Van Gils Fragrance

Van Gils is a prestigious Dutch lifestyle brand with a rich history rooted in tailoring. Founded in 1948 by Hermiel 'Miel' van Gils in Breda, Netherlands, the company initially gained fame for its high-quality men's suits and sophisticated formalwear. In the mid-1980s, the brand expanded into the world of perfumery, launching its iconic 'Strictly for Men' fragrance in 1985, which established it as a significant player in the grooming market.

Today, the Van Gils brand operates under a dual-ownership structure for its two main divisions. The fragrance and personal care line is owned and manufactured by Royal Sanders (Koninklijke Sanders), a major Dutch personal care manufacturer headquartered in Vlijmen. This division continues to produce its scents primarily within the Netherlands. Meanwhile, the apparel division has undergone various ownership changes over the decades and is currently managed by European retail entities such as WE Fashion. The brand remains a symbol of authentic Dutch craftsmanship and timeless masculine style.