What I love about the Gendarme fragrance line is that I always feel like I just got out of the shower when I wear it. It’s a very subtle scent that always spikes interest but never overpowers. Most of the time I will forget that I have it on until someone else notices the smell. For a very long time I didn’t tell people what I was wearing if they asked, but after a good conversation with the owner & creator, Topper Schroeder, he convinced me otherwise. 🙂

His story behind the creation is an interesting and even inspiring one. After being unable to find a cologne that he liked that also didn’t irritate the skin or cause other adverse reactions, Topper decided to develop his own project simply for his own use. He made this decision despite not having had any prior background in fragrance aside from simply being a consumer, but he took the time to learn the craft on his own and with experienced professionals. The rest, as they say, is history. The cologne was launched, and thanks to old fashioned word-of-mouth generated over the years by celebrities, tastemakers, and — going full circle — everyday consumers like Topper once was, Gendarme has grown into a whole line of grooming products as well as spawned the Gendarmerie Boutique and Spa in West Hollywood.

You can win a chance to sample the Gendarme scent and experience — as well as win a $100 cash prize! — by entering the site relaunch contest. Further details and instructions can be found here.