Tag Archives: Scent

Gentleman Hack – Let It Burn – How to Melt Candle Wax Evenly

January 20, 2026 By in Best Life, Gent Hints Tags: , , , , , Leave a comment

At the beginning of the global COVID-19 pandemic, a significant number of my workforce were granted the privilege of remote work. So, in an effort to transform a room in my basement into a constructive work environment, I deployed various furnishings to create an inviting aesthetic. I thoughtfully procured wooden, rustic picture frames to complement the wood paneling of the room. I have a few ladder style bookshelves to house said wooden picture frames along with various books, artificial plants, and scented candles. During the last few years, I have come to love the smell of a fragrant candle. If experiencing an episode of tiresome stress, a great scented candle momentarily tethers me to a state of peace.

So much so, when Bed Bath & Beyond closed physical stores in 2023, and its Warm Flannel candle was discontinued, I was heartbroken. That sounds a little over the top – right? Nevertheless, that light and slightly sweet aroma had an incredibly calming effect that carried me through a few rough years. Sometimes when I was feeling slightly despondent, I would take a few moments, close my eyes, and just focus on the beauty of the scent. If but for a sliver in time, the aroma assuaged any ailments – either mentally or emotionally. Currently, Bed Bath & Beyond only has an online presence, but if the powers that be are reading this, bring back my Warm Flannel scented candle!

Now, given my affinity to scented candles, it would bother me when a candle would burn unevenly. I tried everything recommended to ensure the candle wax would burn evenly. I would trim the wick before the candle was lit and I would allow it to burn for 1-3 hours. However, tunneling and unsightly, lopsided candle wax would accumulate around the sides leading to wasted wax. Desperate, I scoured the Internet in search of a resolution. My probe led me to the curious practice of wrapping the candle with aluminum foil. The reasoning: The aluminum foil insulates the candle and reflects heat back toward the body of wax. The edges don’t cool as fast, and so in theory, there is a relatively equal burn across the candle’s surface.

Eager to see if this hack was real, I retrieved a torn sheet of Reynolds Wrap and intently fashioned an aluminum protective guard around the candle. And I’d be damned if the foil trick did not work? Of course, I took photographic evidence else no one would believe me. It looks rightly weird, an otherwise handsome candle jar adorned in Reynolds Wrap. With confusion, my wife questioned why my candle was wrapped in aluminum foil. Nevertheless, it extends the life of the candle with no wasted wax. It doesn’t take long to implement, and better still, you can reuse the foil for another candle! I hope this information is beneficial to a fellow candle lover – happy burning!

Gentlemen’s Review – Dior – Sauvage Eau de Toilette

May 6, 2021 By in Grooming, Review Tags: , , , , Leave a comment

During the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, I have embarked upon an exploration of fragrance that has unearthed some exciting and newfound discoveries. Sure, I have amassed a decent stock of cologne, but I really wanted to experiment and expand my olfactory options. That being stated, I am a gentleman with humble pockets, so my findings have been modest in nature. Now, before I learned of the love-hate relationship that many gentlemen have with the featured cologne above, I spied a bottle of Dior Sauvage a few years ago but never pulled the trigger on the purchase. I sampled the scent and it was pleasant, but again, I did not commit to the purchase. I was not in the market for a new fragrance, so I kept my funds in my wallet. 

Fast-forward to the initial lockdown of 2020, and the casual perusal of cologne at the nearby shopping mall was no longer an option. And like many people across the globe, online shopping became the preferred method for procuring goods. Drawing upon my memory of the scent, I finally decided to commit the dollars. So, back to the aforementioned love-hate relationship that Sauvage invokes; it’s an attention-getting cologne that is ubiquitous amongst the male population due to mass marketing. Surely you’ve seen the Johnny Depp advertisements. Celebrity and popular criticism aside, I lean into what works for me. If you care for an honest assessment of this high-selling, 2015 release – continue on my friend.

