What is the best men’s cologne in the world? Here our editors have picked the top 25 best-selling men’s colognes for you, with their notes, smell, style, pricing, and our reviews.
1. Gucci Guilty For Men
As one of the world’s leading luxury brands, Gucci is known around the world for its keen fashion sense and unparalleled Italian craftsmanship. It was founded in Florence in 1921 by Guccio Gucci, which has always been synonymous with the perfect blend of luxury and the “Italian creativity”.
For nearly a century, Gucci has been known as an upscale and glamorous brand, a symbol of status and wealth, and a favorite among celebrities and fashionistas.
Gucci Guilty Pour Homme 1.6 oz/ 50 mL Eau de Toilette Spray $77, SHOP NOW.
- Fragrance Family: Warm & Spicy
- Scent Type: Woody Spices
- Top notes: Lavender and Amalfi Lemon;
- Middle note: African Orange flower;
- Base notes: Virginia Cedar, Patchouli, and Vanilla
Review: Gucci Guilty for men is a strong cologne with a modern and seductive note. It brings a sense of excitement and exudes the ultimate allure.
Patchouli is a classic component of the Gucci fragrance. Combined with cedar and sandalwood, accented by amber, it gives off a powerful, unpretentious, and provocative masculine vibe. Not only is it striking, but it exudes the ultimate seductive power.
2. Bleu de Chanel
Chanel is a French luxury brand founded by Coco Chanel, originally known as Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel, in 1910. This brand is famous for its elegant, simple, exquisite style. As a matter of fact, in the 1940s Chanel was one of the brands that successfully pushed the “over complicated” womenswear to a simpler, and more comfortable design.
CHANEL BLEU DE CHANEL 1.7 oz Eau de Parfum Spray $98, SHOP NOW.
- Fragrance Family: Earthy and Woody
- Scent Type: Warm Woods
- Top notes: Grapefruit, Lemon, Mint, and Pink Pepper;
- Middle notes: Ginger, Nutmeg, Jasmine, and Iso E Super;
- Base notes: Incense, Vetiver, Cedar, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Labdanum, and White Musk.
Review: This is one of the best-selling men’s colognes of all time. It is an adventurous fragrance that combines innovative notes with classic woody notes. Its intoxicating woody aroma naturally evokes masculinity.
The top notes are slightly flamboyant, while the base notes slowly emanate a subdued and gentle flavor, making it one of the best-smelling colognes for men. However, some may complain that the top note is too strong. But the base note with its sense of unrestrained freedom is hard to resist!
3. Terre d’Hermes by Hermès
HERMÈS Terre d’Hermès 1.6 oz/ 47 mL Eau de Toilette Spray $90, SHOP NOW.
- Fragrance Family: Earthy & Woody
- Scent Type: Classic Woods
- The top notes are Orange and Grapefruit;
- The middle note is Flint;
- Base notes are Woodsy Notes, oak moss, and Benzoin.
Review: It can be said that Terre d’Hermes is suitable for almost every mature man. This is an extremely classic fragrance and definitely one of the best-selling men’s colognes.
The top note is citrus, which is often used by Hermes. It does not smell like fresh citrus but air-dried orange peels. After a wave of oranges, we get to the most charming part of Terre d’Hermes, which is a combination of woody and ore notes with the citrus that has not yet completely dissipated. Many are fascinated by this cologne and say that this is one of the best-smelling colognes for men.
4. Aventus by Creed
Creed Aventus Eau de Parfum, Cologne for Men, 1.7 Oz $335, SHOP NOW.
- Aventus by Creed is a Chypre Fruity fragrance for men.
- Top notes are Pineapple, Bergamot, Black Currant, and Apple;
- Middle notes are Birch, Patchouli, Moroccan Jasmine, and Rose;
- Base notes are Musk, oak moss, Ambergris, and Vanille.
Review: This is one of the best men’s colognes on the market. Inspired by the dramatic lives and battles of former rulers, this fragrance is designed to pay homage to iconic leaders including Alexander the Great and Napoleon Bonaparte.
