Burberry Summer For Men 2013 Review: Your Perfect Sun-Kissed Scent
A bottled escape into invigorating freshness and understated charm.
Ah, Burberry. The very name conjures images of classic British style, of trench coats and crisp tailoring. But for us fragrance aficionados, it also whispers of olfactory tales, of scents that capture moments and moods. Today, my friends, we delve into a particular chapter of the Burberry story: Burberry Summer For Men 2013. This isn't just a fragrance; it's a passport to a sun-drenched afternoon, a fleeting yet potent memory captured in liquid form. Launched as part of Burberry's annual summer series, this particular iteration aimed to encapsulate the essence of a carefree, warm-weather escape. It arrived on the scene not as a groundbreaking revolution, but as a welcome, familiar embrace of freshness and understated masculinity, slotting perfectly into Burberry's lineage of accessible yet sophisticated scents.
In the vast landscape of designer fragrances, Burberry Summer For Men 2013 carved out its niche as a reliable companion for warmer days. It stood out for its bright, invigorating opening and its comfortable, easy-to-wear drydown. While Burberry has a robust portfolio of fragrances, from the timeless Mr. Burberry to the more contemporary Weekend, the Summer editions always held a special place. They were designed to be lighter, more ephemeral, perfect for those who sought a scent that wouldn't overwhelm but would instead offer a subtle, pleasant aura. This 2013 iteration was part of a tradition of seasonal releases, each aiming to bottle the spirit of a particular time of year, making it a collectible for those who appreciated the brand's seasonal narrative.
The inspiration behind Burberry Summer For Men 2013 was, quite literally, summer itself. Imagine the warmth of the sun on your skin, the crisp scent of foliage after a light rain, the invigorating zest of citrus fruits ripening under a clear blue sky. The perfumers sought to translate these sensory experiences into a wearable olfactive journey. It’s about that feeling of freedom, of shedding the heavier layers of life and embracing the light, the airy, the vibrant. It’s the scent of a weekend getaway, a spontaneous road trip, or simply a leisurely stroll through a sunlit park. The concept is pure escapism, a bottled vacation for the senses, designed to uplift and refresh.
While perhaps not a legendary icon that sparks endless debates in fragrance forums, Burberry Summer For Men 2013 has garnered a loyal following amongst those who appreciate its specific charm. Its reputation is that of a dependable, pleasant, and remarkably versatile summer scent. It’s often praised for its clean profile and its ability to evoke positive feelings without being overly complex or demanding. For many, it represents a perfect entry point into more nuanced fragrances, or a go-to for daily wear when something lighter is desired. It’s a scent that doesn’t demand attention but quietly earns admiration, embodying a relaxed confidence that resonates with its wearers.
The Nose Behind the Scent
Olivier Polge. A highly respected perfumer with an exceptionally refined palate and a deep understanding of scent architecture. Polge has a remarkable portfolio that spans both niche and designer houses, known for creating compositions that are both modern and timeless, often with a sophisticated, understated elegance. His background includes significant work with IFF and his current role as the exclusive in-house perfumer for Chanel. Other notable creations include Dior Homme, Dior Homme Intense, and numerous Chanel fragrances.
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
The initial impression is a dazzling burst of invigorating freshness. The mint is crisp and cooling, immediately awakening the senses. This is quickly joined by the zesty tang of citrus, a bright, almost effervescent explosion that speaks of pure sunshine. The green leaves add a subtle, natural undertone, like a gentle breeze rustling through a garden. It's a clean, vibrant, and incredibly uplifting start, setting the stage for what's to come.
As the opening notes begin to soften, the heart of the fragrance emerges, bringing a sophisticated warmth and depth. The ginger introduces a gentle, aromatic spice that is neither overpowering nor sharp, adding a touch of intrigue. Thyme contributes an herbaceous, slightly medicinal quality that grounds the brighter elements. The marine accord is crucial here, offering a subtle salty breeze, a hint of the ocean that prevents the fragrance from becoming too sweet or cloying. It’s a beautifully balanced phase, where freshness meets a subtle, earthy spice.
The final act is one of comforting warmth and refined masculinity. The woody notes of cedarwood provide a solid, grounding foundation, exuding a clean, slightly smoky aroma. Vetiver adds its characteristic earthy, slightly leathery nuance, lending a sophisticated dryness. Finally, the amber accord wraps everything in a soft, warm embrace, adding a touch of subtle sweetness and longevity. This phase is smooth, elegant, and incredibly pleasant, leaving a lingering trail that is both inviting and memorable. It’s the scent of the sun setting, leaving a warm glow.
Performance Dashboard
This fragrance is surprisingly tenacious for a summer EDT. On average, you can expect it to last between 6 to 8 hours on the skin, with a noticeable presence for the majority of that time. It's not a beast mode performer, but it certainly outlasts many lighter summer colognes.
