Some people say you should listen when money talks, but the rich know that old money whispers. The same is true about what you wear, especially when it comes to subtle details like your cufflinks, watch, and scents.
Some colognes talk, but in our opinion, the crème de la crème of scents whisper.
If you are going for that old-money vibe, the last thing you want is to lug around a heavy scent of cheap cologne. Even if a mainstream scent like floral or amber is more your speed, you want to keep it low-key. But finding a cologne that fits such a narrow yet exquisite bill is no easy walk in the park.
That’s why we have done the legwork to bring you ten best colognes that give off old-money vibes.
1. Tom Ford Grey Vetiver Eau de Parfum
Tom Ford knows a thing or two about luxury, and Grey Vetiver proves this point beautifully. This isn’t the kind of scent that announces your arrival from across the room. Instead, it’s the fragrance equivalent of a perfectly tailored suit.
The opening hits you with fresh grapefruit and orange flowers, but it’s the vetiver that makes this scent special. Vetiver is earthy, almost grassy, but in the most refined way possible. Think of it as the scent version of a country estate on a crisp morning.
2. Le Labo Thé Matcha 26
If you’d rather wear vintage Patek Philippe than a flashy Rolex, Le Labo has the answer. Thé Matcha 26 is one of those scents that makes people lean in closer, trying to work out exactly what is hitting their senses.
The matcha tea accord goes beautifully with a fig and bergamot. There’s something almost meditative about this fragrance. It’s calm, collected, and speaks to someone who appreciates the finer things in life.
3. Diptyque L’Eau Papier Eau de Toilette
Diptyque has built a name for itself upon scents that tell stories, and L’Eau Papier tells one of a quiet luxury. Its name translates to “paper water” and that’s exactly what this smells like in the best possible way.
It hits home with a scent of expensive stationery, leather-bound books, and a hint of ink. The white musk and mimosa create a clean, almost powdery base, while blonde woods add warmth and depth.
4. Malin + Goetz Bergamot Eau de Parfum
Bergamot has been a gentleman’s fragrance staple for centuries, and Malin + Goetz has done a bang-up job on this.
The bergamot here is bright and energising but paired with unexpected notes like bell pepper and ginger. The base of musk and sandalwood keeps everything grounded and sophisticated.
5. Christian Dior Sauvage Elixir
Dior Sauvage might be everywhere these days, but the Elixir version is a different beast entirely. This isn’t what your mate at the gym wears. It’s deeper, richer, and far more complex.
The secret pings on the spices in Sauvage Elixir. Nutmeg, cinnamon, and cardamom create a warm, almost intoxicating blend perfect for evening wear.
6. Prada L’Homme Prada Eau de Toilette
Prada L’Homme has been around for years, but it never feels dated. The iris and amber combo creates something truly special.
Iris adds a powdery, almost aristocratic quality, while the amber provides warmth. Neroli and patchouli round out the composition.
7. Hermès H24 Herbes Vives
Hermès might be better known for their leather goods, but they know their way around a fragrance, too. H24 Herbes Vives is inspired by a garden after rain, and it captures that fresh, clean feeling beautifully.
The green herbs are the star of this show, but they’re supported by a hint of juicy pear and something called Physcool.
This fragrance is perfect for those, who want something clean and refined without being boring.
8. Azzaro The Most Wanted Eau de Parfum
Don’t let the name fool you. The Most Wanted is far more sophisticated than it sounds.
This fragrance combines red ginger with bourbon vanilla and woody notes to create something warm, spicy, and entirely wearable.
9. Bleu de Chanel Eau de Toilette
Chanel knows luxury, and Bleu de Chanel proves it. It’s the kind of scent that works on almost everyone in virtually any situation.
The grapefruit opening is fresh and inviting, while the cedar and sandalwood base provides warmth and sophistication. It’s balanced in a way that few fragrances manage to achieve. It’s neither too fresh nor too woody, neither too light nor too heavy.
10. Armani Beauty Acqua di Giò Eau de Toilette
Acqua di Giò has been around for decades, and it’s still going strong. This fragrance is Mediterranean in a bottle. It’s fresh, clean, and effortlessly elegant.
The bergamot and citrus notes create an opening that’s both energising and refined.
How to Choose a Cologne to Match Your Old Money Style?
When it comes to putting together an old-money look, you want a cologne that whispers wealth without going overboard. If you’re not finicky about a particular brand, try a few scents without bombarding your skin and nose with too many fragrances.
Do one, two, or three scents tops at a time. Let a new scent stay on you for at least half an hour before you go for it. If it doesn’t tickle your fancy, give the next on your list a go.
But why go through all the hoops? Like everything worth splashing good money on without spending hours or days on testing, reviews are your best friend. Yelp can help narrow the search for fine restaurants nearby, for example, while expert or user reviews of software, video games, or mobile casino apps can save hours of research and lots of headaches.
The same goes for reviews of colognes. You can simply look up reviews by folks who know a thing or two about old-money styling. Pay attention to what they say about the notes, fragrances, and overall scents.
A passionate advocate for inclusivity and diversity, Aidan is the driving force behind The VOU as its Editorial Manager. With a unique blend of editorial acumen and project management prowess, Aidan's insightful articles have graced the pages of The Verge, WWD, Forbes, and WTVOX, reflecting his deep interest in the dynamic intersection of styling with grooming for men and beyond.