No. 89 by Floris London: A Quintessential Classic with Unisex Elegance
Every so often, you come across a fragrance that feels timeless from the very first spray. No. 89 by Floris London is exactly that, a refined, quietly confident scent that carries almost 300 years of British perfumery heritage in its composition. I find No. 89 wonderfully unisex, with a sophistication that suits anyone who appreciates clean citrus, warm spice and polished woods.
With Christmas approaching, this is the kind of fragrance that makes an exceptional gift. It carries romance, history, craftsmanship and elegance, a scent that feels considered and personal. Whether you’re shopping for someone who loves traditional perfumery or someone who simply appreciates understated luxury, No. 89 is a beautiful choice.
You can find it at Selfridges here: https://www.selfridges.com/GB/en/product/floris-no89-eau-de-toilette-100ml_401-3005624-31114/
The Scent
Top Notes: Orange, Bergamot
Bright, crisp and undeniably uplifting. The citrus opening is clean rather than sharp, giving No. 89 its classic cologne freshness.
Heart Notes: Nutmeg
A gentle spice runs through the centre, adding warmth without heaviness. It’s subtle, refined and perfectly balanced.
Base Notes: Sandalwood, Cedarwood, Vetiver
This is where the scent settles into its true character: woody, elegant, slightly earthy, the definition of British refinement. Sandalwood softens the edges, cedarwood adds structure, and vetiver gives a touch of dryness that keeps the fragrance modern.
Why No. 89 Stands Out
This fragrance famously belonged to some of the great icons of British culture, and when you smell it, you immediately understand why. It’s confident without being loud, luxurious without being showy, and effortlessly timeless.
The magic of No. 89 is in its clean precision. Everything feels perfectly placed, blended with a perfumer’s discipline and a gentleman’s ease. Despite its heritage, it never smells old-fashioned instead, it feels classic in the best possible way.
A Perfect Christmas Gift
If you’re gifting fragrance this year, No. 89 is a safe yet thoughtful choice.
It’s:
Unisex in its elegance
Ideal for someone who loves well-structured, woody-citrus fragrances
Beautifully presented, as all Floris scents are
A piece of British heritage wrapped in modern wearability
Whether for a partner, a family member, or even as a personal treat, this scent feels meaningful, the kind of fragrance that becomes a signature, not just another bottle on the shelf.
Final Thoughts
No. 89 by Floris is refined, balanced and beautifully composed, a scent that feels both historic and freshly modern. If you appreciate citrus layered with spice and woods, or you love fragrances that whisper rather than shout, this is one to discover.
And as a Christmas gift? It’s as thoughtful and timeless as the fragrance itself.
Founder of this eponymous blog, focusing on men's fashion & lifestyle.


