Scents of Success is one of the most important and impactful DEI initiatives for #FragranceForwardTFF, sharing guidance and information about careers in fragrance with students at universities across the country through lively panel discussions and workshops. At the return for its 2nd Scents of Success event in October, TFF and The City College of New York welcomed an accomplished duo of L’Oréal Groupe team members (both of whom are also TFF Notables) to talk about their experiences, challenges, and accomplishments with students. Led by Professor Lynne Scott Jackson, Distinguished Lecturer – Ad/PR Program Director of Internships, Industry Relations & Professional Development Media & Communication Arts Program, CCNY, the inspirational duo – Solange Silva, Director of Marketing Lancôme Fragrances and Tripta Holtz, Senior Fragrance Evaluator L’Oréal—gave an in-depth look at L’Oréal’s brands and career opportunities, while also sharing their personal stories.

For this month’s Accords, the participants reflect on what made the event especially meaningful.

What do you think was most valuable about the Scents of Success workshop/ Initiative?

TFF Scents of Success helps students understand how they can be part of the vast fragrance industry. It’s as simple as a class visit, with TFF Members sharing insider experiences that give students “a day in the life of” knowledge about how their skills and interests might apply to the fragrance industry.

Guest speakers provide an important window for CCNY students, helping them Access Excellence, aligned with the CCNY mission. Our students are eager to ask questions and learn about the fragrance industry and how execs have transitioned through different roles that led them to a career in the fragrance industry. The Ad/PR Program applauds TFF & TFF members who are willing to give their time, talent and attention to our students. Once they are turned on to what they can do in the fragrance industry, they’re hooked! We can always count on TFF – Scents of Success to value the essence of our students’ education as they transition to the work world.

This exemplifies the aura of a meaningful partnership, rooted in a willingness to help students build successful careers. We respect and value TFF’s commitment.

In what ways do you think it piqued the interest and inspired CCNY students?

From observing and contributing, students refine skills learned in the classroom and begin to understand how they might fit in the fragrance industry. Nothing can replace 1×1 interactions with Manhattan-NYC, national and fragrance industry executives—opening our students’ minds and hearts to not only what is possible—but what they CAN achieve with persistence, perseverance and resilience.

The opportunity to informally chat with execs from leading L’Oréal brands and other TFF members is transformative. Often, students believe their experience won’t translate to what iconic companies need in their day-to-day operations. While our students are savvy, contemporary New Yorkers or international students, they’re still 20-something college students who are at the start of their careers. This includes the need for a real world, crash course introduction to the hyper-competitive, “heady” world of marketing, fragrance development and multinational businesses in the USA’s largest city.

Scents of Success provides exposure to careers in the fragrance industry and beyond realizing there are a wide range of careers in the fragrance industry that might utilize their skills

What were the students most keen to learn about?

The individual journeys and career growth of executives 5 – 10 – 15 years out of college as well as understanding that it is doable as evidenced by CCNY Alum Erika Cruz-Vasquez’s class of 2023 ascent as an Events Coordinator, LVMH Fragrance Brands.

What did you most enjoy about participating in Scents of Success?

I loved seeing their excitement in discovering that working in the fragrance industry is a possibility for them and their eagerness to learn more about it.

What do you think inspired the students most about your career path?

I hope they were able to see that there is a place for diversity in this industry with me being a foreign woman, with an accent, from a Latin American country. I also believe they could relate to the fact that I was exposed to the possibility of working in the fragrance industry around their age and like many of them I was also working full time while attending college.

What were some of your own takeaways from the CCNY event? 

I came back from the CCNY event so refreshed, it was a wonderful reminder of how exceptional our industry is and a personal reminder of how special it is to be part of it.

What did you most enjoy about participating in Scents of Success?

Solange and I got the unique opportunity to speak with a room full of CCNY students at the Scents of Success event series. We shared with them our identity maps and career paths and talked about the key stakeholders in product development at L’Oreal. We also shared advice on how they could put their best foot forward while applying for such roles and what to expect when they get in. I really enjoyed the Q&A that followed and was fueled by their engagement and active participation. We could have easily made a day of it! Having never had such an opportunity as a student myself, it was most important and rewarding for me to step into that role for the next generation of professionals.

What details about your life and career experiences do you think most resonated with students?

As with most people in our industry, my career path has been quite unique. While our individual journeys are unique, the lessons we learn tend to be the same. I actively sought out this industry when I was in high school. However, I didn’t know anyone in it. Getting my foot in the door was the biggest challenge for me, but I didn’t give up. I have also had my fair share of rejection through the years and have had to advocate for myself at every stage of my life and career. Fighting for what I truly believe in and not giving up are some virtues that truly make me, me. I believe that similar life lessons also resonated with the students we met at CCNY. They all seemed driven by determination and passion, and I believe those are necessary traits to thrive in our industry.

What were some of your own takeaways from the CCNY event?

It was most inspiring to meet the CCNY students who are interested in a career in beauty and fragrance. Our industry is lucky to have so much diverse talent to choose from. The next generation is brimming with potential! I wish the best to every one of them. I am so excited to see them in the industry and to work alongside such brilliant and curious minds in the years to come.

In 2023, TFF has welcomed many more members to our ever-growing community of vibrant, diverse brands both big and small. Every new TFF member brings something exciting to the table, with fresh inspirations, ideas, founder stories, and sensational fragrances. This month, we take a moment to introduce some of the brands that have recently joined, shining a spotlight on their unique identities and points of view. Here, the CEO from Grace de Monaco & the Founders of LAFCO, LoveShackFancy, and Lake and Skye share what it means to them to join TFF’s expansive network of friendship and support, and how they will advocate for #FragranceForwardTFF and bring TFF’s overall mission to life in the world.

How would you describe your brand’s unique point of view and approach to fragrance?

The inspiration behind Grace de Monaco is to create an exquisite, luxury Maison across Beauty, Accessories and Home – all evocative of Princess Grace’s timeless, elegant yet effortless style. Princess Grace possessed a profound appreciation for the arts, craftsmanship, and quality. This is meticulously encapsulated in every Grace de Monaco fragrance, crafted by perfumers who are true masters of their art. The first three Grace de Monaco scents are a trilogy that tell the story of Princess Grace’s journey from Hollywood icon to Princess of Monaco. For example, while Promenade Sur La Rocher and Danse Étoilée were celebrations of Princess Grace’s public moments, Ombre Sereine focuses on the personal: her relationship with Prince Rainier, her inner joy around her new roles as Princess, wife, philanthropist, and mother.

What do you hope that TFF membership can help your brand achieve?

We are thrilled for Grace de Monaco to become an official member of TFF! It is an honor to be part of a community committed to sharing the artistry, creativity and emotional power of fragrance. With TFF’s community of incredible talent – from perfumers to distributors and retail partners, we look forward to creating more awareness of the Grace de Monaco brand and mission that lies at our heart: to preserve the humanitarian legacy of Princess Grace through our revolutionary luxury-for-good business model. 100% of profits benefit the Princess Grace Foundation to support emerging artists in Theatre, Dance and Film.

What do you believe that your brand can contribute to TFF’s mission “to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance,” as well as support TFF’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fragrance industry?

We understand fragrance is powerful, and it can transcend boundaries and connect people. Our products not only tell the story of Princess Grace, our icon and muse, but they also elevate the stories of every single emerging artist who receives a career- altering grant from the Princess Grace Foundation, artists who are as diverse and unique as the art they create. Our fragrances serve a larger purpose directly in line with the values of TFF. Talent, kindness, creativity and generosity don’t discriminate, neither did Princess Grace, and neither will the Grace de Monaco brand. Raising the bar in how a luxury brand does business is in our DNA.

How would you describe your brand’s unique point of view and approach to fragrance?

LAFCO has a unique approach to the home fragrance market wherein we strive to merge fragrance with home decor and craftsmanship. We articulate this through our brand pillars of Artistry, Integrity and Luxury. We draw on our roots as distributors of artistic perfume and botanical skincare to develop unique fragrances with a modern aesthetic. Our products are designed to transform any space, any moment, or any mood. We make considered choices by working with partners who take pride in their trade and follow principled production practices and strive to use sustainably cultivated, ethically sourced, and cruelty-free materials. We believe that quality, craftsmanship, and conscience are essential ingredients of luxury, and we develop our fragrances with that backbone.

What do you hope that TFF membership can help your brand achieve?

Whether partnering with the Hetrick Martin Foundation during Pride month in support of the LGBTQ+ or maintaining a warehouse in Brooklyn to provide employment opportunities within NYC, engagement in our communities has always been something central to what we do at LAFCO. Broadly speaking we joined TFF to connect more deeply with our fragrance community. We hope to connect, share ideas, and listen to other fragrance community members as part of TFF.

What do you believe that your brand can contribute to TFF’s mission “to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance,” as well as support TFF’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fragrance industry?

The process of ideating, manufacturing and ultimately selling our products is very much aligned with TFF’s mission. By doing what we do, day in and day out, we are very much furthering TFF’s mission. As an LGBTQ+ owned business, DEI within our workplace is something that has always been important to us and we are thrilled to be part of an organization focused on furthering DEI initiatives within our industry. The alignment is really quite a lovely thing!

How would you describe your brand’s unique point of view and approach to fragrance?

We always like to say that we see the world through rose-colored glasses, and that is certainly how we have approached our fragrances. We wanted to create something that celebrates what makes you feel unabashedly and unapologetically beautiful: To channel a day where the sun is shining, the music is pumped up, and the air is filled with flowers, plus some confetti and definitely balloons. Scent marks the moment, and we think of our fashion collection that way, too; you always remember what you sprayed, and what you wore. With the introduction of fragrance, we can tell the LoveShackFancy story with a whole new beauty language.

What do you hope that TFF membership can help your brand achieve?

I am so blown away by the vision and creativity of the dreamers that exist in beauty, especially fragrance. Perfume is all about storytelling and making memories, and I love seeing how so many TFF members translate their own ideas from concept to juice to bottle to campaign. I am also such a perfume lover at heart so I am really looking forward to learning from the noses and those in the industry about the ingredients, the accords, what makes a successful fragrance, and what’s next in the industry.

What do you believe that your brand can contribute to TFF’s mission “to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance,” as well as support TFF’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fragrance industry?

We know that LoveShackFancy appeals to a wide age range – I always say babies to eighties! But for so many of our customers, LoveShackFancy is their first grown-up perfume, and we hope that we can help share our passion for the fragrance world with them. We want to help educate clients in our stores, on TikTok and Instagram, and at Sephora to learn about the fragrances and create a scent wardrobe just like they put together a closet of clothes. I also love that fragrance is for everyone, and I want to celebrate and honor that. Our gorgeous gardenia and pear scent Forever in Love was created by the amazing Honorine Blanc, and we look forward to collaborating with more female noses as we develop what’s next!

How would you describe your brand’s unique point of view and approach to fragrance?

At Lake and Skye, we operate with the mission that fragrance is a force for wellness. We distill scent down to its essence, giving it the power to impact your mood, emotions, and memories. Our award- winning and best-selling scents are unique and intimate.

As the founder, I developed a passion for wellness and alternative healing methods after a health crisis. I went on to study everything from aromatherapy, meditation and reiki to yoga and nutrition. Paired with a lifelong passion for fragrance, I sought to combine the idea of wellness and scent and launched the line making fragrance as a gift people can give to themselves throughout their day for whatever they may need – a moment of calm, a boost of confidence or added joy.

What do you hope that TFF membership can help your brand achieve?

We are thrilled to be a part of The Fragrance Foundation and look forward to engaging with and learning from the community for all things fragrance. We are interested in being a part of this growing industry to continue to push it forward in new and exciting ways.

What do you believe that your brand can contribute to TFF’s mission “to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance,” as well as support TFF’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fragrance industry?

Our brand DNA was formed on the connection of fragrance and wellness, encouraging our community to use scent as a driver for uplifting the everyday; something unique and special to each individual. As a female founded brand and team, we strive to be inclusive and break barriers (or stereotypes) across all areas of the business whether that be recruitment, brand collaborations and partnerships, or breadth within our assortment.

What inspired you to create scented candles for Cartier?

I wanted to create candles that are simpler and bring something different to the market because, after COVID, I felt that lighting a candle at home was more about bringing in nature and memories of the beauty of the world and wide-open spaces, rather than using what we call home fragrances. I chose to name them after landscape like the canopy, snow, and desert because it encourages contemplation. It’s crucial to be able to enjoy nature, something we missed during lockdown. Contemplating space and immensity is what we lack when we’re indoors. Our candles are olfactory contemplations of nature.

How would you describe the difference between home scent and personal scent?

Home scent is external and shared with others. It’s something we use for ourselves and for others. It’s much less personal, intimate because everyone breathes it in. In my opinion, it’s crucial that home fragrances are inspired by nature because it aligns with the shared imagination. Sharing an olfactory universe with guests or family is wonderful. It needs to be simple and universal enough for everyone to enjoy it. On the other hand, a personal fragrance is truly a dialogue with oneself. You can choose it purely for your own pleasure, as a life companion, a talisman; it’s entirely personal.

What was your inspiration for creating Cartier’s newest scented candle, Neige?

My inspiration for creating Neige was for the pleasure of smelling the scent of snow. It’s a pleasure linked to the fact that olfaction can all of a sudden bring back, like a Proustian madeleine, all the memories linked to this olfaction. With Neige, I wanted to evoke the pleasure of contemplating snowy landscapes, whether it is sunny or not, in essence, the beauty of pure snow. It’s a way of showcasing beauty wherever it may be found. With the Neige candle, we also return to the notion of eternity that perfumery allows. A notion that can also be found in the Epures de Parfums: offering eternal and usable beauty at will, a beauty that can only be contemplated fleetingly in nature.

What inspired you when creating the Amber & Incense scent for NEST?

Amber & Incense was all about expressing the coziness of the season and inevitably, the multitude of flavors and scents that signal holiday. I wanted this sort of duality embedded here- coziness paired with an intriguing dark amber, or that feel-good moment along with the rejuvenation and relief that holidays entail. I think that’s why I used a lot of fresh and aromatic notes with spices to express this moment of pause and calm but also excitement.

What notes or fragrances are particularly evocative for you personally when it comes to holiday?

I love that holiday means both indoor and outdoor festivities – at first it brings me to the crisp woods, frosted fir or pine scents, and of course a smoky, crackling fireplace… but it’s the edible nostalgic notes of the season that really excite me – roasted chestnuts, hot chocolate, whipped cream, buttery caramel, and indulgent gingerbread always transport me to the spirit of the season. With Amber & Incense I was able to leverage both holiday stories here – creating a narrative around the warming amber paired with the outdoorsy, refreshing incense.

What do you look forward to most about the holiday season?

All of it! It’s the energy & excitement, the traditions, the shared moments, indulging with family & friends, and having the time to find peace and perhaps lighting a seasonal candle? And this season, that will be Amber & Incense, of course.

What inspired you when creating the Only in New York candle for The New Savant?

Ingrid did!! She always has such a clear vision for the candles, and it continues to be a real partnership bringing it to life. In this case, her idea was a specific pignoli cookie that she loved, with notes of caramel, pine trees, a bookstore, sawdust, and cashmere sweaters in the background. How could you NOT be inspired by that?!

What notes or fragrances are particularly evocative for you personally when it comes to holiday?

For me it’s definitely cookies! I kid you not, my parent’s house has six different Christmas cookies that we always have on hand during the holidays. Almost every other day from Thanksgiving to Christmas there is a cookie being made in the kitchen, ready to entertain and give out as gifts.

What do you look forward to most about the holiday season?

Seeing family, eating all the food, and skiing if it’s a White Christmas in Vermont 🙂

As we are days away from the Thanksgiving holiday, this issue brings to our readers a true sense of what all of us are grateful for in the fragrance community which shares our #1 priority #FragranceForwardTFF.

Our Spotlight section features the Scents of Success event at The City College of New York. This exceptional program, rolling out in its 2nd year, was created by TFF Executive Director Sharné Jackson, so TFF could share fragrance roles & career paths with students. While the majority of universities we partner with are where TFF members are alumni such as Sharné’s alma mater Spelman College, CCNY is a perfect exception thanks to the connection Helen Shelton of FINN Partners gave us to Professor Lynne Scott Jackson (no relation to Sharné, but oh what a powerful connection of like minded women of action). This fall L’Oréal was our TFF partner & last year LVMH not only partnered but hired a student who attended the 1st Scents of Success program, initially brought on as a LVMH intern & now a full time employee. We celebrate CCNY Alum Erika Cruz-Vasquez & LVMH for this great opportunity to mark our 1st Scent of Success fragrance employee! We are thankful for all TFF members involved in the program roll out & TFF’s Sharné & Cheryl Fried leading the way!

For this issue, the Scents & Sensibilities section allows four new TFF members to share their stories, which are each inspiring in every way! Enjoy reading about these valued new members all with their own unique stories ! Thank you to all for scenting the USA in new ways.

As we always celebrate the importance of Perfumers, we feature inspirations from three Perfumers who share story telling of their new 2023 Holiday candles.

We on the TFF team – Elina, Allison, Linda, Sharné, Chelsea & Cheryl – wish you all the best Thanksgiving possible as we express our gratitude for all your support all year round!

President, The Fragrance Foundation
@linda_g_levy
@fragrancefoundation

On October 26th, Fragrance Foundation President Linda G. Levy was inducted into TFF’s illustrious Circle of Champions at a lively dinner event held at 583 Park Avenue in New York. Levy was unanimously voted this year’s champion by the TFF Board of Directors, and the fragrance industry turned up in force to support the woman who has transformed the role and, indeed, the fragrance world itself.

The inaugural Circle of Champions award was given in 2000 to industry icon Leonard Lauder, and tonight began with TFF Executive Committee Chairman Jerry Vittoria reading a letter from Lauder in praise of Levy, thanking her for her friendship and saying that, to him, she embodies the great James Bond theme: “Nobody Does it Better.”

Ann Gottlieb lauded Levy’s charm, warmth, and tenacity and described her as “the family member everyone wished they had.” Her fearless leadership, Gottlieb said, “has consistently pushed the boundaries and made TFF more exciting, more important, and more relevant.” Jeff Gennette, Macy’s Chairman and CEO, congratulated Levy in a video address, noting that Macy’s would not be the fragrance destination it is today were it not for Levy’s efforts during her tenure at the company. Tricia Butler, Executive Committee member and President, North America, LVMH Parfums Givenchy, Kenzo, and Acqua di Parma, gave a heartfelt speech praising Levy’s commitment to important causes, her ability to bring people together, and how she has, with her “amazing hand-selected team,” turned TFF “into a force of nature.”

Levy herself took the stage to give a rollicking recount of her long and varied career—one that has been filled with connections made and friendships forged, all of which paid forward tonight. Those who spoke about Levy did so with great affection, enumerating her accomplishments—which include transforming and modernizing TFF, prioritizing DEI with #FragranceForwardTFF, vastly expanding membership, and bringing the organization and its mission into the public eye through enhanced social media activity and national news exposure—while frequently reiterating, “she is just getting started.”

As Levy enumerated her goals for TFF and the milestones she has achieved, which she maintained were done with the supportive community as a whole, not alone, she called out that her biggest goal remains and will continue to be a commitment to ensuring all voices are heard and all backgrounds and identities respected within the fragrance industry. “We have so much to do together,” she said. “I’m not going to stop, you know that.”

Click here to view more information and videos.

What does the Circle of Champions Award mean to you?

This is an extraordinary honor for me that I am truly thrilled to receive. For me to join this Circle as a Champion whose first recipient was Leonard Lauder, as well as other accomplished leaders, is humbling, yet I am so very proud of it. This is the greatest affirmation that as President of TFF my contributions to the organization & fragrance community have been recognized, valued & have made significant impact.

I am extremely grateful for the opportunity & time in my role to learn every day on the job & not just dream, but make things happen. The time I spend with Perfumers, Fragrance Houses, Brands big & small, Retailers & creatives in other related arenas is educational, informative & stimulating. All have been my teachers & I share this award with all.

What accomplishments are you proudest of in your role as TFF President?

As my decades in the beauty business in many companies gave me the opportunity to gain knowledge & experience in so many aspects of the business, I took on this role with great ambition. It has been my track record to not just fill the requirements of a defined position, but to go above & beyond: to add incremental value. I have had the opportunity to add value & create a new modern elevated image for TFF with real action based on meaningful deliverables. As TFF President I have had the opportunity to add new strategic initiatives, activations & dimensions.

My top 10 accomplishments that I am most proud of are:

1. Uniting the fragrance community with a new mission & objectives: To inspire the world to discover the artistry & passion of fragrance.

2. Enhanced membership: utilizing TFF member content in all TFF communications & to media. 

3.  Nurturing talent: creating the Notables Think Tank & mentoring  programs.  

4.  Adding Indies as members. Seeing them. Giving them a voice to be heard. 

5.  Creating elevated experiences.

6. Give Back: NEXT for Autism for 4 years & now the New York Urban League.

7.  Engaging Consumers: International Fragrance Day March 21 + campaigns and experiential events.

8. Perfumers in the headlines:  Elevated the role & cast the spotlight on their extraordinary craft.

9.Building awareness of careers in the fragrance community with our members, higher education institutions and the New York Urban League.

10. #1 priority Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: #FragranceForwardTFF – So that we reflect the entire USA population: race, religion, gender identity & abilities.

What changes would you like to see in the next year(s) within the fragrance industry?

Our TFF strategy & efforts will deliver change for next year & the years to come.

In the next few years I would expect to see the range of people in the industry in roles at all levels from interns up expanding to include more of a reflection of the USA population in terms of race, religion, gender identity & ability. We are in motion & taking action, so I expect to see measurable progress. This will be an ongoing process forever. The programs in place will roll out including the Catalyst Initiative with the New York Urban League Young Professionals & Scents of Success across the nation.

We will focus on expanding the industry & expand our direct dialog with consumers. We will expand TFF membership to include more fragrance brands as well as retailers, as wherever fragrance is sold, we want to add value, contribute content & amplify.

We will be launching Scent Escentials, a new online course, created for those who are entering the fragrance industry to learn the basics. As this will be available both within TFF & outside we will share it with media who are responsible for fragrance content & students as well.

The Fragrance Day March 21, 2024 will move from the past years where activities were predominantly online to driving in-store experiences offered by TFF Retailers across the nation with a focus on key fragrance markets.

The topic of sustainability will be addressed providing relevant information to consumers discussing both myths & realities culminating on Earth Day in April.

Last but not least we will celebrate great fragrances at TFFAwards Finalists in April & winners declared in the first week of June at our star studded iconic gala event.

In September, TFF launched The Catalyst Initiative with the New York Urban League (NYUL), opening up a forum for exchange between the fragrance world and the esteemed historic organization dedicated to empowering underserved communities. On October 5th, at Cucina 8 ½, TFF introduced the NYUL Young Professionals organization to various segments of the fragrance industry: Perfume House, represented by Givaudan; Marketing & Education, represented by Jo Malone London; and Retailer, represented by Victoria’s Secret. The event allowed TFF members and NYUL members to share their collective passion with an exchange of information and expertise. Here, Kenya Townsend, the President of NYUL’s Young Professionals organization, shares more about her role and the future of the partnership.

Please explain your overall role as President of The New York Urban League’s Young Professionals organization.

My name is Kenya Townsend, President of New York Urban League Young Professionals (NYULYP). In my role, I am privileged to lead our Executive Leadership Team and membership body in serving the volunteer auxiliary organization of New York Urban League (NYUL). As the external-facing representative of our membership body I work to fortify existing relationships and introduce new partnerships to significantly contribute to the 20 year history of our chapter. It’s also my primary duty to proudly uphold the ideals, mission and empowerment agenda of the entire Urban League Movement. I serve as a NYULYP representative among the National Urban League Young Professional (NULYP) Council of Presidents both regionally and nationally and at our annual business meeting. As President, I ensure we are always supporting programming initiatives of the National Urban League (NUL), National Urban League Young Professionals (NULYP) and of course our home affiliate New York Urban League.

Currently, what does the NYUL Young Professionals group stand for?

We are a robust group of young professionals ages 21-40 who live or work throughout the New York City region. We are the volunteer auxiliary group of the New York Urban League and our membership body of 150+ members exists to support the entire Urban League Movement. While NYULYP exists as the volunteer arm of the NYUL, our chapter is one of 60+ chapters under the umbrella of National Urban League Young Professionals (NULYP). YP members curate programming that encourages community involvement through mentoring, tutoring, and scholarships, while simultaneously developing our members personally and professionally through economic empowerment, political engagement and professional development. Within the Movement, we represent both the current and future senior executives, C-suite leaders, elected officials and more in our respective professional fields.

