Fragrance Friday: a Q&A with Jason Morgan, face of Armani Acqua di Giò Profumo

When I was in Sydney a few weeks ago I was lucky enough to be invited to a seriously fabulous lunch with GQ Australia at my all-time favourite Sydney dining spot, Bondi’s incredible Icebergs. We were there to celebrate the release of Armani’s newest men’s fragrance, Acqua di Giò Profumo and the setting could not have been more perfect.

Armani first presented its popular masculine aquatic fragrance Acqua di Giò back in 1996. Nearly 20 years later, the new version - Acqua di Giò Profumo - is elegant, airy and deep and I have to say I’ve loved it so much that I’ve been wearing it myself! The fragrance “symbolises the merging of sea waves with black rocks”, hence the Icebergs setting for our lunch.

The face  - and body, hello! – of the fragrance is model Jason Morgan, and here’s a little insight into what makes him tick and why he’s all about Armani…

When did you first discover Acqua di Giò?

I remember seeing the first ads for Acqua di Giò years ago at the mall (King of Prussia, Pennsylvania) with my mom when I was a teenager. lt was a really special ad. I wasn't involved in the industry back then and didn't pay as much attention to advertising as I do now, but that's one of the ads I remember. It was, and still is, a scent that I enjoy; it's so clean and refreshing. The fragrance has such a classic and iconic feel to it.

What comes to mind when you hear the name Giorgio Armani?

When I hear the name Giorgio Armani I think of a truly iconic, legendary man who has influenced the world with his style and vision. The brand commands respect.

How does it feel to be the face of Acqua di Giò? How was your experience on set?

When I was told that I was chosen for Acqua di Giò it was a dream come true. To represent Armani and this fragrance is the best job someone in this business can get. The ads are always so well done and impactful. I feel extremely proud and grateful to be chosen for this - I still really can't believe it happened.

Modelling underwater was a new experience for me and I had never used a breathing tank before either - It was challenging at times when I had to swim past the camera and perform a certain motion when I couldn't see anything, but it was a lot of fun to be able to hang out under water for 20 minutes at a time. Overall it has been a great experience.

Is taking care of yourself a pleasure or a duty?

Taking care of myself is part of my job so yes, I do see it as my duty. With that being said, I have always taken pleasure in staying fit and healthy. When you look good and feel good, your life is improved and your mood is elevated. Your health is more important than anything. It’s number one.

What are your secrets for staying healthy?

I really don't think there are any hidden secrets for living a healthy lifestyle. We all know that exercise and eating healthy, natural foods and drinking a lot of water are the most important things to do to stay healthy. It's just a matter of making it a priority and a habit.

Do you use any grooming products?

Since I did the shoot and the Giorgio Armani team gave me a bottle of Acqua dl Giò, I have been using it every day. I will usually spray a little on my neck after a shower and a spray or two on whatever shirt I am wearing. It's so light and refreshing, it is perfect for me because I don't like to smell too strong. I really like the balance of Acqua di Giò. It's subtler.

Otherwise I use Cerave face wash and moisturizer SPF30. In my hair I use a Paul Mitchell shampoo and mousse - it keeps my hair from falling in my face all day but doesn't make it stiff or greasy. For my skin I use a Kiehl’s facial mask once a week and a Biotherm body moisturizer.

Have you ever used fragrance to attract a woman?

I will usually wear scents that I find pleasant, it’s important for me to wear what I like so I feel comfortable. I think when you feel good and you're comfortable in your own skin you will attract more than trying figure out what you think women want.

What is your first olfactory memory?

My first olfactory memory is the smell of the ocean. I always spent my summers at the beach (Avalon, New Jersey) as a kid and it's my favorite place to be. Nothing brings me back to a happy place faster than the smell of the ocean. My father just bought a house there last month so I am really excited about spending time there again in the future.

You live in New York City, what are some of your favourite destinations?

Living in NYC is really amazing; it has so much to offer. I have been here for over seven years and I still discover new things daily. I really enjoy going to the museums - MOMA, MET, The Guggenheim etc. When it's nice out it's also a great place to just hop on a bike and explore. One of my favorite things to do is ride along the West Side Highway and then onto the Williamsburg Bridge to Brooklyn.

What is your favourite travel destination?

I still love getting out of the city and travelling. My favourite place I have ever visited in all my travels is Maui, Hawaii. It’s so different from the life I live here and l'm definitely a beach person.

Last up, your pet peeve?

I have a lot of pet peeves, actually, and flying as often as I do has only made that list bigger. For example, people bringing their own food or someone kicking your seat. I would say my most valuable possession right now is my noise cancelling headphones. I don't travel without them.