What is the best way to apply cologne?

It's best to spritz it directly onto clean, dry skin—after a shower is ideal—targeting pulse points like the inner wrists and neck. Hold the bottle three to six inches away from your skin and try not to exceed four pumps.

Do I need to buy new cologne for my wedding day?

Not if you don't want to! However, it's fun to experiment for special occasions. If you find a new scent for the big day, you’ll be reminded of this special memory every time you wear it after the celebration. Of course, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and at ease at your wedding—if you're going to try a new cologne, give it a few test runs ahead of the event so you you'll be sure that it doesn't overwhelm.

When buying cologne on Amazon, how can I tell if it is an authorized retailer?

You want to make sure that you're buying from a verified seller on Amazon as opposed to an unverified retailer or seller Verified sellers will have a link under their product’s name directing you to visit that brand’s store . Respectively, on an unverified seller’s product, it will say something like “Brand: Chanel” or “Sold by: random seller that isn’t Chanel.” Brides will only feature products from verified sellers, so you can purchase with confidence.

The 14 Best Colognes for Men of 2024

Assortment of cologne outlined in white and displayed on a realistic textured background with white lines — Brides / Marcus Millan

Some men may wear the same cologne for years and others swap their scent depending on their mood or the occasion. Whether you're shopping for a new fragrance to wear on the big day or you're buying a special gift, searching for a fragrance can be a dizzying process (and we mean that both literally and figuratively).

So, we tapped Celine Roux, Head of Global Fragrance at Jo Malone London, for tips on where to start your search for a signature scent. "First think about whether you're looking for something fresh and uplifting or woody and warm—this will naturally steer your choice," says Roux. She also adds that it's always good to have notes of freshness in the scent to uplift and balance the overall effect.

Sale Alert

Tom Ford Tuscan Leather is 20% off with code FRAGRANCE20 at sephora.com
Bleu de Chanel Eau de Toilette Spray is 20% off with code FRAGRANCE20 at sephora.com
Versace Eros Eau de Parfum is 20% off with code FRAGRANCE20 at sephora.com
MONTBLANC Legend is 12% off at amazon.com
Jo Malone London Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne is 20% off with code FRAGRANCE20 at sephora.com
Yves Saint Laurent La Nuit de L'Homme Eau de Toilette Gift Set is 48% off at macys.com
Hermes Men's Terre D'Hermes Eau Givree is 20% off at walmart.com

To help you find your ideal scent for the wedding day (and beyond), we researched the best options available online. We determined our final selection based on each cologne’s longevity, freshness, ingredients, value, and overall quality. Whether he's looking for his next signature scent or a special occasion fragrance, there's something for every style and budget.

In This Article

Our Picks
What To Look For
FAQ

Sephora

View On Amazon $124 View On Nordstrom $105 View On Sephora $105

Bleu de Chanel has everything you want in a cologne: freshness and longevity. It's crisp, refined, and elegant, yet it plays to modern styles and scents. It's not too musky, either. Instead, it boasts a woody cedar undertone with lingering traces of grapefruit, making it a fresh, clean-smelling option. The scent itself is also very strong, meaning that one spray can last the entire day—from the altar to the afterparty.

Who It’s For

Because this scent is an eclectic combination of woody and fresh aromas, it's great for someone who appreciates complex and nuanced fragrances. It’s also ideal for a guy on the go—since one spritz of this formula is strong enough to last all day, you’ll never have to worry about reapplying.

Volume: 3.4 oz | Notes: Grapefruit, dry cedar, sandalwood | Style: Fresh, clean, woody

Amazon

View On Nordstrom $75 View On Sephora $75 View On Ulta $75

This beautiful Art Deco–style bottle houses a fresh and tropical scent that's infused with orange, Italian lemon zest, green apple, tonka beans, amber, woody vanilla, vetiver, and moss. This fragrance fusion is perfect for the summer, but also works well in other seasons. A few spritzes of this will last all day and it layers well with other colognes if you want to mix and match your scents.

