Life is simpler when scientists explain things for us. Like this: Women are extra-susceptible to the emotional power of scents, according to a study in Chemical Senses. So match your cologne to your plans and improve the date, instantly.
The Coffee-and-Dessert Date
The Scent: Dolce & Gabbana The One Gentleman
This cologne has a backbone of vanilla, an essence shown to have relaxing and calming effects, reports a study by International Flavors & Fragrances that mapped moods according to scent. Plus, it’ll pair perfectly with her latte and creme brulee.
$55, ulta
The Late-Night Around-Town Date
The Scent: Chanel Bleu de Chanel or Tom Ford’s Azure Lime
The scent of citrus may make her more energetic, Japanese researchers say. If she’s a fan of Caribbean cocktails, go with the grapefruit-based Chanel. If she drinks cosmos or mimosas, try Tom Ford, which has hints of lime, orange, and lemon.
$80, chanel or $190, saksfifthavenue
The Adventure Getaway Date
The Scent: Eau d’Italie or Bulgari Man
What’s a bergamot? Doesn’t matter. Okay, it’s a kind of citrus fruit. Its scent produced positive feelings of carelessness, relaxation, and confidence in the women who smelled it, according to researchers at Kansas State University. Eau d’Italie contains bergamot but veers sweeter. Bulgari Man has it too, but smells warmer, with hints of musk and sandalwood.
$140, lafcony or $80, bloomingdales
The Road Trip Date
The Scent: The Big Pony Collection #3
It contains mint, which may help improve attention and focus, a University of Oxford study found. You’ll both keep an eye on the road and (just as important) the conversation flowing.
$50, bigponyfragrances