$100 Starter Collection - Fall 2024

Hey guys, Joe A. here with another one for ya’! This whole series started when I saw a $500 “budget” starter collection and thought, “Man… when I was in my early to late teens, I didn’t have anything close to that kind of money.” So I wanted to create something realistic, especially for the younger crowd (and honestly anyone watching their spending) who still wants a solid seasonal lineup without breaking the bank.

 

So here for your consideration is one realistic, well-rounded Fall starter collection you can build today for under a crisp C-Note (yes, even after Uncle Sam gets his slice). This time around, we’re going with five fragrances that’ll handle nearly every situation Fall throws at you, from cozy nights to office days to holiday gatherings.

 

(Versatile / Dumb Reach)

Versace The Dreamer (100ml tester ~$20.49)

Retailer: AuraFragrance

 

The Dreamer is one of those unique classics that somehow still feels timeless. It opens with aromatic notes of juniper and artemisia, then drifts into a floral heart built around iris, smooth, airy, almost whimsical. A soft, slightly sweet tobacco note rests in the background, giving it a masculine anchor without ever tipping into heaviness.

Why it works for Fall: It handles both warmer and cooler days, making it great for that unpredictable early-Fall weather.

Why it fits the category: This is the perfect “grab-and-go” scent when you want something a little dreamy, a little nostalgic, but still clean and gentlemanly.

 

(Office / Work / Daytime Casual)

Karl Lagerfeld Bois de Yuzu (100ml tester ~$17.63)

Retailer: FragranceNet — requires 37% off coupon

 

Bois de Yuzu opens with a refreshing burst of mint and bright yuzu, invigorating without feeling juvenile. As it settles, nutmeg and green woods come through, giving the scent a refined, quietly masculine backbone. The dry-down leans earthy with mossy tones that feel grounded and subtly sophisticated.

Why it works for Fall: That citrus-green combo fits perfectly when the air starts cooling but still has some energy to it.

Why it fits the category: Balanced, clean, and office-friendly — the kind of scent that works from morning meetings straight into early-evening errands.

 

(Formal / Dressier Occasions)

Maison Alhambra Exclusif Oud (100ml ~$21.41)

Retailer: FragranceNet — coupon required

 

While the more-hyped Exclusif Tabac gets a lot of attention, Exclusif Oud holds its own beautifully and it's easier to find. It opens with a bold woody presence that gradually melts into soft spice and a touch of sweetness. Leather and gentle floral rose nuances weave throughout, giving it depth without being overwhelming.

Why it works for Fall: Oud, spice, and leather all shine when temps drop, this one warms up beautifully in crisp evening air.

Why it fits the category: Perfect for dressy coffees, dinners, events, or anywhere you want to smell “luxurious” on a budget.

 

(Autumn Date Nights)

Zara Rich Warm Addictive (100ml ~$27.90)

Retailer: Zara Official Website

 

Rich Warm Addictive does exactly what the name promises and yes, it's addicting! The opening is sweet and slightly spicy, then it drifts into creamy coconut and warm honey; cozy, seductive and incredibly inviting. The coconut here isn’t beachy; it’s refined and smooth, more like the inside of a warm café pastry case.

Why it works for Fall: Cool evenings plus warm, sweet notes? Perfect pairing.

Why it fits the category: This is the “lean in closer” type of scent: intimate, comforting, and perfect for Autumn dates or quiet evenings indoors.

 

(Bonus: Family Gatherings / Holiday Pre-Games)

Burberry London (15ml ~$9.98)

Retailer: AuraFragrance

 

Burberry London smells like Fall holidays in a bottle! It opens with bergamot and lavender before settling into cinnamon, leather and a cozy tobacco-oakmoss base. It’s stylish, classic and gives off that “I’m ready for Thanksgiving dinner without the drama” vibe.

Why it works for Fall: It’s warm, comforting, and blends spice with cozy woods; tailor-made for the season.

Why it fits the category: This is perfect for family events, get-togethers and those moments where you need to survive Uncle Bob’s business disasters or Aunt Sue’s revolving-door romances with your dignity (and your scent) intact!

 

What say you, guys? Have you gotten your nose on any of these? What’s been your experience? If you haven’t tried them yet, which one’s calling your name? And for you budget-challenged folks, do lists like these help you build a seasonal rotation? Love to hear from ya!