It features pineapple and birch notes paired with a refreshing smoky woody scent, innovating a new trend in fruity fragrances for men. It smells very masculine, solid, and calm, without a hint of levity. Suitable for experienced and resolute men who have lots of stories.
5. 1 Million by Paco Rabanne
Paco Rabanne 1 Million Eau de Toilette 1.7 oz/ 50 mL $75, SHOP NOW.
- 1 Million by Paco Rabanne is a Woody Spicy fragrance for men.
- Top notes are Blood Mandarin, Grapefruit, and Mint;
- Middle notes are Cinnamon, Rose, and Spicy Notes;
- Base notes are Amber, Leather, Woody Notes, and Indian Patchouli.
Review: Designed with an exciting modern touch and crafted to perfection, this fragrance for men features an irresistible golden bar-shaped bottle and bright shining packaging.
In terms of the scent, it starts with a fresh and bright top note, with fresh grapefruit, mint and blood mandarin that captivates your attention. Later, a distinctive middle note follows, a perfect combination of rose, cinnamon, and spices, which makes an exciting contrast. Last, a sweet blend of leather, wood, amber, and patchouli puts this unforgettable journey to an end.
Overall, this fragrance is a representation of today’s male fantasies: money, women, cars, pleasure, and desire.
6. Sauvage by Christian Dior
Dior Sauvage Eau de Toilette 2 oz/ 60 mL $80, SHOP NOW.
- Fragrance Family: Earthy & Woody
- Scent Type: Warm Woods
- The top notes are Calabrian bergamot and Pepper;
- Middle notes are Sichuan Pepper, Lavender, Pink Pepper, Vetiver, Patchouli, Geranium, and elemi;
- Base notes are Ambroxan, Cedar, and Labdanum.
Review: This cologne reveals chic masculinity. The top note is a bit sweet, but not feminine. And the base note is sexy, and aggressive, but not in an old-fashioned way. This perfume is suitable for urban, stylish businessmen. People who like unisex fragrances love it too.
7. Armani Code by Giorgio Armani
Giorgio Armani, one of the world’s top fashion designers, was founded Giorgio Armani in 1975 and has won more than 30 global fashion awards in 14 years. In 1982, He became the first fashion designer to be featured on the cover of Time magazine since Christian Dior in the 1940s.
Armani’s ready-to-wear clothes are characterized by fashion, nobility, refinement, and neutrality, fully demonstrating the simplicity, elegance, and confidence of urban citizens.
Armani Beauty Armani Code $75.00 1.7 oz/ 50 mL, SHOP NOW.
- Fragrance Family: Earthy & Woody
- Scent Type: Cool Spices
- The top notes are Lemon and Bergamot;
- Middle notes are Star Anise, Olive Blossom, and Guaiac Wood;
- Base notes are Leather, Tonka Bean, and Tobacco.
Review: One of Armani’s best-selling men’s colognes is Armani Code for Men. Due to its avant-garde design and sexy vibe, this cologne was named the most popular fragrance for men in 2005. This cologne has a mysterious and unique aura. It gives a seductive vibe that fills the air with irresistible flirtation.
8. Acqua di Gio by Giorgio Armani
Armani Beauty Acqua Di Gio Pour Homme 3.4 oz/ 100 mL Eau de Toilette Spray $75, SHOP NOW.
- Fragrance Family: Earthy & Woody
- Scent Type: Citrus & Woods
- Top notes are Lime, Lemon, Bergamot, Jasmine, Orange, Mandarin Orange and Neroli;
- Middle notes are Sea Notes, Jasmine, Calone, Peach, Freesia, Cyclamen, Hiacynth, Violet, Rosemary, Coriander, Nutmeg, Rose, and Mignonette;
- Base notes are White Musk, Cedar, Oakmoss, Patchouli, and Amber.