Who It’s For

If you prefer fresh and fruity scents over musky ones, opt for this Versace concoction. It’s perfect for outdoor wedding ceremonies, whether you’re tying the knot in a garden or at the beach. Since it’s easily paired with other fragrances, this option is also great for men who like to experiment with their signature scents.

Volume: 6.7 oz | Notes: Orange, lemon zest, green apple, tonka beans, amber, vanilla | Style: Fresh, tropical

Gucci

View On Saks Fifth Avenue $384 View On Gucci.com

From the lacquered glass bottle to the warming, cozy scent, this designer pick is a true work of art. With notes of cedar, cypress, and nutmeg, along with woody undertones of patchouli and vetiver, this scent from Gucci's Haute perfumery line is luxury at its best. It's designed to layer with the other fragrances in the line, so you can build your very own custom scent.

Who It’s For

This bottle is perfect for any guy who appreciates the finer things in life, as well as a groom or guest participating in a formal, black tie wedding. Despite the elegant look and feel of the fragrance, the warm, complex notes also make it feel inviting.

Volume: 3.3 oz | Notes: Cedarwoods, cypress, nutmeg, patchouli | Style: Woodsy, warm

Amazon

View On Nordstrom $185 View On Neiman Marcus $425 View On Strawberrynet.com

From the scent to the bottle, this Tom Ford fragrance is at once refined and masculine. As the name suggests, the scent merges notes of leather and suede with jasmine for a sensual and sophisticated scent tinged with warming saffron. A little goes a long way with this cologne— it truly lasts for hours on end. We also love how the bottle is shaped to mimic the profile of a chess piece.

Who It’s For

This sophisticated scent was made for anyone who wants to embrace their masculinity. The warm undertones create an alluring finish that’s ideal for both a chic urban wedding or an cozy Aspen escape.

Volume: 1.7 oz | Notes: Cedarwoods, cypress, nutmeg, patchouli | Style: Woodsy, warm

Amazon

View On Amazon $100 View On Nordstrom $95 View On Sephora $25

Aptly named, this aquatic-inspired cologne feels a breath of fresh air. Fusing clean bergamot notes with sensual vetiver and a touch of iris, this classy blend is great for everyday wear. It's also excellent for layering with other colognes if you want to experiment. It lasts for hours on the skin, so you can expect to smell this in the morning and at the end of your day.

Who It’s For

Because this scent is light and airy, it works well for for those who prefer a more subtle and relaxed scent that's not too overpowering.

Volume: 3.3 oz | Notes: bergamot essence, pink essence, iris absolu, sage essence, vetiver essence, tonka bean | Style: Leathery, water

Amazon

View On Nordstrom $85 View On Sephora $35

This whiskey-colored cologne evokes a dimly lit jazz club with leather club chairs and cigars. Warm and spicy, it boasts notes of pink pepper, rum, and tobacco. While it doesn’t have a super long-lasting effect, it also comes in a convenient travel size if you want to take it on the go to reapply. We love that it works as a unisex cologne (although your wife may steal it from you).

Who It’s For

Perfect for fall or winter weddings, this scent is ideal for anyone who likes woody and spicy aromas. Because it has so many layers, it works well in both urban environments and outdoor events.

Volume: 3.8 oz. | Notes: Pink pepper, lemon, neroli oil, tobacco, vanilla bean | Style: Dark, smooth, intimate

Amazon

View On Amazon $110 View On Nordstrom $123 View On Ulta $148

This sophisticated fragrance makes its mark right from the start with a trio of fresh notes, bergamot, ginger, and apple at its core. Juniper berries and geranium add to the freshness, while vanilla tonka bean gives it a hint of sweetness. Finally, sage and a big dose of amber give this blend a warm, woody feel. It has great longevity on the skin, and the nozzle sprays a generous amount, so one spritz is all you need.

