The 13 Best Colognes to Give as Gifts

If you know anyone who likes warm scents for the colder months, this new release might just be perfect. The notes of cognac and antique wood make me feel like I'm sitting in an old home next to a roaring fire with a drink in hand. But it's not overwhelming or cloying—just inviting. –Jonathan Evans, Style Director

Ranger station is a little perfumer out of Nashville, and as such it's got a lot of country music references in the lineup. This one, done with the Waylon Jennings estate, embodies the man himself: gruff, masculine, old-fashioned.

It's a curveball to gift because it's heavy on musk, leather, smoke, and spice. It smells like the Stetson Original my grandpa used. (It smells more like it than the modern Stetson Original does, funnily enough.) But that's why I love the idea. This type of scent has been lost to time, so these days it's really, really unique. –Luke Guillory, Commerce Editor

A versatile scent that wears well practically any time of the year. The citrusy notes are potent but not overwhelming. You only need two sprays maximum for this to hit. –Eric Francisco, Entertainment Editor

One of my favorite scents. Versatile enough to move from day to night yet striking enough to leave an impression no matter the hour. The balance of bergamot, musk, neroli, and vetiver is masterful. The bottle—with tinges of art deco influence—is equally sharp. –Mark Burger, Social Media Editor

After years of using Ralph Lauren Polo Gold Blend, my wife took me cologne shopping at Le Labo in the West Village where we spent over an hour trying out different fragrances. I ended up going with Baie 19, which brings an earthy and refreshing feeling. It paired well with my body smell which is a huge factor. Le Labo also offers a huge discount with their refill program; you just have to bring your bottle back. –Mike Kim, Digital Design Director

It’s just sexy. This fragrance is not one to go under the radar and escape people’s attention. From experience, it will draw people in from across the room and ask what you’re wearing. A little cliché, but very much tried and tested. It’s unabashedly smoky and resinous which makes a captivating cloud of mystery. –Alfonso Fernández Navas, Senior Style & Market Editor

I don't wear scents on a daily basis, but whenever I spritz one on for a special occasion it's always Diptyque. The brand makes the most beautiful, yet understated fragrances that are just right, never leaving too heavy of a cast or not being able to smell it at all. The brand's newest launch, The Lazulio, is my latest go-to, a more natural scent that is a perfect blend of fresh and classic in a single bottle.

A gift from the brand always stands out thanks to its beautiful packaging. No matter what, the receiver will feel the luxury. Plus, I can bet they don't have this new scent. But if you're not exactly sure what they like, you can play it safe with the brand's signature gift set. –Krista Jones, Commerce Director

Byredo Mojave Ghost smells effortless, and even my friends who don't usually like scents always compliment it. The bottle design also makes it perfect to put on display—it looks so chic sitting on a desk or counter! –Emma Saxon, Fashion Assistant

Fulton & Roark makes so many delicious fragrances, but my favorite has to be Ramble, inspired by the famous Central Park enclave. The notes of forest air, lavender, and lemon rind create a fresh, woody scent that will transport you to the wilderness. It’s sophisticated, lush, and works for literally everyone. –Bellamy Richardson, Associate Commerce Editor

It's a classic for a reason. Aromatic and bold, I like to wear it for the important kind of evenings when I need an extra bit of refinement. –Mark Burger

A reliable fastball of a men's going-out scent. Up top, it's fresh and gets compliments without being an attention-grabbing club citrus fragrance. On the dry down, it's deep and sophisticated without being too fashion-y and cerebral.

This would be my go-to for most guys. I've given bottles to my brother (divorced dad in his 40s) and his oldest son (just graduated high school). Gets compliments in both age ranges. –Luke Guillory

Aside from the grenade casing being so much fun to use, Viktor Rolf's Spicebomb really booms with its strong combination of pepper and cinnamon. Wears well during the colder seasons, and for more formal occasions (despite its aggressive appearances). –Eric Francisco

Woodsy, rosy, fresh—a bright and sophisticated scent I like to wear all day. Plus, if it's good enough for Tom Holland, it's good enough for me. –Mark Burger