Words: Josh Lee
Gone is the winter of our discontent. It’s time to fold up the flannel overshirts, pack away the hard-working Redwings, and put down your go-anywhere parka for the next six months. In your abode, too, it’s seemingly the right opportunity to slowly deconstruct the unsightly WFH office and spruce up your spaces with some new wares and midcentury pieces. And, with society starting to return to its pre-2020 shape, it’s probably time to peak your head out of your domestic cocoon, bear witness to the start of a new season, and revive your social life once again.
And, while we’re in the mindset of resetting, perhaps it’s time to also give your fragrance portfolio a revamp – after all, there’s nothing quite like a new spritz to put a spring in your step. So, as we thaw our way out of winter and set our sights on the months ahead, it’s now apropos to circumvent the heady, heavy, spice-centric scents and instead look towards bottles with a lighter touch. To assist you with finding the right one, we’ve spent time sampling the finest fragrances that’ll offer up a breath of fresh air, from old perennial classics to the more contemporary names on the perfume block.
To prepare for balmier days, go fragrant and fruity
After months of drawing upon the leathery, woody, oud-y scents that typify our winter fragrances, it’ll be nice to irk towards something that’s a bit softer on the olfactory system. And, as nature blossoms, your aftershave collection should follow suit – so get yourself something with flowery, fruity qualities.
Acqua di Parma, Fico di Amalfi
The noteworthy characteristics? , Intended to bring to mind the sun-kissed feel of the Amalfi Coast, this bottle features Italian bergamot, Italian lemon, and grapefruit – such notes are, however, tempered by fig nectar, pink pepper, and benzoin (tree resin).
When to wear it? , During those times when you can’t quite fit a flight into your schedule, but still want a quick taste of La Dolce Vita.
Floris, Bergamotto di Positano
The noteworthy characteristics?, Another fragrance inspired by Italy, this offering from Floris is centred around bergamot, one of the peninsula’s most famed citrus fruits. It’s reinforced by mandarin and “warm marine notes”, and while the hit of vanilla smooths out the sharpness, ambrette (a medicinal plant) and ginger are intended to evoke the warmth of an evening by the Med.
When to wear it? , When you want to shake up your La Dolce Vita fragrance rotation, of course.
Byredo, Gypsy Water
The noteworthy characteristics?, A deep yet approachable scent, Byredo expertly offsets the fresh (lemon, juniper berries) with small touches of more intense notes (pepper, incense, pine needle). A long-lasting, durable spray, it is angled to make you think of long, idle evenings in the woodlands.
When to wear it?, On trails in Portland, the Vienna Woods, Dragon’s Back in Hong Kong, or, if local is more your thing, the nearest gastropub terrace.
If you’re looking for freshness, seek out citrus and sandalwood
There’s something pleasantly reviving about springtime. As the weather brightens and the days lighten, we feel more energised and vigorous than in the previous months — and your aftershave should reflect this. To this end, nothing will give you more zest and zeal than citrus and sandalwood notes.
Tom Ford, Neroli Portofino
The noteworthy characteristics?, A grooming-cabinet staple since its launch in 2011, the easy-to-wear Neroli Portofino captures the essence of the lush Italian Riviera, with notes of Sicilian lemon, winter yellow mandarin and orange flowers – and the jewel-blue bottle is just as iconic as its lively, vibrant profile.
When to wear it? , In the office, in the park, at home, at the restaurant, when walking the dog, when asleep, when in the shower, when pondering life’s bigger questions – there’s no setting or scenario in which this smash-hit won’t work.
Perfumer H, Bergamot
The noteworthy characteristics?, One of the best options to pay homage to that most prestigious of citrus fruits, Perfumer H’s bottle, which arrives in an apothecary-style design, heads towards the richer end of things, as it ties together hints of Paraguayan petitgrain, French lavender, warm clove, and frankincense.
When to wear it? , With a more punchy profile than many of its counterparts, this is perhaps one to wear to the power lunch when trying to make a lasting impression.
To spring towards summer, spritz on something versatile and breezy
And then there are the all-rounder fragrances; the spring scents that smell so clean, refined and innocuous that when you breathe them in, you might well convince yourself that you’re walking on a beach or through a meadow. With well-balanced blends that have the ability to whisk you away, these are the bottles to escape with.
Penhaligon’s, Castile
The noteworthy characteristics?, A unisex classic from 1998, Castile, by storied fragrance house Penhaligon’s, has hints of an Iberian influence due to its layering of orange blossom and rose, all tied together by a woody base. The ornate bottle with rounded topper, more curios than product, is alone worth the purchase.
Where to wear it? , When pintxo-hopping in the Basque Country or settling into one of Madrid’s many singular vermuterias.
Truefitt & Hill, Freshman cologne
The noteworthy characteristics?, Apt for a heritage label, the Freshman was formulated with well-attired Oxbridge students in mind, fusing together traditional aromas such as rosemary, mint, lily of the valley and jasmine.
Where to wear it? , During weekends away in rural Hampshire or getaways in The Hamptons – essentially any time when you’re wearing a preppy ensemble of chinos, a piqué polo, and a heavy-knit pullover draped around your shoulders.
Want more grooming content? These are the most eco-friendly deodorants for men
Become a Gentleman’s Journal member. Find out more here.
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
