Why cologne?
Cologne, if worn correctly, can be a very powerful thing. It ignites the senses. It adds another layer of sophistication and depth. And most importantly, it’s inviting to others. The problem is, most guys don’t know how to properly wear cologne (or don’t do it at all). Follow these rules, and you’ll come out smelling like Broses. Rozay!
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Less Is More.
I bought my first bottle of cologne in the seventh grade. It was Obsession by Calvin Klein. I used to douse my Tommy jeans, NO FEAR tee and Chiefs Starter jacket in it every single day before school. You could smell me from 10 feet away. The biggest mistake guys make with cologne is simply putting on too much. If she can smell you outside of your personal space, she won't be getting inside your personal space. Remember, women have a stronger sense of smell than we do, so don’t overdo it, Jersey Shore.
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Images, l-r: Sweets Perfume, iOffer, eBay
Try It Before You Buy It.
This should apply to pretty much everything in life, including dating. I can’t stress this enough…take the proper time to find the right cologne. Find something that fits your personality, image, and most importantly, smells good on you. And don’t rush the touch. Ideally, you want to take at least 10 minutes between smelling samples, or they’ll all start to smell the same. If you can’t decide, don’t impulse-buy; ask for samples. Stings the nostrils!
Images, l-r: Forbidden Planet, NY Daily News
The Cover-Up
It's Friday night and you've got a date. Problem is, it’s getting late and you’re stank-nasty back from hitting the gym for some pre-date pump. Solution? A few sprays with the smell-good juice, and you’re Back to Mack!
Wrong! Guess what, brother, you still smell like BO. The only difference is now, you smell like BO and cologne. Cologne is an enhancer…not a savior. Don’t be caught trying the cover-up. The second she smells BO is the second you can reserve a seat in the "Just Friends" section for one.
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What To Wear and When.
Colognes generally come in three categories: citrus, green and spicy. Citrus and green are light, lemony and fresh-out-of-the-shower sweet. Think Armani Aqua Di Gio or Coolwater Cologne (lodi dodi). Spicy scents are musky, woodsy and bold. Think Polo Black or John Varvatos. A good rule of thumb is to wear a citrus or green in the daytime and a spicy at night. Cologne should be applied right after a shower so it can marinate all in your man pores. Apply on your neck, wrist, or behind the ears. These points are where your body generates the most heat, causing the cologne to emanate fully and last the longest.
 
Images, l-r: AskMen, GifttoIndia24x7
 
Images, l-r: Valentine Perfume, amazon
The Finer Points
- DO NOT spray it on your crotch. Cologne is a chemical. It goes without saying that you want to limit the amount of chemicals on your crotch at any given time.
- Colognes have three different notes, or smells. The first note is the initial smell, the second is after 15 minutes, and the third is after hour or so.
- There are only two good kinds of sweat: 1) sweat equity; 2) Keith Sweat.
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 David Lloyd is co-owner of Method Men's Clothing Boutique, attorney, college professor, swag enthusiast and KC Magazine's men's fashion expert. His style influences: Gordon Gekko suits, Carlton Banks, the jazz era, bow ties.
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