Who It’s For

The eclectic mix of intoxicating notes in this blend can work well for just about anyone. With hints of freshness, warmth, citrus, and sweetness all in one spritz, this bold fragrance will appeal to men with versatile tastes.

Volume: 3.3 oz. | Notes: Apple, sage, vetiver, tonka bean | Style: Citrus

Amazon

View On Nordstrom $180 View On Sephora $180 View On Ulta $250

The epitome of a modern yet classic, Sauvage is a spicy, fresh scent sure to grab the attention of anyone you pass. This warm blend of amber and cedar, topped with pepper and lavender undertones is unique yet sure to be a fan favorite for years to come. Plus, it's not too overpowering but still lasts long on the skin.

Who It’s For

This fragrance is made for men who aren’t afraid to push their boundaries and try something modern and new. The potent blend leaves a fresh yet unexpected impression, ideal for the groom who wants to make a statement on his big day.

Volume: 2 oz. | Notes: Grapefruit, heart of spices, lavender, rich woods | Style: Citrus, wood, spice

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $103 View On Burberry.com View On Sephora $103

This blend of juniper, cedarwood, and spicy black pepper exudes a sense of luxury and sophistication. Bold yet fresh, this cologne was created by creative director Riccardo Tisci and is truly an icon in itself. It generally lasts a few hours on the skin, but if you want all-day wear from this scent you will need to reapply. Still, it's not overpowering and great for both fancy occasions and everyday wear.

Who It’s For

With invigorating notes of black pepper and cedarwood, the vibrant freshness of this blend make this masculine fragrance perfect for the guy who’s always looking for his next big adventure—whether it's planning a hike through the Alps or experimenting with his personal style.

Volume: 3.3 oz. | Notes: Bergamot, cedarwood, black pepper, juniper | Style: Woody, aromatic, fresh

Amazon

View On Amazon $53 View On Nordstrom $42 View On Sephora $79

Gracing the necks of men everywhere since 1996, this modern classic is one of those scents that works all the time. Deep musk is combined with bergamot, neroli, rosemary, and patchouli to create an ultra-fresh, refined aroma. Inspired by the freshness and warmth of the Mediterranean Sea, a few spritzes will leave you feeling joyful and relaxed.

Who It’s For

The aquatic-inspired scent isn't too overpowering, so it's great option if he's sensitive to more potent smells. Despite the light scent, the cologne is still very long-lasting, so you can trust that it will keep you going from the altar to the afterparty.

Volume: 3.4 oz. | Notes: Calabrian bergamot, cedarwood | Style: Clean, fresh, aquatic

Amazon

View On Amazon $38 View On Neiman Marcus $107 View On Nordstrom $95

While bright and citrus scents most often describe more feminine fragrances, this lively Hermès fragrance was designed with "the contemporary man" in mind. Featuring notes of clary sage, narcissus, and rosewood, it's perfect for the spring and summer months—but the addition of warming rosewood makes it a year-round favorite, too.

Who It’s For

If you’re hosting a spring or summer wedding, look no further than this bright and invigorating scent. Created to form a “daring blend between nature and technology,” this woody yet fresh fragrance is sure to satisfy your senses.

Volume: 3.3 oz. | Notes: Sage, narcissus, rosewood | Style: Woody, aromatic

Amazon

View On Amazon $113 View On Hugoboss.com View On Ulta $113

Crisp and fresh at the top—thanks to green apple and bergamot—this musky scent is sophisticated, but also great for everyday wear. It's also injected with cardamom and cinnamon, which gives it a warmth that wears well as the day goes on. Still, it's not overpowering, so it's great for those sensitive to strong smells. Overall, it's a cologne you can rely on for any occasion, including your wedding day.

Who It’s For

Rich, woody, and spicy, this intriguing scent by Hugo Boss is perfect for a fall wedding set in the woods. The outdoorsy aromas complement the musky undertones, which is ideal for the type of guy who likes to spend his free time—and his wedding day—exploring outside.

