really special this year? A fragrant gift that will keep on giving…?
It can be difficult enough to select a new perfume for yourslf to wear, but when it’s a gifting occasion, where do you begin?!
We specially curated The New Man Discovery Box to be a starting point to exploring fragrances. Choosing a wardrobe of scent styles, with something to please every age and occasion, there are thirteen in all to explore, plus a full-size scented shower gel and generous travel-size shave gel. Each fragrance has a web page devoted to describing it in greater detail, giving some of the notes you might smell and an idea of the inspiration behind it.
But we didn’t just want to leave you there. Oh no. How about following us on a step-by-step sniff-along? On our Instagram channel, we filmed two live ‘Unboxing’ videos, to show you exactly what you’re getting and try and answer some of your questions about buying fragrance for men. Infact, there were so many scents to sniff, we had to split the videos in two parts, otherwise we could have been there all day!
Unboxing Part One
Unboxing Part Two
There are so many things to consider when buying fragrance as a gift, particularly if you don’t just want to keep on getting them the same ol’ thing every year. So, here are some of our thoughts about the fragrances, as we explored them during filming…
– A great fragrance we thought would be perfect for a chap who doesn’t like anything too overpowering is Issey Miyake L’Eau Mjeure D’Issey – slightly salty, softly balanced with smooth woods and one of those ‘lean closer for another sniff’ type scents, the bottle is stunning, too.
– Others may like a more ‘punchy’ scent, and Creed Viking certainly hits that spot, with warm spices and mint coursing through the composition to get those senses tingling. We loved the quote from fragrance expert James Craven at the launch: when someone asked if this could be worn for work, he replied, ‘This isn;t for the man who feels he has to ask…’
– There are times you can’t pick out a single note at a time in a scent, as they’re so well blended and harmoniously balanced. Jimmy Choo Man Blue, we decided, gave the overall impression of a ‘sexy man smell’ that’s somehow quite classic and yet modern all at once.
– It’s really important to smell the fragrance on the skin, and live with it for some hours, to get a real feel for its character. Shay & Blue Kings Wood was a case in point: it smells so much more juicy and playful on the skin, and really takes you on a journey through the ingredients. The wood used, here, is (unusually) English oak – strong, smooth and wonderfully dry to smell.
– The ingredients need your body heat to develop and bloom to their best. We particularly loved the sweetness underpinning Mugler Alien Man, for example, which doesn’t come through as much on the blotter, but on the skin is incredibly addictive! This one definitely needs time to appreciate the unusual subtleties.
– Suave, sophisticated and traditional-smelling at first, Dunhill Racing Green takes an unexpected path with a twist of seductively heady orange flower and a healthy dose of black pepper. With a bottle that just won a Fragrance Foundation award for best packaging, the scent inside is sure to be a winner for many gents, too.
– Lists of notes aren’t always useful when considering a fragrance. Someone who says ‘I hate patchouli’ would be surprised how many fragrances use that ingredient, and you may never even know it’s there! In Jack Piccadilly ’69it has a leathery, rounded smokiness that feels like you’re in an illicit gentlemen’s club (and with a touch of Earl Grey tea) – certainly not the stereotyped ‘hippie’ smell many still associate with that ingredient. And can you guess which famous actor is behind this house…?
– We loved the collaboration between a traditional men’s tailoring company and the oldest perfumery in the UK, Floris Turnbull & Asser 71/72 smells like a freshly ironed, immaculately made men’s cotton shirt, we felt; an aromatic steaminess with a G&T on the side and a stunningly luminous jasmine in the heart.
– Many people ask which types of fragrances are best for hot weather, and we felt Goutal Bois d’Hadrienwould be one that’s ideal: cool, crisp but still with a characterful complexity beneath, it’s like a walk in a pine forest beside a sun-warmed lemon grove. Divine.
– Looking for a fragrance that transitions effortlessly from day to night? We felt Michael Kors Extreme Speed did just that, suitably fresh enough to wear to the office without filling the room, but with a great depth as the fragrance develops.
– Men’s fragrances have come on leaps and bounds, now offering a more diverse array of choices (rather than simply ‘sporty fresh’). Floral notes in fragrances smell incredible on a man’s skin – we thought Mont Blanc Legend Night was stunningly soft, powdered with woodsy violet, snuggly smelling in the best possible way.
– Cologne is a traditional favourite, now updated and with a touch of Turkish barbershop exoticism in Ted Baker Grooming Room Cologne. Ultra green petitgrain sparkles on the top as the heart nestles geranium against leather and saffron, and we loved the rich dry-down of frankincense, amber and musk.
– The majority of niche and high-end designer scents say they are ‘unisex’ or even ‘genderless’ these days. We urge you to put aside preconceptions and just smell… if you like it, you should buy and wear it! Although this is presented as a ‘masculine’ scent, we both enjoyed wearing Nejma KoEptYs, which has a deliciously silky coconut milk note balanced by vanilla, tolu, warm spices, and smells fantastic no matter who wears it.
– When searching for any fragrance gift (or treating yourself!) our Find Your Next Fragrance section is here to help. Simply type in the name of a scent you know they (or you) already like, and our clever database will present you with six new fragrance options to try with several budgets in mind.
Geza says: ‘Mandarin is all about the instant hit. It’s so alive, the way it radiates off the skin with that citrus zestiness. But there’s more to mandarin, it’s very fruity and aromatic as well. It’s a beautiful ingredient. Its transparency means that it vanishes quickly. I’ve touched it up with a little extra shading to extend it, adding a mandarin ingredient used in flavourings to give it super-juiciness.’
The New Man Discovery Box