Review: Acqua di Gio by Giorgio Armani is an Aromatic Aquatic fragrance for men. It is said to be the best men’s cologne and one of the top-selling men’s colognes. It’s a vibrant fragrance, fresh and tough, a classic representation of Italian masculinity!
Armani Aroma is like a businessman in a suit, clean and neat. The base note of Acqua di Gio is very unique. It is a blend of cedar, white musk, and ore, calm and mysterious.
9. Bvlgari Pour Homme Soir by Bvlgari
The history of Bvlgari can be traced back to the last century when the Greek silversmith Sorio Bulgar came to Italy and opened his first store in 1884. Later, the brand expanded its business from silver to all kinds of jewelry and began to open overseas companies in New York, Geneva, and Monte Carlo. Later perfume also became one of the products of Bvlgari.
Nowadays, Bvlgari is the world’s third-largest jewelry brand, only after Cartier and Tiffany.
In 2006 Bvlgari launched the new Bvlgari Pour Homme Soir. This cologne is a representation of the brand’s tradition: “dignity” and “exclusivity”.
- Fragrance notes: a Woody Floral Musk fragrance for men.
- Top Notes: Darjeeling tea
- Middle Notes: Papyrus wood
- Base notes: Amber, Musk
Review: This cologne for men is dedicated to a naturally elegant and confident man. The fragrance has an unmistakable charm, a calm and decisive style that adds surprising sensuality to your life.
10. Aqva Pour Homme Marine by Bvlgari
Bvlgari Aqva Marine Pour Homme Eau De Toilette Spray 5 Oz $69, SHOP NOW.
- Fragrance notes: an Aromatic Aquatic fragrance for men.
- Top notes are Grapefruit, Neroli, Mandarin Orange, and Petitgrain;
- Middle notes are Water Notes, Seaweed, and Rosemary;
- Base notes are Virginia Cedar and Amber.
Review: Aquatic and marine scents are fresh, natural, and light as the wind. Perfumers often use these elements to present the smell of rain, salty sea breeze, or clean air.
This cologne makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto a clean beach, with the smell of sunshine in the air and the raw scent of seaweed. In the end, the base note transitions to lavender and a subdued woody aroma. Overall, it is fresh and natural.
11. Opium Pour Homme by Yves Saint Laurent
- Fragrance notes: an Amber Spicy fragrance for men.
- The top notes are Black Currant and Star Anise;
- The middle notes are Pepper and Galanga;
- Base notes are Bourbon Vanilla, Tolu Balsam, and Atlas Cedar.
Review: The top note is like a cocktail appetizer. The sweetness of blackcurrant and spices is carefully blended and dissolved into this mellow wine, which immediately whets one’s appetite. After this flirtation, a gorgeous spice feast follows. Vanilla, cinnamon, pepper, and floral, rich, mellow, and spicy.
Later, the back note gives a warm aroma, which is like the sweet aroma between the skins of lovers snuggled by the fire.
12. Habit Rouge Eau de Toilette by Guerlain
- Fragrance notes: an Amber Woody fragrance for men.
- Top notes are Lemon, Brazilian Rosewood, Orange, Bergamot, Lime, Tangerine, and Basil;
- Middle notes are Rose, Carnation, Sandalwood, Cinnamon, Patchouli, Jasmine, and Cedar;
- Base notes are Vanilla, Leather, Amber, Benzoin, Oakmoss, and Labdanum.
Review: Floral fragrances are usually exclusive to women, and give us the impression of softness and tenderness. However, there do exist floral perfumes for men. Habit Rouge Eau de Toilette by Guerlain is not only suitable for men, but also one of the best men’s colognes.
This fragrance is created by Jean-Paul Guerlain. It makes you feel like you are in the spring when all kinds of flowers are blooming, and your mood is brightened up by this sweet and warm floral fragrance with woody notes.
It is rare to see such a large dose of floral notes in a men’s cologne. And this is what makes this fragrance so special. If you are a graceful and romantic man, this is the one for you.
13. Gucci by Gucci Pour Homme
Gucci By Gucci Pour Homme 1.7 oz/ 50 mL $73, SHOP NOW.