How do you think the Catalyst Initiative partnership between The Fragrance Foundation and NYUL will benefit the NYUL Young Professionals?

Thus far my attendance at the introductory events between the NYUL and TFF has been enlightening and eye-opening. Therefore, I am very excited for NYUL(YP) members to learn more about the entire fragrance industry. From the outside looking in, the fragrance field is luxurious, creative and has a longstanding foundation that no doubt would be attractive to all YPs no matter their professional interests. I’ve seen that if you have a skill or talent there is a place you can thrive in this industry. As I’ve learned, this field has very non traditional pathways of entry. And the YP of today are definitely equipped to navigate those paths of opportunities should they be offered to them. Therefore, I see this as the beginning of a worthwhile and fruitful relationship that I hope will yield dividends to YPs here in NYC for years to come.

This month marked the third annual webinar dedicated to the mission of #FragranceForwardTFF, which launched in Fall 2021. This year’s panel, Intentional Inclusivity: The Value of Diverse Perspectives, was moderated by Emmy Award-winning broadcaster and NY-1 Noticias Weekend Anchor Birmania Rios, and included Arquiste Creator and Perfumer Carlos Huber, Givaudan perfumer Adriana Medina, and Diptyque Director of Marketing Eduardo Valadez. Together, the group discussed a variety of topics ranging from how important it is to ensure that people from all backgrounds have access to information, inspiration, and education about the fragrance industry, how important it is to see the individuality in every consumer, and how inclusivity can enliven not only the fragrance business the but fragrances themselves. For this edition of Accords, the panelists dive deeper into the importance of DEI, and how the industry can best support #FragranceForwardTFF.

What has your unique background brought to your career and the way that you approach & appreciate fragrance?

I think coming from a multicultural background has made me more open and interested in representing different cultural voices. I have Jewish roots that originated in places like Poland, Lithuania, Greece and Turkey, and my family emigrated to Mexico in the 1920s. They became very proud Mexicans, grateful for a new life in the New World. I’ve been extremely fortunate- thanks to the opportunities and education our life in Mexico afforded us, I’ve been able to travel the world freely, choosing to settle in New York City not because of any persecution or struggles back home, but because I’ve been raised to see myself as a citizen of the world. It’s made me curious about the world in general, without prejudice. As a fragrance developer, it made me want to explore and develop perfumes and stories from around the world that exemplify how we’re all connected: via our love of scent, cultural ties, trade, immigration. I like stories that connect us. Perfumes are compositions that bring different things together, like people, and sometimes the most beautiful ones are all about this contrast.

What are some of the ways that you believe that an inclusive approach most benefits a fragrance story or a brand as a whole?

Because we need to tell more than one side of the story. I’m a minority in more ways than one. I’m Jewish, Mexican and gay, and all of this makes me who I am. Life and people are diverse and complex. When you listen to other points of view it makes you a better leader, a better fragrance developer. You understand that people will have different experiences with your scents, so by bringing them into the fold, you’re creating a more rounded product.

What are the things to consider in order to ensure an authentic dialogue between consumer and brand?

Respect and kindness above all. We must remember that the consumer is a real person, but behind the “brand” you also have real people, working hard, trying to do their best. Always be respectful and treat people the way you would like to be treated.

How can you and members of TFF best contribute to #FragranceForwardTFF?

Support independent brands, look beyond the mass market. Explore the niche perfume shops and websites that support small brands and explore our scents. 

What has your unique background brought to your career and the way that you approach & appreciate fragrance?

I come from Colombia, a country full of passion, resilience and positivity. All of these qualities were essential in becoming a perfumer. In fact, I put them into action every day within my work—I approach every creation as a new adventure.

Each brief is quite unique so I always keep in mind what my fragrance is going to communicate and how the end consumer is going to feel.

What are some of the ways that you believe that an inclusive approach most benefits a fragrance story or a brand as a whole?

It’s important to consider the general consumer; in the USA, we are a mix of different cultures where hispanics are taking a major role in fragrance purchasing. We’ve been wearing fragrance since we were babies, it’s are part of our culture! The more you know about a specific culture, the more you can provide to them, attract them and make them connect with your brand.

What are the things to consider in order to ensure an authentic dialogue between consumer and brand?

Consumers want brands that are a reflection of their diverse desires and needs. Ensuring authentic communication with a consumer is about putting them first. In doing so, being transparent and consistent is critical in creating trust and enhancing credibility.

How can you and members of TFF best contribute to #FragranceForwardTFF?

As an industry, we need to continue to prioritize an ecosystem of diversity through an inclusive approach which includes everything from representation, education to communication.

What has your unique background brought to your career and the way that you approach & appreciate fragrance?

Scent has been an influential and integral part of my Mexican heritage, a culture which is passionate for experiencing everyday life through the senses. Since birth, having been immersed in the rich and diverse, multi-sensorial cultural experiences, provided this innate passion that I wanted to explore and pursue. This ultimately propelled me to a career in the beauty and fragrance industry. I continue to be fascinated by the idea that fragrance can allow you to express a feeling and a sensation.

What are some of the ways that you believe that an inclusive approach most benefits a fragrance story or a brand as a whole?

Inclusivity is an essential element to any fragrance story. We need to tap into more than just the visual messages that bring a fragrance to life, we can’t neglect the need to explore the various cultural aspects that allow everyone to feel connected, heard and seen within the story.

What are the things to consider in order to ensure an authentic dialogue between consumer and brand?

To ensure the conversations are meaningful, and engaged on a deeper level, authenticity is fundamental. Our conversations must have resonance and relevance. Consumers must feel a sense of trust in a brand to connect and engage for the years to come.

How can you and members of TFF best contribute to #FragranceForwardTFF?

I believe this is very simple, although not always easy—we need to continue to have conversations rather big or small at all levels. We need to keep the dialogue as a continuum if we want to see change in our industry. We need to actively look for varied perspectives that will not only enrich our industry and the people who work in it.

On August 23rd, TFF and the New York Urban League hosted a “Getting to Know You Breakfast” to launch the Catalyst Initiative Partnership, a sweeping and important program that will drive DEI forward in the fragrance industry. NYUL CEO and President Arva Rice shared an inspiring “walk” through the 105-year history and impact of the New York Urban League, and eloquently shared her hope that this alliance with TFF becomes a significant part of NYUL’s legacy in the future. NYUL Chief Program Officer Shalima McCants shared the breadth and impact of NYUL’s Programs, which TFF members will also have an opportunity to participate in, including Empowerment Days for high school students to shadow workspaces and be exposed to the industry first-hand. And lastly, NYUL Diversity & Inclusion Lab Program Manager Sandra Garcia shared insights on leveraging NYULConnect, the D&I Lab’s signature program that partners with companies to solve the challenges brands experience in sourcing, reaching, retaining, and developing diverse talent. For this month’s ACCORDS, each of these inspiring women discuss their vision for the Catalyst Initiative Partnership, and why uniting with TFF to pursue a common goal is so significant.

Why is the Catalyst initiative with TFF so important, and what do you hope to achieve?

The New York Urban League (NYUL) is thrilled to partner with The Fragrance Foundation (TFF) in the Diversity and Inclusion Lab. The multi-year partnership will afford TFF and its members strategic interaction with two of the core target groups NYUL serves – youth and young professionals. The Catalyst Initiative represents a historic opportunity for our organizations to make impactful and long-lasting diversity and inclusion changes in an industry rather than in single corporations. The Fragrance Foundation recognizes that inequality is unacceptable and is taking meaningful steps by working with NYUL to create change. This initiative will become a part of the New York Urban Leagues legacy and essential work that will lay the footprint for future diversity and inclusion endeavors.

Why is it so special that the Catalyst Initiative is the 1st ever industry wide program?

The partnership provides us with an opportunity for NYUL to learn the fragrance industry from concept to bringing products to market. In understanding the steps of creating fragrances, we can help prepare and recruit diverse talent for the industry, from young students to our Young Professionals. Site visits, guest speakers, and participation in membership events will allow NYUL to understand the culture and process of the fragrance industry. The potential for impact is beyond a company or even a set of companies to an entire industry.

How does NYUL Connect help companies attain and foster diverse talent?

NYUL Connect is an online destination where the New York Urban League community and the broader metropolitan New York City community of job seekers, career seekers, and connection seekers are invited to join through a free membership. The platform creates space to engage with working professionals, individuals willing to mentor, brand partner job listings, career development, and professional development opportunities. Every month, NYUL Diversity & Inclusion Lab partners submit open job opportunities, which are listed on NYUL Connect and socialized on other NYUL marketing platforms to reach a wider and more diverse audience.

What do you hope to see emerge from TFF’s Catalyst Initiative with NYUL’s Diversity & Inclusion Lab?

I am eager to make the fragrance industry accessible to our NYUL community through the Catalyst Initiative. During my brief time working with The Fragrance Foundation, I learned about the myriad opportunities within fragrance houses, retailers, and brands. I’m thrilled to introduce the industry and its career potential to our Black and Brown New York community, who may not yet know the exciting possibilities.

What have been some of the major achievements of NYUL’s youth programs?

The New York Urban League has a decades-long history of working to improve children and youths’ social-emotional and academic outcomes. From creating some of New York City’s first sleep-away camps in the 1920s to operating academies for young men to get their GEDs on evenings and weekends in the 1960s, NYUL has been at the forefront of educational issues. 

The New York Urban League has strengthened our connection to community partners, professionals, and entrepreneurs, who have supported our programming by providing tours, workshops, panel discussions, and presentations, to name a few, for our students. These experiences have increased their connection to college and career opportunities.

How does this fall feel different this year, for you personally as well as in the fragrance industry?

We can always count on a constant evolution in the fragrance & beauty world, which I find very exciting. Right now, consumers’ heightened expectations and desires are a reflection of what is happening all around us… more access to information, the opening up of travel to incredible places, and rapid tech advances, just to name a few. We are also seeing issues emerge that affect their wellbeing, and consumers are looking for help to manage their energy, focus, sleep, etc. Our own research at Givaudan shows that customers are wellness-led and turning to fragrances with benefits. 85% of consumers believe fragrance has power over our moods.

At the same time, there is an increasing need and (to some degree) the ability to “tailor” to distinct preferences. Consumers want the ability to design fragrances based on their preferences and emotions, giving them greater control over their individual scent narrative.

What are you most looking forward to this fall?

We’re excited to introduce Givaudan’s new “What is love?” creative vision that translates Gen Z’s love and seduction language into olfactive creations that we are currently showcasing in an immersive experience in NYC and later in Paris, Dubai and more. Through extensive research of consumer insights & social listening, “What is love?” invites our customers to dive into the Gen Z universe in an engaging, fragranced event. As the rules of attraction evolve, our team of perfumers have delivered olfactive interpretations—unfiltered, unstaged and inclusive—as expressed by Gen Z. By looking beyond conventional perfumery standards, Givaudan demonstrates its ability to connect with this free-spirited generation in order to shape the future of fragrance design.

How do creativity and gratitude fuel good leadership?

Gratitude helps invite deeper team connectivity that fuels engagement and creativity. I’m personally grateful for the talented team that I have the pleasure to work with every day, and that shares the same passion for this beautiful industry. I’m incredibly fortunate and constantly remind myself how lucky I am to be part of it.

How does this fall feel different this year, for you personally, as well as in the fragrance industry?

This will be my first Fall/Holiday Season with NEST. The Fall and Holiday collections are the most important revenue generator for us so this is a very exciting time for us all at NEST! Regarding the fragrance industry, I think it will be interesting to see how Brick & Mortar and online will outweigh each other as this is the 1st official post Covid Holiday Season.

What are you most looking forward to this fall?

I am looking forward to see the success of several new scents we have launched recently, especially with our fine fragrances and perfume oils and I am horrified by the thought that my teenage daughter will start driving a car this Fall .

How do creativity and gratitude fuel good leadership?

We are operating in an industry of desire, creativity and innovation which are the key drivers for growth and for inviting new customers to enjoy our products and various brand experiences. There is no good leadership without gratitude!

How does this fall feel different this year, for you personally as well as in the fragrance industry?

This fall feels uniquely invigorating both personally and within the fragrance industry, ushering in a sense of normalcy and stability following so many global crises. I’m inspired by the evolving consumer preferences, which seem to lean towards a desire for comforting, nature-inspired scents that reflect a renewed appreciation for the outdoors. The juxtaposition between cozy scents and aromatic outdoor olfactive directions, creates opportunities for innovative, eco-conscious fragrance creations that resonate with the current cultural shift towards sustainability.

What are you most looking forward to this fall?

I’m most excited about the fall season as it introduces the launch of new, captivating fragrances that align with the changing consumer preferences and trends unique to this season. It’s an opportunity to explore more warm and nature-inspired scent directions, which I personally love, and see how our innovative scents and olfactive marketing strategies will resonate with customers. Fall launches always drive consumer traffic and set the tone for the upcoming holiday season.

How do creativity and gratitude fuel good leadership?

Creativity in leadership sparks inclusivity and adaptability, inspiring innovation through diversity, where every voice contributes to the conversation. While gratitude fosters positive relationships, empathy, and trust within team dynamics. Together, creativity and gratitude cultivate a culture of collaboration and success.

How does this fall feel different this year, for you personally, as well as in the fragrance industry?

Fall is my favorite season of the year! It feels different for me personally this year because I have a renewed sense of excitement and passion for getting out and exploring new places. On my travel list this Fall are Paris, Bar Harbor, Maine, and even some new spots on Long Island where I live. I want to visit some new wineries and have a fire on the beach in the Hamptons. The off-season is fantastic!

In fragrance this Fall, you can’t miss the Vanilla trend! Our VS customers are scooping up all that is vanilla within our portfolio more than ever. Also, the hype around niche fragrances this Fall through social media is allowing brands like VS to take cues from that to evolve our customers to try new and exciting notes. It is an exciting time to be in the fragrance world!

What are you most looking forward to this fall?

This fall, aside from traveling, I’m really looking forward to the crisp fall air to do some hiking at my family’s lake house in PA. Afterward, there’s nothing like building a fire, listening to some great music, cooking something comforting, and having some good family time. I get so much inspiration for fragrance ideas by doing things outdoors and just being one with nature.

How do creativity and gratitude fuel good leadership?

Gratitude is the key to life in general. If you’re grateful, you see things more positively and feel more satisfied. You have a certain positive energy around you, and this carries over to your team. When you have a team working together and feeling great, there’s no better recipe for creativity.

How did your travels or experiences this summer inspire you?  

I traveled to Costa Rica and it’s so rich in terms of nature and feelings of freedom and exploration. I was particularly inspired by the coffee plantation I visited. I had the chance to smell and experience coffee flowers for the first time. As soon as I smelled them, I wanted to bring in Symrise’s Instaessence® technology to precisely capture this fresh, delicate scent  and Costa Rica is filled with lush and wonderful landscapes. I was horseback riding and came upon a tree standing in the middle of the sea. It happens at certain times of day with the tide and it was very poetic. This gave me the idea to work around a 100% biodegradable and renewable woody note we have at Symrise called SympepTM. It’s made from Guaiac wood oil and has a soft driftwood facet that would be at the center of my creation, like the tree in the middle of the sea.  

What currently excites you most about working in fragrance?  

I love the creation and conceptual process. It’s amazing to experience moments, feelings, places and sensations in everyday life and then be tasked to capture and bottle them. To be able to re-experience that feeling or place in time whenever you wear a fragrance is so powerful. In my daily work, I love the challenge of adapting to an ever-changing customer demand. Our industry is in constant movement, and I like the stimulation and energy that it brings to me.

How did your travels or experiences this summer inspire you? 

This summer I traveled to two of my favorite beach destinations, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and Wildwood Crest, New Jersey.  I am always inspired by the beach.  The salty ocean breeze is one of my favorite scents.  When this smell hits me, I am instantly relaxed and in vacation mode.  I love working on fragrances where I can incorporate some of these salty, fresh, watery notes.

What currently excites you most about working in fragrance? 

As a perfumer, I really love recreating scents from my everyday experiences, the small yet special moments of my daily life. These fragrances are my scent memories, and I enjoy recreating an impression of a beautiful walk I’ve taken on the beach or the scent of baking a delicious apple pie.  When I smell these fragrances, I am taken back to that exact moment. 

Are there any specific notes or ideas for fragrances that you are especially interested in exploring this fall? 

It is fun to blur the seasons to find new creative nuances in my work.  For fall, I am using some of the salty, watery notes that remind me of the beach and adding them to a traditional fall fragrance.  I am inspired by what the beach smells like in the fall.  A cool and crisp, outdoorsy feeling with the salty ocean air in the background.

How did your travels or experiences this summer inspire you?

Every year I go to Greece and from an olfactive standpoint the islands are packed with inspiration – from fig trees to aromatic herbs like thyme, rosemary, immortelle. Even the olive oil smells and tastes better in Greece. But, as odd as it may sound, I am most inspired by my trips to the pharmacy. I love exploring local brands, which are often harder and more expensive to find in the US. I love how they market local ingredients like yogurt or mastic into their products. So when I come back to work I think naturally these inspirations stick with me as a subconscious way of extending my vacation – because who wouldn’t want to stay in Greece!

What currently excites you most about working in fragrance?

The same thing that excited me when I first started. Perfumery is about being able to play and have fun. This is usually in the evening after most people have left for the day. It’s also when I turn the music up on my Beats speaker. I guess you can call this my “playtime”. Every artist needs their playtime. It’s when I get most creative and imaginative. But I guess the real excitement comes the next day when I smell what I created the day before. It can feel like Christmas morning.

Are there any specific notes or ideas for fragrances that you are especially interested in exploring this fall?

Yes actually. I have been working on this Brown butter popcorn accord. Not sure how I will develop it yet, but I love the possibilities it brings.

How did your travels or experiences this summer inspire you?

I was able to spend time in both Miami and Utah this summer. While in Florida, I enjoyed Cuban coffee and the enchanting smell of wild lilies. The vast desert landscapes out West provided mineral, earthy and sundrenched inspirations. I found the life that thrives in the desert particularly captivating as well.

What currently excites you most about working in fragrance?

I feel like the consumer is willing to take more risks; they’re open to being more adventurous – which allows for creative explorations in fragrance and the use of new technologies.

This, along with Gen Z’s approach to fragrance and how they relate in quite a different way. They’re searching for authenticity, they’re extremely knowledgeable about ingredients and they want to express their uniqueness through fragrance. Through Givaudan’s new “What is love?” program, we explore just that—this generation’s olfactive exploration through the prism of love and seduction. We’ve been able to translate Gen Z’s desire for authenticity and caring love into never-before-smelled fragrance compositions.

Are there any specific notes or ideas for fragrances that you are especially interested in exploring this fall?

I’m eager to pursue ideas of this ‘Farm to Fragrance’ evolution—playful, yet refined + fresh, garden-inspired expressions—in fragrance, along with more sacred and spiritual themes that lean deeper into cultural history and rituals.

How did your travels or experiences this summer inspire you?

When visiting the Canadian Rockies in Banff, Yoho National Parks, and Maine Acadia National Park I was initially quite surprised and a bit disappointed to be surrounded by so many visitors. While this at first made it harder to enjoy the beauty of nature, it ultimately compelled me to take several unbeaten paths which transported me to endless green in the middle of majestic and beautiful wet forests. Reconnecting to the raw scents, sensations and feelings brought me back to what I love about fragrances and natural materials. This vast portfolio of wet stones, cold rivers, crumpled leaves, sun-heated soil is something that I’m now exploring in my creations, trying to immerse you in the scents of the blissful outdoors.

What currently excites you most about working in fragrance?

There’s a “nouvelle vague” happening where some new up & comers are trying to define a new perfumery, around new accords and centered around beautiful naturals. In a time where clients and consumers are becoming more and more educated about these, it’s exciting to be a part of defining what the future of scents might be. In such busy times, it gives us the opportunity to stop for a minute, to rethink the way we reformulate and really go back to the materials themselves.

Are there any specific notes or ideas for fragrances that you are especially interested in exploring this fall?

Literal notes such as vegetables, fruits or more conceptual ones like petrichor and wet soils accords seem to be in favor at the moment and this is something I love working on and developing. Ingredients that were in fragrances for decades are also finally remerging . For example, carrot is extremely interesting and I’m working on developing an authentic accord around this scent. Another trend ongoing is the revival of 80s & 90s fragrance accords, with strong identifiable signatures, and reimagining these with a modern twist — like carrot — makes it unusual and fun, unexpected but also olfactively interesting and pertinent. 

How did your travels or experiences this summer inspire you?

This summer I spent time in Barcelona, where I represented Cosmo International Fragrances in the Mouillette D’Argent International Perfumery Competition with my perfume inspired by the Mediterranean sun. What inspired me most when traveling were the aromas of local flora, unique cuisines, the climate, and the cultural landscape of the Mediterranean. Catalonia has always stimulated my senses in a never-ending way; the saline breeze, wild herbs and aromatic resinous pines combine with warm, dry earth and a relaxed, bright atmosphere that eases the mind and warrants artistic expression.

What currently excites you most about working in fragrance?

What motivates and excites me most about perfumery is witnessing the progression involved in developing a tangible finished creation that started from nothing more than an idea. Nothing is more satisfying to me than that first sniff of each new trial and watching your unique personal vision materialize with every addition or modification of the formula. This eternal pursuit of progress has me waking up excited every day to dream, experiment, and create.

Are there any specific notes or ideas for fragrances that you are especially interested in exploring this fall?

Cosmo International Fragrances has several exciting natural extracts with unique characteristics available in our palette. As the cooler weather comes around, I find myself drawn to warm, sweet, and comforting scents with character that make you feel bundled up and embraced. I have recently enjoyed experimenting with Osmanthus Craftivity, Myrtle Inca Oil Peru, and Ginger CO2 Peru, which bring a fresh, unique perspective to the classic wintery themes of spices, dark fruits, and other gourmand directions. Being able to continually explore new directions on familiar themes and experimenting with entirely new ideas and unique materials makes every day on the job an adventure.

How did your travels or experiences this summer inspire you?

This summer I moved from Paris to New York. I feel this city is a new playground where all my senses are stimulated. Inspiration is at every corner – a new pastry, the smell of coffee in the street – it is just all so different from France. It’s amazing how the places we grow up influence our olfactory tastes. I also traveled to California to go surfing this summer and I’m starting to become obsessed by the mix between the salty air of the sea, the mineral sand, the sunscreen and the surf wax infused by coconut that I used. This is something I want to recreate in a fragrance creation.

What currently excites you most about working in fragrance?

What I like about this work is that creativity comes from curiosity. I love to make a parallel between different art forms and try to apply what I discovered into perfumery.

For example, I went to see this building “couvent de la Tourette” in France, built by the architect Le Corbusier. He’s famous for his work with concrete and the way he played with the light. The simplicity, the colors, and the shapes he used give a majestic and modern impression. At that time, it was really avant-garde and groundbreaking.

After visiting it, I tried to apply what I perceived there into my way of creating. Trying to be simpler and finding ingredients that bring light and contrast because an ingredient surrounded by a good environment can express itself at its full potential.

The weather becoming chilly brings me to explore warmer notes. I’m really attracted to palo santo. I feel it’s really interesting because it has the contrast I was talking about. It’s a really creamy wood, dark and sensual with a slightly aromatic note that brings the contrast to the wood. I definitely want to integrate this smell in one of my next creations.

Are there any specific notes or ideas for fragrances that you are especially interested in exploring this fall?

As the weather becomes chillier, I begin to explore warmer notes. I’m really attracted to palo santo for example, because it’s a creamy wood, dark and sensual with a slightly aromatic note that brings an interesting contrast.

Our TFF Catalyst Initiative officially launched with The New York Urban League in late August & is now moving forward with monthly activations & communications. In the Spotlight section of Accords, the leaders at NYUL share how & why we are now officially connected & it makes us so very proud to join together as #FragranceForwardTFF.

In our early stages now, we are spending time getting to know each other. We know it is important to share who we are as well as our missions & objectives, translating these to our actions that unite us to bring diversity to the fragrance community. Our emphasis is focused on actions so that students & young professionals are welcomed, celebrated & recruited for roles throughout the fragrance community & industry.

