Eau de Cologne was probably the very first “perfume” I could name.
Some forty years later, I still love the fragrance. I’ve had expensivish, “real” perfumes but to be honest, I was never a big fan, used them only on really special occasions (a small bottle could last over three years) and, while there were I few that I really liked, I’m a bit ashamed to admit that I’d happily trade them for a good Eau de Cologne.
The only thing really holding me back is that it seems to be considered a bit tacky. Sure, cheap Cologne doesn’t smell particularly great, but then all cheap perfumes are nothing special with some borderline offensive, which Eau de Cologne never is to me.
It sounds as if you are talking about a particular formulation rather than generic “cologne,” but aren’t there still different versions and brands of “eau de Cologne?” Which is the one you like?
Yes, I was talking about this specific fragrance, which is very distinctive. There are some variations (lavender and “amber” being particularly widespread) but they’re all based on a combination of various citrus oils.
I didn’t know about the American English usage. Definitely not what I meant.
Thanks for the clarification. My grandmother (born in 1899) had a number of different fragrances and brand names all labelled “Eau de Cologne”.
So I read the OP as if it said “Gee, I sure do like perfume. Always thought perfume smelled great. Some people think it’s tacky, but what do you think? Do you like the smell of perfume?”
Thank you for the clarification – I was confused, as well.
See this section in the Wikipedia article on perfume (and dilution classes) for more information on the inconsistency in terminology around “eau de cologne” and “cologne,” particularly in the U.S.
Ha, I was confused, too. I usually prefer perfume to (generic) eau de cologne, because it lasts longer and usually smells better to me. I know about 4711, but I don’t think I’ve ever smelled it knowingly. But if it’s citrus-based I’d like to try it.
Exactly this. It should be a small part of your general presence, not an assault on the senses. A bit like the difference between a bit of glitter, a stage dress and a toreador’s costume.
What I like about 4711 is its ability to go from oops, too much! to a pleasant wafting scent as soon as it dries on your skin. I don’t like sickly sweet perfumes or colognes that are popular now.
4711 is a classic that has been around for centuries, despite all those ingredients, it is light and refreshing if you just dab a little on. What is tacky is 99% of the cheap stink juice you can buy at the shop at the mall. Thousands of beautiful bottles and products, and it all smells like rotting fruit mixed with plug in air fresheners. It’s for the young, who recoil from the real perfumes as being too ‘old lady’ - not to mention far too expensive for them to buy. A nice version of 4711 sold there would be…well, nice!
