Not every occasion calls for the same fragrance. Despite being a skincare aficionado — even founding his eponymous skincare brand Chandra Skin, Gajen Chandra also dabbles with fragrances on the side, mastering every aspect of grooming. Reflecting his comedic personality, the influencer turned entrepreneur gives us a rundown of his top fragrance picks for every situation, whether normal or unhinged. From bad dates to spontaneous outings, he has a scent for every plot twist life throws your way.

You had the worst date of your life and you’re trying to bail, what trail of scent would you like to leave?

I’ll probably spam Dior Sauvage EDP. Hopefully they can decide if I’m either mysterious or a playboy 🤭

You’re trying to grab the attention of your local cafe’s barista, what fragrance is gonna make them stop and stare?

Definitely REPLICA Coffee Break. I love coffee, but I’m not sure how I feel about smelling like it. Then again, I’d do anything to impress Barista Trade.

You just got done working out at the gym, what fragrance are you using to mask the rank?

I’m torn between Calvin Klein Everyone EDP or the REPLICA Sailing Day. They’re both very fresh, perfect for cutting through the musky, “masham” smell.

You’re rushing to board a flight, what do you have on?

Usually when I’m at the airport, I go for body mists or sprays because I don’t wanna do too much but I still wanna smell good. I’d go with the Cheirosa 59! It’s a nice warm and woody scent that isn’t too strong or overpowering.

You’re at an underground rave at 3AM, what scent do you wanna fill the dancefloor with?

Okay, I’m gonna share with you my clubbing scent, the Arabian Oud W! It smells SO GOOD and lasts so long, literally all night. It has the perfect balance of woody, warm and fresh. It’s strong but it won’t give you a headache. I always get compliments whenever I wear this out at night. I wouldn’t wear this during the day though as it’s a bit too strong.

Fashion Week, what fragrance would you wear to smell better than the rest?

Very tricky because I’m literally surrounded by the creme de la creme of fragrance connoisseurs and everyone is going to project scents that it’s all gonna get mixed up anyway. My go-to would be the Replica Flying EDP. I feel like Flying really fits me. It’s a gender-neutral, citrusy, fresh scent that just smells *so* good.

Secret Santa with friends for Christmas

Every year, I celebrate Christmas with my brother in law and I always look forward to it. The JPG Le Male Elixir Parfum is the perfect scent for that. It starts off fresh — which is my favourite part — but then settles into a sweet, woody, and warm scent.

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