- Fragrance Family: Earthy & Woody
- Scent Type: Classic Woods
- Top notes are Cypress, Violet, and Bergamot;
- The middle notes are Tobacco and Jasmine;
- Base notes are Patchouli, Leather, Amber, Elemi resin, and Olibanum.
Review: This is a Woody Chypre fragrance for men. The top notes give a very cool and even heavy feeling. Good thing is that bergamot is used to temper it, adding a little freshness and sweetness to the texture. The middle note is a blend of tobacco and leather, still tough and manly, with a hint of warmth in the bitterness. In the end, patchouli, which has a herbal flavor, comes to the fore and deepens the bitterness.
Overall, this cologne is perfect for men in the workplace, as it gives a tough and rigorous impression.
14. Chanel Antaeus For Men
- Fragrance notes: Warm, Woody
- Top Notes: Clary sage, Myrtle, Bergamot, Lemon, Lime, Coriander, Cedar
- Middle Notes: Orris, Thyme, Basil, Rose, Jasmine, Patchouli, Sandalwood
- Base notes: Labdanum, Olibanum, Beeswax absolute, Leather, Musk, Castoreum, Oakmoss
- Type: Eau de Toilette
Review: Chanel Antaeus is a sexy cologne. Due to the presence of the animal spice, i.e., the beaver, it smells like a body odor and gives a sexy vibe. Still, it is undoubtedly a sexy men’s cologne that is reminiscent of muscles, a smell that can only be detected when you get close enough to his skin. This cologne goes best with men who have great muscles.
15. Mr. Burberry by Burberry
In 1856, Thomas Burberry opened a ready-to-wear store in Hampshire, England, and took the world by storm with exclusive fabrics, classic plaid patterns, and elegant tailoring. In 2001, the brand began to produce perfumes, including men’s colognes.
Mr. Burberry Eau de Toilette 50ml $71, SHOP NOW.
- Fragrance Family: Earthy & Woody
- Scent Type: Citrus & Woods
- Top notes are Grapefruit, Cardamom, Tarragon, and Mint;
- Middle notes are Cedar, Birch Leaf, Nutmeg, and Lavender;
- Base notes are Vetiver, Guaiac Wood, Sandalwood, Amberwood, Benzoin, and Oakmoss.
Review: Mr. Burberry by Burberry is a Woody Aromatic fragrance for men. Mr. Burberry’s image is that of an English gentleman, young and handsome, smart and elegant. He lives a relaxed life, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and is often rejuvenated by a spontaneous trip.
16. Burberry Brit for Men by Burberry
Burberry Brit For Him Eau de Toilette 100mlPrice $84, SHOP NOW.
- Fragrance Family: Earthy & Woody
- Scent Type: Warm Woods
- Top notes are Ginger, Cardamom, Green Mandarin, and Bergamot;
- Middle notes are Wild Rose, Nutmeg, Cedar, and Spicy Notes;
- Base notes are Tonka Bean, Cedar, Gray Musk, Oriental Woodsy notes, and Patchouli.
Review: Burberry Brit is an Amber Woody fragrance for men. This men’s cologne has a classic British style, noble and elegant, with a fashionable touch that flows unobtrusively. Its oriental woody notes perfectly present the sensuality and masculinity of men.
17. Versace Pour Homme by Versace
Versace Pour Homme 1.7 oz/ 50 mL Eau de Toilette Spray $70, SHOP NOW.
- Versace Pour Homme by Versace is an Aromatic Fougere fragrance for men.
- Top notes are Lemon, Neroli, Bergamot and Rose de Mai;
- Middle notes are Hyacinth, Cedar, Clary Sage, and Geranium;
- Base notes are Tonka Bean, Musk, and Amber.
Review: Versace Pour Homme is a classic men’s fragrance designed for an intelligent, confident, passionate, and aggressive man. The design of the bottle is inspired by the Mediterranean, adding vitality and sensuality to this cologne, while hyacinth and a woody note bring a deeply sensual and masculine scent.