Observations

Top Notes: Bergamot, Pepper

Middle Notes: Patchouli, Pink Pepper, Lavender, Sichuan Pepper, Vetiver 

Base Notes: Cedar, Ambroxan, Labdanum

  • I really, really like the presentation of Dior Sauvage. I’m a simple guy. The cylindrical flask boats a minimalistic design punctuated with subtle touches of elegance. The magnetic cap (which snaps right into place over the atomizer) is marked by three circular indentations that wrap all the way around. The Christian Dior logo is discreetly engraved on the top. The atomizer is stiff to the touch; exhibiting a slow, controlled mist when deployed. The bottle sports a dark, metallic blue hue that gradually fades following the length of the bottle. The effect is visually cool. The words Sauvage Dior mark the body of the bottle with slightly raised lettering. Simple, but still classy.
  • Warning: Dior Sauvage Eau de Toilette can be an aggressive scent. It was quite harmless when I sampled it at the shopping mall. However, after performing approximately 3-4 pumps on the atomizer, I instantly recognized that was perhaps 3 pumps too many. Seriously, a gentleman must practice some restraint when it involves this fragrance. I would recommend approximately 1-2 sprays. Proceed with caution if you are feeling adventurous because too much will certainly induce a slight migraine. Dior Sauvage will definitely provide a strong 6-8 hours of performance with pretty good projection the first few hours.
  • The fragrance opens with a fresh, slightly citrusy introduction. Transitioning into the middle notes, Sauvage has a strong peppery vibe and earthy touch that can be overwhelming if the application is too heavy. Applied correctly, the result should be a warm, slightly spicy scent that settles into a woody, synthetic aroma. 
  • Dior Sauvage is best suited for the modern gentleman that gravitates toward sharp, bold fragrances that demand attention without being overly obnoxious. In my humble opinion, this fragrance performs best during evening hours; preferably in sophisticated settings that welcome a touch of class. This is a year-round fragrance that performs best in an wide open setting. This cologne needs to expand. And trust, it’s potent enough to cut through any competing aromas in the surrounding area. Given that fact, I would not recommend this cologne for the office. The close quarters with fellow colleagues may be too much.
  • Dior Sauvage Eau de Toilette can be procured in the following sizes: 1.0 ounce priced at $56.00, 2.0 ounces priced at $80.00, 3.4 ounces priced at $97.00, and 6.7 ounces priced at $150.00 – Available in-store and online: Dior, Macy’s, Nordstrom, Sephora, Ulta, and other fine men’s department stores.

Gent Hints – Extending the Shelf Life of Your Cologne

December 12, 2019 By in Gent Hints Tags: , , ,

I would not necessarily describe myself as the sentimental type, but I do appreciate the value that an event or object can hold. During an exercise of identifying and discarding old grooming & hygiene products, I discovered an old bottle of Vera Wang for Men. Launched in 2004, I received this fragrance as a birthday gift from my girlfriend (destined to be my wife) Stephanie. I forget the exact details, but Vera Wang herself was in town signing the box of her newly launched cologne for men. And so, I made sure that my autographed box was never damaged or compromised. I did not who Vera Wang was at the time, but I recognized her celebrity, and I appreciated Stephanie securing the fragrance with Wang’s autograph as a special touch. That was 2004. It is now 2019, soon to be 2020. As the scent had fallen out of my rotation, it was now tucked away in a quiet spot, perhaps begging for a return to the lineup. However, we are now approximately 15 years past the original unboxing. Surely the scent had gone bad. My curiosity coaxed me to investigate.

To my astonishment, the fragrance was still strong and healthy. Sure, the atomizer was a little stiff, and it took a few compressions to get the cologne flowing, but the contents were perfectly fine. Conventional wisdom dictates that quality cologne can last upwards to 10 years. Honestly, that was not my original intent. How did my Vera Wang for Men make it to 15 years without any noticeable degradation? Since this batch was launched during its first run, perhaps the quality was top shelf. If you think about – who wants their first cologne launch to flop? And then perhaps, its life had been extended due to the care (or neglect if you ask my wife) that I afforded it. Now, I can’t promise that your cologne can last 15-20 years after unboxing; but follow these simple rules and you will enjoy your cologne longer than perhaps expected.

Gent Hints

  • Store your fragrance in a location with a stable temperature, preferably cool and dry. Severe temperature fluctuations can degrade the chemical makeup of your cologne. Closets and dresser drawers are good locations.
  • Do not subject your cologne to high temperatures. And please do not expose your cologne to direct sunlight. Again, your cologne will begin to degrade.
  • If possible, keep your cologne in the original container, or any container for that matter, affording protection from all forms of light.
  • Do not store in locations with heat and humidity – that means your bathroom sir.

