We all have to start somewhere! This is my full disclosure! This is where I'm at, and this is where I'm starting from! I have not worn a fragrance of any kind for two decades or so. Last year, a family emergency called me back home. I found this Gillette Cool Wave aftershave in the medicine cabinet, and as I have also started shaving again after many years, I decided, what the heck, may as well try it! I understand, the reason for using alcohol-based aftershave was to cauterize the skin to prevent infection, but it seems like that's no longer the fashion these days. That said, I do enjoy the scent of this, but it doesn't last long. 1-2 hours, if I'm lucky! I'm also using a modern skin lotion I've acquired on my face after shaving and applying a small amount of this aftershave. So it's not all bad! I just thought you guys would probably get a laugh out of the closest thing to "fragrance" currently in my possession. I'm looking forward to upgrading to something better soon!

Can the little fragrance samples be acquired online and shipped to your residence, or must one actually walk into a brick and mortar store? Or perhaps there's some other method I haven't thought of? I'm interested in sampling several specific fragrances without spending much and without leaving home if possible. What are your suggestions?

I've only just begun my style journey in recent months after decades of unforgivable slouchiness! My goal is to re-create a classic style such as was popular from the 1920s through the early 1960s. Think movie star gents like Humphrey Bogart and Cary Grant. That said, I'm not a stickler for historical accuracy and am not afraid to yield to modern features or affordability where it makes sense. I have not owned or worn a men's fragrance for at least two decades, and had very limited experience back then. Finally, I'm ready to begin exploring the world of fragrances! To dovetail with my desire for classic style, I'm wondering, are there any classic fragrances that were popular back in the early 20th century and may have been in the collection of some of my style icons that are still on the market (and worth wearing) today? Do you think it would be worthwhile for me to acquire one of these as a first fragrance and foundation for my future collection, or would I be better served putting aside this fantasy and looking for a more modern choice? Speaking of modern, are there any more recent brands that conjure up the same vibes as some of those classic scents, but are so far superior (or less expensive) that I should seriously consider them instead? What questions should I have asked and failed to? I'm open to your suggestions, and excited to hear what you have to say. Thanks in advance!

New "Introduce Yourself" Thread: https://www.skool.com/bos/introduce-yourself-here-post-all-intros-on-this-thread Introduce yourself and level-up, it's that simple! You'll get at least 5 likes (oftentimes more!) which will move you to level 2 and on your way to level 3 (these levels give you access to prizes!). What to say in your intro? Share where you're from, your reason for joining, your profession, perhaps your favorite fragrance or a picture of your entire collection! Whether you're a seasoned cologne collector or just starting, have fun engaging with the group.

If you could give just one piece of advice to those just beginning their fragrance journey, what would it be?