In Scents & Sensibilities, we asked new TFF Board members to share their perspectives of the new Fall season. Also, each executive explains how important both creativity and gratitude are in their leadership roles.

We are thrilled to also feature some of the next generation of Perfumers who share how their travels this summer have inspired their outlook going forward and how fragrances can transport us to new destinations. They also enjoy sharing what excites them and will affect their future creations.

As we continue to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month officially through October 15th, we recognize the major contributions this important part of the fragrance community makes every day of the year. We value the talent that is brought to the industry as well as the consumers across the USA!

President, The Fragrance Foundation

@linda_g_levy
@fragrancefoundation

TFF’s relationship with Louie Schwartzberg dates back to 2021, when the award-winning artist and filmmaker’s breathtaking time-lapse films of flowers unfurling their petals were a centerpiece for Fragrance Day communications and celebrations. The 2022 TFF Awards at Lincoln Center kicked off with a screening of the trailer for his film Gratitude Revealed, and this year the partnership continues with Schwartzberg’s stunning visuals appearing throughout the Awards presentation.

Schwartzberg’s 2019 documentary Fantastic Fungi focused on intricate relationships and cooperation in the natural world, and Gratitude Revealed is a must-see opus about human resilience, connection, and the endurance of hope. In the months since the film premiered in cinemas and special screenings around the world, Schwartzberg’s message has only grown stronger and more relevant. He has also launched his own streaming platform, The Louie Channel, which brings together his inspirational work with cooking shows, meditations, and conversations with luminaries such as Dr. Andrew Weil, and nature programs. “It’s all about creating positive energy in the world,” he says.

What have been some of the high points for you as you’ve taken Gratitude Revealed around the world?

At the Fragrance Foundation Awards last year, Linda introduced me to Linda Valentino, who was head of nursing at Mount Sinai. That evolved into a relationship where we ended up doing a screening of Gratitude Revealed to honor the frontline nurses who dedicated themselves during COVID, and who are now suffering from burnout. We did a screening at Mount Sinai, and we connected seven of the other New York area boroughs virtually. It was a beautiful way to express our gratitude for them, and it enabled the nurses to connect with each other and talk about how grateful they were for each other’s support.

You recently launched your own channel, Louie TV. What do you hope to accomplish with it?

The Louie Channel is a streaming platform, similar to Netflix, HBO, Amazon, Disney+. We’re shoulder to shoulder with the big boys. I don’t think any other individual has done that yet. We are able to show films about gratitude, about mushrooms, about art, about flowers. Louieland is one category, that will be for children’s hospitals to turn them on to the beauty of nature. Then there’s also Friends of Louie, where we’re showcasing or curating the best high quality positive messaging films that celebrate life. I’m opening it up to anyone who has got something that’s going to help elevate consciousness. Imagine going to a platform where you don’t have to worry for a second that you might get a shot of violence or fear. It’s all about triggering your emotions in a positive way, similar to what aromatherapy can do. That’s what the whole fragrance industry is about, too, right?

I think the only way you can fight the fear and negativity that surrounds us is by shifting it, and giving people an immersive experience that appeals to their sensory receptors. You turn them on with love. Remind them to smell the roses, smell the fragrances. Look at
the beauty around them.

Why do you think that experiencing wonder is so key?

Wonder takes you to that point, which you could say is the intersection between art and science. It also takes you to bliss. It takes you to the divine, and you have to feel that every once in a while. We have to feel reconnected to ourselves and to whatever that thing is, that spirituality or transformational experience. It’s like when you inhale a fabulous fragrance for two to three seconds. Man, that’s a trip. It’s an immersive sensory experience that knocks you out of your present dilemma and reconnects you to wonder.

What is next for you?

I just want to continue to make films that unveil the mystery of life, to make the invisible visible so that we can be more conscious of what life is and what energy is. Whether it’s in people or whether it’s with nature, it’s all the same.

How does TFF’s DEI initiative #FragranceForwardTFF resonate with you?

It totally resonates. In Gratitude Revealed, I’ve got all ethnicities and all kinds of people from all parts of the country. There are people of color, African Americans, Hispanic people, salsa, jazz, dairy farms, rug weavers, cowboys. It’s just people’s wisdom that emanates from having a life where you overcome adversity, yet you still have a lot of love and joy. That kind of wisdom is precious, and in the movie, you see these examples of people’s lives from all across America, from Cajun country to Vermont to Appalachia. It’s cool to see that diversity. I think that to see how all of us are connected—how every single one of us matters—is such a powerful thing.

Sniff just a few of the fragrances IFF Master Perfumer Anne Flipo has composed, and you’ll immediately detect a bold, questioning, and sensitive personality behind them. A very thoughtful perfumer, Flipo is known for her quiet rigor—including a dedication to hand-written formulas—and for her outsize talent and expertise. Over the course of her now 35-year career, Flipo has created sensational scents for houses big and small, from history-making blockbusters such as Lancôme La Vie Est Belle to vibrant masterstrokes such as Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle Synthetic Jungle to nuanced niche works such as L’Artisan Parfumeur La Chasse aux Papillons. Whether working alone or collaboratively, on feminine, masculine, or universal scents, Flipo’s process and goals are constant, and an inspiration for all who encounter her—and her fragrances. “My quest remains the same,” she says. “Signature, impact, pleasure!”

What initially drew you to perfumery?

I grew up in the North of France, surrounded by a wonderful garden kept by a gardener, full of flowers year round. Maybe it was that garden, or my father working in sugar, or my grandmother who lived in Laon and who excelled in the art of entertaining, the art of living, cooking: When it was time for me to choose what I was going to study, I opted for the ISIP, the French perfumery school, which offered a three-year program in flavoring, cosmetics, and fragrance, against the wishes of my parents, who wanted me to prepare the entrance exams for engineering schools.

What are the earliest scents or fragrances you can recall?

From that life growing up in the North of France, I vividly recall the flowerbeds, the orchards, the smell of tennis courts, lilac trees, lily-of-the-valley, weeping willows, ornamental cherries, peonies, and poppies. Funnily enough, American perfumery also made a lasting impression on me, as the small local perfumery carried American brands which became the staples of my mother and aunt, who wore Estée and Youth Dew. My sister also used to wear Alliage and Cinnabar by Estée Lauder as well as Charlie by Revlon.

What was your experience at school in Versailles like? Did you have a mentor?

When I started learning to smell, it felt like second nature to me. I was lucky to be trained by Michel Almairac and Jean-Louis Sieuzac, perfumers with an outstanding track record.

How would you describe your style as a perfumer?

I don’t believe I have a style per se, as I make it a point to blend myself in with the brands I create for.

However, there is a common denominator which I try to bring into all my creations: the immediate recognizability of a signature, the immediate pleasure it provides. It needs to be readable, impactful, recognizable: that is my style!

What are your favorite materials to work with?

Orange flower is my personal favorite, but I also love green notes which I’ve used in many different ways.

What do you personally find most fascinating or absorbing about perfumery?

I love to listen to people who come to see me and to translate their words into perfume. I also love challenges, working on brands I’ve never worked with before, and with people I don’t know, taking risks, approaching things from a different angle. I like to win as well! Today, my greatest ambition is transmission. I don’t worry about going down in history; being forgotten is of no importance. But I am keen to be a mentor to young people, to help them win and to think outside the box, to let go without letting go while letting go without letting go . . . In a word, to find themselves; because in the end that’s what it’s all about, and it can bring as much joy as pain, sometimes. It takes a lot of self-sacrifice. Perfume is hard work.

Which of your perfume creations have you been most proud of, and why?

I’m sure most perfumers will give you the same answer: it’s hard to choose between your children! I’m proud of having created the world blockbuster La Vie est Belle with my colleagues Olivier Polge and Dominique Ropion, but there are so many I’m proud of: Libre for Yves Saint Laurent, the shockingly green notes of Synthetic Jungle for Frederic Malle; the sensuality of L’Interdit; the countryside laid back feel of Jo Malone Basil & Neroli; the sexiness of Jimmy Choo; the immediate femininity of Lady Million for Paco Rabanne… and many others!

Were there specific moments or opportunities you believe were crucial or especially formative in your career?

In the 2000s my career took a new turn when I joined IFF, an exception in the male-dominated world of perfumery. When I started out, I was told, “a woman perfumer: no way.’ Luckily when my mother was raising us she was obsessed with telling my sister and I that we had as just as much opportunity as boys, if not more. At IFF, it was a relief; it was more open, there were women who had beaten the odds, like Joséphine Catapano, and Sophia Grojsman, who came up with some of perfumery’s finest fragrances. IFF was also the first company to encourage collaboration between perfumers. You have to be able to work with other perfumers: it’s a challenge, you learn from it; it’s helped me a lot. Curiosity, honesty, respect, emotion . . . That’s what takes you to the next level: humility and pleasure.

What inspires you most?

Meeting new people. The people I work with fuel my creative energy!

How do you define success?

Balance.

How does it feel to be named TFF Lifetime Achievement Perfumer?

Saying it is a dream come true is an understatement. It gives me so much pleasure, since I was informed that I would be this year’s recipient, I’ve been walking on clouds!

This year marks the 50th year of our signature event, The 2023 Fragrance Foundation Awards which was held June 15th at Lincoln Center. Over 900 attended the awards presentation in person & thousands joined us on social media. We all agreed it was more spectacular than ever.

The ceremony, a creative collaboration with award-winning artist and filmmaker Louie Schwartzberg, revealed winners across 14 categories and highlighted the winners from 5 categories previously awarded at the 2023 Awards Luncheon held in April where finalists for all 19 categories were announced.
Nicolas Hieronimus, CEO of L’Oréal was inaugurated into The Fragrance Foundation Hall of Fame with actress Cate Blanchett presenting him the award. Anne Flipo, master perfumer at IFF, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Perfumer Award.

Our star lineup of presenters from the worlds of design, entertainment, ballet & small fragrance brand founders all shared their passion for fragrances as the TFFAwards announced the winners.

We celebrated TFF Awards in a magnificent way, but what has affected this signature event, and what I am most proud of, is the diversity of people and creations we are celebrating. #FragranceForwardTFF

Enjoy this special June issue of Accords by our Editor April Long. To experience more of our TFF Awards event, view the Awards winners, & see photos that capture our iconic evening, CLICK THROUGH HERE!

President, The Fragrance Foundation

@linda_g_levy

courtesy of @gettyimages @fragrancefoundation

Vera Wang’s impact on American fashion cannot be understated. A former figure skater and Vogue editor, she revolutionized and modernized bridalwear when she opened her first boutique in 1990—and she has since brought her unerring good taste to everything from eyewear to tableware, bedding to jewelry, even to vodka. She has also been prolific in the world of perfume: her beloved fragrances—nearly 30 of which have launched since the first, Vera Wang, debuted in 2002—transcend the Big Day to become lifetime signature scents. Here, the iconic designer, who was recently awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Biden, reflects on her surpassingly successful career, and shares why she believes that perfume is the ultimate accessory.

What did your experience as a skater and early career as an editor bring to your sensibility as a designer?

Skating gave me a physical ability that’s quite rare in the fashion world. And before I ever went into fashion, I was already involved in fashion, because skating is probably the only sport in which your performance involves how you look, how you dress, what the choreography is, and what the music is. That’s not so different from putting together a fashion show.

As a fashion editor, I was exposed to more fashion in one run through at Vogue than most people see in a lifetime. You’re sitting there for eight hours, and there’s clothing from all over the world. It’s tried on, discussed, evaluated. Is it good enough for the magazine? Is it something that’s going to create a story? Is there a trend? Fashion, for me, is so much about line. It’s about the body. Lyricism, sensuality. I’m so connected to my own body because of my history. Every designer brings something from their life to their work. I brought 22 years of using my body for expression, and using my mind.

What do you think it was about your early wedding dress designs that struck such a chord with people?

I was the girl who was never getting married. I got engaged at the ripe old age of 38 and three quarters. We didn’t even have time to arrange a wedding, we were both so busy working. And when I went wedding dress shopping… well, you can imagine. I didn’t intend to wear a traditional wedding gown, which, at that time, was basically a uniform, with all kinds of frilly things and leg of mutton sleeves. I just couldn’t relate to any of it, and most of the other women getting engaged were 15 years younger than me. So I ended up designing something and having it made. That’s how it all started. I realized there was an opportunity to bring an editorial eye, and a real fashion sensibility, to bridal.

You recently received a National Medal of Arts from President Biden. How did it feel to be recognized with such an honor?

The United States has been so prolific in its contribution to all the arts and humanities, and to sports, it’s incredible. And when you think of getting a medal from the President, for the arts, it’s a bit surreal, I thought of all the other people that should have gotten it instead of me. So many American fashion designers have made such great contributions to making American style so influential. I’ll cite two of my friends: Calvin Klein, and Ralph Lauren, my ex-boss. They exported American culture to the world. What’s even more ridiculous is that I was the first one to get an award for fashion, because I presume fashion had never been considered an art.

But have you ever tried to dress a woman’s body, a real, live woman? Have you ever tried to change her life or envision her in a different way? If that’s not an art form, I don’t know what is. I am really proud that I was awarded this medal for that reason, because my whole life has been devoted to, hopefully, making women feel comfortable and not intimidated by fashion.

How has your Chinese American heritage enriched your life and work?

I grew up having to be a blend of cultures. Chinese families have a very distinct culture. It’s based on respect for elders, on discipline, hard work, tenacity, humility, and being grateful for opportunities. You don’t forget that kind of upbringing. And you do bring that along with you, throughout your life. I felt very grateful to have gotten the job at Vogue. And grateful to have gotten a job at Ralph. And grateful for having had the opportunity to create my own company, and to have had people understand what I was trying to do.

What do you love most about fragrance?

First of all, it conjures up memories. There’s a sensuality of fragrance that you feel, and you experience, but so do people around you. It’s a way to communicate. It’s about mood and individuality, and self-expression. In a way, fragrance is the ultimate accessory. And I think that it’s sexy. I remember whenever I used to work really late, and when I had a dinner date or something, I would just put on a bit of fragrance. Some women do lipstick, but for me it was always fragrance. I would just put a bit behind my ears, and I would transition from a frantic workday to feeling feminine, and ready to go out.

What role does it play in your daily life?

It’s an every day, every way type of thing for me. I always put something on in the morning. And when I’m going out at night, I always remember to spritz myself, because it puts me in a different place. That’s what’s so amazing about fragrance. It can do that for you, just like music can.

There are friends of mine who have their scent. And there are friends of mine who like to explore. I think fragrance has evolved. The new generations are a bit more adventurous, and they like to find new things. There’s more flexibility. But it’s also their lifestyle and seasonality, the occasion. Lots of girls like lighter in summer. Many other things start to enter into their choices of scents, I think, from what I have experienced with all the women around me.

What differentiates a bridal fragrance from any other scent?

The enormity of the event. It takes on so much emotion on your wedding day. It takes on a very different symbolism. God knows, I’ve attended enough weddings, and done enough weddings. I don’t know how many thousand I’ve done in 34 years, but I do know that scent plays such a significant role because it’s something that you’ll remember, probably, forever. It immediately conjures up where you were, what you were doing, how you felt. And hopefully, those are wonderful memories.

What is your process when you’re working with perfumes and fragrance?

It’s always different. I’ve done a lot of fragrances. When the first Vera Wang fragrance came out it was a stronger fragrance than what was popular at the time. But I had been brought up and raised in the French fragrance tradition, so I felt that it was more authentic for me to do a fragrance that was a bit stronger. I remember working on it was such an education. It was smelling different trials, testing, having the coffee beans there, spraying it all over your body, your wrist, your finger, your elbow, your arm, your neck. It was a labor of love.

And every perfumer works differently. Of course, I had my own story that was from my past, and from my youth, and from my education. But starting with that first fragrance, I began to learn about top notes, dry downs. I’m always learning. And certainly, fashion changes in fragrance as well. Sometimes women don’t want musky or heavy, they want something very light or they want unisex. Things evolve. That’s what makes it so challenging, but it also gives you a chance to be creative.

Among your Vera Wang fragrances, what’s your favorite?

It’s like asking which is your favorite child! I really did love my first one. And Princess came out of a personal story. I was driving my daughters around West Palm Beach, and they had all their friends with them. I had about five girls in the back seat. I think they must have been eight to 10 years of age. And I’m thinking, at the same time, of a new fragrance concept. And I said, “What do you think about ‘Princess?'” And they started screaming in the car. Because obviously, they all wanted to be Disney princesses. They all wanted to wear crowns. And so we got Vera Wang Princess. It was never meant to be about royalty, per se. It was such a bigger concept. There is no limitation to what the word “Princess” can be. Rock Princess, the next one, was inspired by the movie Almost Famous, and the love of music in this country, young people, garage bands, flannel shirts, guys on skateboards, suburbia. And every single Princess that followed… from Princess Night, about going clubbing, to Preppy Princess, which was about girls in kilt skirts and blazers, like Gossip Girl… was different but touched on something in popular culture.

And now we have Rock Princess 2023.

Yes, a relaunch of Rock. It’s a very different time now. Guys aren’t all running around in flannel shirts on skateboards. There are cell phones, there’s Coachella. I felt it’s got to be much more about the influence of rappers, the star power of the Beyonces and Rihannas of this world. It’s really about being cool, being glamorous, the love of makeup and nails and glitz, and all these things that did not exist 20 years ago. I said, “If we’re going to bring Rock back, it’s got to be a different Rock.”

What are your plans for future scents?

We have another scent in the pipeline. It is not part of the Princess family, and I think it’s incredibly exciting. It has a different price point. It’s higher, with more essential oils. It’s got its place, I think, with the brand, because we really span from accessible to haute couture. So I think that it’s the right time for this to happen. I can’t say any more yet… but it’s coming.

How do you support the Fragrance Foundation’s DEI initiative, #FragranceForwardTFF?

First of all, I think that Linda Levy has done an insane job. I have to give her kudos. She has been nothing but supportive of me, and a very good advisor, as she is to all, in this business. Anything that we can do as a brand, anything I can do as a designer, and a woman, and someone has been lucky enough to work in the fragrance industry—we’re going to do whatever we can to be supportive of Linda and the Fragrance Foundation’s work. Linda is just unstoppable. I say that in the most complimentary way. It was not just a position for her, it’s a calling. And I think every fragrance firm would agree. She has gained enormous respect from the entire industry, because she is someone who believes so passionately in this industry and what can be done to make it better. It’s refreshing. And it’s encouraging, and it’s exciting.

ELOREA

Founders Su Min Park & Wonny Lee

How does Elorea bring the inspiring heritage of Korea to life?

Elorea brings Korea’s heritage to life through fragrances that draw inspiration from the country’s natural beauty, traditional practices, and rich scent culture dating back to 500 B.C. Scent played a significant role in the daily lives of Korea’s ancestors, who believed in its power to promote well-being by clearing the mind, protecting the body, and dispelling negative energy. As this aspect of our history is lesser known, we believe it is essential to highlight it through our brand. Our fragrances reflect the traditional approach to scents while offering unique olfactive experiences with the finest ingredients sourced from Korea and around the world. By telling the story of different aspects of our culture, we strive to capture the essence of our heritage through thoughtfully crafted products.

What is the philosophy behind the brand?

ELOREA is a portmanteau of ‘Elements’ and ‘Korea’. The philosophy behind our brand is to draw inspiration from Korea’s rich history of fragrance and lifestyle, capture, preserve, and share the stories of our heritage. Our brand is built on the foundation of balance, blending traditional and modern elements, classic and unconventional ideas, as well as sustainability and luxury. We believe in sourcing only the highest quality materials and producing in small batches with exceptional care. Our mission is to create fragrances that evoke a sense of balance and harmony, not only in the scent but in the overall experience.

What does having a unique identity and rich cultural reference points bring to the fragrances themselves?

Having a unique identity and rich cultural reference points brings depth and meaning to the fragrances themselves. Each Elorea fragrances are more than just a scent- they are a way to connect with and appreciate the beauty and complexity of Korean culture, and they serve as a way to explore and experience the world beyond one’s own perspective. By drawing on cultural heritage, Elorea is able to create fragrances that are unique, meaningful, and unforgettable.

FORMOSA

Founder Shining Sung, Bottle Designer Marc Rosen, Master Perfumer Honorine Blanc

What was the original idea behind Formosa?

Taiwan used to be called Formosa when in the 17th Century, the Portuguese sailors sailed past Taiwan and saw how beautiful the island was, they called it Ille Formosa, beautiful island. Since then, Taiwan has always been known as Formosa!

I came from Taiwan and love Taiwan. I have always been active in promoting Taiwan in cultural programs, in art and music. Since Marc Rosen is a good friend and I always admire his talent for designing the famous and beautiful perfume bottles, one day I just came up with the idea of having Marc design a perfume bottle to celebrate and promote Taiwan by calling it Formosa, to bring the name Formosa to the world.

How do the notes in the fragrance conjure the beauty of Taiwan?

This fragrance was inspired by the unique beauty of Taiwan. The exotic native Plum Blossom, the Rose Petals and Tiger Orchid together with vibrant indigenous Mandarin and candied lemons are enveloped in musks and sheer Amber to capture the essence of this magical place.

How does the bottle design reflect the brand’s heritage and Taiwanese culture?

I was inspired by Taiwan’s contrast between the modern and the antique. For example, the modern architecture and their predominant position in supplying the world’s computer chips vs their position in being a leading exporter of Jade. Hence the very contemporary and sculptural crystal bottle capped with a faux carved Jade ball. As a designer my object is always to create a design that both looks and feels tactile.

ISSEY MIYAKE

How do Issey Miyake fragrances express Miyake’s Japanese heritage?

In 1992, Issey Miyake created his first signature fragrance for men, L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme, which was inspired by traditional Japanese baths and the smell of yuzu, a citrus typical to Japan. With its vibrant freshness that combines strength and balance, the fragrance established itself as truly timeless and iconic, an elegant and recognizable scent and bottle in the world of perfumery.

What are the most important elements of the brand’s cultural background and philosophy?

Issey Miyake was a Japanese fashion designer who was known for his technology-driven clothes design, exhibitions, as well as fragrances. His international background allowed him to get the best influences from Tokyo, Paris, and New York creating a cultural melt, fulfilled by diversity and intelligent creativity.

Issey Miyake’s brand philosophy has never deviated. The brand’s goals are still to create fragrances that convey a message, inspire everyone with hope, present simple yet functional designs that are at once accessible and universal, while never losing a sense of wonder. As with his clothing design, Issey Miyake would ensure to create fragrances that are not only pertinent to lifestyles but are also founded in pure essentials.

How has the brand’s unique sensibility set it apart in the fragrance industry?

For the past thirty years, Issey Miyake perfumes have been celebrating nature in all its forms and manifestations. This unconditional love for nature can now be seen in a commitment towards tangible actions towards its preservation. It also represents the future for the perfume industry, which needs to move towards more environmentally conscious production in general.

Issey Miyake Fragrance as a brand has a genuine vision for its sustainable development. Previously, he was always inspired by nature, and very respectful of it too, and this commitment is reflected in all the perfumes as well as in their packaging as the brand continues to move forward and expand.

KENZO

How does Kenzo express Kenzo Takada’s Japanese heritage?

KENZO has only one creative credo, that of its founder: the world is beautiful.

KENZO perfumes take up the themes and values dear to Kenzo Takada: nature, flowers, happiness, freedom, dreams, youth, and the fusion between East and West. Tradition and modernity. Excellence and attention to detail.

What does the East Meets West philosophy behind the brand bring to the scents themselves?

A unique olfactory journey. Each creation leaves a strong and poetic signature in its wake.

What are some of the ways that the brand’s heritage has set it apart in the fragrance
industry ?

KENZO perfumes will be from the very first, against the current, far from the trends, in the vanguard with a philosophy carried by the love of the beautiful and the good. Pioneering fragrances that have marked the history of perfumery.

LILANUR PARFUMS

Co-Creator Paul Austin

What are some of the ways that LilaNur is dedicated to celebrating the rich floriculture of India?

LilaNur was born in the flower fields of Madurai, in Southern India. Due to India’s biodiversity, it grows an abundance of pristine natural ingredients used in haute perfumery – from flowers to spice, woods, gums, herbs and more. Our vision has always been to craft traceable fragrances woven around these ingredients – and the communities where they are cultivated, processed and used in daily life.

