Our wardrobes and skincare aren’t the only things we should switch up in the winter. Whether you already have a signature scent and want to try something new for the season or are on the hunt for a splurge-worthy aroma you wear for special occasions, swapping out your cologne when the temperatures drop can help you tap into the warm and cozy vibes of the season. The best winter colognes have woody, warm, and spicy aromas—and they’re oh-so-invigorating.
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Best Winter Colognes at a Glance
- Best Overall: Maison Margiela Replica By the Fireplace Eau de Toilette Fragrance , $35+
- Best Budget: Dossier Woody Sage Eau de Parfum , $23
- Best Unisex: Jo Malone London Myrrh & Tonka Cologne Intense , $160+
- Best Woody: Goodfellow & Co No. 2 Juniper & Sandalwood Men’s Cologne , $26
- Best With Sandalwood: PHLUR Somebody Wood Eau de Parfum , $29+
- Best With Musk: Fine’ry I’m a Musk Fragrance Perfume , $24
- Best With Amber: COACH for Men Eau de Toilette Perfume , $84
- Best With Pine: Burberry Hero Eau de Parfum , $120+
- Best With Cedar: DIPTYQUE ORPHÉON Eau De Parfum , $230
- Best With Vanilla: Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille Eau de Parfum Fragrance , $75+
- Best Body Mist: Being Frenshe Hair, Body and Linen Mist in Palo Santo Sage , $15
- Best Smoky: Le Labo TABAC 28 , $170+
- Best Spicy: Prada Luna Rossa Black Eau de Parfum , $110+
- Best Warm: Boy Smells Vanilla Era Eau de Parfum , $30+
- Best Lightweight: Salt & Stone Sandal & Vetiver , $45
What Fragrance Is Best for Winter?
When shopping for winter fragrances, MarieAnna Ferdinand, EVP of fragrance development at Tru Fragrance & Beauty , says to consider warmer and richer aromas that compliment the colors, fabrics, and flavors of the season. “Think fragrances that have darker, woody notes, rich ‘ambery’ resins, or creamy textured nuances to create a warm base layer of fragrance on your skin,” she explains.
When selecting the best fragrances for winter, it helps to have an understanding of the fragrance pyramid, which Ferdinand says refers to the structure of a fragrance and how it reveals itself to the wearer. “The top notes are usually the lightest notes in the fragrance and are the initial impression you get when smelling,” she explains. These are usually citrus, fruits, or herbal aromas and can last around five to 15 minutes before revealing the heart. “The heart or middle notes are the primary character of the perfume or cologne,” Ferdinand explains. “These notes can last over an hour and are most often floral notes, some fruits, spices, and woody notes.” After the heart comes the base notes, aka dry down. Ferdinand says these are the notes that leave a lasting impression. “They bring depth and longevity to a perfume or cologne and are usually woods, resins (like amber), or musks.”
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If you have a sensitive nose but still want to wear a winter cologne, Ferdinand says body mists might be an excellent alternative. “There is a lot happening in the body mist space at the moment, and there are some very sophisticated options on the market,” she explains. “These formats will be less overwhelming to your olfactory system.” In addition to body mists, you can consider formulas that come off as clean and fresh on the skin. These are ones that mimic the idea of clean skin. “Musky fragrances could be a great option,” Ferdinand adds.
Looking for the best winter colognes? We share some of our top picks, including some excellent unisex aromas and body mists, ahead.
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The Best Winter Colognes
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