Man with multiple cologne bottles, looking sophisticated

Perfume

why i think you should own more than one cologne

By Jean-Pierre Beaumont

Published: 11 Mar 2025

The Unexpected Discovery

It all started with a sniff. Not just any sniff, mind you, but a deep, contemplative inhale of a cologne sample at a department store. It was intoxicating – a heady blend of bergamot, cedarwood, and something subtly spicy I couldn’t quite place. I bought it, of course. 'Midnight Bloom,' the label proclaimed. But then, after a week of wearing it exclusively, something felt…off. It started to feel a little too familiar, almost predictable. My signature scent, but somehow... boring?

Man smelling cologne sample at department store

Man smelling cologne sample at department store | Image: Supplied

Beyond the Single Scent Syndrome

That's when it hit me: the problem wasn’t Midnight Bloom, it was my monotony. I'd fallen into the trap so many men fall into: the single-cologne rut. I’d convinced myself that finding 'the one' was the end goal – the holy grail of fragrance. But is there really just one perfect scent for all occasions? What about that spontaneous weekend trip to the beach? Or a romantic dinner date? Or that important business meeting?

Each situation demands a different olfactory personality. Right? I mean, who wants to smell like a roaring bonfire while sitting in a stuffy boardroom?

The Art of Olfactory Versatility

Think of your wardrobe. You wouldn’t wear the same outfit every single day, would you? It's ludicrous! Your scent should be the same. You need diversity. A collection of fragrances – each with its own unique personality – allows you to express yourself differently depending on the day, your mood, or the occasion. You see what I'm saying? You have more control over how people perceive you.

Think of it as adding layers to your style. Sometimes you want something bold and powerful; other times you prefer something subtle and sophisticated. The right cologne can actually elevate your whole presentation. It’s a crucial element of self-expression, which most guys ignore. Crazy, right?

Man with a collection of cologne bottles

Man with a collection of cologne bottles | Image: Supplied

My Current Lineup (And Why It Works)

Let me share my current lineup. I've carefully curated a small collection that caters to my different moods and needs:

  • For everyday wear: A classic, light citrus scent. Nothing too overpowering, something fresh and clean. Think Acqua di Parma Colonia.
  • For special occasions: A more intense, woody fragrance – maybe something like Tom Ford Oud Wood. It's rich and sensual, perfect for a night out.
  • For summer adventures: A bright, airy scent with notes of sea salt and bergamot. It's light and refreshing. I found a great one from a small, artisanal brand, I can't remember the name now...
  • For cozy nights in: A warm, spicy scent – the aforementioned Midnight Bloom actually works well here. It’s cozy and comforting, perfect for relaxing at home.

This collection allows me to switch things up depending on the situation. It's an olfactory adventure!

Variety of cologne bottles arranged aesthetically

Variety of cologne bottles arranged aesthetically | Image: Supplied

Building Your Own Collection: A Few Tips

Ready to start your own journey of scent exploration? Here’s some practical advice:

  • Start small: Don't feel pressured to buy a whole bunch of colognes at once. Start with two or three that appeal to you.
  • Sample before you buy: Most department stores and perfumeries allow you to sample fragrances before committing to a full bottle. This is really important!
  • Consider the seasons: Lighter scents work best in summer, while richer, warmer scents are ideal for cooler weather. You wanna be comfortable, right?
  • Don't be afraid to experiment: Try different fragrance families (citrus, woody, oriental, etc.) to discover what you truly like.
  • Less is more: Apply cologne sparingly; a little goes a long way. You don't want to be the guy who leaves a trail of scent in his wake. Kinda embarrassing.
Man applying cologne

Man applying cologne | Image: Supplied

The Bottom Line: Embrace Your Olfactory Identity

So, there you have it. My case for cologne diversification. It's about more than just smelling good; it's about expressing your personality and adapting to different occasions. You should experiment with different scents and find the ones that make you feel confident and put-together – what you want others to think of you. Besides, isn't it more fun to have a few different options at your disposal? Let me know which colognes you like!

“A man's cologne is a part of his personality – let it be diverse and intriguing, just like the man himself.” – Jean-Pierre Beaumont

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