Working with our foundational partners – Jasmine CE – and a community of 5000 flower pickers, we’ve established the Rosabagh (which means rose garden) Foundation with a mission of nurturing rural workers whose livelihoods are dependent on the floriculture economy. The Jasmine C.E. team facilitated the planting of Rose Centifolia in Madurai to fill out the crop calendar covering seasons when fields were fallow and no picking work was available. Not only was this a source of full-year work for the picking community, it also led to an extraordinary outcome: LilaNur Parfums facilitated the addition of this unique Indian-grown Rose Centifolia to the international perfumery palette and it is our greatest hope to extend the global demand for this specialty. It is a stand out star of Fabrice Pellegrin’s masterpiece “Gul Rouge” scent.

What is the philosophy behind the brand?

LilaNur Parfums’ mission is to inspire the world with India’s rich fragrance culture, build awareness around its array of natural perfumery ingredients, and to drive opportunities to the thousands of rural workers whose livelihoods depend upon India’s floriculture economy.

From its inception, LilaNur Parfums forged partnerships with Jasmine C.E. in Madurai – the country’s leading supplier of floral absolutes to the fragrance industry – and the Firmenich Naturals Innovation Group in Grasse to create fully traceable and innovative scents from field to flacon.

What does having a unique identity and rich cultural reference points bring to the fragrances themselves?

India is alive with scent. Its vast array of flowers, spices, and herbs are such a key part of daily life and have been an intrinsic part of Indian culture for millennia. Each of our Eau de Parfums is a portrait of LilaNur India’s rich fragrance culture – and its scenting rituals. For example, our Vettiver Mousson references the vetiver roots woven into mats that are placed in windows and splashed with water to act as a natural air conditioner. The cooling breezes are filled with the fresh, earthy smell of damp vetiver roots. And once the monsoon arrives, this smell mingles with the wet, humidity of the rains along with the first flush of jasmine.

Our Davana Ceder Eau de parfum is a herbaceous scent that originates from an Indian plant holy to the Hindu deity Shiva, the god of transformation.

Rajni Nocturne is a scent that captures the night-blooming tuberose, called rajnigandha (night-fragrant). This tuberose is harvested before dawn to ensure the integrity of the scent.

What initially drew you to perfumery?

I always say perfumery found me. It’s different in America, compared to other parts of the world, especially in France, where you might have family members in the field and be born into it. When you’re there, everyone knows about perfumery, it’s a celebrated art form and a very common field to aspire to work in, even at a young age. Here in America it’s much less common to have a desire to become a perfumer or to even know about it. It was a great deal of hard work, a bit of luck, and the unpredictable twists and turns of my career that brought perfumery to me.

How did growing up in Saigon affect your sensibility as a perfumer?

Southern Vietnam is famous for its fertile land, lush nature and rice fields. There I was able to learn natural healing ingredients at a very young age by working alongside my grandfather, a healer who taught me how to identify, smell and harvest local healing plants. This experience is always a good reminder of how every one of my creations must connect to the beauty of nature and evoke happiness in the bottle.

What do you think is unique about the Vietnamese experience and appreciation of scent?

I would say this is two-fold. For one, my hands-on knowledge of tropical botanicals and raw materials native to Vietnam have greatly influenced my palette and how I create today. Secondly, I am grateful for my past, my heritage and my journey. I look back on it all with only positive embrace, yet my gaze is always on the future and what’s next.

What are some of your sources of inspiration?

If we look around us, inspiration is everywhere. In the people we meet, the things we see, the food we eat, the music we listen to. Each moment offers something unique, and all of these moments add up to something beautiful. I try to bottle that. Even off-duty, when I’m restoring vintage cars I feel inspired. They share a similarity with fine fragrance in their beautiful design and performance.

What initially drew you to perfumery?

When I first discovered Poison de Dior at the age of 18 (also my first time smelling perfume), I became aware of a whole new world – the world of scents. From then on, I gradually realized that olfactory beauty is one of the most interesting and elusive forms of art, and so I decided to devote my life to perfumery.

How did growing up in Beijing affect your sensibility as a perfumer?

Growing up in Beijing or, more broadly, growing up in China, the most important thing for me is that the core of my thinking is based on Eastern philosophy. In my opinion, the emphasized non-dualistic concepts of “unity of human and nature” and of “harmony” align perfectly with the philosophy of fragrance creation. I have been fortunate to receive a Western education while also being able to think and create in an Eastern way.

What are the similarities and differences between the French and the Chinese perfume industries?

The word “culture” in Chinese directly translates to “the evolution of language”. In comparison to the mature perfume industry in France, China currently lacks a perfume culture. This means that the Chinese language, or people’s expression abilities, are not yet adapted to scents. As a result, both consumers and our direct clients find it difficult to describe their needs and concepts, which in turn affects the efficiency and cultural dissemination abilities of the perfume industry. Changing this situation requires accumulated time, as well as the responsibility of Chinese perfumery professionals, to take action.

What are some of your favorite scents?

I like Ambrox, Patchouli and Rose very much. They all have a well-rounded, quite changeable, and powerful quality to me.

What are some of your sources of inspiration?

My sources of creative inspiration come from photographs, paintings from both the East and West, poetry, Japanese haiku, and of course the great works of other brilliant perfumers.

What initially drew you to perfumery?

Initially, I had no idea that there was an entire industry behind perfumes. I really stumbled upon it by luck and a series of circumstances.

I was interested in mathematics and ended up pursuing chemical engineering, but I also loved anything to do with the arts–anything creative that involved me using my hands.

I first heard about perfumery at a job interview, after university, when speaking with a perfumer. I knew immediately that it was something I would enjoy–it was the perfect combo of science and art

How did growing up in Malaysia affect your sensibility as a perfumer?

Malaysia is just filled with odors. We have flowers which are very fragrant, leaves (like pandan leaves) which we use in cooking just for their smell, all sorts of spices grow in the region, we also grow coffee and tea, and the famous agar oud can be found in the forest there. Because of its warm and humid climate, the smell and its importance is somehow magnified.

What are some sources of inspiration that relate to your heritage?

I love the smell of the frangipani flower, which grows abundantly in Malaysia. Whenever I work on a white floral I draw inspiration from flowers like these. Plus, growing up with spices and tropical fruits at home, I tend to blend these smells into my compositions.

What are some of the perfume creations you are most proud of, and why?

It’s difficult to choose which ones really. I am proud of each and every creation for different reasons…Lancôme Idôle because of the team work which was incredible and wonderful, Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Forever because of the accord using Givaudan’s captives which provided something innovative, and so many more!

What initially drew you to perfumery?

I have always had a love for fragrance since my childhood. I used to put my head in a fabric bag to smell my favorite fabric softener when I was a child. I remember that it just made me really happy. As a teenager, I used to go crazy trying perfumes at Duty Free shops overseas on family trips. I did not know back then what made me smell those scents so obsessively, but in retrospect, it was because of the emotions they evoke and how directly they touch our souls. It was like an uncontrollable passion that I could not explain.

How did your pharmacy studies affect your work as a perfumer?

The intense level of chemistry and botany needed for pharmacy studies still continue to impact my perfumery work. I think that the commitment and concentration that you need to know of how the tiniest of details impacts the end product are similar and equally important in both fields.

How do you express your Japanese roots in your perfume creation?

I adore Japanese minimalism, which is reflected in my creations by keeping formulas minimalistic. I want every ingredient to have a reason-to-be in the formula for the fragrance message to be bold and memorable. When I create with this in mind, I always feel clear on my intention. I also appreciate the concept of wabi-sabi, which is about finding beauty in imperfection, simplicity and impermanence. I love deconstructing formulas, overdosing some ingredients, and playing with extreme fragrance structures.

What are some of your favorite materials to work with, and why?

I love working with combinations of woody materials because they have many different textures, depths and feelings. I enjoy the opportunities we have in perfumery to use both naturals and synthetic woody materials to express our creative visions in a wide variety of ways.

What initially drew you to perfumery?

My mother loves gardening and her garden is full of fragrant flowers. As a result, I also love fragrant flowers influenced by her. I was initially attracted to perfumery when I joined the fragrance industry and smelled so many raw materials and essential oils. I had never smelled so many wonderful scents. I was impressed that the scent of every flower consists of many components which are so well-balanced in nature.

How has your Japanese heritage influenced your work as a perfumer?

One of the many parts of my Japanese heritage that influences me as a perfumer is the art of the Japanese tea ceremony. These beautiful tea rituals create a spirit of hospitality, and people can really “feel” the theme of the ceremony in the small space of the tearoom. Each ceremony can be customized, considering individual preferences and needs to create specific emotions. The same is true of my work. I am trying to create a fragrance that evokes special emotions and impressions with positive feelings.

What are some of your sources of inspiration?

I get inspired from the scent of plants, music, arts and food. I especially love Japanese and French cuisine. Japanese cuisine is all about preserving the natural tastes and scents of ingredients. The way it is prepared, the delicate seasoning, and the combination of herbs and condiments are incredibly inspiring. French cuisine brings together a unique combination of ingredients and creates unexpected flavors with such a beautiful appearance.

What is your favorite raw material to work with?

One of my favorite types of raw materials are spicy lactones. Like Jasmin lactone, Wine lactone, and Celery lactone. Each one has spicy facets in the base floral note. Adding a little bit of a spicy note gives my fragrances impact, harmonizes the fresh and floral parts, and connects floral and woody parts smoothly. And it provides the authentic quality of the surface texture and structure of flowers. I’m always interested in learning more about spices from around the world, learning new cultures and understanding how to use regionally important spicy notes in intriguing new ways.

TFF proudly celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in this issue of Accords! By featuring individuals in our fragrance community who share how their heritage, culture and experiences contribute to their creative vision and fragrance success, we recognize our diversity makes us all stronger together in the fragrance world.

Vera Wang’s drive and evolution from figure skater to editor to designer and on to fragrance creator and more, is truly exceptional! In this interview, our editor April Long prompts Vera to share inside personal stories that perhaps only the Veragang have heard before and allows our audience to truly get the inside scoop.

For all she has achieved so far and for all that is still ahead the culmination was during March, Women’s History month, when President Biden honored Vera Wang with the National Medal of Arts. Click here to see the ceremony at the White House!

The very talented AAPI Perfumers and brand creators share their visions and fragrances based on their history, while each and every one is extraordinary and unique. Enjoy the journey we take you on in May Accords!

#FragranceForwardTFF

President, The Fragrance Foundation

@linda_g_levy

@fragrancefoundation

On April 5th, TFF celebrated the big reveal of 2023 Award Finalists at a festive lunch at Cipriani 42nd Street, hosted by TFF President Linda G. Levy and Author and TV Personality on Spectrum News NY1, Cheryl Wills. Wills effused about her love of fragrance and the role it plays in her life, and a special moment was reserved to present her inspirational book, Emma, which was given to attendees at the event’s close. Among the many big announcements of the day—Anne Flipo will be receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award at the June Awards ceremony. Previously announced, Nicolas Hieronimous, L’Oréal CEO, will be honored with the Hall of Fame Award. At the luncheon, the Finalists in 19 categories were named, as were the winners in 5 categories. Here, we spotlight Four of the Indie Fragrance of the Year Finalists, intriguing and expressive perfumes that embody the limitless creativity and passion that smaller brands bring to the world of scent.

What does it mean for you to be nominated for the TFF Indie Fragrance of the Year Award?

It is an honor to be nominated, especially among so many other deserving and innovative fragrance brands in the Indie category. We are excited Ink has resonated with so many, just like the art of tattooing this fragrance was inspired by.

What is the philosophy/guiding principle behind Akro as a brand?

Akro began when founder Anaïs Cresp was living in London. She became enraptured by the scents around her; by the flower stalls, coffee houses, charcoal grills, by the whiskey and leather of the grand old Irish pubs and the inescapable haze of weed in the air.

After a long, lost summer of indulging in everything the city had to offer, Anaïs hit on an idea; that these distinctive aromas could be bottled and turned into fragrances. Anaïs turned to her father, Master Perfumer Olivier Cresp at Firmenich, and together they began to share ideas, stories and eventually scents. Soon enough, Akro was born.

What do you believe makes Ink particularly special?

Everyone remembers their first tattoo; the fear, the sensation, the adrenaline rush, the futile attempts to hide it from your parents…

For those who’ve fallen under the spell of this ancient art, it’s much more than a bit of body decoration; it’s a reminder of a time, a place – a fleeting moment that becomes a permanent memento. In many ways, a good fragrance works similarly – something you carry on your skin, to remind you of who you were at a moment in time. At Akro, we’ve always been fascinated by the parallels between tattoos and perfumery, which is why we’ve created Ink.

What does it mean for you to be nominated for the TFF Indie Fragrance of the Year Award?

It is a great pleasure and an honor, all the team involved here is giving its best, so it’s a great reward for us to be recognized again this year.

What was the inspiration behind Santal Calling?

With French perfumer Antoine Maisondieu at Givaudan, we tried to translate our fascination for this precious and almost mystical note.

How to mix contemporary Parisian inspirations with this iconic ingredient to create a bright and soothing scent that leads to an ultimate addiction.

How do you want people to feel when they smell it?

I don’t know if all the addictions are comfortable, but this is what we wanted to create: an ultimate skin fragrance, urban, protective, reinsuring but also very sensual and totally mesmerizing. We want them to feel ultimately comfortable with it, we want people to be addicted to the notes.

What does it mean for you to be nominated for the TFF Indie Fragrance of the Year Award?

Matiere Premiere is still very new to North America, so it is a thrill and privilege to have our newest scent, Crystal Saffron, recognized in this way. We are excited to be included and congratulate all the nominees in the indie category and beyond.

What is the philosophy/guiding principle behind Matiere Premiere?

Our mission is in our name, MATIERE PREMIERE is the French for raw material. The best natural ingredients are selected from around the world, favoring ethical and organic channels. MATIERE PREMIERE perfumes contain between 85% and 92% natural ingredients, and they are vegan and phthalate free.

Aurélien Guichard, Founder and Perfumer at Takasago, also produces the house’s own roses and tuberoses at an organic farm in the Grasse region of France.

What inspired Crystal Saffron?

“I wanted to create a fragrance built around an overdose of natural Saffron, like never before.” – Aurélien Guichard, Founder and Perfumer of the House

Saffron Oil Greece is the main and extremely precious ingredient of Crystal Saffron. It is obtained from the dried stigmas of hundreds of thousands of crocus flowers, grown under the unique sun and light of Greece in the Kozani region, and is considered to be the most qualitative saffron in the world.

What does it mean for you to be nominated for the TFF Indie Fragrance of the Year Award?

It is a great honor to be nominated. I’ve been wearing Le Gris for years before bringing it to market and it’s fulfilling to see it received by the community with the same enthusiasm I feel for it.

What do you believe makes Le Gris particularly special?

Pascal Gaurin at IFF is a brilliant perfumer, and with Le Gris, he has managed to make something so complex and distinguishable; There’s a single-pointedness I find really addicting in it. It lifts me up.

What is its place in the Taffin collection as a whole?

It’s a widely appealing scent. The freshness is attractive to many, and the woods and bergamot notes connect with those who prefer stronger scents. It’s well rounded both olfactively and in terms of who is drawn to it.

On April 22nd, billions of people around the world celebrated Earth Day, marking the 53rd anniversary of the important event that was initiated in 1970. This year’s theme, Invest in Our Planet, encourages education, raising awareness, and taking action in areas encompassing climate literacy, tree-planting, reducing consumer waste, supporting sustainable fashion and more. The fragrance industry participated with a broad range of programs, discussions, and launches, finding new ways to make existing products more sustainable and communicating with consumers on multiple platforms about ingredient sourcing and eco-friendly packaging.

Several TFF member brands extended special offers to consumers. Diptyque rolled out fragrance refills beyond its New York Prince Street location (the flagship for its fragrance refill program), and Robert Piguet Parfums launched refillable 8ml sprays of popular scents Fracas, Casbah, V, and Oud.

Other brands chose to spotlight storytelling about ingredients. Bulgari Parfums focused on the new Allegra fragrance Ma’Magnifica and Magnifying Sandalwood Essence, sharing the importance of preserving and protecting Sandalwood trees, while also tying in the Allegra packaging, which comes from 80 percent recycled materials. Six Scents Parfums re-released Wolfsbane, one of Les Potions Fatales, the brand’s collection of fragrances inspired by poisonous flora, in a new clean reformulation with all-new Earth-friendly packaging, in that every element is biodegradable or recyclable. Floral Street brought Sunflower Pop, featuring sustainable sunflowers, to the foreground as a fragrance focus, and Veronique Gabai chose to highlight her use of refillable bottles and natural ingredients that are sourced ethically and sustainably. Homecourt, which uses upcycled ingredients developed with Givaudan in many fragrances and features packaging made of 100% post-consumer recycled materials, announced plans to debut a refill format.

House of Bō pushed the brand’s Conscious Luxury Campaign video, in which founder Bernardo Möller presents House of Bō’s efforts to remain as sustainable as possible, from sourcing natural and organic ingredients through using repurposed materials in the fragrance flacons. 5 SENS, meanwhile, made a $25,000 donation to the Oceanic Society, which supports global ocean cleanup reducing marine-life-imperiling plastic pollution.

Lastly, D.S. & Durga gave us all something to meditate on—literally—with the launch of a new candle, Be Still, featuring a scent of pure incense resin to encourage contemplative thought. Valuable for Earth Day, and beyond.

On June 15th, TFF will award the Perfume Extraordinaire Award to one of the finalists who dare to take risks and challenge conventions to create truly outstanding—and out of the ordinary—scents. For this month’s edition of ACCORDS, the perfumers behind 2023’s five Perfume Extraordinaire finalists reveal their inspirations and share how they brought these unique scents to life.

What was the inspiration behind BDK Parfums Gris Charnel?

Gris Charnel Extrait was born from the original, Gris Charnel EDT, a fragrance with many contrasts between luminous and dark notes. In its second chapter, the extrait, I played with quintessential creamy and enveloping notes, the notes that I love to work with the most. Rather than simply creating a more intense version of the EDT, I worked with David to intensify the notes in the fragrance that give a unique intensity. I am often asked what kind of perfume I would create for myself. Well, this would be Gris Charnel, no doubt.

What are some of the elements that make the scent unique?

I wanted to magnify the sensuality of the original signature of Gris Charnel, to be even more magnetic and captivating. I played with the different tonalities of sustainable Madagascar vanilla and vetiver bourbon to push the intensity of Gris Charnel’s powerful, woody signature. I also used one of my favorite ingredients on the MANE palette, Cardamom Pure Jungle Essence™ to bring freshness in a very elegant way.

What effect do you want the perfume to have for the wearer?

I want the wearer to feel sensual and a little enigmatic, a feeling of elusiveness that is at the same time carnal, cool and sexy as is the name, Gris Charnel.

What originally sparked the idea for D.S. & Durga Leatherize?

I wanted to make something that could turn any other perfume into “a leather.”

How does the fragrance express your style as a perfumer?

I often aim to do something classic in a modern way. Our house style often has an edge, but I always want to make wearable perfumes that bring people joy. LEATHERIZE touches upon all of these.

What effect did you want it to have for the wearer?

I think it is a transparent, kaleidoscopic leather perfume – it takes the sniffer from fresher butterscotch clean leather down to a harsher, Earthier horsey animalic leather in the drydown.

What was the inspiration behind Marc-Antoine Barrois Encelade?

We wanted to do something joyful yet sensual. It started with the idea of a green explosion–I introduced the rhubarb note but balanced it with luxurious woody facets to give it an authentic elegance.

What do you believe makes the scent especially unique?
It’s a powerful and memorable scent; it’s a diffusive scent that balances the refinement of a great signature.

How did you want people to feel when they smell it?
Joyful and confident.

What was the inspiration behind Matiere Premiere Radical Rose?

In 2016, I founded an organic flower farm in the region of Grasse, near the French Riviera, where I was born. I am a 7th generation perfumer, and I have unforgettable memories of perfume flower harvests at my grandparents’. When they stopped their farming activity, it took me a few years to realize I simply could not let this amazing bond with natural ingredients and know-how collected over generations disappear. This is how I became the only Perfumer in the world to grow his own ingredients. My first plantation was Rose Centifolia. And with Radical Rose, I wanted to create the fragrance with the highest possible dosage of Rose Centifolia from Grasse.

How were the specific materials important in achieving the final effect?

Rose Centifolia from Grasse has specific olfactive qualities, due to the terroir and the way we produce it. Our farming is organic, without any pesticides, and we plant and prune our rose trees in very specific ways – In Grasse we say that a rose tree has to “fight” a little, in order to bloom with profusion. Our Rose Centifolia has a very rich, multi-faceted smell, both deep, almost dark, and also bright and airy. When you use an extreme dosage of Absolute from this Rose, all the facets express themselves almost to an excess. I’ve selected only a few ingredients, of equally high quality, to turn this wild overdose into a perfume signature that stays true to the complexity of our rose, with power and long-lastingness. I’ve used Saffron and Pepper Berries Oil from Jamaica to exacerbate the bright, spicy facets, and Patchouli Oil Indonesia and Labdanum Absolute Andalusia to highlight the dark, woody facets.

What do you believe makes the scent especially unique?

In my eyes it is unique, because at the heart of this scent are the roses I grow on my own organic farm. But above all, Radical Rose is unique because no other scent contains this much Absolute of Rose Centifolia from Grasse, because it’s a rose like no other, not the pink soft rose you could expect, but complex, like a chiaroscuro, with no pre-defined gender.

What was the inspiration behind Mind Games Gardez?

Chess is such a classical game with strong vintage ties and timeless allure. There are these layers of duality to the game—like the two players and the juxtaposition of the black and white elements of the board itself. Much of this was our inspiration. Leather is the base of Gardez and it’s a reminder of the game’s classic elements. But then a playful popcorn note brings in something unexpected.
-Emilie Copperman

I agree, chess is a game of luxury, surprise and delight, and unexpected twists and turns. A great deal of thought goes into each move. It’s all very nuanced and that was our inspiration in approaching creation. We’re like the two players in the game, working together from two regions with two points of view, Paris and New York.
-Nathalie Benareau

How does it relate to the Mind Games Fragrance line as a whole?

Mind Games, as a collection, links the strategy and brilliance of Chess, with the innovative and hypnotic effects of perfumery. The fragrances transport you to the crucial moments of competition in a test of character, skill and intellect. Gardez is an olfactive depiction of the two sides playing against each other, gracefully pulled together by the game.
-EC

What effect do you want the perfume to have for the wearer?

I want the wearer to feel the sensual, enveloping impact of this fragrance. It’s so velvety because of the leather note. And then the popcorn adds creamy indulgence. A dichotomy of strength and delicacy, Gardez reminds the wearer that they can be bold and vulnerable.
-NB

The Fragrance Foundation 2023 Awards season kicked off April 4th at our annual Luncheon event which was bigger and better than ever! At elegant Cipriani 42 on a magnificent Spring day, we had an exciting event celebration with 300+ guests. I shared the big reveal of Anne Flipo, Master Perfumer at IFF, as this year’s Lifetime Achievement Perfumer. Anne will be honored at our TFF Awards ceremony on June 15th at Lincoln Center. 

In addition to announcing the Finalists in all 19 Awards categories and 5 category winners, Indie brands were highlighted with fragrance demonstrated before the luncheon from:

Amouage Opus XIV Royal Tobacco 

Arquiste Parfumeur Indigo Smoke     

Marc-Antoine Barrios Encelade 

Parfums Quartana Lerofante Extrait de Parfum 

Perfumehead Cosmic Cowboy 

Taffin Fragrance Le Gris

Veronique Gabai Ready for Rose 

The Phluid Project INTENTION Eau de Parfum 

Matiere Premiere Crystal Saffron  

 A great surprise for the guests was our multi-talented Emcee Cheryl Wills, Author and TV Personality on Spectrum News NY1, who shared the story of her great great great grandparents Emma and Sandy Wills. Now Emma’s story continues to be shared as the books have already been passed on to TFF’s community of children, schools in NYC and more.

As sustainability is a major priority for all at TFF, members celebrated in store and online on Earth Day and more with a myriad of activities.

We look forward to a fabulous Mother’s Day in May as well as the exciting Consumer Choice Voting.