Volume: 3.38 oz. | Notes: Vetiver, grapefruit, cardamom chords | Style: Earthy, Citrus

Celine

View On Celine.com

Celine's Black Tie is an impeccably tailored fragrance that will set the scene for your next night out—whether it's a date night, wedding reception, or honeymoon outing. Composed of orris butter, cedar, tree moss, and vanilla, it strikes just the right balance between musky and sweet. This unisex cologne will last for hours, making it a splurge that's well worth it.

Who It’s For

There’s a reason they call this scent “Black Tie.” It’s perfect for formal occasions! If you’re hosting a sophisticated black tie wedding, look no further than this luxurious fragrance.

Volume: 3.34 oz. | Notes: Orris butter, cedar, tree moss, vanilla| Style: Sweet, warm

Nordstorm

View On Nordstrom View On Bloomingdales $290

Escape city life and be transported to the wild Mojave Desert with this evocative scent. At first, it gives off notes of amber, violet, and magnolia. As it's worn throughout the day, heady notes of musk and amber emerge. While this cologne has a more subtle finish than other scents, it's still strong enough to garner plenty of compliments from anyone passing by.

Who It’s For

Made for the man who prefers a natural, woody scent, this fragrance is inspired by the rare ghost flower, which thrives all year round in the desert. Because it's more subtle, it's great for both everyday wear and special occasions—it may even just become his signature scent.

Volume: 3.4 oz. | Notes: amber, violet, magnolia, amber, chantilly musk, cedarwood | Style: Woody

What to Look for in Men’s Cologne

Scent Preference and Skin Type: A personal fragrance is so, well, personal. The truth is, there are no hard and fast rules when selecting a cologne. It all comes down to what smells right to you and what wears best on your skin. That's right, the same fragrance can smell differently on your skin as it does on another person. First, decide if you'd rather lean into a woody or more fresh scent. Roux recommends trying a range of colognes, saying most people avoid certain fragrances due to a single ingredient, but the blend can be completely unexpected. "Try opposite fragrances on each arm, leaving them to settle on your skin," she suggests. "See how these scents develop and you will naturally be drawn to one."
Longevity: Do you want a fragrance that lasts all day or that something that only smells for a few hours between spritzes? If you're not sure what the best scent is for you, it's also smart to test out fragrances at a department store counter or boutique. Just don't try too many at once—take breaks with fresh air and a whiff of coffee beans, which are said to help reset and neutralize smells.

FAQ

What is the best way to apply cologne?

It's best to spritz it directly onto clean, dry skin—after a shower is ideal—targeting pulse points like the inner wrists and neck. Hold the bottle three to six inches away from your skin and try not to exceed four pumps.
Do I need to buy new cologne for my wedding day?

Not if you don't want to! However, it's fun to experiment for special occasions. If you find a new scent for the big day, you’ll be reminded of this special memory every time you wear it after the celebration. Of course, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and at ease at your wedding—if you're going to try a new cologne, give it a few test runs ahead of the event so you you'll be sure that it doesn't overwhelm.
When buying cologne on Amazon, how can I tell if it is an authorized retailer?

You want to make sure that you're buying from a verified seller on Amazon as opposed to an unverified retailer or seller Verified sellers will have a link under their product’s name directing you to visit that brand’s store. Respectively, on an unverified seller’s product, it will say something like “Brand: Chanel” or “Sold by: random seller that isn’t Chanel.” Brides will only feature products from verified sellers, so you can purchase with confidence.

Why Trust Brides

Brides contributor Stephanie Montes has been testing the latest trends in skincare, hair, and makeup and exploring all things current in clothes and accessories for over 10 years. For this article, she researched a wide variety of popular men’s fragrances, selecting only the highest-quality options. She also spoke with a highly experienced expert for their insight and tips: