Stetson, from Coty was released in 1981. The perfumer behind this creation is unknown. It has the top notes of Bergamot, Clary Sage, Lavender, Lemon, and Lime, middle notes of Carnation, Cedarwood, Geranium, Jasmine, Orris Root, Patchouli, and Vetiver, and base notes of Amber, Honey, Musk, Tonka Bean, and Vanilla.
Stetson is a very 80s fragrance, as soon as you first smell it you’re transported to a period of loud barbershop smells and bold characters. With Francois Coty having died in 1934, this fragrance was obviously not made by the man himself - which I believe can be felt. It’s still a wonderful scent however; an aromatic, earthy and herbaceous combination of lavender, sage and patchouli develops into a warm, floral heart. A sweet base of honeyed musks and creamy vanillin and coumarin contrasts this beautifully. It’s got that old school men’s aftershave feel about it, with an element of Chypre hiding beneath. I have a sample from a vintage bottle, and it really does come alive on the skin. To me this clearly smells like it could well have been the inspiration behind Giorgio for Men which was to follow just 3 years after this was released. A classic in men’s perfumery.