Tag: giftguide

No-stress scented gift guide: fragrances for him?

Holidays are, indeed, ‘a comin’ and if you’ve not yet jumped aboard the shopping train of stress, please sit with us awhile, breathe deeply, and refuse to be caught up in the perfumed panic of it all. Here we present you with our gift guide of scented suggestions for getting it done, this time focusing on some fragrances for him.

Of course ANYONE can wear these, but for those who are specifically looking for the chaps in their lives, might we dangle these olfactory delights before you as being glorious for many tastes…?

 

 

 

Bentley Momentum Unbreakable

Bentley really are knocking it out of the perfumed park (or should that be stepping up a scent gear?) with their fragrance collection. At the core of this edition, Dreamwood—a sustainable alternative to sandalwood—infuses the scent with a silky richness that beautifully complements the smoky undertones. The journey begins with a vibrant burst of mandarin, enhanced by the green nuances of violet leaf and a hint of geranium, which adds a polished floral touch.As the fragrance unfolds, orris takes centre stage, providing a powdery elegance that bridges the bright top notes with the earthy depth of vetiver. The drydown reveals a persistent, resinous patchouli that adds an engine-like purr to the composition.

Crafted by perfumers Fabrice Pellegrin and Ane Ayo, this fragrance strikes a perfect balance between refinement and ruggedness, making it suitable for both boardroom meetings and spirited drives. Momentum Unbreakable is not just a scent; it’s an experience that embodies the spirit of Bentley, refined, luxurious, and rather thrilling.

£69.50 for 100ml eau de parfum superdrug.com

 

 

 

Pictor Flash

Perfect for those who love photography (the entire range dedicated to differing aspects of the art form), this one is a WOW from first spritz – an explosion of zinging ginger and pink peppercorns with tart raspberry, but all wrapped in a reassuringly, and totally intriguing, powdery hug. It’s most certainly a captivating fragrance that lives up to its name, delivering an electrifying olfactory experience with a dazzling burst of tangy raspberry, its tartness amplified by the piquant bite of pink peppercorn and the zesty warmth of ginger. This vibrant trio creates an immediate, attention-grabbing top note that crackles with energy. As the initial spark settles, the heart of the fragrance unfolds, revealing a lush floral bouquet. Creamy rose petals (wonderfully contasted against the Cologne-like start) intertwine with the exotic aroma of ylang-ylang, creating a bold and sensual core that’s both sophisticated and alluring.

The dry-down is a soft, comforting embrace of powdery musk, its gentle whisper complemented by the sweet, gourmand notes of vanilla and tonka bean. This base adds depth and longevity, ensuring it lingers on the skin like the afterglow of a summer storm captured on film. A masterful blend of contrasts—bright and smooth, spicy and sweet—it’s perfect for those who dare to stand out.

From £84 for 50ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

 

Floris 007

As you’d expect, this is a brilliantly debonair fragrance that embodies the essence of James Bond’s timeless allure (and can you think of a better gift for someone who adores the books, films, and whole persona?!) This sophisticated scent opens with a vibrant burst of citrus, as bergamot and orange mingle with the crisp, gin-like notes of juniper (shaken not stirred, obvs). The initial freshness is quickly tempered by a subtly smoky accord, adding depth and intrigue. At its heart, a harmonious blend of floral and aromatic notes unfolds. The spicy warmth of dianthus carnation intertwines with the velvety softness of rose, while lavender, rosemary, and geranium contribute a herbaceous complexity that keeps the composition feeling more trad masculine and refined.

The base notes provide a solid foundation of amber, its rich warmth complemented by the creamy smoothness of sandalwood. Oakmoss lends an earthy, forest-like quality, while musk adds a sensual touch that lingers on the skin. Perfectly balanced, nodding to heritage yet feeling thoroughly contemporary (timeless, we’d say) its refreshing top notes harmonise with a warm, sophisticated dry-down: perfect for the modern gentleman who appreciates classic elegance with a contemporary twist.

£100 for 100ml eau de parfum 50-ml.co.uk

 

 

ENERGY EDENISTE LIFEBOOST

edeniste Energy Lifeboost®

This is the olfactory equivalent of a double espresso shot for the perpetually fatigued gent in your life. This invigorating elixir opens with a zesty burst of Italian citruses, as if plucking the sun’s rays and bottling them for instant revival. The peppery bergamot adds a crisp, awakening edge, whilst the grapefruit infuses a bitter-sweet vitality that jolts the senses, effectively dispelling the fog of lethargy. At its core, zingy Ethiopian ginger absolute provides a spicy kick, reminiscent of that first sip of ginger tea on a sluggish morning. This heart note acts as a continuous source of energy, maintaining the fragrance’s revitalising effect throughout the day.
The scent then gracefully transitions to a subtle musky-woody base, grounding the energetic top notes with a sophisticated warmth that prevents the overall effect from becoming overwhelming. Lifeboost Energy is more than just a scent; it’s a portable power bank for the soul. One spritz, and it’s as if you’ve gulped down a tall glass of freshly squeezed sunshine. Perfect for the man who needs an aromatic nudge to face the day, this fragrance is the ideal pick-me-up for the winter doldrums when motivation is at its lowest ebb.
 £68 for 30ml eau de parfum in our shop

Byredo Eleventh Hour

Oooh, this perfectly encapsulates the wake-me-up thrill of last-minute adventures. Opening with a zesty burst of bergamot and the unique spiciness of timur pepper, it immediately awakens the senses. The heart reveals an intriguing blend of powdery (orris like) carrot seeds and wild fig, creating a lush, green accord that’s both earthy and slightly sweet. As it develops, a warm rum note emerges, adding depth and a subtle booziness that’s perfect for the festive season. The base of cashmere woods and toasty, almond-like tonka bean provides a smooth, comforting finish that lingers on the skin.
Now, look, we’re not going to suggest that this scent is ideal for the man who leaves his Christmas shopping until the last possible moment – that’s just a stereotype, right? – but hey, its name might just make you smile every time he (or you) wear it. Equally suited for day or evening, Eleventh Hour is a versatile fragrance that effortlessly transitions from the office to evening soirées. Its balance of spice, sweetness, and warmth makes it an irresistible choice we know you’re going to end up nicking from the bathroom shelf (not that fragrances should be kept there, please! But you know what we mean). To be worn by either of you with the spirit of fun and adventure!
£150 for 50ml eau de parfum harvey nichols.com
Written by Suzy Nightingale