18. Subtil Pour Homme by Salvatore Ferragamo
Ferragamo is an Italian brand, born in 1927. Creativity, passion, and resilience are the Ferragamo family’s core values and are passed down from generation to generation. The brand now produces not only shoes but also ready-to-wear, bags, perfumes, and accessories.
In 2003, Ferragamo launched Subtil Pour Homme, a classic fragrance with a perfect design.
- Fragrance notes: a Woody Spicy fragrance for men.
- Top notes are Ginger, Mandarin Orange, Lotus Leaf, and Cardamom;
- Middle notes are Coriander, Pink Pepper, Violet, and Artemisia;
- Base notes are Amber, Musk, and Patchouli.
Review: This classic cologne for men has a chic and fresh feel. The combination of citrus and aquatic plants helps to present the vitality and ease of a man. The blue color of the bottle evokes a man’s introspective emotions, showing elegance and sensuality! Overall, this cologne embodies a man’s pursuit of freedom and elegance.
19. L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme by Issey Miyake
Men’s L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme Eau de Toilette Spray 1.3 oz $57, SHOP NOW.
- L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme by Issey Miyake is a Woody Aquatic fragrance for men.
- Top notes are Yuzu, Lemon, Bergamot, Mandarin Orange, Lemon Verbena, Cypress, Calone, Coriander, Tarragon, and Sage;
- Middle notes are Blue Lotus, Nutmeg, Lily-of-the-Valley, Saffron, Ceylon Cinnamon, Bourbon Geranium, and Mignonette;
- Base notes are Tahitian Vetiver, Musk, Cedar, Sandalwood, Tobacco, and Amber.
Review: This is a cologne designed exclusively for men by Issey Miyake. It is summed up as a “burden-free fresh fragrance”. The main note of this men’s cologne is a fresh woody fragrance, pleasant and natural with a little spice.
Of course, the scent is extremely light. Many feel that it is more like the fresh scent of soap rather than a perfume. But this is what makes women want to be close: a cologne that is not pretentious. It has nothing to do with maturity, desire, or sexuality. There is only pure freshness!
20. CK One by Calvin Klein
Founded in 1968, Calvin Klein is an American fashion brand that has won multiple prestigious apparel awards. Calvin Klein has been in the fashion industry for forty years. It is considered to be the representative of American fashion today, especially the modern New York lifestyle.
ck one Eau de Toilette Spray 3.4 oz $65, SHOP NOW.
- A Citrus Aromatic fragrance for women and men.
- Top notes are Lemon, Green Notes, Bergamot, Pineapple, Mandarin Orange, Cardamom, and Papaya;
- Middle notes are Lily-of-the-Valley, Jasmine, Violet, Nutmeg, Rose, Orris Root, and Freesia;
- Base notes are Green Accord, Musk, Cedar, Sandalwood, Oakmoss, Amber, and Green Tea.
Review: CK One is a naturally clean, pure, and contemporary fragrance with a refreshingly new point of view. This light, relaxed scent is meant to be used lavishly. CK One Eau de Toilette can literally be splashed all over the body. It is an intimate fragrance, one that you need to be near to smell.
21. CK Free by Calvin Klein
Calvin Klein’s fragrances are sexy, modern, and minimalist. This CK Free cologne for men fully embodies the minimalist, modern concept that the brand wants to convey.
- Fragrance notes: a Woody Aromatic fragrance for men.
- Top notes are Juniper Berries, Star Anise, Wormwood, and jackfruit;
- Middle notes are Suede, Tobacco, Coffee, and Buchu or Agathosma;
- Base notes are Virginia Cedar, Oak, Patchouli, and Woody Notes.
Review: The woody aroma of this cologne exudes a masculine scent. Its light and calm blue tones reflect the sky, the sea, the forest, and the earth. Uninhibited and unrestrained, it is perfect for young, stylish, urban businessmen.
