Having difficulty deciding on a fragrance to wear for the office?
As a fresh graduate from college trying to put myself out there in the workplace, first impressions are very important. When it comes to first impressions, how we smell can make a huge impact. That is not to say that we want the whole office smelling like the cologne that we put on but rather, we are looking to attract without being overly attention-seeking.
A point to note is that men and women can wear fragrances that are marketed for both genders. Ultimately, it comes down to the individual, his/her style, and what kind of impression he/she would like to construe.
As a rule of thumb, the list that we suggest going for subtle but long-lasting fragrances. This is so that you get noticed but don’t come across as overly intrusive. Generally, we look for citrus, and woody fragrances in the notes to achieve a refreshing and noticeable outcome. We would avoid overly strong and sweet scents that often portray one as overbearing.
1. Hugo Boss Bottled Infinite
Top notes: Apple, Tangerine, Cinnamon, Sage Heart notes: Rosemary, Lavender, Patchouli Base notes: Sandalwood, Olive wood
This is a very refreshing scent that underlines softness at the heart of the fragrance, accentuated by flowery notes of rosemary, lavender, and patchouli. It offers a woody scent without coming off too overbearing and lasts decently long. Boss Bottled Infinite screams Balance as it seeks to give off a tranquil vibe while still being strong and powerful.
This scent is best if you are looking for something that uplifts moods and energizes conversations. Ideal for almost any occasion, this cologne is one of the most value for money for young professionals in the office that doesn’t break the wallet but does its job decently well.
2. Montblanc Explorer
Top notes: Italian Bergamot, Sage, Pink pepper Heart notes: Leather, Haitian Vetiver Base notes: Indonesian Patchouli, Cocoa, Ambroxan, Akigalawood
The initial dip of this fragrance may come off as peppery and fruity which is brought forth by the recognizable note of bergamot. However, the proposition of Montblanc Explorer is in the heart of the aroma comes after 10-15 min when the initial fragrance dries down to leave something more woody and leathery. This is a result of ambroxan and wood notes (Akigalawood and Vetiver).
In essence, the Montblanc Explorer gives off a pleasant fragrance that gives off a unique aura of its own, enough to leave a positive impression around the office and definitely a conversation topic as well. Based on reviews, it is said to last about 5-6 hours with an emphasis on the first 2 hours with the strongest projections (after which becomes a scent that is intimate to the skin)
3. Acqua Di Gio Profondo
Top notes: Bergamot, Brazilian green mandarin orange, Aquozone Heart notes: Rosemary, lavender, Cypress, Mastic Absolute Base notes: Mineral Amber, Guatemala Patchouli, Musk
Acqua di gio has a reputation that precedes itself. Its first spray projects a refreshing scent of citrus and greens that is underscored by bergamot and green mandarin in its notes. This is a very distinct scent that is unique. After that dies down, we get a more aquatic, marine vibe that still gives off a fresh scent. This would be a result of the aquozone settling in with the citrus scent.
Acqua Di Gio has a refreshing marine vibe with a tinge of spice and greens which helps the user exude confidence while not being too loud. This is a great scent that is attention-grabbing and a common conversation starter while having great appeal for most occasions. It seldom disappoints and is known to last from 7-8 hours with its strongest in the first 2 hours and leaves a small, scented trail (higher than average sillage)
4. Hero by Burberry
Top notes: Bergamot Heart notes: Juniper and Black Pepper Base notes: Atlas Cedar, Virginian Cedar, Himalayan Cedar
Launched in 2021, this cologne makes a HERO-ic entrance with a forest-floor scent for an injection of freshness. As it dies down, it gives off a different, more nuanced vibe that speaks of a rich, intense, and ultra-sexy personality with its smoky vanilla lingering scent. This is cushioned by the three cedar base notes which makes this one like the Marvel Avengers – an allrounder that is strong in narrative but has a soft, comforting yet luminous side to it.
This is great if you have got a bit more budget and are looking for a warmer, woodier fragrance with a tinge of amber underlined by a smoky after scent. Giving off a more intimate feel because of its characteristics, this is great in breaking down barriers in the office and making co-workers feel closer to their hearts.
5. Dior Homme Cologne
Top notes: Bergamot Heart notes: Grapefruit Blossom Base notes: Ambergris, Cedar Wood
Citrus. That is what the DHC is all about as we can see from its notes. It leaves a scent trail that is alluring, warm and musky. Its top note looks simple with Bergamot but comes off with a tinge of lemon scent that gives it its citrus spin. At its heart, it is centered around grapefruit blossom which really highlights its citrus note but there is a bit of aquatic property to the lingering fragrance. The base notes would give off a musky vibe from ambergris while a hint of cedarwood finishes off with a dry, woody touch.
The strength of DHC in the office is in its subtle and fleeting scent yet being extremely simple and attractive. It lingers for a couple of hours but dies off as an intimate skin scent where the scent trail falls off quite a bit but this is not necessarily bad around co-workers. Reviews around it don’t go far from “Refreshing and clean” is a strong contender if clean and classy is the vibe you are going for.
There isn’t a scent that is one size fits all. Rather, this is about crafting the right impressions for the right audiences – there are occasions where you need to grab attention therefore a stronger cologne could work as well. It is important to test the scent before making the investment and more importantly, understand what is required of the occasion. Happy shopping!
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