President, The Fragrance Foundation

@linda_g_levy

@fragrancefoundation

March brings us the joy of Fragrance Day, and it is also International Women’s History Month. To celebrate this important recognition of women’s contribution across all fields, and in keeping with #FragranceForwardTFF, TFF President Linda G. Levy spoke to two very inspiring leaders in the fragrance industry: Sabrya Meflah, President, Fine Fragrance IFF, and Tricia Butler, President, Givenchy and Kenzo, North America LVMH. In video segments that made their debut as part of TFF’s Fragrance Day Virtual Event on March 21^st, Levy joined Meflah and Butler to discuss their career trajectories, accomplishments, and goals for the future. For this month’s ACCORDS, they take the time to reflect upon team building, mentorship, and the future of women in the fragrance industry (spoiler alert: it smells bright!).

You have been at IFF for 27 years in different roles. What are the biggest changes you’ve seen in the company and industry?

When I started at IFF, I was impressed to see so many empowered women who were making the industry: Mrs Lauder first and foremost, and in Europe women like Vera Strubi, Chantal Roos, Patricia Turcq Paquelier… These women deeply transformed the perfume industry. On the fragrance creation side, while the industry was mostly made up of male perfumers, IFF had a very different position from that of its competitors: perfumers like Josephine Catapano had shaped the American perfume industry, working with Mrs Lauder to create Youth Dew. Sophia Grojsman had created some of the blockbusters of the 80’s and 90’s, from Beautiful and Trésor to Eternity and Paris, paving the way for a new generation of empowered female perfumers who then joined our ranks as I started into IFF.  

These young female perfumers are now master perfumers, VP perfumers, and continue to be a role model for the next generation. We also have a strong corporate commitment, heralded by Franc Clyburn, IFF CEO: by 2030, 50% of our senior executives across IFF will be women. 

How do you foster an environment with your team so that they feel that anything is possible?

This is how I was brought up, by a mother who taught me that indeed, anything is possible, if you will it. That is my almost obsessional message to my team: if you will it, if you really will it, it is in your hands to make it happen. And I trust them completely, to make anything happen. 

What challenges do you think that women in the fragrance industry specifically face?

I don’t see specific challenges relating to our industry for women. I believe this is an industry where they have been empowered for a while now. However, there is still a glass ceiling, when I look at the small number of female CEOs. 

The beauty industry seems to be a very fertile ground when it comes to equality and diversity, if only because it is dedicated to beauty, men as much as women. It is a rallying industry and not a dividing one. Fragrance knows no borders, no race, no gender: its inclusive powers are limitless. 

Fragrance creation mirrors society, its evolution, much faster than many other industries: so let’s embrace its full diversity!

How would you describe your leadership style?

I believe everyone on our team is there because they add value and their voice matters. Communication – open, honest, thoughtful and kind, is critical and necessary to get the best out of everyone. Leadership and ownership from every chair builds a sense of belonging and commitment to the brand and to the team at large. We have been working hard to remove the standard hierarchical approach so often found in office settings in order to help us be nimble and develop skills and strategic thought processes at every level. Trust is critical and no one wins alone. I believe success is a team sport.

How do you help people find their voice and feel empowered in your team?

The short answer is you have to level the playing field. Actually accomplishing this though, really takes a lot of effort and requires the whole team to be on board in order for the forum to be a true “safe” space for EVERYONE. For me this goes back to building a culture of honest communication and feedback, in real time, on the spot. We encourage everyone on the team to have conversations with the teammate that is the subject matter expert (or can solve or remove the roadblock), this means ideas, concerns and even tough conversations. We created a Call to Courage, together as a group – we have it printed and shared it with everyone. We committed to: Leading ourselves and others with empathy, curiosity and from a place of learning (not judging). We agreed that we would have tough conversations (or provide feedback), in real time with Kindness and Clarity. And we committed to consistent collaborations and communication in order to foster a Culture of Trust. We are a work in progress but have all identified accountability partners to keep us focused and honest with ourselves as well as the others.

What is your advice for women who are embarking on careers in the fragrance industry?

I think that the path for everyone may look a little bit different but first, you need to have real clarity of what is important to you – the values that light you up and find a company/team that is similar in those focuses. This is the single best way to guarantee you look forward to getting up in the morning and going to work. Then I would say identify 1-2 people that you want to learn from and ask them to be a mentor (I believe peer mentorship is as important as having someone in that Sponsorship role) and spend scheduled quality time with them. I believe we are incredibly lucky to be in this industry, for the fact that the majority of the leaders want to share, want to build for the future and truly believe in investing in talent!

When Fragrance Day arrives on March 21st, it’s not just the first promise of spring that’s in the air. It is also a time to smell the scents of a new season, with a flurry of launches from brands big and small. Among TFF Members, there were many exciting introductions. Boy Smells debuted Emotional Illuminations, a candles-and-functional-beverages collaboration with Kin Euphorics utilizing mood-altering technology, Cartier featured Les Écrins Parfumés, a collection of scented candles, Shalini Parfum offered a limited-edition Aurora flacon, and new spritzes debuting for Fragrance Day included Clean Beauty Collective’s Apple Blossom, Diptyque’s L’Eau Papier, Elorea’s Forgotten Words Collection, Jo Malone London’s Blossom Collection, Kilian’s limited-edition Blue Moon Ginger Dash, Harlem Candle Company’s Speakeasy EDP, Kayali’s Yum Pistachio Gelato 33 EDP Intense, Givenchy’s Gentleman’s Society, NEST New York’s Balinese Coconut Perfume Oil, Phlur’s Solar Power, Sol de Janeiro’s Rio Radiance Perfume Mist and Michael Malul London’s collection of three new fragrances—Agar + Myrrh, Amber + Smoke, and Rose + Honey.

When it came to retailer activity, Fragrance Day 2023 was also brimming with enthusiasm and engagement, with consumers turning up to shop in person as well as following along on social media. Fragrance Foundation President Linda G. Levy participated in a MACY’s LIVE at Herald Square, exploring new scents and dispensing tips in a very special segment that lit up Instagram and can still be watched on Macy’s home page. She also made an appearance at Nordstrom, which orchestrated a digital experience online as well as an instore celebration with multiple media outlets during which Levy discussed how to buy scents for yourself and others. Bloomingdale’s celebrated with a virtual event for Maison Francis Kurkdjian, with National Training and Events Director Joan Tanis discussing the history and creative inspiration behind the brand’s latest scent, 724 EDP; Saks promoted the day on social through Instagram and Facebook; Sephora trumpeted the scent-central day with social posts, emails in-store brand events, and offers including complimentary samples with every fragrance purchase; Victoria’s Secret Beauty and Ulta also supported the day majorly with special offers both instore and online.  

Meanwhile, TFF celebrated March 21st in a major way with exclusive virtual content from influencers, brands, fragrance houses, and leaders in the industry, all viewable on demand throughout the day and on TFF’s YouTube channel. Click here to watch content from Fragrance Day 2023! The first 1,000 US-based registrants to sign up received a complimentary Scent Journey kit, containing fragrances from TFF members including Costa Brazil, Floral Street, House of Bō, Ralph Lauren, Valentino, Maison Margiela and more. There was further Fragrance Day support at TFF’s Scents of Success partners Florida State University, Spelman College, City College of New York , and F.I.T, with inspiring and educational special events that engaged students with the exciting world of fragrance as they discovered their Scent Journey Kit’s.

  Fragrance Day 2023 was bigger than ever, and yet another success. As an important moment when fragrance takes center stage and all can join together to experience, experiment, and extol the pleasure and joy it can spark, the day truly did live up to TFF’s mission: To inspire the world discover the artistry and passion of fragrance.

TFF has an ongoing partnership with The Monell Center, a nonprofit institute in Philadelphia dedicated to exploring the science of smell. Monell Research Scientist Pamela Dalton has become a regular and cherished guest in TFF’s Fragrance Day celebrations, sharing valuable, thought-provoking insight into how smell—and its loss—can affect health and mental outlook. For this year’s TFF Fragrance Day Virtual Event on March 21^st, Dalton spoke with Levy about new science surrounding COVID-19 anosmia and the research and programs that Monell is currently focusing on. Here, she shares more about what the institute is learning about smell’s relationship to the brain and emotions, and what advances we can hope to see in smell testing.

What are some of the ways that smell loss can affect people cognitively and emotionally?

Many people who lose their sense of smell often report emotional changes such as sadness and depression. Of course, some of this can be understood as grieving for the loss of the ability to enjoy food and beverage, smell the world around them and especially the smell of a loved one. However, the close interaction between the olfactory structures in the brain and the limbic system (i.e., emotional center) structures strongly suggests that the lack of olfactory input can disrupt emotional processing as well.

Olfactory decline is associated with cognitive impairments, and that has largely been attributed to the fact that the central brain structures involved in olfaction are often the first location of impact in neurodegenerative diseases. However, more recent discussion has centered around whether lack of input or stimulation to the olfactory brain structures is what is responsible for the onset of neurodegeneration, the appearance of plaques and tangles in the primary olfactory cortex. Sadly, we will have an opportunity to find this out as we now have many millions of people worldwide, often younger individuals, who have not yet and may not ever recover from COVID-19 related smell loss.

What are some of the current programs and specific research channels that you are working on now? 

Our lab and others at Monell are still working on developing and deploying our rapid smell test called SCENTinel, which was originally conceived as a way to screen for a virus like SARS-COV-2, which manifested initially in dramatic loss of smell. We hope to utilize this test in a study of adults at risk for neurodegenerative diseases as a way to separate which aspects of olfactory function are impacted in each disorder, thereby leading to an earlier and more specific diagnosis. We are also interested in working on promoting the concept of universal smell testing in order to fully characterize this important sensory system across all age groups and importantly, to be able to track changes that may signify other types of disease or illness. Monell will host a 2-day conference in November that will bring together scientists, physicians and hopefully patients to further this goal. Our Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute funded survey that recruited over 6000 people in just 3 weeks gave us great insight into how devastating the loss of smell can be and that there is insufficient information about treatment and resources, even among physicians, for patients to access.

This year The Fragrance Day and surrounding days were BIGGER than ever! We are growing participation beyond the fragrance community by engaging consumers through our online events, retail events and major TV exposure across the USA!

TFF premiered on March 21st to an online audience of nearly 8,000 pre-registered viewers of which half were consumers! TFF members’ exclusive content includes participation by brands, Fragrance Houses, Perfumers, The Monell Center and so much more! All this great content continues to be accessible, so please visit our Youtube Channel to view all the fabulous Fragrance Day content on demand! 

As we celebrate the final days of Women’s History Month, Sabrya Meflah of IFF and Tricia Butler of LVMH share how they inspire their teams in this issue of Accords, with further insights based on their Fragrance Day discussions with me. Dr. Pam Dalton from the Monell Center provided further updates on the sense of smell research.

My TV tour was an exciting Fragrance Day marathon with 8 MILLION media impressions, with 10 in market and national TV interviews + 7 online features. While I was in person in the studio here in New York City for NY1 Spectrum with Cheryl Wills In Focus series for Women in Business, the Spring TV Tour from TFF’s office studio included appearances covering several states across the nation.

Fragrance Day’s major activities also included student interactive events to celebrate with our Scents of Success partners at The City College of New York, Spelman College, Florida State University and the Fashion Institute of Technology. TFF’s Sharné Jackson and Cheryl Fried partnered with brand teams from Givenchy, NEST New York and more bringing Fragrance Day to the campuses.

We look forward to more scent journeys with you this Spring as The Fragrance Foundation Awards season gets underway!

President, The Fragrance Foundation

@linda_g_levy

@fragrancefoundation

On February 15th, The Fragrance Foundation President Linda G. Levy was honored with the first-ever Catalyst Award from the New York Urban League. Presented at New York City’s Plaza Hotel during the NYUL 2023 Champions of Diversity Event, it was a thrilling moment for Levy and a momentous recognition of her leadership in advancing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion within the fragrance industry.

The New York Urban League is one of the nation’s oldest civil rights organizations, dedicated to furthering economic empowerment, career development, job training, education, mentorship and health advocacy for New York’s underserved BIPOC communities. This year’s Champions of Diversity celebration kicked off with a breakfast and morning Symposium that included insightful sessions on Leading While Black and Brown, with Chris Collins of World of Chris Collins among the panelists, and Emerging Trends in DEI, for which TFF’s Executive Director Sharné C. Jackson shared her knowledge and expertise alongside Corey Smith from LVMH, Sharon Foretia from Blackrock, and Chris Metzler from National Urban League.

Joined by more than 250 leaders from the fragrance industry and beyond, the Champions Awards presentations took place over a lunch hosted by Arva Rice, President and CEO of New York Urban League, emceed by WNBC-TV anchor David Ushery, and chaired by Helen C. Shelton, Global Chief Diversity Officer at FINN Partners and NYUL Board Member. Levy’s Catalyst Award was accompanied with a video tribute in which friends and colleagues praised her vision and commitment to galvanizing DEI within the fragrance industry, including Fragrance Society Founder Tiff Benson; Tricia Butler, President, Givenchy and Kenzo, North America, LVMH; Chris Collins, Founder World of Chris Collins; Ann Gottlieb, President, Anne Gottlieb Associates; Sharné Jackson, Executive Director, TFF; Nicole Monson, Senior Vice President, Estée Lauder Companies; Giancarlo Pérez and Bernardo Möller, founders, House of Bō; Linda Song, senior perfumer, Givaudan; and, Jerry Vittoria, TFF’s Board Chairman and President, Fine Fragrance Worldwide, Firmenich.

Levy’s TFF presidency has been defined by her tenacious drive to equalize and democratize the industry, expanding TFF membership and spearheading #FragranceForwardTFF, the sweeping initiative that launched in October 2021. Just as she has reshaped the goals of TFF to direct the organization towards an equitable future in which all voices are heard, she has inspired the industry to take a pledge to increase workplace diversity and create career and educational opportunities through mentorships, scholarships, proactive recruitment and allyship. As Vittoria states in his tribute, “Linda has always been a catalyst of change, a catalyst of courage and a catalyst of doing the right thing. She puts DEI at the forefront of all TFF activities and is dedicated to bringing people together and opening the door for the exciting possibilities that the fragrance industry offers.”

The day was a triumph and inspiration for attendees as well as for Levy’s fellow Champions Awards recipients: Kim Davis, Senior Executive Vice President, National Hockey League, who was named Leadership Champion; HR&A Advisors, named Champion in Recruitment, Retention & Belonging; Clarissa Moses-Washington, Manager of DEI, JetBlue Airways, named Rising Star Champion; and Kenneth Ebie, Executive Director, Black Entrepreneurs NYC, named Equity & Inclusion Ambassador. And, in keeping with TFF’s ongoing drive to forge new initiatives that create lasting change, the NYUL 2023 Champions of Diversity Event introduced the Fragrance Foundation Catalyst Initiative, a partnership that will benefit NYUL’s Diversity Lab and provide training, career development, mentorship, and job opportunities for professionals of color interested in careers in the fragrance industry. The initiative is supported by all 200+ TFF member companies in a focused effort, including Fragrance Houses, Brands, Retailers and related businesses.

The Fragrance Foundation’s annual Notables awards ceremony is one of the most anticipated—and often, truly moving—events on the fragrance industry calendar. The 18 individuals who were inducted into the Notables Class of 2023 on February 7^th at the Hudson Yards headquarters of L’Oreal Luxe embody all of the qualities that make the scent world so inspiring: passion, creativity, initiative, and advocacy. In this month’s Accords, we celebrate the new TFF Notables, all of whom are dedicated to upholding the #FragranceForwardTFF DEI pledge. They share what the honor means to them, and what they look forward to as they join the growing Notables Think Tank to brainstorm initiatives that will continue to energize and galvanize progress in the industry and beyond.

What excites you most about being named a TFF Notable?

This incredible industry is filled with so much talent, so I truly mean it when I say I am honored to be recognized. I look forward to learning and collaborating with this amazing group both past and present, as we continue to push boundaries within the fragrance industry.

As someone with expertise in engaging consumers with fragrances, what skills and insights will you bring to the table as a TFF Notable? 

I am constantly pushing myself to deliver high-class products to keep my brand relevant and top of mind. As I collaborate with Notable fragrance professionals, I look forward to instilling a sense of purpose into how we are thinking about product development whether that be through product innovation, sustainability, or getting product to counter in the most efficient way.

What excites you most about being named a TFF Notable?

I am very proud and grateful to have been named a TFF Notable.

It is a privilege to work in fragrance and even more to be recognized by my peers and The Fragrance Foundation. I am very excited to join this group of talented individuals and to impact the new generation by sharing my experience in this incredible industry.

As someone with expertise in engaging consumers with fragrances, what skills and insights will you bring to the table as a TFF Notable?

Having lived in Europe, Asia and America, I will bring my multicultural experience and insights to the young people in the industry. I will always bring positivity and energy into the room.

With my experience in Global and Local Marketing positions, I have the understanding of the full creative process from the blank page to the bottle of fragrance on shelf all over the world including consumer insights, product mix, media and channel strategies. As an ambassador of the #FragranceForwardTFF movement, my focus will be to educate and promote DEI in the inclusive and open world of scent.

What excites you most about being named a TFF Notable?

I am honored to join this esteemed group of 2023 notables and support The Fragrance Foundation in so many magnificent initiatives this year. I’m so excited to have the opportunity to get to know and share new and innovative ideas and learn from my fellow Notables. Together we will collectively be contributing to the growth, awareness and future of our industry, and it will be the most rewarding aspect of this incredible honor and opportunity.

As someone with expertise in engaging consumers with fragrances, what skills and insights will you bring to the table as a TFF Notable?

I will bring my expertise and insight to the table as a 2023 Notable. My approach is always a 360 view. All training I create at Bulgari Parfums is through the eyes of an educator, a client and a client advisor. I believe being able to share experiences of how to properly train our teams not only to sell fragrance but engage our clients and bring out the emotions within them through fragrance will contribute to our initiatives and industry elevation throughout the year and beyond.

What excites you most about being named a TFF Notable?

I am excited to be a part of a growing group of industry professionals whose main goal is to constantly evolve the fragrance industry in a positive direction. I look forward to meeting with the notables at the quarterly Think Tanks to strategize and brainstorm on important topics that are affecting our industry – today and in the future.

As someone with expertise in engaging consumers with fragrances, what skills and insights will you bring to the table as a TFF Notable?

I have a unique role at L’Oréal. Not only am I the only fine fragrance expert based in North America, but I am also very integrated into the Ralph Lauren global marketing team and lead their fragrance development process. With this background, I have developed and refined a few skills: love of fragrances; knowledge of raw materials, natural ingredients and sourcing; being able to define a brand’s olfactive philosophy; understanding and translating marketing language to perfumery language; engaging with a consumer through product testing; investigating challenges and brainstorming solutions; working with many cross-functional teams at a time on multiple projects.

What excites you most about being named a TFF Notable?

I feel very privileged to be included in such a remarkable group of talented individuals all paving their way within the fragrance industry. I look forward to having the opportunity to learn from this network but also contribute in upcoming Think Tanks, which will hopefully foster new ideas and deepen education tools available to expand our community.

As someone with expertise in engaging consumers with fragrances, what skills and insights will you bring to the table as a TFF Notable?

I am able to bring a global perspective, merging both my experience in fashion and beauty, to shine a spotlight on the magical world of fragrance and the boundless memories and diverse places it can transport you to.

What excites you most about being named a TFF Notable?

Having worked on leading fragrance brands like Yves Saint Laurent and currently Maison Margiela fragrances, I have had the opportunity to use the power of scent to create fragrances that engage and bring joy to our consumers. As a TFF Notable, I am excited to continue to engage and educate consumers on not only the inspiration, but also the emotional connection of fragrance.

As someone with expertise in engaging consumers with fragrances, what skills and insights will you bring to the table as a TFF Notable?

I look forward to massively accelerating consumer connections. At L’Oréal, it is our mission to build deeper consumer relationships, to retain high value customers and increase their lifetime value. I strive to continue to use testing, insights and analysis to put the consumer first, at the center of all decisions.

What excites you most about being named a TFF Notable?

Fragrance holds a very special place in my heart. It is so much more than what meets the nose. In times of self-doubt, it has brought me confidence. In times of discomfort, it has brought me solace by transporting me to memories of joy and happiness. What excites me about being a Notable is the privilege of serving as an ambassador for the fragrance industry and The Fragrance Foundation. This platform will allow me to share my passion for fragrance, inspire future leaders and educate those who would otherwise be unfamiliar with everything this beautiful industry has to offer.

As someone with expertise in engaging consumers with fragrances, what skills and insights will you bring to the table as a TFF Notable?

As a Muslim and proud Veteran, I am very passionate about all the work that The Fragrance Foundation has done with #FragranceForwardTFF. I commit to support these efforts by continuing to challenge the status quo and deepening my understanding of people’s diverse experiences and identities to create more inclusive fragrances. I will leverage a test and learn mindset to create marketing campaigns that deepen consumer connections and grow the category.

What excites you most about being named a TFF Notable?

I am very excited to be part of this impressive cohort of people that demonstrate such dedication and passion for the fragrance category and our continuous discussions on how we can contribute to a more equitable and ever evolving industry.

As someone with expertise in engaging consumers with fragrances, what skills and insights will you bring to the table as a TFF Notable?

A never ending quest for understanding how consumers see and interact with the category and to keep finding new ways to make the experience of finding, wearing and learning the stories behind each fragrance simple, relevant, accessible and delightful; throughout the entire 360 experience.

What does it mean to you to be named a TFF Notable?

We discovered at the Notables Breakfast that the majority of the Class of 2023 never aspired to work in the fragrance industry, as most of us did not know this was an option at the onset of our careers, yet each of us shared such passion for what we do! Despite having different backgrounds and roles, our collective love of fragrance was visceral and radiating within the walls of the TFF offices that morning! I am beyond thrilled to have been nominated by Firmenich, awarded by TFF and join this distinguished group of gifted creatives! I look forward to partnering with the amazing team at TFF as part of the Notables Think Tank and on their DEI initiatives to ensure that the next generation of talent is aware of the amazing opportunities within this industry.

How does working within a fragrance house enable you to fulfill TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance?

Growing up, I imagined that by 2023 we would be able to teleport or time travel. While sadly (especially for those of us that commute) physical teleportation is not yet a reality, the magic of fragrance is that it can and does immediately transport us – with one breath, we can be instantaneously brought back to a cherished childhood memory or a destination halfway around the world, or even feel enveloped by a loved one that is no longer with us! At Firmenich, the creativity of our perfumers allows us to transport over 4 billion customers several times throughout their day!

What does it mean to you to be named a TFF Notable?

It is a wonderful recognition for the passion I bring to work every day. I feel very honored and grateful.

How does working within a fragrance house enable you to fulfill TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance?

As Perfumer, the answer seems to be obvious for me: by creating fragrances. Also, I believe that the passion for fragrances is closely linked to the passion for raw materials, whether they are naturals or synthetics. Working within a fragrance house enables me to highlight these raw materials. I particularly like to use natural essential oils from Maison LAUTIER because being part of Symrise I know better the supply chain and feel closer to the raw material, they smell amazing. There is also a sustainable aspect that I like by empowering women and local communities. Then, together with the customer’s vision, we give life to the fragrance and hopefully inspire the world.

What does it mean to you to be named a TFF Notable?

I’m still absorbing this amazing recognition. Our industry is full of stand out talent and I am very happy to be counted among them.

How does working within a fragrance house enable you to fulfill TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance?

My favorite experiences in fragrance houses over the years have been working with incredibly diverse and talented perfumers. I work with them to uncover the stories, the secrets, and the signature entwined within each creation. My goal is to teach a new generation of evaluators to look deeper, and to take the time to give meaning and soul to a fragrance creation. A “story full” fragrance connects and enchants and lives and breathes. That is a powerful tool to connect people everywhere.

What does it mean to you to be named a TFF Notable?

It simply means the world to me! I have admired The Fragrance Foundation as long as I have been in the industry so to be able to be a part of the TFF family, especially being able to represent a company like Givaudan at the same time is a dream come true.

How does working within a fragrance house enable you to fulfill TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance?

I adore working at a fragrance house and being at the true center of creation. The opportunity to work with the best perfumers in the industry to create fragrances that have a tangible and lasting effect on the consumers is something I am grateful for every day.

What does it mean to you to be named a TFF Notable?

I am particularly touched to have been nominated by IFF as the 2023 Notable. It is wonderful to have within our Industry an organization such as The Fragrance Foundation and its key members who relentlessly develop meaningful programs, highlighting individuals in different roles and great causes to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance, and aiming at sparking career aspirations for upcoming generations.

