In this ever changing world where everything – style included – changes in an instant, there are still some scents that just won’t stay out of our nose’s reach.
Men are an increasing target market for the fragrances industry. Where once females were their sole target nowadays more money and time is spent on campaigns to woo males of all ages into buying the latest fragrance from the top fashion houses
But with a seemingly never-ending list of new fruity, woody, exotic, smoky, musky, daytime, nighttime (where does it end?) scents advertised in magazines and stuffing the shelves of stores, there’s a perhaps surprising amount of old fragrances that refuse to budge and are proving just as popular now as they were when they were first released.
We’re not going to get totally retro and show you Old Spice (even if that old 80’s TV ad and music are pretty amazing) but we can give you five timeless fragrances that just refuse to die.
1. Armani Code
In relative terms it’s the baby of these five fragrances – it first appeared on the shelves in 2004 – but it’s been a consistent top 10 seller from day one. Stylish and sexy (it’s Armani, what else would it be?) this is the one, our insider sources tell us, that ladies like to buy for their men.
2. Boss Bottled
This quintessentially male scent still sells by the bucket load in chemists and on the High Streets. First introduced in 1998 its classic, warm and spicy notes make for a pleasant but not overpowering scent.
3. Jean Paul Gaultier
The over the top packaging of this bottle may put off some but there’s no doubting the scent’s durability. Launched in 1995 by the eccentric French fashion designer its sharp, oriental and woody notes keep it at the top of the pack.
4. Joop!
The distinctive pink colour and exotic, oriental tones of this have made it a standout fragrance from day one (it’s been in the shops since 1989). They’ve tried to update it with Joop Night and other styles, and indeed colours, but it’s this original that men just keep coming back for.
5. Davidoff Cool Water
Sadly, this and all other Davidoff fragrances have absolutely nothing to do with David Hasselhoff, putting an end to my theory of the scent being made from his manly sweat as he strode along the beach in Baywatch. Hoffmeister disappointment aside, the casual, clear, fresh scent – introduced in 1988 – has stood the test of time.
Padraic O’Connor
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