19 of the Top Fragrances to Explore If You're Embracing Your Cowboy Carter Phase Like Me
Gen Z Says is a bimonthly column that highlights the newest trends in fashion and beauty as viewed by Who What Wear's Gen Z editors. Readers can expect insights into the upcoming generation of tastemakers, emerging designers, and shopping and style trends coming from the trendsetting cohort. Growing up, I spent a considerable amount of time with both sets of grandparents (especially during those long, hot Southern summers). I recall several afternoons where I complained about having to sit quietly while my maternal grandfather indulged in marathon viewings of classic Westerns featuring icons like John Wayne, Gary Cooper, and Lee Van Cleef. After my grandfather's passing in 2016, I was reminded of him each time I saw a spaghetti Western on screen. Those moments brought back memories of our time together when he was in his 80s. Now, every time I hear the theme song from Rawhide, I am instantly transported back to that living room, enjoying iced tea, butterscotch candies, and watching lone rangers ride into the sunset on repeat. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the Wild West faced significant issues. One doesn't need to be a historian to recognize the violence, prejudice, and colonization that were prevalent under the guise of exploring "untamed" land. Nonetheless, the notion of the Wild West and the cowboys involved in the Western expansion is deeply embedded in the American consciousness.
When Beyoncé released her album Cowboy Carter last spring, it resonated with me as a Black woman navigating a complicated relationship with history while growing up in the West. I’m thrilled that various interpretations of Western icons are being embraced that challenge traditional views. To express my renewed appreciation for Western-inspired aesthetics and to celebrate the launch of the Cowboy Carter tour, I’m compiling a list of the 19 best fragrances that make me want to don my boots and splurge on a cowboy hat.
The Best Western-Coded Fragrances
**Boy Smells**
**Cowboy Kush Eau de Parfum**
Scent Type: earthy spices
Key Notes: hazelnut, white leather, cannabis, suede, tonka bean, patchouli
Fragrances inspired by the Wild West tend to be warm and earthy; however, when a perfume comes along that introduces an unexpected note, I take notice. This fragrance features blooming cannabis flower at its core, complemented by warm hazelnut and soft white leather top notes. It concludes with smooth tonka bean and earthy patchouli, resulting in a unique combination that leaves a smoky finish.
Customer Review: "This smells like a picturesque cowboy relaxing after a long day rolling up a doobie while the sun sets. It’s musky and earthy yet keeps drawing you in. One of my favorite tobacco scents I’ve ever tried! Planning to order the full size. If you want to smell edgy, earthy, and musky with a twist, this is for you!"
**By Rosie Jane**
**Dylan Eau de Parfum**
Scent Type: earthy woods
Key Notes: cedar, frankincense, white musk
Dylan Eau de Parfum embodies what I envision a lone ranger would wear on an adventurous journey through vast plains. The fragrance combines soft cedar and the cool spiciness of frankincense with a base of white musk. Inspired by uniqueness and freedom, just a few spritzes are enough to empower you for the day ahead.
Customer Review: "I’m absolutely in love with this. I sprayed it at the start of the day, and it evolved into numerous notes over the next 8-12 hours. It feels like a warm embrace at a bonfire with whiskey in hand! Very unique."
**Byredo**
**Animalique Eau de Parfum**
Scent Type: amber floral
Key Notes: bergamot, lemon, violet, mimosa, suede, tobacco leaf, amber
What would a cowboy be without a horse to take them wherever they please? If hay or grass isn’t your preference, but you still desire a unisex scent that evokes a cozy earthiness, this is the choice for you. It opens with fresh lemon and bergamot top notes that lead to warm mimosa and violet, finishing with a base of cozy suede, amber, and tobacco leaf.
Customer Review: "Gorgeous scent with impressive longevity! Many asked about my perfume throughout the day! Such a rich, beautiful aroma, suitable for any occasion. The amber and tobacco leaf deliver a deep, woody essence balanced with a hint of bergamot!"
**D.S. & Durga**
**Cowboy Grass Eau de Parfum**
Scent Type: fresh woods
Key Notes: rosemary, wild thyme, bergamot, sage, basil, rose otto, vetiver, grass, ambrette
When I think of old Western films, I picture the prairies filled with switchgrass from the Wild West. Cowboy Grass is centered around this note,
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