Gentlemen’s Review – Acqua Di Gio Georgia Armani – Profumo

October 11, 2019 By in Review Tags: , , , , Leave a comment

Well, autumn 2019 has settled in nicely here in Michigan. Greeted by cool morning dew on his lawn and perhaps his vehicle, the seasonally prepared gentleman moves to convert his summer style to one that fully embraces fall. Aside from employing progressively heavier outerwear and thicker fabrics, recruiting a fragrance that embodies the current season is important too. Now, my personal taste in cologne generally gravitates towards heavier, robust scents with somewhat of an earthy personality. As of late, I have been testing and trialing Acqua di Gio Profumo by Giorgio Armani. Released in 2015, Profumo is the follow-up to the wildly popular Acqua di Gio that was launched in 1996. Now, while Profumo retains the original’s aquatic sensibilities, it introduces a batch of floral greens and incense to offer a contrasting depth and richness. Is it the perfect fall cologne for you? Well, continue reading below and decide for yourself.

Observations

Top Notes: Bergamot, Aquatic Notes

Middle Notes: Sage, Rosemary, Geranium

Base Notes: Patchouli, Incense

  • The presentation of the glass bottle is simple, almost identical to its predecessor, except Profumo arrives in a slightly opaque black flask. The metallic spray nozzle is topped by a black top that matches the body. The brand’s name is featured in metallic silver across the body of the bottle. The glass is moderately thick and has a good weight to it.
  • Acqua di Gio Profumo starts with a moderate explosion of bergamot. It’s a nice little pop, but it is subdued. The citrus tones are nicely balanced by clean, fresh aquatic notes as it begins a smooth transition to the middle and base notes. Again, the beginning isn’t terribly strong, but a gentleman should proceed with caution and demonstrate restraint with his applications. Targeting the chest, abdomen, and shoulders yielded the best results regarding projection for me.
  • The heart and base notes consist mainly of sage, rosemary, geranium, and patchouli – a collection of soft, aromatic greens that blend well with the strong temperament of incense. Regarding application, I estimate that 3-5 sprays should be more than sufficient, but I suggest that you wisely experiment with what works for you. Depending on the application, a gentleman should be able to extract 7-8 hours of performance. Its projection is decent and not terribly offensive. Profumo is an Eau de parfum – meaning a higher concentration of aromatic compounds versus eau de toilette – so care should be taken during application. I went overboard one day with about 7-8 sprays and it was too much.
  • In my humble opinion, Acqua di Gio Profumo is meant for the mature gentleman that loves an earthy, mildly spicy scent that starts with a mild burst of citrus but quickly settles into deep and warm territory. Profumo is touted as a fragrance that can be worn year-round. However, I think Profumo is better suited for the fall and winter. I believe Profumo is also best suited for affairs during the evening as well. Nevertheless, Profumo is fine for day affairs and can be worn both casually and professionally. It is a solid fragrance, but I wouldn’t label it as an exceptional standout. However, if your cologne collection is bare, it is worth checking it out for possible purchase.
  • Acqua di Gio Profumo can purchased in the following sizes: 1.35 oz. ($70.00), 2.5 oz. ($98.00), 4.2 oz. ($135.00) – Available at Macy’s, Nordstrom, Sephora, Von Maur, and other fine men’s department stores.
  • Gentleman’s Rating: 3.75/5.00

Gentlemen’s Standard Approved
Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. Item was purchased for personal use. The opinions expressed are completely my own based on my experience.

Gentlemen’s Review – Prada – Luna Rossa Carbon

September 25, 2019 By in Review Tags: , , , , , , Leave a comment

Prada Luna Rossa Carbon - clear flask with a black bottom, metallic top, and red Prada stripe down the middle

Today, I will be sharing my thoughts on a fragrance that was introduced to the market in 2017. The latest in the Luna Rossa (Red Moon) collection, Carbon is billed as a seductive and masculine fragrance, inspired by the collision of nature and technology. It is a steam-distilled botanical mix with modern materials in a distinctive blend. Until this point, I was not familiar with the Prada brand outside of their clothing line. However, I was provided a sample and was pleasantly surprised by the fragrance. Now, some insight that I have read online compares it to Christian Dior Sauvage. Granted, my experience with Sauvage was only relegated to a brief smell test at a local mall, but Carbon presented itself as milder and lighter – something that could be worn both inside and outside the workplace, casually and professionally. Let’s dive into more details below.