22. Legend by Montblanc
Montblanc means the highest peak in Europe – Mont Blanc. In 1906, the brand was founded in Europe, and after a century, it has developed into a diversified high-end brand, including high-grade stationery, watches, quality leather goods, men’s high-quality clothing, and so on.
Montblanc Legend 100 ml $98, SHOP NOW.
- Legend by Montblanc is an Aromatic Fougere fragrance for men.
- Top notes are Lavender, Pineapple, Bergamot, and Lemon Verbena;
- Middle notes are Red Apple, Dried Fruits, oak moss, Geranium, Coumarin, and Rose;
- Base notes are Tonka Bean and Sandalwood.
Review: The scent of this perfume transitions smoothly along three notes and is relatively intense. Different from the rugged depth of Terre d’Hermes, it gives a modern aura. The perfume is fresh and mysterious and is a combination of strength and tenderness.
23. Individuel by Montblanc
Individuelle by Mont Blanc EDT Spray 2.5 oz $27, SHOP NOW.
In 2013, Montblanc created this men’s cologne based on the classic image of “Mont Blanc Iceberg”.
- Fragrance notes: an Amber Woody fragrance
- Top notes are Lavender, Cinnamon, Pineapple, Juniper Berries, Mint, Bergamot, Rosemary, Coriander, and Cardamom;
- Middle notes are Orange Blossom, Violet, Geranium, and Jasmine;
- Base notes are Raspberry, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Dark Chocolate, Musk, Amber, Patchouli, Vetiver, and Oakmoss.
Review: The cologne is a vibrant, refreshing, and cool fragrance that brings a new sense of coolness to the eyes and nose, reinterpreting the ice-like qualities of a man, which is like the cool breeze in spring and the drops of ice in summer.
24. Boss Bottled by Hugo Boss
The brand Hugo Boss brand was founded in 1923 by Hugo Boss, who initially started the company to produce workwear, waterproof clothing, raincoats, and uniforms. Its designs were very masculine, mainly menswear with a subdued style.
The brand’s business philosophy has always been to create a professional image for successful businessmen.
Hugo Boss Men’s BOSS Bottled Infinite Eau de Parfum 1.6-oz $79, SHOP NOW.
In the early 80s, Hugo Boss started to enter the world of perfume. Its fragrances are associated with success, sophistication, confidence, the constant pursuit of higher goals, and the modern urban lifestyle.
- Fragrance notes: Woody Spicy
- Top notes are Apple, Plum, Bergamot, Lemon, Oakmoss, and Geranium;
- Middle notes are Cinnamon, Mahogany, and Carnation;
- Base notes are Vanilla, Sandalwood, Cedar, Vetiver, and Olive Tree.
Review: A blend of elegance and class, this men’s cologne is designed for modern and successful men. It has a unique flavor with fresh, pleasant notes, highlighting a gentle and elegant temperament and the joy of living.
25. Davidoff Cool Water
Davidoff was founded in 1980 in Switzerland, specializing in luxury watches, leather goods, men’s and women’s accessories, perfumes, coffee, and other goods.
In 1988, David Cool Water was born, which is one of the earliest fragrances for men and also one of the best-selling colognes for men. It is a fresh, masculine perfume in association with the ocean.
Davidoff Cool Water Eau De Toilette 4.2 Oz $75, SHOP NOW.
- Fragrance notes: Aromatic Aquatic
- Top notes: Sea water, Lavender, Mint, Green Notes, Rosemary, Calone, and Coriander;
- Middle notes: Sandalwood, Neroli, Geranium, and Jasmine;
- Base notes: Musk, Tobacco, Oakmoss, Cedar, and Amber.
Review: This cologne has a rather long history and is one of the best-selling men’s colognes in the market, which is long favored by male users.
Wrap up: best-selling men’s cologne
Thank you for reading this article on the top 25 best-selling men’s colognes, feel free to share your thoughts below or check other articles on the lifestyle that we have published: Luxury jewelry brands: A list of top 16 in the world.
