Burberry Brit for Men Burberry cologne – a fragrance for men 2004

What the brilliant Antoine Maisondieu accomplished here is a very well-composed designer fragrance that has a nice uniqueness about it. The fragrance has been in my collection for several years (since probably around 2007-08) and I had tried it before that with some hesitancy due to the “baby powder”-vibe. I actually purchased Maisondieu’s Burberry London for Men bottling prior to this (and really liked it)…and decided one cool Spring day to get a nice, relaxed but classy powdery scent with a nice rose note.

The composition is, in no way, offensive. But, it is also not “safe”, as a man wearing this must have confidence, elegance and a sense of taste (as well as be in touch with his femininity). Not an olfactory experience that everyone will love – I find myself in the “Like” category because while it takes chances and the baby powder note will not agree with everyone, it doesn’t do enough in the base that makes it ‘great’. It is good – and a solid effort by Antoine Maisondieu. The powdery note has grown on me and I believe that it has more of a classic feeling of talc with a nice tea rose note blended together. Not barbershop – more refined. Nonetheless, it is powdery in how it carries…which, how it is done, is very nice.

For myself, I find my Static Feminine side really wanting to connect with it (and it does for a while…good longevity by the way) – but during virtually every wearing, my Dynamic Masculine comes forth with a bit of brashness and says, “Okay, what’s next?” I always find myself reaching for a rather dominant and overtly masculine scent after this. The polarity is almost needed to bring back the balance. Not because I am not in touch with my feminine side. I actually like powdery/talc-infused scents and this does have a lot of other very good top notes and some base notes that cut through that accord, including the nice ginger and cardamom on top and the wood, patchouli and tonka bean in the base.

Don’t get me wrong – this is truly tasteful bottle of fragrance and could definitely be a signature for men – a great office scent, I believe (but it depends on the man wearing it and the personalities he interfaces with in that office). I am actually glad I have it in my wardrobe, but I rarely reach for it – knowing where it will take me. It is a scent that I feel can “wear” me if I am not in the mood for it or I find myself in a different environment than I was planning on. I’ve received compliments on it and also baby powder “comments” – not necessarily negative. So, it will be noticed. Projection on me is definitely good.

A very thoughtful and well-orchestrated composition for those who appreciate this type of scent…but I recommend you try it before you purchase it. And, perhaps buy a preppy sweater to go with it and a new pair of loafers. This scent is a “dandy”, and it will make you realize that masculinity is not all about bravado. Cheers.

*Update* – after occasional wearings, this scent has really shown itself to be a stand-out scent in the Burberry line-up…and, entirely unisex! As much as I like it on myself, my wife wears this with ease and gets many wonderful compliments. It shows beautifully on her olive skin – less powdery, more rose comes forward along with the spices and sweetness from the tonka bean. Overall, a very inexpensive and hidden gem that has been around now for a decade…