How does working within a fragrance house enable you to fulfill TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance?

The adventure of crafting a fragrance is fascinating, the magical story that goes with it, working alongside incredibly talented artists, our perfumers, hand in hand with our clients and partners, drawing on the past to create the future of fragrances to awaken the extraordinary senses for a better world. Being able to share this passion with others, whether neophytes or experts is always highly gratifying!

What does it mean to you to be named a TFF Notable?

It is a huge honor to be named a TFF Notable, and I am truly grateful to be a part of the Notables Crew! We all share a genuine passion for fragrance, which is the driving force behind TFF’s Mission. I am looking forward to my first Think Tank, because it is an opportunity for my voice and unique ideas to be heard, while also making a positive impact.

How does working within a fragrance house enable you to fulfill TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance?

There is a deep connection between scent and memory. Unlike anything else, fragrance can conjure up memories of the past or become something new altogether. Scent is a very powerful tool because it is so closely tied into your emotions. In a way, fragrance makes you feel something. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to inspire and connect with people through my perfumery work.

What does it mean to you to be named a TFF Notable?

Being named a TFF Notable is an incredible honor and humbling experience, yet a great source of pride. It signifies not only hard work and dedication, but also recognition and appreciation from the leading experts of the industry. One of the many responsibilities that comes with being a Notable includes driving the TFF initiative forward. My goal is to spread awareness of the benefits of fragrances and how the industry is diverse, equitable, and inclusive.

How does working within a fragrance house enable you to fulfill TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance?

It provides unique opportunities to connect with customers, creators, and the wider industry to build relationships, inspire meaningful conversations and promote awareness of the craft and experience of fragrances. By utilizing my regulatory expertise to develop an educational presence, the complexities of fragrance creation and the ever changing regulatory landscape and scientific aspects of the artistry of perfumery can be brought to light. Working at Robertet offers the invaluable opportunity to bring joy and inspire others to discover the world of fragrance.

What a great way to celebrate Black History Month! 

The New York Urban League honored me and The Fragrance Foundation for its first-ever Catalyst Award. The Champions Awards symposium and luncheon at The Plaza in NYC was attended by many TFF Board members and members of the fragrance community. The half day event gave all attendees an opportunity to learn about NYUL programs and meet their talented team. This was the official launch of The Fragrance Foundation Catalyst Initiative, which will benefit NYUL’s Diversity & Inclusion Lab and provide training, career development, mentorship and job opportunities for professionals of color interested in careers in the fragrance industry. 

Thank you to Arva Rice, NYUL CEO, and Helen Shelton, Chair of this event and Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Finn Partners. Helen and our Executive Director Sharné Jackson at TFF have been valued partners for their vision, guidance and implementation of TFF’s DEI initiative #FragranceForwardTFF. 

There was huge media outreach, as well as many in the media reaching out to us, with results that are monumental. The TV coverage, as well as far reaching media online, brought our industry initiative to the forefront. Now #FragranceForwardTFF has been amplified to the entire USA big time, and we will continue to galvanize the community uniting all for our #1 priority DEI.

February was also a milestone for the first in person Notables event after the last two years celebrating virtually. With L’Oréal Luxe as our generous hosts at their Hudson Yards Le Café, the evening celebration was fabulous and each 2023 Notable shared their passion for fragrance and their personal dedication to #FragranceForwardTFF. In this issue of Accords, you can learn more about these truly Notable individuals who we value to join the Notables Think Tank and contribute to our TFF future!

Next month we look forward to celebrating The Fragrance Day on March 21st and the weeks around that date, as well as International Women’s History Month!

President, The Fragrance Foundation

@linda_g_levy

@fragrancefoundation

TFF is hitting the ground running in 2023, planning the year’s exciting events (stay tuned) and kicking off another 12 months of community, communication and commitment to #FragranceForwardTFF. We are also welcoming new faces to the TFF Board of Directors, a group of esteemed individuals whose experience, ideas and talent are vital to TFF and all we hope to achieve. For the January Spotlight of ACCORDS, three new board members—Agnes Landau, Lori Singer, and Verane de Marffy–each of whom oversee multiple brands and unite multiple voices, take a moment to share their thoughts on being newly elected to represent their company and how they intend to drive TFF’s vision and DEI mission forward in the coming year.

Why are you most excited to represent your company on the TFF board?

L’Oréal is now the #1 luxury fragrance company in the US and I am extremely proud to be celebrating my 20th year with the group. Having worked on some of the top brands in our industry like Ralph Lauren and Yves Saint Laurent Fragrances, L’Oréal has always commanded the highest standards for our fragrances, from sourcing responsibly to deeply respecting each perfumer, to ensuring the quintessential essence of each brand. Our teams at L’Oréal are profoundly committed to creating Fragrances that engage, educate and bring joy to consumers. Now, L’Oréal is putting sustainability at the heart of its vision. TFF is the premiere representative of our community and shares the same values as L’Oréal. By joining the board, I can work with other amazing leaders to help create programs and actions that help advance both L’Oréal’s and the TFF’s missions.

How does your business align with TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance?

First of all, we have the credibility, the scale, the resources and the responsibility to drive TFF’s mission. From Lifestyle brands like Ralph Lauren, to Couture brands like Prada to the Collection brands like Maison Margiela, L’Oréal’s extremely wide portfolio allows us to drive that passion and engagement for people from all backgrounds. Fragrance is a luxury but it should be inclusive and make everyone dream. With our retail partners especially, we work together to bring the best quality and experience of fragrances to all.

In what ways can you commit & take action for positive advances for DEI with #FragranceForwardTFF?

I am particularly excited about supporting TFF’s mission to break barriers for people of all backgrounds to launch, grow and sustain careers in fragrances. This is probably the biggest opportunity for our industry today. DEI also happens to be a key priority for the L’Oréal group. Personally, I have already committed to recruiting even more diversity in my team, which is particularly key as we look to ensure that our fragrances respect the needs and perspectives of our end consumer. Another way to take action is to ensure that our campaigns have diverse representation. A recent example is the renovation of the Ralph Lauren Romance campaign, which has traditionally featured a Caucasian straight couple and now stars a bi-racial lesbian couple. I feel extremely proud of this move, especially since the Ralph Lauren brand has always been a very active supporter of LGBTQA+ rights. Finally, I have volunteered to participate in the DEI initiative at TFF as well as join the education committee. This is the one that I am most excited about. I am very passionate about helping young adults to discover our industry and hopefully support to educate the next generation of Fragrance professionals.

Why are you most excited to represent your company on the TFF board?

At Parlux, I work with an incredible roster of multi-faceted brands and talent, which gives me first hand insights to pop culture, sustainable practices and futuristic web 3 metaverse opportunities and more!  I am extremely passionate about the fragrance industry and want to share my experience with the TFF board and bring new ideas to the table. I am so excited to be amongst my industry peers to continue the art of fragrance storytelling, to a wider audience. 

How does your business align with TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance?

Parlux fosters a culture of excellence and creativity, and this discipline is in lock step with TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance. My team and I create the most compelling fragrances and brand campaigns that spark connection and emotions. Our fragrances evoke memories such as feeling joy, falling in love, getting married or re-living a dreamy vacation.

We are committed to putting the customer first, creating new and evocative fragrances to be an affordable luxury that brings a spark of je ne sais quoi to the world.

In what ways can you commit & take action for positive advances for DEI with #FragranceForwardTFF?

The Parlux portfolio consists of diverse fashion brands and talent who have been on our roster for decades. I am committed to increasing our DEI roster with new brands and am already having some amazing conversations (shhhh!). I am very proud of the talented and diverse team that I have built at Parlux. With this experience, I am already taking action and committed to help the advancement of DEI with #FragranceForwardTFF.

Why are you most excited to represent your company on the TFF board?

First of all, I have a deep passion for fragrance and its power to transform. I am also very excited to be the first Latina in The Fragrance Foundation Board of Directors. Latina consumers are very sophisticated and highly involved in the fragrance category. As the population in the US shifts and the proportions of people of color increases, I believe this bodes well for the category overall.

How does your business align with TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance?

I think the Shiseido fragrance business perfectly aligns with The Fragrance Foundation mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance. The Shiseido fragrance stable is composed of some of the most notable and iconic names in the fragrance industry; Hermes, Narciso Rodriguez, Issey Miyake, Tory Burch, to name a few. We at Shiseido share a deep passion and respect for the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating a fragrance.

In what ways can you commit & take action for positive advances for DEI with #FragranceForwardTFF?

I believe that we always start with what we can immediately impact. Therefore, bringing more people of color into the organization in my case, Shiseido is a top priority for me. We need those voices at the table if we want to really address their needs. Being the first Hispanic in the Board of Directors of TFF, I think it is also my duty to use my voice and position to bring others along.

Two more fragrance industry veterans who will be taking a TFF Board of Directors seat this year bring unique perspectives: Larry Berman of Arcade Beauty, whose leading role in sampling, blending and fragrance filling puts him and his company at the intersection of diverse brands and at the forefront of new experiences for the customer; and Vanessa Dabich, who brings her energy and expertise to Strategy, New Ventures, and Communication at the historic House of Creed. Here, they reflect on what joining the TFF Board means to them and how their commitment to #ForwardTFF will galvanize positive change within the fragrance world.

What does it mean for you personally to join the TFF board?

As I have been in the industry for over 30 years, I have always admired the leaders in the industry and have fond memories of my very first Fifi awards. I remember the week or two after the awards, waiting for Cosmetic World to deliver to our office, so we could see not only if our picture made it into the extra-large edition, but all of the glamor that accompanied the night. Additionally, as the foundation has provided so much for the industry that I have loved for so many years, I am thrilled to be able to spend my time helping give back as well.

How does your business align with TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance?

Being part of Arcade Beauty, the global leader in sampling, blending, and fragrance filling, I am constantly experiencing not only new fragrances, but also new up and coming brands as well. I love hearing their stories behind their fragrances and I enjoy the excitement that they have in launching something they created. We frequently lower our MOQ’s ( minimum order quantities) to help the Indie Brands grow, as we know they may not have the volume that the larger brands have, and we are also willing to help partner with them on pricing so we can grow together.

In what ways can you commit & take action for positive advances for DEI with #FragranceForwardTFF?

One of Arcade Beauty’s social objectives is promoting diversity as well as preventing discrimination and harassment at the workplace. I currently have a very diverse sales team and continue to ensure that our leadership team is interviewing and hiring from a large pool of backgrounds. Additionally, in my personal life, I am very involved in a non-profit organization run by my wife, named The Bass Foundation. The Bass Foundation provides food, winter coats, mentoring, and academic scholarships for the underserved communities in New Jersey. This month was one of our largest events where we were able to distribute brand new winter coats to every student at the Louverture Elementary School in East Orange, NJ.

What does it mean for you personally to join the TFF board?

TFF is such a prestigious organization. It’s a true honor to join the TFF board with such esteemed industry colleagues. I’m excited to learn more from this incredible group and help to better serve the fragrance community together.

How does your business align with TFF’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance?

I love and respect TFF mission. Our work at The House of Creed is truly in sync with these values.  Fragrance inspires people in so many ways and to work in an industry that can transport with one spritz, is awe inspiring. 

In what ways can you commit & take action for positive advances for DEI with #FragranceForwardTFF

DEI is an important cornerstone of all meaningful growth and change not just at our company, but within the industry and obviously our daily lives. I’m committed to making significant in-roads through meaningful, inclusive programming working with diverse content creators and business partners.

Are there notes or types of fragrances that you predict we will smell more of in 2023?

In the past few years, we have seen more clean fragrances and I think that 2023 will be a year where we will see more sensual/warm scents emerging. I think that now after Covid, people are going out more and starting to wear bolder scents like big woods that can be attractive. I think we will also continue to see more gender fluid scents as people are wearing what they enjoy versus based on gender.

In terms of how people engage with and buy fragrance for themselves and their homes, what trends do you foresee?

I think that the digital world is having more impact than ever on consumers and how they engage with the world and, in turn, with their scent. This is something I believe we will see more of in store and through scent experiential moments.

For both personal and for home, I feel that the consumer is conscious to select a scent that they love, regardless of any gender or marketing or note, but based on how they feel as they want their home to smell pleasant and relaxing but still enjoy the scent they personally wear through the day.

Are there notes or types of fragrances that you predict we will smell more of in 2023?

The emotional power of scent will play a vital role in how consumers engage with fragrance for themselves and their homes. Givaudan studies reveal that 89% of people believe that a fragrance can improve their overall well being. They are looking for “feel-good” elements in their lives, now more than ever. Scent has the power to trigger emotions and consumers have come to expect that fragrance can and should do more than just smell good. 

Our research also shows that consumers now have a greater sense of self and their motivation for fragrance has shifted to a place of self-empowerment, self-expression and the belief that they are worth it. This has led to a greater exploration of scent experiences and new territories as consumers look for ways to feed their need for individualism and emotion-led scent.

In terms of how people engage with and buy fragrance for themselves and their homes, what trends do you foresee?

We see the emergence of scents that allow for an escape into nature, reimagined for a generation in search of new connections. Authentic green notes and sea accords, infused with mindful adventure. We also envision scents that reestablish consumers’ sense of self and purpose, fueling new expressions of optimism and spirituality. Feather-like notes with comforting and cocooning elements that are incredibly personal and profound, amplifying the effect of the time we spend with ourselves and reflecting the influence of spirituality and higher powers. As consumers seek balance, inclusivity and positive energy, we will see the emergence of fragrances that bring energy and focus, including bright citruses, calming accords, energizing aromatics and blooming florals.

Are there notes or types of fragrances that you predict we will smell more of in 2023?

We predict a continued shift towards playful and comforting scents that offer mood-boosting benefits. We can expect to see cherry and berry notes taking center stage while new interpretations of rose and Gen Z favorite, vanilla, will make a comeback. Soft and delicate yellow mimosa flower, a popular fragrance ingredient in Europe, is now making its way into American perfumery with launches such as Eauso Vert’s Sintra, created by IFF perfumer Pascal Gaurin using our LMR natural Mimosa by IFF.

We’ve also seen an increase in barely-there, second skin fragrances that we expect to evolve into warmer, musky scents interpreted in solar, salted, and milky spaces with spice or fruity combinations. We see this trend accelerating through the innovation from molecules like AmberNat, IFF’s first renewable and biodegradable Amber captive. We also expect an increase in woody and darker, leathery scents, thanks to ingredients such as LMR upcycled Oakwood absolute, found in Scents of Wood Oak in Oak, or IFF soft leather-smelling Saffiano.

In terms of how people engage with and buy fragrance for themselves and their homes, what trends do you foresee?

We foresee the consumer engaging with fragrances as a form of self-care, with wellness and aromatherapy benefits emerging as a key purchase driver. Smart sourcing will also impact fragrance purchases, with consumers gravitating toward transparent brands looking into greener ingredients. We predict an increase in digital activations among fragrance brands and expansion in the metaverse. We will see brands interacting with consumers in new ways such as digital shopping, NFT’s and digital fragrances. TikTok, which now accounts for 45% of social media-driven fragrance sales, will continue growing in popularity through the #PerfumeTok. We also predict brands will re-launch discontinued cult classic fragrances for a nostalgic, positive feel and to support customer loyalty. 

We’re also seeing a continued growth of luxury home scents, with a growing number of brands addressing that segment with haute-perfumery positioning: Ginori 1735 with its playful Luke Edward Hall launch, the relaunch of Paul Smith home fragrances, the continued success of Frederic Malle, diptyque, Nette, and other such brands.

Are there notes or types of fragrances that you predict we will smell more of in 2023?

In 2023, we’ll continue to see consumers looking to fragrance as a means of self-expression and ultimately to express individuality. Much of this will be captured with disruptive and unexpected combinations of notes that are intentionally imagined by perfumers to spark contrast. Boy Smells’ new Woodphoria launch is the perfect example of this – where notes of cardamom, black pepper, and fig in isolation are incredibly different but nevertheless compelling when combined.

At the same time, genderful launches will be on the rise as the lines have become increasingly blurred across all categories of fragrances. Sustainable storytelling will also continue to evolve and become even more paramount to consumers as they continue to prioritize caring for the planet.

In terms of how people engage with and buy fragrance for themselves and their homes, what trends do you foresee?

Scentscaping has become a household term overnight! Consumers are looking to elevate their home space using and experimenting with home fragrances via traditional methods (candles, reed diffusers), but also exploring new technologies – automated, app-enabled diffusers and more. So inevitably the interest and therefore investment level in home fragrance has greatly increased. Many of the fine fragrance trends will also be reflected in the home – consumers will be considering how to select a home scent that ultimately delivers on self-expression and speaks to the desire to find a unique home signature scent. And just like with fine fragrance, consumers will also be more tuned in to ingredient safety and sustainability.

Are there notes or types of fragrances that you predict we will smell more of in 2023?

Evolved, unique greens will make their way into fragrances as notes of plant leaves emerge with a nuanced approach to the fresh palette. We can look forward to fresh-cut herbs, plush mosses, green teas, and anything that smells green becoming even more popular—it puts us in touch with our natural connection to earth. 

Big blooming bouquets reminiscent of the 80s are back to make a statement, partially due to nostalgia, but also because consumers want to indulge in concentrated and qualitative, long-lasting juices, and they are willing to pay more for it. Departing from intimate, clean scents, the new year will see fragrances with rich heart notes made up of intense florals to evoke a romantic, feminine aura.

Genderless woods will be everywhere, evolving into more smoky silhouettes highlighting resins, myrrh and smoky woods like oud. 

Viva Magenta is the 2023 color of the year, so we also anticipate seeing the color come to life in the fragrance world as it’s predicted that Red Berry will continue to be a rising star inclusive of Raspberry, Strawberry, and Lychee notes.

In terms of how people engage with and buy fragrance for themselves and their homes, what trends do you foresee? 

Transportive fragrances will take people out of their homes and into a scented escape, as well as happy and nostalgic scents that continue to resonate with consumers seeking joy in everyday moments.

More than 60% of consumers are interested in seeing their home scents in personal care forms, so we can expect to see more brands play cross categories, offering the same scent across product forms. This may elevate everyday categories as well, as luxe enters home and personal care.

Consumers are going to be looking for premium products that they love at an affordable price. That said, they are willing to pay more than in the past for high-quality and uniqueness.

People may also start to shift away from the celebrity and name-brand fragrances to instead shop fragrances that really speak to them, their individuality and their personality.

Are there notes or types of fragrances that you predict we will smell more of in 2023?

At Takasago we have identified several macro trends that have implications for Fine Fragrance and CPG categories in 2023 and beyond. During uncertain times of volatility and stress, people seek out fragrances that will help them regulate their mood. We have seen fine fragrance, air care and personal care launches featuring comforting gourmand, woody and amber notes that wrap you in a gentle cocoon of coziness. We expect that will continue into 2023, and we will continue to find new ways to express this comforting sensation.

There is nothing that can clear the mind quite like time spent outdoors, immersing ourselves in the simple yet majestic beauty of nature. With a renewed focus on eco-responsibility, fragrance notes that bring us closer to transformative outdoor experiences are resonating. In 2023 we will see more leafy greens, clean herbal aromatic and gorgeous floral notes that allow us to dream and be transported to places both real and imagined.

In terms of how people engage with and buy fragrance for themselves and their homes, what trends do you foresee?

We are closely monitoring retail trends and consumer habits related to fragrance and are very excited about what the future holds for our industry. We believe the next wave of hyper sensorial experiences both at retail and online are emerging with hugely positive implications for our brand partners. Takasago is unveiling our new Metaverse platform in 1Q 2023, where we will be engaging with clients and consumers to unveil the next frontier in connecting, collaborating, co-creating and creativity.

The New Year 2023 has begun with a major lift off as we all are moving forward at a velocity we have not been able to activate or maintain for the past few years. While challenges will continue and possibly accelerate, growth and reinvention are key to our success.

We at TFF are welcoming new Directors to our Board, with several featured in this issue. Some we have known for years, and all are in exciting positions for which we value their fresh perspectives and appreciate their support and contributions. 

Starting this month, together with all of the Board, we are formulating plans and exchanging ideas to build the future together based on our mission and objectives. New initiatives will unfold in the coming months and our newly formed TFF Committees will define strategies and action plans for DEI, Education, Sustainability and Consumer Engagement. All we achieve will include #FragranceForwardTFF expanding our community; welcoming and celebrating all! 

This issue also includes the forecast and commentary from Fragrance Houses who share their 2023 visions for ingredients and consumer fragrance habits. The trends and ingredients evolve based on scientific discoveries, cultural shifts and ever changing lifestyles, so while we find some shared predictions, each of the houses also have unique insights.

All of us at TFF look forward to in person events in the next months with you all, as well as all you can share socially online to keep us updated. As we celebrate the Lunar New Year we look to the year of the Rabbit which predicts longevity, peace and prosperity, which we wish for all in the fragrance community and beyond!

President, The Fragrance Foundation

@linda_g_levy

@fragrancefoundation

2022 was an exciting time for TFF and for the fragrance industry as a whole. Coming together again in new ways—both IRL and digital–and working towards a more diverse, inclusive future were major themes for all. For the final issue of ACCORDS in 2022, TFF asked board members to reflect on some of the changes and achievements they witnessed over the past year. In regard to TFF’s biggest priority, #FragranceForwardTFF, all agree that major strides had been made and that there was an overall championing of fresh voices and faces. “There is a greater sense of community and inclusion across all touchpoints,” says Tricia Butler, President North America Parfums Givenchy, Kenzo Parfums, Acqua di Parma, LVMH. “There is a definite sense of pride and an increase in participation” throughout the fragrance world.

“Acknowledging the reality and ‘previous’ state of the industry, while seemingly an easy task, was a major first step,” says Pierre Wulff, Director, Robertet Group. “Starting this conversation, driving awareness of the industry’s shortcomings, its lack of representation and inclusivity, and ultimately prioritizing it and making it part of the everyday conversation has been an exciting and inspiring shift. With this, we’ve already started to see more representation in the industry, more newcomers, and more spotlights and even major investments in brands previously overlooked.”

“I’ve seen a true focus being put on changing the landscape to a more inclusive one, through efforts made to nurture diverse talent and to help ensure that the fragrance industry represents and champions diversity in all its forms,” says Jerry Vittoria, Chairman TFF and President Fine Fragrance Worldwide, Firmenich. “This has taken shape in the form of more educational outreach such as panels and webcasts, creating features that highlight new founders, and putting together scholarships to attract the younger generations. Overall, there’s a united goal of setting a high standard of excellence, encouraging the beauty community as a whole to reflect the perspectives of, and in turn better serve, the consumers we create for.”

The fragrance consumer shifted in 2022, as world circumstances and individual behavior continued to evolve. “Fragrance continues to be a category where consumers have deep passion, both for themselves and for gifting,” says Penny Coy, VP Merchandising, Prestige Skincare and Fragrance ULTA. “Interestingly, throughout the pandemic consumers expanded engagement with fragrance as they began to more regularly layer scents into their personal rotation, creating different use cases for different brands. As they explore the category, consumers have continually gravitated towards newness this year – whether a new brand or new product from established fragrance brands. We’re seeing Gen Z embrace fragrance more regularly as TikTok continues to fuel fragrance chatter and trends, creating opportunities for all brands in the space to establish and nurture consumer relationships.” Butler noted that “There are more fragrance consumers. We are seeing a younger consumer and an increase in male consumers. EDPs, Parfums and stronger concentrations are on the rise.”

“Today’s consumer goes beyond gender or normal segmentations—instead today we focus on fragrances that suit a personality or evoke an emotion,” says Vittoria. “In turn, the shopping behaviors have adapted and we find that consumers are now going through multi-channels and are well informed and more purposeful in their selections. They are looking for brands that have an authentic voice with values they can relate to such as in sustainability and diversity efforts.”

These days, says Wulff, the fragrance consumer is “Everyone! The person looking for self-care solutions, the person looking to indulge, treat themselves, stay curious and engaged, and of course, the existing fragrance obsessed. As fragrance has become paramount in everything we consume and surround ourselves with – our homes, our work space, our beauty routines, entertainment and more – there is a growing audience and interest in the category and desire to infuse it in all lifestyles and aspects of our lives.”

For Julianne Pruett, VP Fine Fragrance Sales, Symrise the biggest change was “level-setting post pandemic. Back to live, in-person interaction means a decline in home care (candles) vs 2020/21 and an increase in EDT/colognes (going out, back to office) coupled with an increase in sales at brick & mortar stores vs peak of online. However, the online overall increase from 2019 is here to stay.”

