BY JULIA BENITO
The connotation that anything “beauty” is a feminine thing is so last century. With men getting more into manicures, hair styling, makeup, skincare — even midi skirts and pearl necklaces ala Harry Styles — and women embracing what is heteronormatively perceived as “masculine” in fashion and style, recent times appear to be on the up and up in terms of blurring the lines between gender conformity.
Being able to rock you in a completely unadulterated way, free from preconceived notions of what is “right and wrong” according to gender, is such a liberating idea that it’s mindboggling how it’s taken so long to get to where we are now — and the fight isn’t even finished yet. On that front, we have one thing to say: We. Are. Here. For. It. Even in things so commonplace as your pick of fragrances.
Many times, a perfume can be marketed to be feminine or masculine depending on the scent profile and the ingredients it contains. However, we found 5 scents that we think anyone, regardless of gender, can love.
CK EVERYONE Eau de Parfum
“I am one. I am many.” This unisex fragrance from Calvin Klein is bold — not only in its message but in its make. Known best for its woody yet citrusy scent, this gender-neutral fragrance features top notes of orange, middle notes of black tea, and base notes of Haitian vetiver that come together to create a rich freshness to be enjoyed by all.
Jo Malone Lime & Basil Cologne Spray
Launched originally in 1999, this cologne from Jo Malone has persisted through time as a scent favored by both men and women alike. Its initial zesty scent, attributed to its citrusy top notes of lime, mandarin orange, and bergamot, blends into an uplifting heart of herbs such as basil, thyme, lilac, and iris, then finally leaving you with base notes of vetiver and patchouli — a fragrance reminiscent of daytime in the Spring.
Dolce & Gabbana Homme Light Blue Eau de Toilette
While geared toward the male audience, this eau de toilette from Dolce & Gabbana can be just enjoyed just as well by women who love a scent with mystery. Capturing the sensuality of the Mediterranean, this fresh yet spicy fragrance spray features top notes of grapefruit, bergamot, Sicilian mandarin, and juniper for that bright zest, middle notes of pepper, rosemary, and Brazilian rosewood for a hint of warmth and spice, and base notes of oakmoss, incense, and musk for a sensuous aromatic, woody trail that lingers on the skin.
Fun fact: This eau de toilette won the FiFi Award Fragrance of the Year Men’s Luxe in 2008.
Issey Miyake A Drop d’Issey
While Homme Light Blue was targeted at men, Issey Miyake’s A Drop d’Issey is originally created for women. However, there are no stopping men who love a soft, floral, and powdery scent from spritzing this on themselves. Within its beautiful circular casing lies a marriage of nature, musk, and a hint of almond milk accord. This fragrance features top notes of damask rose and almond milk, middle notes of lilac, jasmine, star anise, and orange blossom, and base notes of vanilla, musk, and atlas cedar.
Scentsmith 304 Lavendar Nectarine Eau de Perfume
Another unisex fragrance, this perfume from Scentsmith blends fruity, floral, and woody tones into a lovely, everyday fragrance men and women alike can enjoy. Mixing the freshness of green fruity-floral gourmand with woody and musky bases, this formulation creates a soft marriage of nature embraced with notes of soothing lavender, white floral, and vetiver.