Observations

Top Notes: Bergamot, Pepper

Middle Notes: Lavender, Soil Tincture, Coal, Metallic & Watery Notes

Base Notes: Patchouli, Ambroxan

  • Prada Luna Rossa Carbon introduces itself in a very discreet manner; very calm and inviting. There is a bright burst of citrusy bergamot, but it is weighted down by elements of pepper. The beginning is very short-lived before it settles nicely into the middle and base notes.
  • The transition toward the middle and base notes is fluid and steady. Between the middle and base notes, the fragrance is consistent throughout – not particularly high, nor low. It projects well, but it doesn’t scream its presence to the surrounding area.
  • The presentation of the flask is handsome; arriving in a slightly opaque, rectangular body with an all-black bottom. The brand name is positioned in the middle, atop a red stripe flowing down from a metallic crown. The design is allegedly inspired by modern sailboats, but I find it difficult making that connection. Nevertheless, it is still a nice-looking bottle.
  • Moderately heavy, this fragrance can be worn both casually or professionally, during the daytime or evening. I strongly recommend 3-5 applications around the neck/shoulder area and abdomen.  However, the soft introduction belies its intensity if overused. Unfortunately, I committed the error of spraying perhaps 6-8 times in the morning, and the scent desperately clung to my skin well into the early evening. The projection was still going strong and I felt a little self-conscious wearing it.
  • Prada Luna Rossa Carbon is intended for the gentleman that prefers a warm, earthy fragrance that seamlessly transitions from each individual note to the other. And while it is definitely a masculine scent, it is not overly aggressive or offensive. This fragrance can be worn year-round, however, I like Prada Luna Rossa Carbon best during autumn and winter. The warmness of the scent presents a beautiful contrast to the colder temperatures of both seasons.
  • Prada Luna Rossa Carbon can be purchased in the following sizes: 1.7 ounces at $70.00 or 3.4 ounces at $90.00 – Available at Macy’s, Nordstrom, Sephora, and other fine men’s department stores
Gentlemen’s Standard Approved
Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. Item was purchased for personal use. The opinions expressed are completely my own based on my experience.

Gentlemen’s Review – Dolce & Gabbana – Velvet Cypress

July 27, 2017 By in Review Tags: , , , , Leave a comment

Offering full transparency, my current role of supervisor in supply chain management continues to be physically and emotionally taxing. The complex universe of people management is a strenuous exercise in patience, empathy, and conflict resolution. In addition to standard family responsibilities, it feels that every facet of my life revolves around addressing a demand or providing resolution to a problem. Simply: I just need a day when I am not needed. That being stated, today I am directing my focus on a cologne that was slated for review during last Father’s Day, but product was not in stock for a gentleman’s assessment.

If you recall a few posts I wrote around that time, the theme centered around a gentleman pampering himself. Dolce & Gabbana Velvet Cypress is a perfect illustration of that point. Starting at a modest (well, perhaps not) $230.00, this is the most expensive cologne I have ever trialed for review. The latest from Dolce & Gabbana’s exclusive Velvet Collection (collection launched in 2011), Velvet Cypress promises a scent that pays homage to the late summer Italian countryside. Well, given my current challenges at work and home, I sincerely hope this is the case. Now, lets dive into the details.

