The Best Colognes of All Time, According to Bazaar Editors

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Did you know there is actually a technical difference between cologne and perfume? True cologne is lighter and contains less fragrance oils than a perfume, but in most cases, cologne is simply the gendered term used to refer to perfumes marketed toward men. The more you know!

If you're thinking of gifting a scent this holiday—or simply buying one for yourself—there are a few things to keep in mind. Within this list, we've rounded up some of the best colognes for men (or anyone!) packed with information like prominent notes, scent families, pros, and even customer reviews that can make it easier to narrow things down.

Do they want to smell like an Armani guy, like actor Regé-Jean Page? Or classic and unfussy, like Joseph Quinn? Fragrance is a personal experience, so let the details and reviews below guide you to the perfect bottle. Here, take a look at 18 of the best colognes before you click add to cart.

Related: The Best Skincare Products for Men

Sauvage Eau de Toilette

This bold, classic fragrance from Dior is a bestseller for a reason. Shaped by crisp bergamot, it later dries down to an enticing woody fragrance.

Elysium Parfum Cologne

This cologne exudes a sense of paradise which makes the name all the more fitting. The opening citrus blend is anchored by the warmth of vanilla and sensual leather.

Haltane Eau de Parfum

A balance of sophistication and freshness—with notes of lavender, clary sage, patchouli, musk, and leather—this scent makes a great gift.

Mister Marvelous Eau de Parfum

This scent exudes confidence and while it has a sweet opening of mandarin, it dries down to spicy notes of black amber and white cedarwood.

Infinitoud

This fragrance perfectly bottles the earthy woodiness of an oud without the intensity that can sometimes turn people off. It's a fun, hot scent that lasts all day.

Established Cognac 66

This masculine scent is subtly sweet, thanks to its apple notes. But it's also a bit spicy and woody, since the fragrance contains a blend of patchouli and oak scents that add a sophisticated boldness.

Bleu de Chanel Eau de Parfum

Chanel's namesake Bleu de Chanel Eau de Parfum is a fresh, woody blend that works for any occasion. It's captivating and sensual without being too overpowering.

Y Eau de Parfum

As soon as you spray this on, the compliments are sure to come flooding in. Apple sharpens the top notes of bergamot, ginger, and sage while vetiver anchors it all.

Oud Wood Eau de Parfum

Inspired by incense-filled temples, this popular cologne from Tom Ford Beauty features notes of rare oud wood and Chinese pepper.

Dylan Blue Pour Homme

Escape to the blue seas of the Mediterranean with notes of bergamot and grapefruit. Although this is a strong masculine fragrance, Dylan Blue is still quite refreshing.

Myrrh & Tonka Cologne Intense

It goes without saying that Bazaar editors are big fans of Jo Malone scents. This deeper option from the brand features a hint of floral freshness that adds depth to its otherwise rich and warm amber and vanilla notes.

L'Eau d'Issey Pour Homme Eau de Toilette

If you're looking for fresh, clean and elegant this is the scent to pick up. Citrus like yuzu and mandarin complement spices and wood for a clean scent that all genders love.

Pour Homme Eau de Toilette

Gernaium, vetiver, and sandalwood combine to create Loewe's earthy Pour Homme eau de toilette.

Gris Dior

The best thing about this culty scent from Dior is that it's extremely versatile. Its floral and woody accord makes a great signature fragrance that plays well with others, or smells remarkable alone.

Reflection Man Eau de Parfum

Crafted for sultans of the country of Oman, Amouage scents are truly regal. Reflection for Man embodies a sense of timelessness, with notes of rosemary, jasmine, patchouli, and woods.

Armain Code Parfum

Tonka bean partners with fresh iris and bergamot for an irresistible fragrance blend that's great to wear all year long. The warm and woody scent is as classic and timeless as the Armani brand itself.

L'Homme À la Rose Eau de Parfum

This eau de parfum from Maison Francis Kurkdjian proves that bright rose notes combined with fruity and woody ones is the perfect gender neutral blend.

K Eau de Toilette

Made for the "contemporary man," K by Dolce and Gabbana is sparkling and aromatic—and makes the perfect gift for anyone whose name begins with a K.

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For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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