More than anything, perhaps, fragrance continued to be a beacon of joy for consumers, and a way to connect with themselves and each other. “In a world suffering from unprecedented divisions, war and insecurity, the fragrance category is playing its role in terms of bringing positivity to each person’s world,” says Alex Choueiri, Global President, Ralph Lauren Fragrances L’Oréal. “Fragrance is no longer about seduction only, it is showing its power as a hedonistic tool with healing properties to the mind, and it is also about togetherness.”

Personally, TFF board members—like everyone else—found renewed inspiration in their personal lives, as they returned to the office with more flexibility, and in the world of scent, which continues to move towards a positive and diverse future. “Speaking on behalf of my team, 2022 welcomed a wonderful shift back to meetings in real life with our fragrance brand partners,” says Coy. “Experiencing new scents, being inspired by brand stories, offering reactions to the notes, packaging and future campaigns – these experiences energize us. We’re inspired by the creativity, newness and enthusiasm brands and consumers bring to the category and love working with our brand partners to deliver many beautiful fragrance possibilities to our guests.”

“We are seeing innovation daily, be it in sustainability efforts or through digital advancements, all being driven by a renewed appreciation of scent,” says Vittoria. “Scent today is seen as a powerful engine that can transform our mood and deliver active benefits rather than just an accessory—and this makes our work that much more exciting.”

How would you describe your brand’s unique point of view?

Homecourt is a collection of beauty products for the home, disrupting the household products industry with fine fragrance, clean skincare-inspired formulas, and sustainable packaging.

What do you hope that TFF membership can help your brand achieve?

The Homecourt team looks forward to networking, building additional relationships, and learning from others in the fragrance industry as we continue to innovate.

What do you believe that your brand can contribute to TFF’s mission “to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance,” and how will you support TFF’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fragrance industry?

Homecourt will contribute our passion for “The Beauty of Homecare” and continue to educate all on the art of scentscaping and decorating your home with fragrance. We are recruiting new customers to the world of fine fragrance via our innovative and accessible products like surface spray and dish soap. As Homecourt grows, we are excited to build new careers in the fragrance industry and are committed to practicing diversity, equity, and inclusion in our recruitment and culture.

How would you describe your brand’s unique point of view?

BROWN GIRL Jane infuses the power of wellness into masterfully crafted fragrance collections designed to boost mood and reduce stress. Working alongside preeminent perfumers and inspired by the richness of diversity, BROWN GIRL Jane’s award-winning and solution-forward scents are not only an olfactive escape but are powered by clean, clinically studied ingredients designed to marry function and fragrance.

What do you hope that TFF membership can help your brand achieve?

We’re thrilled to join the TFF family and hope that our membership in this esteemed organization can help elevate the conversation around diverse perspectives within this industry, deepen connections with other experts and founders, and highlight our distinct, wellness-forward approach to scent and the emotionally transformative power of fragrance.

What do you believe that your brand can contribute to TFF’s mission “to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance,” and how will you support TFF’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fragrance industry?

Our mission and ethos at BROWN GIRL Jane is wonderfully complementary to that of TFF, and as a brand that works tirelessly to center a global, multicultural audience, we will continue to ensure that the world of fragrance is inclusive, reflective, and diverse. We are scent-obsessed, not only because of its ability to quite literally shift mood and create a personal aura, but because it is a remarkable industry where true craftsmanship still exists. We hope that our membership serves as an example to others that they too belong and that diverse brands and founders have unique and valued contributions to share with this industry.

How would you describe your brand’s unique point of view?

We believe in CELEBRATING all life’s magical moments, INNOVATING so we are always serving her, PERSONALIZING everything so it’s all done her way, DESIGNING the most luxurious dresses and scents, and finally, KINDNESS – so she doesn’t have to worry about anything. It is our mission to help anyone and everyone find the look that will allow them to be the best, most genuine version of themselves on their wedding day or any special occasion. Our fragrance line aims to capture this feeling and allow them to revisit this special moment in their lives.

What do you hope that TFF membership can help your brand achieve?

We have 70 years of experience crafting magical moments and empowering shoppers globally. While the fragrance category is new for us, we are excited to join a community of renowned brands with like-minded values of serving customers and empowering individuals through the storytelling art of fragrance.

What do you believe that your brand can contribute to TFF’s mission “to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance,” and how will you support TFF’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fragrance industry?

David’s is grounded in our core values to empower people to innovate, create, and celebrate and it shows. In 2022 Forbes named us on their Best Employers for Women List, using results from a survey that is based on a variety of criteria including working conditions, diversity, and how likely employees are to recommend their employer. We are proud to offer inclusive and fun environments to empower our employees shine, in turn fostering passion, and overall growth, we hope to inspire others to do the same. Our brand ethos of ‘serving her or serving someone who is’ speaks to our overarching mission to welcome and celebrate EVERYONE for all of life’s magical moments.

What makes the fragrances that you have created unique?

My fragrances are unique because they were intentionally created to complement the wearer’s aura or essence. These are soft scents that do not overpower. 

What is the feeling or atmosphere that you would like your scents to create?

The feeling I want my customers to leave with is one of fullness and beauty. I have a quote that answers this perfectly, “You are the masterpiece, everything else is an accessory.”

What do you believe that your brand can contribute to TFF’s mission “to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance,” and how will you support TFF’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fragrance industry? 

My fragrances are not cookie cutter and do not follow the recipe for quick hand grabs. I take my time when it comes to creating my scent collection which gives way for my artistry in perfumery and those involved to shine. I am a huge advocate of DEI and think it’s necessary in an industry that can get pretty stale, pretty quickly. Without diversity, there’s no growth, no evolution and gaps in the industry offering. I will continue to promote DEI by being intentional and supportive of diversity in brand campaigns and spotlighting DEI brands on my social platforms.

What makes the fragrances that you have created unique?

This is a complex question, I can say first of all the way in which it is made we have followed the enfleurage technique. Second the raw materials, our Fior Di Chinotto Parfum is made with the petal Chinotto flower, a unique citrus tree harvested only in Liguria West Coast of Italy. This fragrance is inspired by the fearless women because it follows an interesting storytelling of this plant.

What is the feeling or atmosphere that you would like your scents to create?

Unique and visible recognizing the niche and artisanal aspect of the art of perfumery. Between the notes of Chinotto, honey, jasmin, I enhance the beauty of the women.

What do you believe that your brand can contribute to TFF’s mission “to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance,” and how will you support TFF’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fragrance industry?

I think that our Fior Di Chinotto perfectly contributes to inspire the world to discover the artistry and the passion of fragrance. Being a family focused business in the fragrance world since 1980, we create this unique scent with the intention to give a tribute to the niche and artisanal fragrance world. We are constantly developing.

I am thinking of proposing a webinar-funded scholarship towards education, programs and recruitment. I have already discussed with Mrs. Virginia Bonofiglio in hopes that we can organize something in 2023.

We have created a solid cosmetic collection that received awards in Italy and the US. This is one of the top lines in fragrance for sustainability! You will have the chance to try this unique fragrance soon!!!

As the year 2022 draws to a close, the content for this issue of Accords includes reflections of members of the TFF Board of Directors and new 2023 TFF members who we welcome for the coming year. This time of year is so focused on our fragrance community surging in sales, we were limited in time and space to those who could contribute in a very rapid turn around and we thank them for sharing their insights.

Thank you also to April Long, our fabulous Accords editor, who was able to weave this interesting mix of perspectives in this issue from retailers, fragrance houses and brands. Our #1 priority #FragranceForwardTFF will always be included in all we do as a united community as you will find new voices join us and all together we continue to take action.

When we return in January to launch the new year, we look forward to a January TFF Board meeting where we will all share and introduce a few new Board members and welcome many new 2023 members whose brands range from Indie to mega size.

All of us on the TFF team wish all of our fragrance community on the planet very happy holidays and a healthy, prosperous New Year 2023! We are grateful for your support and guidance, as we look forward to 2023 with exciting new events, activities, and action all focused on the positivity of fragrance.

President, The Fragrance Foundation

@linda_g_levy

@fragrancefoundation

On October 25th, TFF celebrated 2022 Circle of Champions honoree Artemis Patrick with a lively dinner event at 583 Park Avenue attended by hundreds of beauty and fragrance industry leaders. As Executive Vice President and Global Chief Merchandising Officer for Sephora, Patrick’s impact on how fragrance is bought and sold cannot be under-stated, and the evening highlighted not only the inspiring breadth of her achievements—from the way she has pioneered Sephora’s retail prowess to her dedication to DEI and ensuring inclusivity within the company and on the sales floor—but also the unflappable attitude, enterprising vision, and sense of fun that she brings to work every day (always in her signature cowboy boots). For this edition of ACCORDS, Patrick reflects on her career, and what it means to be recognized for accomplishments so close to her heart.

What does it mean to you to be inducted into the TFF Circle of Champions?

It is truly such an honor! The fragrance category has always played such an integral role in the Sephora experience, and it has been so exciting to not only witness but to play a part in driving forward the evolution of the category. To be recognized by the esteemed Fragrance Foundation and receive the Circle of Champions Award is just thrilling for me and my team.

When Sephora first came to the US in 1998, with a giant fragrance organ in the middle of the store imported from France (believe it or not, we still have one in our corporate office!), everyone knew we were the underdogs in beauty, but we were an even bigger underdog in fragrance. And every single fragrance merchant that has walked through the Sephora doors for the past 24 years, has had to fight to disrupt and innovate, and their hard work has truly paid off. This award is for them.

What have been some of the most defining moments of your career?

I have been very fortunate to work for a company that believes in continuous innovation and in pushing boundaries; since its inception, Sephora has always managed to be at the forefront of what is new and next in beauty, and it’s been thrilling to play a role in that. But there are of a course a few moments of which I’m especially proud:

In 2018, my team and I launched the Clean at Sephora program, which effectively established “clean beauty” as a category and set the standard for how to think about and shop for such products. Clean at Sephora has experienced tremendous growth since then – including strides made in the fragrance category, which has historically not been a place where “clean” is easy to achieve – and ultimately prompted the subsequent debut of our Clean + Planet Positive program in 2021, which accounts for product sustainability as well. Beauty shoppers continue to be increasingly ingredient-conscious and sensitive to how their choices impact the planet, and I’m so proud that we have played a leading role in helping them to better understand and navigate what can be a complex and confusing category.

Another proud moment came in 2020, when calls for racial justice were quickly taking hold. Aurora James, Brother Vellies’ founder (and friend of Sephora), very publicly issued a call-to-action for retailers to take the 15 Percent Pledge and commit to building a product assortment of which 15% are Black-owned brands – and Sephora was the very first major retailer to step up and do so. Since then, we have reached 15% in the hair care category and have more than doubled our assortment of Black-owned brands – in part through our Accelerate brand incubator program, which focuses exclusively on supporting and launching BIPOC-owned brands. But this is a long-term journey we’re on, and we look forward to launching even more BIPOC-owned brands in the months and years to come.

Lastly, another defining moment of my career was the transition to my full-time global position. When the role of global CMO was first created, it was done with the intent of accelerating the global expansion of exclusive and differentiated brands, and I’m so proud of the great strides we’ve made the past few years. This has been such a rewarding and exciting time in my career, and I look forward to continuing to expand Sephora’s global reach with my incredibly talented team.

What have been the greatest challenges you have faced?

The pandemic was one of the hardest times both professionally and personally. It was a time when leaders had to figure out different ways to keep their teams motivated and connected in a time of extreme uncertainty. By nature, I get so much of my energy by the people around me, so being isolated from my team and our brand partners was especially challenging. I learned during this time that in order to take care of others I had to also take care of myself and tried to encourage my team to do the same. I also learned how important the power of connection is, and made conscious efforts to connect in other ways (a quick call, a kind text) and am cognizant now more than ever how important those human connections are in building a strong company culture.

What is the best career advice you ever received?

I once was in a situation where the issue at hand was so overwhelming that I wasn’t sure where to start. I remember my leader at the time telling me “if Rome is burning, protect your house.” In other words, control only what YOU can control. While it may seem simple, it’s so important that as leaders we focus on what we can control and help guide our teams to do the same. This advice always guides me if I’m feeling overwhelmed and I think also helps me prioritize!

What would you say the future of fragrance retail holds?

While fragrance was once something that was viewed as more special occasion-based, the pandemic really changed the way consumers engage with the category, as people began to turn to it more and more as a form of self-care, both with personal fragrance and home fragrance. We’ve seen that behavior hold strong and anticipate people will continue to shop the category in that way.

We’re also seeing that younger consumers are highly engaged with fragrance. This is a generation that cares about the planet, transparency, diversity and inclusion – and they shop with those values at the forefront. So for fragrance brands to succeed, it will be very important that they understand the nuances across different generations and how to communicate and connect with each – especially Gen Z.

How have your accomplishments aligned with #FragranceFowardTFF?

#FragranceFowardTFF is such an inspiring and important initiative for the fragrance industry, as we all collectively commit to shaping the industry to truly reflect the very diverse community we serve. This could not be more in line with the work we do at Sephora, where we have very much been focused on diversifying our product assortment.

The reality is that there are not yet many Black founders in the fragrance industry, but we and the Fragrance Foundation share the common mission to change that. We launched Jackie Aina’s home fragrance, FORVR Mood, as well as World of Chris Collins last year, and work closely with them to continue building and growing their businesses.

Ultimately, we at Sephora are committed to helping to make the beauty industry at large more representative and truly in service of beauty lovers everywhere – and #FragranceForwardTFF is certainly poised to do the same for the fragrance industry.

TFF places tremendous emphasis on the importance of education—and access to education for all—in creating a future in which the fragrance industry is truly inclusive. The Fragrance Foundation FIT Diversity Scholarship, introduced in 2021, is a powerful door-opener for students from diverse backgrounds interested in pursuing careers in scent. The annual, $100,000 academic award is dedicated to helping students on both the undergraduate and graduate levels of FIT’s Cosmetics and Fragrance education programs follow their dreams—and, ultimately, bring their creativity and passion to the fragrance business as a whole. This year’s winners, Yasmin Hussain and Monique McKenzie, both undoubtedly innovators-in-the-making, share their love of fragrance, their professional and academic aspirations, and how their commitment to #FragranceForwardTFF will build a better tomorrow for all.

What first inspired your desire to pursue studies towards a career in the fragrance industry?

I’ve always loved fragrance so in the fall of 2020, I took the Advanced Perfumery course at Pratt Institute with Raymond Matts. Learning about the intricacies of each note really fascinated me. Before taking that class, I never knew that the smell of rose had so many individual parts to it! Smelling different notes and families and seeing how they were used in different fragrances made me want to keep learning more and more about what goes into a fragrance.

What are you excited to learn more about in regard to the fragrance industry?

I’m excited to learn more about how fragrance is advertised. I’ve always been interested in both print ads and commercials so I’m excited to learn about the process that goes on behind that. I also look forward to learning more about the science behind fragrance, it’s as interesting as it is challenging.

What does it mean to you to be honored with the TFF FIT scholarship?

I feel endlessly grateful to be given this opportunity, it has enabled me to focus solely on my studies. Not only that, it has also made me feel like I have a place in the industry. Linda, Sharné, and Christina have gone out of their way to be welcoming, affirming and inclusive towards me. I have connected with them on a personal level and feel thankful to The Fragrance Foundation for prioritizing DEI initiatives in education.

How do you believe you can be part of #FragranceForwardTFF moving forward?

I hope to be able to tell stories and create feelings of nostalgia for people like me. I think we all have something different that we can offer and I hope to be able to represent that for people who don’t feel seen or heard. I also hope to one day give people from underrepresented backgrounds affirmation that they too have a place in the fragrance industry.

What first inspired your desire to pursue studies towards a career in the fragrance industry?

My first memory, and frankly love, of fragrance comes from my father. Living in Virginia Beach, my father often traveled for work during the week, joining my mother and I on the weekends.

While I didn’t quite know all the days of the week, I knew it was the weekend when the scent of my father’s Ralph Lauren legendary Polo fragrance arrived at our home in Virginia Beach. Ralph Lauren describes the fragrance as “celebrating the timeless appeal of the sporting lifestyle” while blending “the very best of wood, leather and other natural scents to convey a handsome, enduring character.” And my father was quite the handsome character.

I could easily find myself entranced in the top and middle notes of lime zest, leather and cedar once he walked through the door. But it was the scent of balsam, patchouli, and oakmoss, the base notes, that stayed throughout the week, lingering in all the places he was…the kitchen table where we ate dinner, the sofa where we watched weekly episodes of In Living Color and even my pillow where he tucked me in. I often found myself perusing through my parent’s closet and even trying on my father’s jackets and shirts to recreate that moment of him walking through the front door.

Nearly forty years later, my father still wears that fragrance. While a seemingly innocuous fragrance in a green glass bottle, it proves how much power fragrance has. Fragrance has the power to comfort us, to make us feel at home, and even to bring us joy and laughter; for decades, it’s been an inside joke between my mother and I about how much of the fragrance my father wears.

What are you excited to learn more about in regard to the fragrance industry?

It’s this power of fragrance that inspired me to join the Class of 2024 of the Cosmetics and Fragrance Marketing and Management Master in Professional Studies program, the only program of its kind in the U.S. where classes are held in the only working fragrance laboratory on a U.S. college campus. Not only will this program provide me with in-depth knowledge about the role of scent and hands-on olfactive training, I’ll learn to identify consumer preferences as well as the societal, cultural, and other trends that shape them, like familial relationships akin to my relationship with my father, and turn those into brand stories, integrated marketing communications strategy and brand loyalty.

What does it mean to you to be honored with the TFF FIT scholarship?

With the support of The Fragrance Foundation, I can further the organization’s mission to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance while also serving as a face for the diversity, equity and inclusion pledge and how people can commit to breaking barriers for people of all backgrounds in launching, growing and sustaining careers in the fragrance industry.

How do you believe you can be a part of #FragranceForwardTFF moving forward?

According to The Cut, Nielsen reported in 2018 that Black people were the biggest consumers of fragrance, responsible for 23 percent of the market (which translates to $151 million) while making up 14 percent of the population. Despite being such avid consumers of fragrance, Black people are rarely, if ever, represented in the industry — whether in advertisements, behind the scenes, or in retail spaces. With the support of the Fragrance Foundation and their objective to nurture talent, I’ll design and create a functional fragrance for a consumer product as part of my final joint interdisciplinary project with a focus on diverse and underrepresented communities. This will aid in my pursuit of innovation in the cosmetics and fragrance industry. Ultimately, I want to leverage my 15 years experience designing campaigns that evolve brand positioning, drive brand awareness and build brand equity for the most iconic and recognized global brands to inspire brand affinity and consideration, increase cultural relevancy and reach diverse audiences within the fragrance industry.

How do you approach holiday candles and scents for diptyque?

Diptyque’s holiday candles are important for consumers, and something they eagerly look forward to. They are highly anticipated and always an exciting challenge for me to create – each candle must be unique, powerful and synonymous with pleasure.

I like to design surprises by proposing very different scents every year. Something I really look forward to is the idea of knowing that I’m going to participate in the magic of the holidays. Diptyque’s holiday collection, it’s like Christmas before the hour!

What were the inspirations behind this year’s collection?

This year, the theme is nostalgic, childhood memories in 3 different accords: a seasonal pine tree, with unexpected accents of mimosa, a wood fire blended with swirls of hot chocolate and the third is the idea of a snowflake if it had a scent. I was very inspired by the idea of imagining a smell to represent a snowflake – its star-pattern shape is so delicate, and inspires you to imagine the most beautiful fragrances.

The idea was to capture the magic and beauty of the holidays.  

What smells are most emblematic of the holiday season for you personally?

The smell of a Christmas tree. Imagining the scent of snowflakes. The spices used in a festive cake. But what I love the most, is the mix of all of the season’s amazing smells, they’re so distinct yet complementary.

What were the inspirations behind the Harlem Candle Company St. Nicholas candle?

The Harlem Candle Company St. Nicholas candle was inspired by the feeling of comfort, nostalgia and unique memories associated with family time enjoying freshly baked cake together. The brightness of winter citrus infused with a special blend of spices and woody notes create joyful holiday spirit all year around.

How is creating a candle scent different from a traditional fragrance?

Creating a candle scent is like composing music where all the ingredients of the scent will diffuse simultaneously in harmony. While crafting a traditional fragrance is like writing a story where the ingredients of the fragrance will appear, take turns, and reveal themselves magically over time.

What smells are most emblematic of the holiday season for you personally?

The holiday season smells for me a contrast of warmth and freshness where the outdoor crispy air fuses with textured ambery fragrances and delicious spiced fruit cake baking in the oven.

How do you approach holiday candles for NEST?

It starts with pursuing or capturing a specific moment or emotion – almost always something rooted in nostalgia, but of course something new and different for NEST. And from there, it becomes ingredient driven – what are the notes or ingredients evocative of the moment we want to bring to life?

What were the inspirations behind the 2022 NEST holiday scent?

The idea was, quite simply, to capture peak holiday – the vast but very specific array of scents that quintessentially represent the season – those iconic spices and fruits, citruses, but also warming, cocooning gourmand notes for those indulgent cravings.

What smells are most emblematic of the holiday season for you personally?

For me, it’s always been a combination of holiday flavors and seasonal ingredients – gourmand, indulgent, sweeter notes (those of hot chocolate, cinnamon, eggnog, roasted chestnuts) – but it’s also all about the outdoor winter elements and those that capture nature in its rawest – crisp woods, fir balsam and frosted pine, or even cozy, smoky fireplace vibes.

Our November Accords includes valuable and inspiring content from 3 perspectives: our 2022 Champion, Sephora’s Artemis Patrick, the first ever TFF FIT Diversity Scholarship recipients, and perfumers who share their holiday candle creativity. Although their roles are certainly different – retail executive, students and perfumers – all share their passion and appreciation of fragrance.

November is a special month for all of the fragrance community as we celebrate Thanksgiving here in the USA and look forward to the holidays next month globally. This year the meaning of Thanksgiving and all the holidays has an even greater feeling of gratitude than possibly ever before. Although the globe is filled with challenging news daily, we have a renewed appreciation for health, happiness and our in person gatherings. As a fragrance community and industry, our gratitude extends to all consumers who have discovered and elevated the important role fragrance plays in daily life to enhance their experiences, transport them spiritually, indulge in self care and of course enjoy the “invisible accessory”.

Happy Thanksgiving from the entire TFF team!

We appreciate your support and are grateful we are united with #FragranceForwardTFF to welcome all and celebrate together. We wish you all great health, happiness and success as we kick off the holiday season and fragrance shopping!

President, The Fragrance Foundation

@linda_g_levy

@fragrancefoundation

On October 20^th, TFF broadcast its second annual Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion webinar: Moving Forward, Together. For this installment of the Foundation’s ongoing and committed effort to galvanize and support DEI initiatives throughout the fragrance industry, national news anchor (and fragrance lover) Arthel Neville moderated a compelling talk with Bernardo Möller, Founder and Creative Director of House of Bö, Nicole Monson, Senior Vice President, Equity and Engagement at the Estée Lauder Companies Inc. and Shawn Outler, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer at Macy’s Inc. In a thoughtful, in-depth conversation, the three discussed how and why the inclusivity tenants championed by #FragranceForwardTFF are so important and impactful for fragrance brands large and small, fragrance retailers and marketers, and the consumer. Here, they share their thoughts about where the industry stands, and what they hope to see moving forward, together.

What does inclusivity mean to you when it comes to fragrance – from the scent to the ingredients to the design?

I love how the process of creating a fragrance is so specific to its creator’s life story, whether it is inspired by personal memories, culture or background, but by the time it reaches consumers it is a totally subjective experience open to each person’s interpretation. Fragrance is a universal language that is not constricted by race, color, background or sexuality. 

House of Bō’s minimalist design and aesthetic is meant to inspire neutrality.

How do you make sure that your message of inclusivity is in everything you communicate to the consumer?

House of Bō is a community where your definition of self is not only encouraged but celebrated. We believe that authenticity leads to more meaningful human connections that ultimately nurture our soul. When you learn to appreciate your own uniqueness you will understand the value of accepting others as they are. It’s about embracing everything about yourself. It’s your story, your culture, your heritage, your color, your body type, your sexuality.

