The Grooming Report: Scents, Decoded

Mystified by the array of fragrances on offer? Read this latest guide to help you navigate the world of scent, citrus, woody, spicy and more: choose your next scent for the season.

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CITRUS // The other defining feature of a cologne is the distinctive blend of citrus notes (think lemon, orange, bergamot, lime, bitter orange etc) that give the composition a sharp and refreshing feel.

Tom Daxon Cologne Absolute, Issey Miyake L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme Eau Fraîche

AQUATIC // Modern interpretations on the aquatic theme are considerably more sophisticated and creative – less likely to submerge you headfirst into the Pacific, but offering a subtle whiff of salty sea air. Needless to say, this fragrance family is best suited to summer when your senses crave something fresh and clear to offset the heat.

HEELEY Sel Marin Eau de Parfum, Clean Reserve Rain [Reserve Blend] Eau De Parfum, BVLGARI AQVA Pour Homme Atlantiqve

WOODY // The sheer breadth of this family means it often bleeds into other categories – woody oriental, woody aquatic, woody spice – causing much debate among fragrance nerds (yes, they exist). If a scent has woody notes in the heart and woody notes in the base, in layman’s terms, it means wood is a consistent feature from a couple of minutes after the first spritz all the way until the scent fades.

Tom Ford Vert d’Encens Eau de Parfum, Mr Burbérry Eau de Parfum, Lalique Encre Noire A L’Extreme Eau de Parfum

ORIENTAL // Orientals are, largely, winter or autumnal scents, many of them suitable for black-tie events and long evenings (rather than a day at the office). The selection below can pack quite a punch and potentially enter a room long before you do, so spritz with restraint. It is important to remember the first rule of thumb when it comes to this fragrance family: never let a perfume wear you.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Grand Soir Eau De Parfum, Maison Francis Kurkdjian OUD Satin Mood Eau De Parfum