In your exploration, do not let the note classifications deter you. Generally speaking, top notes refer to smells on first whiff, middle notes are typically the heart of the fragrance, and base notes are the aromas that tend to linger on the skin. Understanding this can, of course, inform your buy. Once you become more comfortable with scent profiles, you’ll be able to distinguish your men’s cologne preferences—whether you gravitate towards rich musks or something light and citrusy. This fall and winter, for example, you might appreciate cozier, spicy elixirs reminiscent of evenings spent by the fire or a warm embrace.
From Maison Margiela, Tom Ford, Creed, Dior, and more, read on to discover the 32 best men’s colognes in 2024.
The Clean & Sensual: Chanel Bleu de Chanel
Courtesy of Hunter Abrams
Why We Love It
Fresh, clean, and sensual, this men’s scent from Chanel includes notes of citrus, labdanum, sandalwood, and cedar. It can easily transition from day to night (a musky undertone makes it perfect for a date).
- Notes: Cedar, New Caledonian sandalwood, tonka bean, vanilla, citrus accord
- Available Sizes: 1.7 oz, 3.4 oz, 5 oz
The Desert-Inspired: Dior Sauvage
Courtesy of Hunter Abrams
Why We Love It
Inspired by nature and its raw materials, this scent from Dior perfumer François Demachy is earthy and woody. Warm notes of bergamot, pepper, and amberwood take cues from a desert landscape—but can still be worn in the dead of winter, thanks to its refined, non-overpowering finish.
- Notes: Calabrian bergamot, pepper, amberwood, ambroxan
- Available Sizes: 1 oz, 2 oz, 3.4 oz
The Bold & Aromatic: Ralph Lauren Polo Black
Why We Love It
Some classics never die, and Ralph Lauren’s Polo Black fragrance stands the test of time. A bold fusion of iced mango, lemon, and tangerine is combined with sandalwood, sage, and patchouli noir for a bittersweet end result. Bold and aromatic, it’s the ultimate scent to get noticed in.
- Notes: iced mango, Spanish sage, green effervescent accord, silver arnoise, patchouli noir, sandalwood, tonka bean, hedione
- Available Sizes: 4.2 oz, 6.7 oz
The Ambery-Leather: Gucci Guilty Elixir de Parfum
Courtesy of Hunter Abrams
Why We Love It
When Gucci Guilty debuted last fall with A$AP Rocky fronting its campaign, the scent was destined to be a hit. Its allure lies in its blend of potent Ambrofix (which smells dry and woody) opposing smoother notes of orris butter, vanilla extract, benzoin, and nutmeg. Refreshing, yet smokey and leathery, this is a cologne to be remembered by.