Michael Stefanov

Michael Stefanov is a Brooklyn-based writer. He has written extensively about grooming, fragrance and style for GQ, Robb Report, Men’s Journal, InsideHook, and Travel + Leisure. Formerly the market editor at Esquire and a contributor to Men’s Health, he has developed guides and reviews covering everything from colognes and coats to conditioners and collagen. During his time at Esquire, he scoured the industry for pieces that were not only worth investing in but also made for engaging stories and timeless advice. He approaches every subject with the same obsessive curiosity, and it’s this dedication that has earned him a reputation as a trusted voice for thoughtful recommendations. Whether writing about a stellar scent or a perfect denim jacket, his goal is to inspire readers to discover what resonates with their own sense of style and self. Beyond writing, his interests include vinyl records, old books and the kind of cool weather that pairs perfectly with both.

All Articles From Michael Stefanov
collage of boxers on textured multi-colored background

Sunspel’s Iconic Boxer Gets a Heritage-Meets-Modern Revival

The brand that dressed Bond and Brad Pitt brings back its iconic 1947 boxer and redefines modern comfort in one move

These are 8 of the best classic colognes you can own

The Most Classic and Popular Colognes of All Time

Trends come and go, but these scents stand the test of time

cologne lifestyle image

6 Frightfully Fantastic Fragrances to Indulge in the Halloween Spirit

Let the olfactory séance commence

hair products

How to Choose the Right Styling Product for Your Hair

The essential differences between pastes, waxes, gels and powders — and when to use each

Best Derby

The Best Leather Derbies Do It All

A clean, classic derby is a worthwhile investment now and forever

collage of colognes on textured background

6 Gourmand Colognes to Warm Up With This Fall

A decadent blend of aromatic edible accords, crafted with complexity, not cliché

shampoo collage on textured background

The 9 Best Shampoos for Stronger, Fuller, Healthier Hair

Cleaner formulas, elevated scents, and scalp-boosting benefits are the new baseline

Tom Ford

The Tom Ford Scents That Defined an Era

How he blurred the lines between designer and niche — and made fragrance exciting again

Collage of four unisex colognes on textured white background

The Best Unisex Colognes

Instead of dominating with traditionally masculine or feminine notes, these timeless fragrances will suit just about anyone

Five of the best body washes for men, from Flamingo Estate, Malin+Goetz, Salt & Stone, Saltair and Sachajuan

Our 11 Favorite Body Washes, From Mainstream Brands to Indie Standouts

Upgrade your shower routine with one of these exceptional bottles

Fireside Bourbon cologne from Dr. Squatch

Dr. Squatch Makes Great Soap, But Can They Pull Off a Cologne?

We evaluate whether the grooming mainstay’s colognes are novelty or noteworthy

Face & Body wipes collage

The Best Face and Body Wipes to Beat the Heat

From cooling to SPF, these are the unsung grooming heroes of summer

perfumes on textured background

Fragrance 101: Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About Cologne

Two renowned fragrance developers on application, longevity, storage and choosing a signature scent

Deodorant on earthy blue background

The Best Deodorants to Keep Odor at Bay

From sticks to sprays to balms, there's a formula that fits your sweat situation

Church is a California grooming brand that should be on your radar.

The Best California Grooming Brands to Know Right Now

We highlight brands that should be on your radar

These cashmere sock shoes are perfect for Father's Day.

These Cashmere Shoe Socks Are a Quiet Luxury Flex

Equal parts cozy, elegant and conversation-starting, Brave Pudding’s sock shoes are an outside-the-box pick for Father’s Day