
Dolce and Gabbana The One – Notes, Longevity and Price Guide
Launched in 2008, Dolce & Gabbana The One for Men has become a benchmark for sophisticated evening fragrances. Known for its warm, spicy character, it balances elegance with modern appeal. This guide breaks down the scent notes, compares the EDT and EDP versions, and outlines UK prices to help you decide which variant suits you.
What Are the Notes of Dolce and Gabbana The One for Men?
Key Insights
- Dolce & Gabbana The One for Men EDP is a deeper, more intense version of the original EDT, offering better longevity.
- The fragrance is widely regarded as a top-tier date-night scent, not an everyday office wear.
- Most users report 4-6 hours longevity for EDP, 2-4 hours for EDT.
- Tobacco and Amber base notes make it a cold-weather signature scent.
Snapshot Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Dolce & Gabbana |
| Line | The One |
| Launch Year | 2008 (Men EDT), 2015 (Men EDP) |
| Perfumer | Olivier Cresp (EDT), Nathalie Lorson (EDP) |
| Top Notes (EDP) | Grapefruit, Coriander, Basil |
| Heart Notes (EDP) | Cardamom, Ginger, Orange Blossom |
| Base Notes (EDP) | Amber, Tobacco, Cedar |
| Gender | Men (also separate line for Women) |
| Concentrations | EDT, EDP |
| Sizes | 50ml, 75ml, 100ml, 150ml (EDP) |
The fragrance is characterized as a spicy, oriental perfume with a warm spiciness profile. Reviewers note a chocolatey tobacco sweetness with woody undertones, making it particularly suitable for fall and winter wear. The top notes of the EDP include grapefruit, coriander, and basil, which give way to a heart of cardamom, ginger, and orange blossom. The base is anchored by amber, tobacco, and cedar, creating a lingering, sophisticated finish.
How Long Does Dolce and Gabbana The One Last?
Longevity and projection are among the most frequently discussed aspects of this fragrance, and they differ noticeably between the EDT and EDP versions.
Eau de Toilette (EDT)
The EDT version offers a longevity of approximately 4-5 hours. Its projection is medium, extending roughly an arm’s length for the first 1.5-2 hours before settling closer to the skin. On Fragrantica, it holds a rating of 4.26/5.
Eau de Parfum (EDP)
The EDP provides better longevity, typically lasting 5-7 hours on the skin. Its projection is slightly better than the EDT, though the difference is not drastic. Reviewers describe the EDP as having a more mature presentation while maintaining daytime wearability.
The EDP provides better longevity and slightly enhanced projection compared to the EDT, though the difference is modest. For those seeking an all-day presence, the EDP is the recommended choice.
Overall, The One earns a rating of 4.3/5 at The Perfume Shop. Reviewers consider the EDT an excellent purchase given its pricing and performance, while the EDP is viewed as a worthwhile upgrade for those seeking enhanced longevity and sophistication.
What Sizes and Prices Are Available for The One?
Pricing and availability vary depending on the concentration and retailer. Below is a breakdown of UK prices and sizes.
UK Pricing (The Perfume Shop)
- 50ml EDT: £72.00
- 100ml EDT: £98.00
UK Pricing (Discounter/Comparison)
- 150ml EDP: Best price found at £59.95 (compared from 3 UK shops)
- General range for EDP: From £64.99
US Pricing Reference
- 50ml EDT: Approximately $40 USD (at discounters)
The EDP is available in 50ml, 75ml, 100ml, and 150ml sizes. The EDT is commonly found in 50ml and 100ml bottles. For the best value on the largest size, the 150ml EDP is often the most cost-effective option per millilitre.
The Evolution of Dolce & Gabbana The One for Men
- 2008: Launch of The One for Men Eau de Toilette.
- 2015: Launch of The One for Men Eau de Parfum (intensified version).
- 2020s: The One becomes a flagship date-night fragrance at retailers like Sephora and Ulta.
- 2023: Increased availability via online retailers such as Boots and PerfumePrice.
What Is Certain and Uncertain About The One?
- The EDP contains a higher concentration of fragrance oils than the EDT.
- Top notes of The One for Men EDP include Grapefruit, Coriander, and Basil.
- Tobacco and Amber are the primary base notes in the EDP.
- Individual skin chemistry significantly alters the scent and longevity.
- User reviews vary widely on longevity (2h to 8h for the same concentration).
How Does The One Fit Into the Fragrance Market?
The One is positioned as a premium seductive fragrance, competing with YSL La Nuit de L’Homme and Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gio Profumo. Despite its popularity, the EDT version is criticized for poor longevity, which the EDP version corrects. The fragrance outperforms in cooler months due to its warm, spicy, and tobacco-heavy profile.
What Are the Official Sources Saying?
Top notes are Grapefruit, Coriander and Basil; middle notes are Cardamom, Ginger and Orange Blossom; base notes are Amber, Tobacco and Cedar.
Fragrantica.com
Browse Dolce & Gabbana The One fragrance at Boots.
Boots.com
Delving into a deeper, more refined scent for the connoisseur of fragrance.
PerfumePrice.co.uk
The Bottom Line: Is The One Right for You?
Both EDT and EDP formulations are recommended depending on your priorities—EDT for value and versatility, EDP for enhanced performance and sophistication. The fragrance is best suited for fall and winter evenings, making it a reliable choice for date nights and special occasions. For additional context, see our Best men’s perfumes for date night 2025 guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Dolce and Gabbana The One for Men and for Women?
The Men’s version is spicy and woody (tobacco, amber), while the Women’s version is floral and fruity (peach, jasmine, vanilla). They are completely different scent compositions.
Can I wear The One for Men in the summer?
The One performs best in fall and winter. In heat, the amber and tobacco can become cloying. Light sprays in air-conditioned environments are OK.
Is The One EDP worth the higher price?
Yes, if you value longevity and sillage. The EDT fades quickly (2-3 hours), while the EDP lasts 5-7 hours on skin and projects better.
Does The One come in a gift set?
Yes. The Fragrance Shop and Boots offer The One EDP gift sets that include a matching shower gel or deodorant.
Is The One suitable for men over 40?
Yes. The warm tobacco and amber notes are mature, sophisticated, and work well for men in their 30s and 40s seeking a refined scent.
What is the best concentration for The One perfume?
The EDP offers the best balance of longevity and projection. The EDT is lighter and better for those on a budget or who prefer subtlety.
Where can I buy Dolce and Gabbana The One 100ml?
The perfume is available at Boots, The Fragrance Shop, and online retailers like Perfume Price. Prices vary, so compare before buying.
Does Boots sell Dolce and Gabbana The One?
Yes, Boots stocks The One for Men in both EDT and EDP concentrations, as well as gift sets.
What are the top notes of The One for Men EDP?
The top notes of The One for Men EDP are grapefruit, coriander, and basil.
What is the drydown like for The One EDP?
The drydown reveals a warm, slightly sweet blend of tobacco, amber, and cedar, with a hint of lingering spice from cardamom.