Words: Emily Venables
As part of our ‘Around the world’ series, we’re stopping in one of the world’s most renowned countries for fragrances - France. When you think about it, the French really are impeccable at creating some of the world’s finest things - wine, cheese, architecture, fashion and of course, French perfume! What a talented bunch! In today’s stop we’re taking a closer look at a collection of scents from perfume powerhouses that call France their home.
Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel
For Her
Would it be a collection of French perfumes without mentioning Chanel first?! No, you’d think we were mad! Since the release of Chanel No. 5 in 1921, the pioneering brand has been in a league of its own when it comes to releasing luxurious, game- changing fragrances. Coco Mademoiselle was released in 2001 and some may argue that it has become just as iconic as No. 5, but we will leave that decision to you. Mademoiselle delivers a strong dose of patchouli expertly combined with deep, sensual woody and oriental notes.
Mon Guerlain by Guerlain
For Her
The House of Guerlain has over 200 years of incredibly rich history, with Pierre- François Pascal Guerlain opening the doors to the first Guerlain shop, selling scented soaps and cosmetics, way back in 1828. Fast forward to the present day and Guerlain continues to release scents that are enriched with the same passion as it originated with, including Mon Guerlain which was released in 2017. The fresh and oriental fragrance comprises of exceptional raw ingredients including Carla Lavender from Provence, Sambac Jasmine from India, Album Sandalwood from Australia and Vanilla Tahitensis from Papua New Guinea.
Alien by Theirry Mugler
For Her
Forget everything you think you know about French fashion designers because Thierry Mugler does not fit into that box! Known for his peculiar runway shows, his out of this world (excuse the pun) designs and deliciously gourmand fragrances, Thierry Mugler and his fashion house are one-of-a-kind. Alien was the second scent to be released and combines comforting floral notes with sensual woody tones and is housed in a striking amethyst bottle.
La vie Est Belle by Lancôme
For Her
Lancôme, named so for its ‘French sounding name’ was founded in 1935 by perfumer-businessman Armand Petitjean who has a vision of spreading the spirit and taste of French elegance around the world. La Vie Este Belle, which means ‘Life is beautiful’ in French, is the epitome of happiness, femininity and feeling fabulous with notes of black current, pear, patchouli and yummy praline.
Sauvage by Dior
For Him
If you’re looking for a strong, powerful and masculine scent that lingers on the skin all day and you haven’t tried Sauvage by Dior then where have you been? Scent was always an important factor for Christian Dior, in fact he slipped a sprig of lily of the valley into the hem of every haute couture dress he made, and since his passing the fashion house has been known for their landmark fragrances. Sauvage released in 2015, not to be confused with the 1966 release Eau Sauvage, is bold and brave with a peppery-fresh nature to it that leaves a woody trail in its wake. A big applause for Dior!
L'interdit Givenchy by Givenchy
For Her
With Audrey Hepburn as the face of their first perfume release and a strong belief that perfume is a ‘women’s finishing touch’ when getting dressed it's no wonder Givenchy’s fragrances were an instant hit. Today, the brand still encourages and evokes a lifestyle that combines elegance with fantasy. In 2018 the house of Givenchy released a new modern version of its original fragrance, L’interdit Givenchy, a tribute to bold femininity with a floral-woody composition which takes a walk on the sweeter side.
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