&Horace Fragrance Review – Fresh, Clean & Stylish French Scent for Men

Review: &Horace Fragrance – Fresh, Clean, and Effortlessly French

I first reviewed &Horace when it launched, but wearing it again this summer in the south of France has reminded me why I rated it so highly. In the warm southern air, its crisp freshness feels effortless, its staying power impressive, and its character unmistakably French. It’s a fragrance that feels just right for long sunny days, yet transitions perfectly into the back-to-work season. In this updated review, I’ll share why &Horace has once again become one of my favourite scents for men.

About Horace & Their First Fragrance

Horace is a Paris-based brand that’s built a loyal following with its no-nonsense approach to men’s grooming — natural ingredients, minimalist packaging, and products that simply work.

&Horace was their debut into the world of fragrance, and it captures exactly what the brand stands for: simplicity, freshness, and a touch of French sophistication. This isn’t your heavy, overpowering cologne. Instead, it’s designed to feel like clean skin after a shower, with just enough complexity to make you memorable.

What &Horace Smells Like

Top Notes

• Bergamot: Bright and uplifting, like a fresh breeze through sun-dried laundry.

• White Pepper: Brings a subtle kick that keeps the opening lively.

• Rum: Adds a soft sweetness that gently hints at the warmth beneath.

Heart Notes

• Iris: Smooth and lightly powdery, evoking the comfort of a clean cotton T-shirt.

• Cedarwood: Crisp and dry, giving the fragrance a structured backbone.

• Davana: Warm and slightly fruity, adding a relaxed softness.

Base Notes

• Sandalwood: Creamy and mellow, wrapping the scent in a comforting layer.

• Tobacco: Gentle and refined, with a smoky-woody undertone that lingers close to the skin.

Overall, it’s the olfactory equivalent of a crisp white shirt and well-fitted chinos — relaxed yet refined.

When & How I Wear It

I’ve worn &Horace to weekend lunches, evening drinks, and during my summer holidays here in France. It’s light enough for the workplace yet versatile enough to take you into the evening.

In summer, it feels at home paired with a linen shirt, loafers, and sunglasses — casual but elevated.

Longevity & Projection

On my skin, &Horace lasts around 5–6 hours before becoming a softer, closer scent. Projection is moderate — people notice it when you’re near, but it won’t overpower a meeting room. Personally, I think this is exactly how a modern summer/work fragrance should behave.

Why I Recommend It

I’ve tested dozens of fresh fragrances over the years, from niche Parisian blends to big designer releases, and &Horace still stands out. It’s stylish without being flashy, versatile without being boring, and French without being pretentious. If you’re looking for a signature scent that works just as well in August heat as it does on a September morning commute, this is a winner.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Clean, fresh, and versatile

• A true compliment magnet

• Minimalist, stylish bottle

• Perfect balance of casual and refined

Cons:

• Longevity could be longer for evening wear

• Not for those who prefer strong, bold scents

Final Thoughts

&Horace is more than just a fragrance — it’s a mood. Fresh, confident, and quietly sophisticated. It’s the kind of scent that works in almost any situation and makes you smell like you’ve just stepped out of a Paris apartment. If you want a clean, modern fragrance with that unmistakable French touch, I highly recommend adding it to your collection.

The & Horace fragrance is available at Horace.com with delivery to the US-UK-Belgium-Germany and France.

Jerome

About the Author
I’m Jerome, founder of Dapper & Groomed, a men’s lifestyle blog I’ve been running since 2013. Over the past decade, I’ve tested and reviewed hundreds of men’s fragrances and skincare products, working with both established and niche brands from around the world. My goal is to give honest, experience-based recommendations that help men look, feel, and smell their best.