Fragrance Recommendation for Men for Christmas 2014

Declaration L' Eau by Cartier

It's Christmas time once again. I bet you need more gift ideas. And why not give FRAGRANCES! Albeit expensive, fragrances last for about 1 - 2 years depending on how often the user will apply. Hence, it is still value-for-money, not to mention how the receiver will remember you everytime they use your gift! Remember that fragrance is very emotive and memory based, you would definitely want to be remembered as that person who gives really good stuff!

Launched in 2011 as a fragrance that best represents New York City, Bond No. 9's I love NY For Him is "the sum total of New York, a touchstone of dreams throughout the world, which ignites all the senses" as described in their website.  I went to my favorite perfume store in Mandaluyong and smelled the freshness of the fougere coming from this fragrance.  Its citrus notes appeal to modern city dwellers who are always on-the-go, highly mobile, motivated and go-getters. The sophistication of NY and its ghetto-ness are combined in this bottle.  And like NYC, it's very multi-faceted and universal - meaning people will like you for what this fragrance is and for who you are! I feel that this fragrance will be great for your 25-35s officemate, boyfriend / partner or colleague. Not for bosses, dads or men of power.  There's some sense of sophistication but not the one for more mature men.

In the last 2 years, we have seen launches under dark hues or colors - red, black, nuit, night, ouds. This 2014, Hugo Boss is redefining the rules of the game by launching something white, as in pure white. This is not a new or unique story in the fragrance industry. There was a time when the launches for men were all white - blanche edition, pure, clear, etc. However, in a sea of white, I must say that this particular fragrance stands out.

This represents a sheer fragrance for men - its subtle sexiness coming from the white woods and citrus impact, with minty note that represents the subtlety, and a little flirty white floral note that makes it even more sophisticated and very modern.  It's strong enough to be noticed but not too strong to be an in-your-face type. This is because of the sweetness that may be coming from amber and balsam.  These also provide that opulence from the fragrance.

The Hugo Boss website is describing it as a burst of energy that fuels your motivation.  There is definitely that sense of excitement coming from it. But I think there is much more to it than what the website is telling. It's very alluring, sexy, suave and ala James Bond personality.

Perfect for all male types - dad, men of success, gentlemen in 20s up to 50s.

I am focusing on the fragrances that are not black or red or anything dark.  Hence, with the pushy salesmen on the floor of the store, this fragrance stood out for me among the many blues in the market. It is light, an everyday fragrance that will last long. It's not very polarizing, in the sense that a lot of people will super love it AND a lot of people will super hate it. It is in the neutral or safe zone. The impact and lightness from the citrus notes are balanced with the warmness and heaviness of musks, herbs and creamy woods. There is also that interesting pink pepper note that hooks you to it.  It's actually more perfect for sunny days and summer rains but I will have to put this in the holiday list.

Perfect for everday use - day and night, big occasions or daily commute to work. Great for party but the smoke and alcohol from the dance floor may drown this out.  This should go well with the scent of Christmas pine, sweet ginger bread, and that tarty apple pie on Christmas day.

Creed Aventus - SCENT NEUTRAL

I have always been a fan of Creed. This niche brand is just awesome. What I like about this 2010 fragrance is the unique floral-woody combination and yet very masculine in effect.  The patchouli flirting with rose and jasmine is just wonderful.  You may find it too feminine, but the fruity and citrus notes toned down the entire ensemble by giving it a bit of fresh & juicy impact on opening. The dry down is of vanilla and musk that makes it fit for a KING!

Definitely perfect for men in power, those who value the finest things in life. This creates a wonderful ambiance for the user during special occasions that smell of grandeur, fame, fortune.  The fragrance chooses a certain market segment. Hence, this one may not be for the younger generation. Perfect for mid 30s up to 60s, those in the higher class market with a delectable taste in quality.

I hope this list helps you out. Next post will be my recommendation for women and unisex type.

Stay tuned!

(all fragrance pictures from Fragrantica)