Words: Charlie Leeves
We love niche fragrances here at The Perfume Shop, their wonderfully different notes bring joy to all our lives. So today, we’re taking a closer look at some of the niche brands which line our shelves and for an extra special twist, all of these fabulous brands have been founded by women. Let’s take a look…
Valeur Absolue
Valeur Absolue was founded by Bénédicte Foucart who wanted to create a brand that featured luxury perfumes like no other in the market. Bénédicte’s perfumes are not only extremely creative, with powerful natural scents, but they are also deeply rooted in the idea of rituals and generating nothing but good vibes. These good vibes are not just a state of the mind, oh no – the energy comes from the precious stones that can be found in every single bottle of Valeur Absolue.
Check out Vitalite for a delightful burst of zesty bergamot or if you are looking to impress on a night out then opt for Confiance which is a soft, yet warm, scent drawing on notes of cinnamon and amber to highlight your allure.
Miu Miu
Miu Miu was founded by Miuccia Prada in 1993; in fact, the name Miu Miu came from the Miuccia Prada’s nickname within the family. In 2015, Miu Miu launched their first perfume, also named Miu Miu, which embodies the playful spirit of youth with the colour and sophistication that Prada is known for around the world. However, this fragrance is hard to categorise (in a good way!). The glimmer from the fragrant lily of the valley throughout indicates a floral scent, but it is contrasted by the spicy and bold Akigalawood Accord in the base notes giving the fragrance earthy roots. What Miuccia Prada has managed to create with Miu Miu is a fragrance that is ultra-feminine and playful, yet it feels calm and natural too!
Philosophy
Philosophy was founded by Cristina Carlino in 1996 after a moving experience whilst hiking in Arizona. Cristina’s vision was to create a brand that combined dermatological goodness with the beauty of the natural world. She created a brand that not only smelt good but made you feel great too!
This feel good attitude led to the creation of the Grace series of perfumes, scents that combine a perfect blend of science and nature. First came Amazing Grace which features an expert blend of lily of the valley and orange blossom to give a beautifully unusual floral fragrance. If floral scents aren’t your thing then try Pure Grace, it blends freshwater lilies with sharp bergamot to lift your spirits, whilst bold musk brings an invigorating finale to this perfectly unique scent.
Connock London
Connock London was founded by Amanda Connock who was brought up with a passion for unusual scents and horticulture. She combined this with a biochemistry background and Connock London was born bursting with fragrances full of exotic and rare natural ingredients.
We love Connock London’s aromatic Andiroba Oil which is inspired by the mystique and wildness of the Amazon Rainforest. Top notes of Brazilian orange are paired with natural leafy top notes, floral notes weave their way through the heart of this scent, and it leaves you with a pink peppery base.
Comme des Garçons
Comme des Garçons was founded in 1969 by Rei Kawakubo and ever since then she has strived to blur the line between masculinity and femininity in both her fashion and fragrance collections.
There is a beautiful charm to Comme des Garcons scents, and we’re big fans of Wonderwood. It bursts with an abundance of earthy and woody notes that transport you instantly to the great outdoors. Whereas, the unisex Comme des Garçons 2 combines powerful natural ingredients such as floral magnolia and warm amber with techno notes of sumi ink and Aldehydes to create a raw oriental scent perfect for any occasion.
Definitely a brand to be explored if you’re after something unique and ideal for everyday wear.
Don’t follow the crowd forever, find your niche
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