Project #19: Armani Acqua di Giò EDT

Published on 2 February 2025 at 17:59

About the perfume / My Review:

Few fragrances have stood the test of time like the original Acqua di Giò by Giorgio Armani. Created by legendary perfumer Alberto Morillas, who joined forces with noses Annick Menardo and Christian Dussoulier, this scent defined an era and remains one of the most recognizable and best-selling men’s fragrances of all time.

Acqua di Giò is often described as the quintessential aquatic fragrance for men, and for good reason. It opens with a burst of citrusy freshness, featuring Calabrian bergamot, lemon, lime, and mandarin, all invigorated by a touch of creamy neroli. The marine notes immediately transport you to the Mediterranean coast, capturing the essence of a fresh sea breeze, and for this reason, this perfume is often described as ‘a wave of freshness’.

The heart of the fragrance is a harmonious blend of florals and aromatics, including jasmine, rosemary, coriander, and violet, with a touch of juicy peach. These elements add a subtle complexity while maintaining the airy, sun-kissed feel of the scent.

As the dry-down unfolds, Acqua di Giò reveals its understated masculinity. Patchouli, cedarwood, white musk, and oakmoss create a smooth, slightly earthy base that lingers on the skin, giving the fragrance its signature sensuality without ever being overpowering.

Despite its light and breezy character, Acqua di Giò performs surprisingly well on skin, offering moderate longevity (5-7 hours) with a soft to moderate sillage. It’s a fragrance that feels effortlessly elegant and never intrusive, making it the perfect choice for daily wear, office settings, casual outings, and warm-weather occasions.

It undoubtedly shines best in spring and summer, but thanks to its refined yet easygoing nature, it can be worn year-round, leaving a beautiful and clean trail.

More than two decades after its release, Acqua di Giò remains a benchmark for aquatic fragrances, both in the designer and niche realms. It’s a timeless, fresh, and sophisticated scent that continues to capture the essence of effortless masculinity.

Whether you’re rediscovering it or experiencing it for the first time, this fragrance proves why some classics never fade—they only become legends.