This Cologne is Perfect for Men Who Don't Usually Wear One
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With fragrance, you’re either in or you’re out. There are whole passels of men who consider scent part of their standard grooming routine and wouldn’t walk out the door without it. Conversely, you can’t throw a stone without hitting a contrarian who prefers to be no-fuss, no-muss-and definitely no cologne.
I’m suspicious that at least some of those in the latter camp sit there because they associate cologne with cloying, heavy, “Whoa, who just walked in the room?” power. They’re Abercrombie & Fitch Fierce-phobic. Scarred by heavy-handed experiences with Acqua di Gio in high school.
Not all cologne is like that.
Guess 1981 sits at the other end of the olfactory spectrum, with a lightness that lets it pleasingly fade into the background. It’s inspired by California, for heaven’s sake.
For starters, it won’t smack you in the face.
The top notes of violet leaves and bergamot translate to a delicate, ever so spicy scent. In other words: This could be a room spray. It’s that opposite-of-offensive, difficult-to-place smell that would make a living room feel more luxe. It’s reminiscent of that most appealing of smells: clean laundry.
No one’s going to hate it.
Some colognes are divisive. This is not one of them. With middle notes of cedarwood and gray amber, it’s familiar enough that no one will catch a whiff and be totally thrown. The woodsy, earthy, ever-so-slightly musky scent might not be everyone’s favorite, but it’s too grounded to inspire visceral reactions. Barring going overboard and bathing in a full vat of it, you’re safe.
The price tag is right for experimenting.
Fun fact: Colognes can get very, very expensive (like, topping $1k a bottle). At $65, you’re probably not going to do too much damage to your bank account. The wallet-friendly price tag alleviates the pressure that comes with bigger buys: You don’t need to wear daily to make sure you get your money’s worth. Instead, add in as needed (i.e., date nights if they’re into it, or for more dressed-up situations like evening events or professional meetings).
All said, it’s worth having a crowd-pleasing scent to wear daily or when the mood strikes.
Prop styling by Jeffrey Miller
Furniture by and special thanks to DWR
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