“Smell ‘in Sauce” and how to get it right. The Black Crest Man and his pursuit of the perfect on-body scent.

One cannot underestimate the importance of our five senses in daily interaction. One of the most important of these five, is the sense of smell. This leads directly to the use of body scents found in soaps, balms, aftershaves and—ultimately—cologne. The latter, affectionately referred to as “Smell ‘in Sauce” in certain southern quarters is an important tool in the Black Crest man’s repertoire. Selecting the ideal cologne can be a deeply personal and rewarding experience, as scent has the power to evoke emotions, memories, and make a lasting impression. And this is one of the most important initial elements in meeting a prospective mate or, in many cases, holding on to the person of your dreams. With a plethora of options available, finding the perfect cologne that suits your personality, style, and preferences requires some consideration and exploration.

When choosing a cologne, it's important to first understand the different fragrance categories and how they interact with your body chemistry. Fragrances can be classified into categories such as citrus, floral, oriental, woody, and fresh, each offering a distinct olfactory experience. Experimenting with samples of different fragrance families can help you determine which scents appeal to you the most. Remember, all men have different body chemistries. This means that a scent can work on one gentleman and smell horrible on another. Be prepared to undergo some trial and error while searching for this family of scents.

Consider the occasion and setting in which you plan to wear the cologne. A lighter, fresher scent may be more appropriate for daytime or casual events, while a more intense, woody fragrance could be ideal for evening wear or formal occasions. Additionally, some colognes are versatile enough to transition from day to night, offering flexibility in how you can express yourself through scent.

Take your personal style and preferences into account when selecting a cologne. If you gravitate towards classic, timeless elegance, a clean and sophisticated scent with notes of lavender or sandalwood may be a good fit. On the other hand, if you prefer a more modern and bold approach, a fragrance with spicy or citrusy accords could complement your style.

Sampling colognes on your skin is essential in determining how a scent evolves throughout the day and interacts with your natural body chemistry. Allow the cologne to settle for a few hours before deciding, as the initial top notes may differ from the lasting base notes. Pay attention to how the fragrance evolves over time and how it makes you feel, as scent is a powerful form of self-expression. It is always helpful to bring a trusted agent (female is preferred as women have heightened senses of smell compared to us males) to help vet and determine what works on you.

Lastly, trust your instincts and choose a cologne that resonates with you on a personal level. Whether you prefer a subtle, understated fragrance or a statement-making scent that turns heads, selecting a cologne that makes you feel confident and comfortable is key to finding the perfect match for your unique personality and taste. Experiment, explore, and embrace the journey of discovering the perfect cologne that enhances your individuality and leaves a lasting impression. In the end, the perfect family of colognes may seem expensive at first, but the result will most certainly be worth it.

Just as your fragrance is a reflection of your personality, so too should your wardrobe complement your unique sense of style. Investing in high-quality, modern men’s clothing that feels authentic to you is essential in creating a cohesive image that exudes confidence. Whether you prefer sleek, minimalist designs or bold, statement pieces, your clothing choices should enhance your individuality just as much as your cologne. By curating a wardrobe that reflects your taste, you’ll feel empowered to present the best version of yourself, effortlessly combining scent and style to make a lasting, unforgettable impression.