Kenneth Cole Black (2023) Full Review – Do You Need It?
Black.
An affordable and easy-to-wear fragrance for men.
Kenneth Cole Black was released in 2003. It is based on greens, spices, and citruses. It lasts four to five hours on the skin with light projection. In this review, I will describe its smell and performance and if it’s worth it.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Yet, we only endorse fragrances we’ve personally used or are highly recommended by trusted peers. You can learn more about our Disclaimer & Disclosure here.
Table of Contents
What Does Kenneth Cole Black Smell Like?
The opening starts bright and citric with a prominent orange note, a hint of grapefruit, and equal-mint freshness. In the background is a slight aquatic feel, but it is fleeting. Within a few minutes, the mint gets noticeably more aromatic and green.
As the scent progresses into the mid, the orange is still at the forefront while the mint weakens. There is a semi-sweet and dry powder addition from a lotus flower. A slight musk nuance and a woody, amber, and slightly smoky incense rest in the background.
The dry-down simplifies. It is musky and aromatic with the lingering woods, amber, and slightly smoky incense nuances in the background, giving the fragrance depth.
Kenneth Cole Black notes:
TOP NOTES
- Mandarin Orange
- Water Mint
- Ginger
- Basil
MID NOTES
- Lotus
- Incense
- Cedar
- Nutmeg
- Exotic Woods
BASE NOTES
- Musk
- Violet Leaf
- Suede
- Amber
Performance
Kenneth Cole Black lasts four to five hours on the skin with light projection. It pushes out two feet in the first one to two hours, then becomes a skin scent. The sillage doesn’t fair much better. This doesn’t project or smell any better with movement. This performance is with five sprays.
This is all-season and occasion wear – one of its best aspects. Don’t be afraid to overspray in the colder temperatures. I have worn it in the depths of winter but with diminishing returns. After ten sprays, it only performs so well before it pukes altogether.
The uniqueness is average to below average. This is a very versatile fragrance, but it has a scent profile found in many other green and citrus fragrances. Lastly, the likability and mass appeal are above average. This won’t get a ton of compliments, but it won’t offend anyone.
Final Words
The final burning question is, is Kenneth Cole Black worth it? Yes. The performance could be better. However, it can’t be beat for around $35 on discounters. I don’t wear this often, but when I do, I’m always pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoy it.
After you try Kenneth Cole Black, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.