ParfumPlus

Superessence of Olibanum adds a mystical, effervescent trail, paying homage to sacred traditions. When paired with aldehydes, it captures the iridescence of silk’s surface. My passion for musk inspired the use of specific musks combined with Rice Bran Absolute to enhance the cocoon-like sensation, creating a rich, protective texture. Finally, the blend of incense and styrax introduces darker notes, reflecting the interplay of light and shadow on silk and serving as an olfactory bridge between Asia and the Middle East. PP : CAN YOU SHARE YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS BEHIND THE FRAGRANCE FOR CHINESE MULBERRY SILK, AND HOW YOU CAPTURED ITS DELICACY AND SOFTNESS IN SCENT? ALG : When I touched the mulberry silk for the first time, I fell in love with its incredible delicacy. Its sweetness and brightness also touched me a lot. It is naturally white and this purity is the origin of my fragrance. A luminous fragrance is incredibly soft and textured. I felt this softness that warms layer after layer. A feeling of “cocooning” that reassures. This particular silk, which is then dyed with vibrant colours, brings a subtle elegance to the outfit, so I gave priority to beautiful raw materials to have an olfactory rendering that stands out. PP : THE SILK ROAD IS NOT ONLY A HISTORICAL NETWORK OF TRADE BUT ALSO A CULTURAL BRIDGE BETWEEN ASIA AND EUROPE. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO TRANSFORM THIS VAST, INTRICATE CONCEPT INTO FINE FRAGRANCES FOR THE SILK ODYSSEY COLLECTION? ALG : Interactions are at the heart of my creative process, I like the idea of crossing views on a perfume, and understanding and appreciating differences, whether generational or cultural. Stepping aside often gives you a different perspective on the world. The Silk Road is, above all, the meeting between different cultures, in a respectful approach. The inspiration comes from these exchanges, by sharing know-how. It is when we face the novelty, which shatters our convictions and preconceptions, that we succeed in truly innovating. Learning and curiosity are essential to the emergence of new ideas. PP : HOW DO YOU ENVISION THE SILK ODYSSEY COLLECTION RESONATING WITH MIDDLE EASTERN AUDIENCES, CONSIDERING THEIR LOVE FOR OPULENT AND INTRICATE FRAGRANCES? ALG : The Silk Odyssey collection was created for BWME 2024 as the centrepiece of our booth, representing a modern take on the ancient Silk Road. This collection is a sensory journey beginning in China, the birthplace of mulberry silk. I worked with contrasting textures to craft a captivating olfactory experience. ❚ ANNE-LOUISE GAUTIER PERFUMER P A R F U M P L U S 20