Just when you think you’ve seen it all: Did you know that there existed such a thing as a Corvette-branded cologne?
The overlap between the automotive and fashion industries has been going on for decades (here’s an Eddie Bauer + Ford example). But did you know that cars and fragrances also go hand-in-hand? At least, they did in 1996, when Corvette Cologne for Men ran a full-page ad in Car and Driver magazine.
The ad said, “The Cool Scent is Corvette Cologne for Men. An easy-to-wear, long-lasting masculine blend of citrus, lavender and bracing spearmint, rich leathers, and warm woods. In the 1.7-oz spray size, ideal for the bathroom, bedroom, suitcase, or glove box.”
Of course, “in-car” sensory experiences are nothing new. For example, Mercedes-Benz has been offering built-in air fresheners with customizable scents for many years. The company calls its current solution the “Air Balance” system, and it works by combining air ionization, charcoal filtration, and a glove box-mounted atomizer to purify air and disperse fragrance. But having something that’s actually wearable fosters a completely different level of connection with an end user.
According to a 2021 story from Road & Track magazine, some of the car/cologne partnerships over the years have included Bentley for Men, Ford Mustang for Men, Ferrari Scuderia Red, and Jaguar Classic Black, among others. So, if you have a friend or loved one who’s a car geek and already “has everything,” maybe a car-themed scent is a solid gift idea.
Unfortunately, so far, I haven’t found one that smells like a coolant leak or burning rubber.