The projection is moderate and well-behaved, which is ideal for a summer scent. It creates a pleasant scent bubble around you, noticeable to those in your immediate vicinity for the first 2-3 hours, before settling into a closer, more intimate aura.
The sillage leaves a subtle yet discernible trail. It’s not an overwhelming aroma that announces your arrival from across the room, but rather a gentle, pleasant scent signature that follows you, leaving a positive impression without being intrusive.
When to Wear
Community Verdict
While not a scent that screams for attention, Burberry Summer For Men 2013 consistently receives positive remarks. It's often described as "clean," "fresh," and "pleasant." Compliments tend to come from people who appreciate subtle, good-smelling fragrances rather than those who are actively seeking out a signature scent. It’s the kind of fragrance that makes people think, "You smell nice," rather than demanding, "What are you wearing?",
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Invigorating Freshness: The opening is exceptionally bright and uplifting, perfect for hot weather.
- ✅ Pleasant & Versatile: It’s an easy-to-wear scent that fits a wide range of casual occasions and environments.
- ✅ Subtle Sophistication: The blend of citrus, spice, and wood offers a refined and mature aroma without being heavy.
- ✅ Good for Beginners: Its accessible profile makes it a great starting point for those new to fragrances.
- ❌ Moderately Lasting: While good for an EDT, some may wish for longer longevity on very hot days.
- ❌ Not Unique Enough for Some: As a seasonal release, it doesn't break entirely new ground, which might disappoint fragrance connoisseurs seeking novelty.
- ❌ Can be Subtle: For those who prefer a fragrance that makes a bold statement, this might be too understated.
Price & Value
“For a designer summer EDT, the value is quite good. You're getting a well-crafted, pleasant, and reliable fragrance from a reputable brand. While not a budget option, its performance and overall scent quality justify the price, especially when found on sale. It’s an investment in a versatile scent that will serve you well for multiple summers.”
📜 Reformulation History
As with many limited edition seasonal fragrances, there's always a possibility of subtle batch variations or minor tweaks over the years. However, there are no widely reported or significant reformulations that drastically alter the character of Burberry Summer For Men 2013. The core DNA of this scent has remained consistent, offering a reliable olfactory experience for those who seek it out.
Who It's For
✅ Ideal For
- Men aged 20-45
- Those with an active lifestyle or who enjoy outdoor activities
- Individuals who prefer fresh, citrusy, and woody fragrances
- Men seeking a pleasant, inoffensive signature scent for warmer weather
- Fans of classic British style and understated elegance
⚠️ Not Recommended For
- Individuals who prefer heavy, dark, or gourmand fragrances
- Those seeking a powerful, attention-grabbing scent for clubbing or very formal evening events
- People with extremely sensitive skin who react to citrus or mint notes
Explore More
🔍 Similar Fragrances
A benchmark for fresh, aquatic, and citrusy men's fragrances, sharing a similar bright, invigorating spirit.
Offers a clean, Mediterranean-inspired blend of citrus, floral, and woody notes, akin to the fresh and airy qualities.
Features a prominent grapefruit and aquatic note, evoking a similar breezy, sun-kissed feel.
While more complex, it shares a vibrant citrus opening and a clean, woody drydown that resonates with the Burberry scent.
💡 Clone Alternatives
Often cited for its fresh, aquatic, and green profile, it shares a clean, everyday wearability, though less spicy.
Some find similarities in its fresh and slightly spicy opening, offering a budget-friendly option for a bright scent.
❤️ You May Also Enjoy
For its aquatic and slightly mineralic freshness.
For its unique yuzu citrus and aquatic notes.
A more modern take on citrus freshness with a cool, icy edge.
A timeless aquatic fougère that shares the spirit of clean, refreshing masculinity.
More from burberry
🧪 Layering Ideas
- A light, clean body wash or lotion with citrus or mint notes: To bolster the opening freshness.
- A subtle vanilla or tonka bean-based fragrance: Applied sparingly to the pulse points, this can add a touch of warmth and depth to the drydown, creating a more sensual evening scent.
- A simple, clean musk fragrance: To enhance longevity and add a smooth, skin-like quality to the overall scent profile.
🏆 Final Verdict
Burberry Summer For Men 2013 is more than just a seasonal fragrance; it’s an experience. It’s the bottled essence of a perfect summer day – bright, refreshing, and effortlessly cool. If you're searching for a scent that embodies carefree optimism, that lifts your spirits with its invigorating opening and settles into a warm, comforting embrace, then this is for you. It’s the ideal companion for everything from a casual stroll to a leisurely afternoon spent soaking up the sun. Its sophisticated blend of citrus, aromatic herbs, and subtle woods makes it a versatile choice that will garner pleasant compliments without ever being overbearing. For those who appreciate a clean, crisp, and understated masculinity, Burberry Summer For Men 2013 is a wise addition to any fragrance collection, a reminder that the best moments are often the simplest, and that a great scent can elevate them all.