Observations

Top Notes: Bergamot, Sicilian Lemon

Middle Notes: Galbanum, Clary Sage

Base Notes: Virginian Cedar Wood, Cypress Wood, Balsam Fir

  • Dolce & Gabbana Velvet Cypress arrives in a dense, rectangular flask with its top embossed with a smooth, circular velvet strip. A bronze nameplate adorns the front of the flask. The presentation exudes a simple, solid sophistication befitting of a gentleman that appreciates class and subtlety.
  • With a vibrant rush of bergamot and lemon, expect a welcoming committee of bitter and sweet citrus notes during the introductory phase of Velvet Cypress. It is a light, refreshing affair as the top scent isn’t overwhelmed by its citrus components.
  • The transition toward the middle notes is delicate, as the heart becomes ever so green with the presence of clary sage and galbanum. The experience is slightly earthy and warm. And consistent with its top note counterpart, the middle notes are neither obnoxious or unbearably strong.
  • The ending has a mellow dry-down with subtle hints of fresh spice. The woody aroma is fairly light. Truthfully, I thought the scent would be much heavier than I expected. My only complaint is I wish the fragrance was stronger. A gentleman will require approximately 8-10 sprays to enjoy the full benefits of Velvet Cypress. I would estimate a gentleman could extract 4-6 hours of performance before the scent begins fade.
  • Dolce & Gabbana Velvet Cypress is properly suited for daytime and early evening occasions. An easy-going, sophisticated scent with a moderate lifespan, business and business-casual settings are appropriate for a gentleman’s usage. Given the price-tag – as previously noted – save Velvet Cypress for those moments when you want to indulge in looking and feeling your best.
  • Dolce & Gabbana Velvet Cypress 1.7 fl. oz. $230.00, 5.0 fl. oz. $430.00,  – Available at Dolce & Gabbana, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, and other fine men’s department stores

Gentlemen’s Review – Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue – Beauty of Capri

August 24, 2016 By in Review Tags: , , , , 2 Comments

D&G Beauty of CapriDo not be mislead by the day on the calendar. Do not be mislead by the gradual proliferation of woolen and textured fabrics at your favorite men’s store. Do not be mislead by the steady progression of lessening sunlight and shorter days. True, the calendar might indicate that autumn commences September 22, 2016, however, summer is far from over gentlemen. Without a doubt, his summer has featured some scorching temperatures. The life and death struggle my grass has been experiencing these past few months is proof positive. Therefore, with summer positioned for an extended run into early October, I am examining a cologne I was introduced to in late May. General hardships associated with life have not eased for me, and a few unexpected curve balls have resulted in some blogging downtime. Nevertheless, Dolce & Gabbana’s Light Blue Beauty of Capri resonates beautifully today just as it did months ago. Adding it to your rotation of fragrances will yield not only immediate benefits, but it can also be placed on standby for Spring 2017 – yes, I am thinking ahead. Until then, let’s get down to business.

Observations

Top Notes: Cedrat, Sicilian Bergamot, Bitter Orange

Middle Notes: Neroli, Marine Accord, Sichuan Pepper

Base Notes: Cedar Wood, Vetiver, Myrrh, Musk

  • Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Beauty of Capri begins with a light introduction, but it does retain an energetic feel so it would be wise to exhibit restraint with applications. It is not terribly aggressive, but there is a definite presence of citrus notes that dominate the beginning. It will draw attention for all the right reasons.
  • The transition toward the middle notes is a seamless gravitation featuring a fresh, aromatic tone that compliments the top portion very well. Its presence is still very subtle and cool as it begins to deepen and settle into its base notes. Unsurprisingly, even the base notes are relatively sedate. Sometimes the base portion leans heavy and strong, but Light Blue Beauty of Capri keeps things moderately weighted with citrus notes of vetiver rounding out the overall fragrance, tempered by spicy touches of cedar. It’s a nice blend, as neither overpowers the other.
  • The presentation is clean and unremarkable. The curved bottle is standard-fare; a transparent light blue flacon houses the selected scent topped by an ivory cap.
  • Strictly a casual daytime cologne, I humbly suggest 5-6 applications, as this scent has a moderate lifespan before it begins to dissipate.
  • Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Beauty of Capri is intended for the gentleman that prefers relaxed, mellow environments that complement a quiet, smooth demeanor. Inconspicuous in its delivery, however, able to be distinguished amongst a crowd; Beauty of Capri works well during the summer and early fall. And as the temperatures begin to decline, don’t forget to put this scent on standby to be unearthed in the springtime.
  • Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Beauty of Capri 40 ml $55.00, 75 ml $68.00, 125 ml $78.00 – Available at Dolce & Gabbana, Macy’s, Bloomingdales, and other fine men’s department stores
Gentlemen’s Standard Approved
Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. Item was purchased for personal use. The opinions expressed are completely my own based on my experience.