Inclusivity is at the core of our brand DNA. Everything we do, from our storytelling, to our campaigns and posts, is meant to reflect sustainability, diversity and inclusion. As a small company we make sure we surround ourselves and work with people who uphold and share our values and we are proud to say that our work-force and talent consists of a diverse group of minds that allows us to see things from different perspectives.  

What has been the most impactful progress you have seen in DEI in the fragrance industry so far, and where do you think the most work still needs to be done?

Diversity Equality and Inclusion is a topic that is being discussed across the board in all sectors and thankfully the fragrance industry is not staying behind, thanks to people in executive positions who truly care about this subject. It’s important to ensure we keep appointing people who genuinely understand the value of having a diverse and inclusive work environment. 

These conversations have had the most impact on me because I am an example of how these platforms create opportunities for people like me to have a voice and to showcase my interpretation of fragrance. These conversations lead to change and these changes inspire young entrepreneurs to think it is possible to follow your dreams. 

We have to keep the conversation alive and make sure we continue to support brands that carry this message in a genuine way, and by genuine I mean brands that are not just looking to check off a box. More and more consumers are searching for brands that they can relate to. People don’t want to buy just a pretty product, they are looking for communities that share their same values and ideals. 

I would love to see more perfumers from different walks of life succeed, not just women but also trans, queer and all other minority groups.

What do you think an inclusive fragrance industry looks like from a consumer’s perspective?

An inclusive fragrance industry is one where consumers feel heard, where their needs are met in product offerings, and where they see themselves reflected in industry marketing practices. In addition, inclusivity means having the fragrance industry engage in the communities in which their consumers live and work on issues that matter to them year-round. Brand investment needs to be ongoing, not solely when engagement with historically marginalized groups seems convenient, like during Black History Month or Pride Month.  

An inclusive fragrance industry is deliberate and focused in the actions it takes to be more inclusive and intentionally prioritizes marginalized communities, including increasing accessibility and taking meaningful actions to ensure perfumers, and other fragrance industry employees actually look like consumers. Representation is critical. There must also continue to be an evolution of language – a move away from terms that are offensive and incendiary.  

The Estée Lauder Companies, Inc. aspires to be the most inclusive, equitable, and diverse beauty company in the world. We are constantly evaluating and evolving in DEI—a core tenet of our overall business strategy—to ensure progress towards this goal. When companies take the position of people first, beginning with the support and cultivation of their employees, advocacy for all is given a wider lens. Being intentional in our marketing and product offerings and allowing our consumers to see themselves in our brands, increases returns in brand reputation, consumer affinity, and leadership in our industry.

How do you think that strides in DEI within corporations will affect the fragrances that are made and the way that they are sold?

Consumers, investors, non-profits, and other stakeholders are holding corporations accountable to prioritize DEI in every facet of their operations. With greater awareness of the systemic barriers that impact historically marginalized communities, comes a greater responsibility for the fragrance industry to be more bold, ambitious, and impact-focused when it comes to inclusion practices. 

The strides that are being made by corporations to prioritize and invest in DEI undoubtedly will have an effect on the ways fragrances are made and sold. Indeed, the progress will help reduce and hopefully eventually eliminate the barriers to entry into the industry. For instance, corporations are deciding to make corporate investments in entrepreneurial programs, and professional development that is engaging talent from marginalized communities. The racial diversification of talent brings the variety of perspective that the fragrance industry needs to be relevant to racially diverse consumers in product offerings, marketing practices and the markets in which it engages. 

We’re also seeing an evolution toward more gender inclusivity, with the use of gender-neutral notes like sandalwood, patchouli, and amber, as opposed to fruity, floral scents that have dominated historically. These steps away from the gender binary, and other boxes that exclude the non-dominant culture, are essential on the path to an inclusive industry. 

But there is much more to be done to deliver a fragrance landscape that is as dynamic and diverse as the consumers we hope to serve.

What has been the most impactful progress you have seen in DEI in the fragrance industry so far, and where do you think the most work still needs to be done?

The most impactful progress that I have seen in DEI in the fragrance industry so far has been where companies and organizations make DEI a strategic business imperative backed by commitments that can be measured, evaluated, and evolved. 

At ELC, we’ve backed up our intention by making public-facing and internal commitments — starting with commitments to racial and gender equity. We’ve created our new function, the Equity and Engagement Center of Excellence, and established a Gender Equality Taskforce to drive accountability around this work. Progress towards our goals includes: Creating Advancement Opportunities for Black Talent (since its launch, we have increased our hiring of Black candidates to 18.8%, surpassed our goal of doubling our hires from historically Black colleges and universities, created a program with Florida A&M University offering summer internships with teams in NYC and Miami along with scholarships, and more); Investment in Systemic Change (We distributed a total of over $11.8M to support external organizations and non-profits advancing racial and social justice and addressing disparities); and Making Strides Toward Equal Pay for Women (Globally, 55% of positions VP and above are held by women and we’re on track to achieve women’s pay parity this year). 

Our industry requires more diversity represented across all levels and particularly in leadership. Removing bias from our hiring, evaluation, and promotion practices and creating workplaces where employees of color and other historically marginalized groups, feel safe, valued, and have opportunities for advancement, are critical. We must go beyond simply attracting talent to retaining talent and investing in marginalized communities to cultivate a diverse talent pipeline. In addition, a great deal of work remains to provide access to resources for entrepreneurs in the fragrance industry. For most, it is cost prohibitive to build a fragrance brand without financial support from corporations, investors and community-minded organizations. Finally, there must be a heightened focus and sensitivity to marketing practices in the fragrance industry. Clear actions need to be taken to ensure that models that appear in marketing campaigns no longer over index on white, heteronormative models. 

What are some of the more effective DEI strategies you’ve seen so far?

I think companies that have been most effective when they have tapped into diverse communities in the right way, and really listened to understand better what’s impacting those communities and how to address them.

We’ve had ERGs for years, but we’ve seen a different level of activation with our ERGs and advocacy as it relates to them. I think most recently about what happened in Buffalo and Uvalde and the Dobbs decision. Our ERGs have really stood up and we have allowed them to take the lead in driving conversations with those who don’t really understand how these different societal issues have impacted communities. Bringing folks together to express how they feel and what this has meant to them, and allowing others to listen and be educated. We have created this environment, and I think that has been successful.

I think overall everyone was running to the table in 2020 to make a declaration about what they were going to do. The companies that did it well went back to their values and said here’s who we are and made a decision about whether or not anti-racism was in line with those values and then began reinforcing that with everybody in their organization. Those who did it really well followed it up with real action, held people accountable, and put real measurement around it. It’s about activating the people in your work force, standing for something and making a declaration, but also taking action and driving accountability, because that’s how you impact the business you do every day. And I think where the real change happens is when you can change the systems in which you operate to include a more diverse and equitable environment.

How can the industry be more accountable in driving DEI across all levels?

We must create a holistic plan that addresses all levels of the issue with clear measurable goals. This includes internal and external, audience and stakeholders. For example at Macy’s our DEI strategy has five focus areas: our colleagues, customers, suppliers, community, and marketing. And for each area we have set targets we want to meet. Additionally, there must be alignment and accountability across all levels of an organization on these goals. Aspirations, accountability, and action. You also have to be public about it, share it, be very clear, so that everyone understands what you are marching towards.  

What can we do as a community to support #FragranceForwardTFF?

Join us in creating meaningful, impactful, sustainable, measurable, transparent goals as it relates to this work. I would also say, let’s reframe the conversation. This to me is always about opportunity: the opportunity to understand each other better, to discover new businesses and get at new categories and really expand and grow our industry at large. I just say, what a huge incredible opportunity we have every day to elevate what we do and include more voices and grow. This is the next evolution of our industry, let’s embrace it in a positive and meaningful way for greater change and impact for all.

Diversity brings ideas, energy, and insight to any field, but building a truly inclusive workforce begins with education: for students, knowing what opportunities exist can be the first step towards discovering and flourishing in a rewarding occupation. This month, TFF rolled out its exciting Scents of Success Career Panel Discussion Series, in which TFF and six participating member companies conducted educational sessions about careers in the fragrance industry at Florida State University, University of Rochester, William Paterson University, Spelman College, City College of New York and Rutgers University.  These panels brought 500 students together with fragrance professionals to discuss roles at fragrance houses, brands, retailers and more—highlighting the fact that the fragrance industry has many entry points, and is committed to recruiting and retaining teams that reflect the entire USA population. The feedback from these events was overwhelmingly positive. 

As Sophia Bressani, a student at Florida State University, said of the event with Cosmo International Fragrances, “I could tell all the panelists were very passionate about what they do, and it made it a very fun, engaging, and insightful panel discussion.” 

For Priyansh Patel, a student who attended the Rutgers University event with Robertet, the experience was truly mind-opening: “As an engineering and business student, I never even knew fragrance companies like Robertet existed. However, this event bridged the gap between my two passions and showed how they are interrelated. From learning the chemical backgrounds of creating the ‘perfect scent’ from Robertet’s Senior Perfumer to understanding the business strategies that are necessary to sell perfumes, I am extremely grateful to have been able to gain exposure to this field.”

Keokuk Kight, Quality Enhancement Plan Manager Institutional Effectiveness, Spelman College, noted that the college’s October 12^th panel with L’Oréal was “a fabulous opportunity to bring industry professionals to the students to have real-life and behind-the-scenes conversations about the fragrance industry. Students were able to ask questions, network, and get information on valuable internship opportunities. It was a true gem of an experience.”  

Spelman student Kathleen J. Bostick was so inspired that she has already begun exploring how she might bring her passions and educational expertise into the fragrance world: “Attending this event was incredibly beneficial to me,” she said. “I have a strong background in plant biology and having the opportunity to see firsthand how the marketing is implemented in such a dynamic product was very eye opening. Seeing the Black women speak about their experiences was incredibly inspiring and I am really happy that a company with such prominence and success is devoted to creating spaces for Black women and equity. I was left with interesting ideas on how neuroscience can be utilized in a customer’s reaction to smells from these fragrances and potential extraction techniques that could be utilized for this product. I decided to reach out to several representatives for further guidance on future opportunities there may be for someone with my background. I am excited for what the future holds!”

Students at the City College of New York event with LVMH lauded it as “refreshing and valuable,” and, as student Lol Amu said, “the panelists and Fragrance Foundation members were very warm and encouraging to students.” For CCNY student Nisa Manzar, “the Scents of Success panel was an amazing opportunity for CCNY Ad/PR students to learn first-hand what it’s like to work in the luxury fragrance world. Hearing the panelists stories of how they got to where they are today was both inspiring and informative. Some of the panelists also spoke about their day-to-day responsibilities within their roles which helped us as students get more familiar with what working in the luxury industry looks like. Hearing from successful professionals that were once in the same boat as students was very comforting.”

It wasn’t just the students who benefited from these enormously fruitful events. Seeing the enthusiasm and boundless potential that the students brought to the table energized and inspired the panelists too. 

As Vanessa Santarossa, LVMH Head of Education and Events, said of the CCNY event, “Connecting with the students left me feeling invigorated and recharged!”

What was your experience at the Scents of Success presentation and discussion?

Cosmo’s corporate mission is “People, Parfum, Purpose,” so naturally, we were excited that we had the opportunity to be a part of this discussion as we and The Fragrance Foundation alike, all strive to make it our Purpose as mentors within the industry to enhance the world of fragrance through education. It was a pleasure to exchange and share with a group of young talents who were thoroughly engaged and already showed excitement and passion for the industry at this point in their studies.

Why did you personally want to be involved with the Scents of Success program?

As a Notable myself, I understand the mission is to lead, promote the industry and help guide future generations, and what better way to do that than expand our reach and inspire the next generation of future fragrance lovers! Exploring new career profiles will be crucial as we develop new strategies as a company, and by collaborating with universities around the country, we have an excellent opportunity to expand the scope of the fragrance industry. 

What aspect of the discussion were students most interested in?

They were an incredibly dynamic group of students who were really interested in all aspects of the industry! Many were eager to understand the process of fragrance creation and the role of a perfumer so having a perfumer present in the discussion was especially exciting for them. They also understood that the fragrance industry is very consumer-focused, so speaking to them about the importance of consumer insights, the connection between fragrance and brand identity, and how we make our client’s stories come to life through fragrance was a key part of our discussion. We were also asked about our individual roles and personal journeys, so sharing the stories of how our careers began in the fragrance industry was fun.

Why do you think this initiative and #FragranceForwardTFF is so important for the future of the industry, and what would you like to see happen next? 

It is important because the industry will never stop evolving, and we must be ready to evolve with it, and attracting new mindsets and new ways of thinking will be crucial to stay relevant. The consumer landscape is changing, and diversity, equality, and inclusion are at the forefront of it all; this initiative will help to open the industry up to many more professional profiles, which will help us grow and answer future demands. Creating meaningful connections and experiences where we can inspire minds, nurture young talent and embrace new ways of creative thinking will be a must! 

What was your experience at the Scents of Success presentation and discussion?

It was an amazing experience being able to represent the fragrance industry for the Scents of Success Career Panel discussion. It was empowering to see the engagement from the students and their excitement around the fragrance industry. Having the opportunity to share not only my experience, but my colleagues’ experience in the industry and shed light on diverse backgrounds intrigued a lot of the students and warranted an interactive discussion.

Why did you personally want to be involved with the Scents of Success program?

I am passionate about the fragrance industry and continuing to build and move it forward. I also love helping others achieve their goals and providing guidance to be successful. Being a part of this program gives me the platform to not only speak about my passion, but also be excited about the future of the industry and guide them on a successful path.

What aspect of the discussion were students most interested in?

They were interested in the communication and interaction a house has, both internally and externally. Conveying the message that it truly takes a village to build a fragrance, they were interested in what happens at each step of the process from sourcing raw materials, to making the fragrance, to obtaining the brief, to manufacturing, etc. They learned more about the layers of what goes into making a product and that was interesting for them.

Why do you think this initiative and #FragranceForwardTFF is so important for the future of the industry, and what would you like to see happen next? 

The fragrance industry is filled with opportunities, and I am so thankful for the doors that it has opened for me. This initiative is so important to continue to push our industry forward to innovate, create, and be an inclusive place to work. We live in an ever changing marketplace and we need dynamic leaders to help us continue to evolve and be at the forefront of innovation. I would love to see more involvement and collaboration between brands and suppliers with universities – promoting who we are, what we do, and educating students on the beautiful world of fragrance.

What was your experience at the Scents of Success presentation and discussion?

My colleagues and I were so proud to host a career panel with the Fragrance Foundation and Coty. This event allowed students an up close look at working in fragrance by hearing personal stories from panelists, each with different backgrounds, skill sets and passions. From fragrance development and marketing to digital and supply chain, we had a global mix of experts who shared real world anecdotes on what their day-to-day looks like and advice for those looking to break into the industry.  

Even with the formality of an organized event, the conversations felt very personal and real. Students asked practical, smart questions and we all learned a little more about each other. We walked away as inspired as the students!

Why did you personally want to be involved with the Scents of Success program?

Seeing is believing. Growing up in NY, I was very familiar with career paths in finance, law and psychology. I saw these fields first hand through family and friends. I treasured fragrance, but thought of it as a special treat or something to purchase. As I met experts in the industry overtime, I started to have those “aha” moments, picturing myself working alongside them. One future mentor literally opened her laptop once over dinner and showed me a presentation she was working on so that I could visualize what “a day in the life” could look like. This program lets us ‘open up the laptop’ across a range of roles for a new generation of talent.

What aspect of the discussion were students most interested in?

We were all excited by the passion from students and the practical questions they asked. They were very interested in decoding job titles, connecting school disciplines with fragrance positions, what the day-to-day might look like and how we used soft skills to influence colleagues at work. At a school known in part for medicine, engineering and business, it was inspiring to watch students realize in real time new potential paths ahead, pairing multiple disciplines to find success and joy in fragrance.

Why do you think this initiative and #FragranceForwardTFF is so important for the future of the industry, and what would you like to see happen next? 

Fragrance inspires connection, we find ourselves in our favorite scents and experience the artistry of it together. Open panel events and mentorship opportunities help us grow as an industry to reach new audiences and talents. Would love to see the world of experts mirror the diversity of our passionate consumers, sharing more stories and creative visions along the way.

October at The Fragrance Foundation included several significant events. Therefore, we are featuring our annual DEI webinar and the rollout of Scents of Success in this issue of Accords and will highlight the Circle of Champions and more in the November edition.

October 20th we proudly presented our 2nd annual DEI #FragranceForwardTFF webinar, “Moving Forward Together” an extraordinary, inside look at the fragrance industry – decoding DEI and sharing insights from some leading voices from a variety of perspectives. We applaud our extraordinary Moderator, Arthel Neville who is a trailblazing broadcaster in news and programming who led the panel discussion and the result was captivating, insightful and inspiring.

We greatly appreciate our panelists including Bernardo Möller for sharing his personal and professional journey including his view of the challenges and rewards of entering the fragrance industry with the debut of the House of Bō. Shawn Outler for Macy’s, Inc. and Nicole Monson for The Estée Lauder Companies, Inc. also contributed significantly, sharing how their companies have implemented DEI policy, practices and measurement to their employees as well as to consumers. We are united that DEI is an opportunity, and there is much ahead to be accomplished. Together as a fragrance community we must take action to achieve our goals: to recruit, hire, retain and celebrate diversity in all aspects.

TFF and our members will continue this ongoing dialog and most importantly we will continue to take action to lead the fragrance community so that our future industry reflects the diverse USA population. We will not stop!

If you have not yet viewed the webinar, or wish to replay it or share it with others, click through here to our new TFF YouTube channel.

President, The Fragrance Foundation

@linda_g_levy

@fragrancefoundation

New York 1 anchor Cheryl Wills knows a newsworthy event when she sees one—and on September 7^th, when she reported directly from The Fragrance Foundation’s inaugural Connections Brunch at Melba’s restaurant in Harlem, she was making news, not just presenting it. Both New York 1 and Wills—who has been with the network since its debut—were marking 30 years of broadcasting, a milestone that made the TFF occasion even more festive. And what a lively event it was: The brunch brought together some 40 industry leaders—including Chris Collins, founder of World of Chris Collins, Teri Johnson of the Harlem Candle Company, and Francisco Costa, creator of the award-winning beauty line Costa Brazil, designers, journalists, influencers and style makers—to celebrate New York Fashion Week and share the latest on #FragranceForwardTFF, the groundbreaking initiative driving DEI in the fragrance industry. Wills, a passionate perfume devotee herself, was connected with TFF via Helen Shelton, Global Chief Diversity Officer and head of DEI strategy with  Agency of Record Finn Partners, and as the success of the day proved, it was a match made in fragrance heaven. Here she shares her favorite moments of the day and why she believes TFF’s work is so impactful.

What were the highlights of your experience at the TFF Connections brunch?   

The TFF Connections brunch was, shall we say, scent-sational! What a thrill to be in the presence of change agents in the fragrance industry and to meet so many movers and shakers while munching on Melba’s famous chicken and waffles! Linda did a marvelous job hosting the event! Her sincerity and love for the fragrance industry shined through. And you could hear a pin drop during her riveting on the spot interviews with entrepreneurs like Chris Collins.

How did the TFF Connections brunch at Melba’s in Harlem prove to be a great kick off to NYFW & celebrate NY1’s 30th anniversary?  

Great question! NY1’s 30th anniversary is also a celebration of arts and culture and that, of course, includes the fragrance industry! The brunch tied everything together under ONE ROOF!! As someone who has been with NY1 from DAY ONE, this was a really special moment for me! I covered fashion week and many fragrance related stories for more than a decade and met fashion icons like BETSY JOHNSON and reported on her fragrance line and countless others! So this was a delicious reunion for me as well!

Why is an event like the TFF Connections brunch important for New York media?  

The brunch is critical for members of the media to connect the dots and learn more about the fragrance industry from those who know best! Linda Levy is a great connector and thoroughly understands the multi-billion dollar fragrance industry! Linda Levy is also a terrific ambassador for building the brand and her assortment of media titans did just that.

What are your impressions of the #FragranceForwardTFF Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiative?  

The diversity angle is especially important to me because I know first hand that the global fragrance industry is dominated by whites. Chris Collins is a trailblazer and it was imperative that he was placed front and center at this important event. There are difficult questions that still need to be addressed.  WHY is Chris Collins one of the very few black-owned fragrance sold at Bergdorf Goodman? Aside from celebrity endorsements by Rhianna and Beyonce etc., the global fragrance Industry has a lot of work to do to level the playing field and welcome perfumers of color to the table. The Fragrance Foundation’s diversity initiative is what drew me to this event! 

What do you love about fragrance, and how do you use it in your daily life?  

Thanks to the amazing gift bag from this exclusive event, I am now baptized in the WORLD OF CHRIS COLLINS! I’ve been wearing it every single day and sharing his amazing journey from supermodel to super-entrepreneur with everyone I meet! I love how fragrance makes me feel. Once I am made up and just before I get dressed, I strategically spray perfume -in all the right places. It’s the finishing touch. When I was a little girl, we lived in public housing in New York City and I will never forget my mother always left the house wearing Charlie – which she routinely purchased from Woolworths! I couldn’t wait to grow up and do the same thing. Now that I’m all grown up and painting the town, it’s my honor to following in my mother’s fancy footsteps!

Melba’s restaurant in Harlem is as celebrated for its welcoming, convivial neighborhood atmosphere as it is for its raved-about comfort food. What better place to make new friends and mark noteworthy progress in #FragranceForwardTFF’s push for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the fragrance industry? The three brand-founders featured at the TFF Connections brunch— Chris Collins, founder of World of Chris Collins, Teri Johnson of the Harlem Candle Company, and Francisco Costa, creator of the award-winning beauty line Costa Brazil—have all been deeply involved and aligned with #FragranceForwardTFF, and each brought a unique perspective and true enthusiasm to the event. Here, the trio of game-changing brand creators reflect on their experiences at the brunch, and share why networking moments that bring together the perfume world with new media are so important for all.  

What were the highlights of the TFF Connections brunch for you? 

The connections! Seeing old friends and making new relationships is what Linda Levy and The Fragrance Foundation is all about. She’s an amazing connector. I always leave her gatherings with new ideas and excitement for what’s to come.

Why do you think an event like this is important, both for the media and the brands? 

It’s imperative that people see fragrance as it really is — for everyone. Fragrance is a headspace. It should transport you to a place of safety, comfort. It has no boundaries. We need to communicate that.

How does Costa Brazil support #FragranceForwardTFF, and what do you hope to see in the future?

We’re both all about sustainability and inclusivity; our missions have long aligned. I’m very inspired by the magic of nature and science, something you can tell if you’ve smelled my unisex perfume Aroma, which features ingredients from the Amazon that evoke stress-reducing phytoncides as well as a patchouli-type oil that was sustainably made in the lab of my parent company Amyris. The perfume comes in either a base of upcycled ethanol derived by Bonsucro-certified sugarcane, or long-lasting pataua oil, the latter of which has great skin hydration and firming benefits. We can make beautiful fragrances using safe sustainable ingredients that don’t rely on petrochemicals or vulnerable plants and animals. And it’s important we do it now, because scent plays a large role in how we internalize life and regulate emotions. Costa Brazil’s tagline is spray it, layer it, evolve with it—and I truly mean that.

What were the highlights of the TFF Connections brunch for you?

The highlight of the TFF Connections Brunch for me was being able to introduce myself, my passion for fragrance and how I came to create the Harlem Candle Co.  It was an honor to meet and network with the journalists and reporters who also have a passion for fragrance and beauty.

What did it mean for you that Connections was held at Melba’s?

I LOVED the fact that the Connections brunch was held at Melba’s in Harlem as Melba’s has become an institution and a place where artists, creatives and influential people in Harlem convene on a regular basis.  I also loved how conveniently located it is relative to where I live.

How does the Harlem Candle Company support #FragranceForwardTFF, and what do you hope to see in the future?

As a relatively new brand among The Fragrance Foundation members (joined in 2020) we hope to become more involved in helping and mentoring the next generation of niche brands owned and operated by women and people of diverse backgrounds.

What were the highlights of the TFF Connections brunch for you?

Besides the delicious food and meeting the great Melba herself, it was nice to meet and talk to the other amazing brand founders that joined the brunch.

What did it mean for you that Connections was held at Melba’s?

To me it was very special to have a fragrance event in Harlem. The neighborhood where I live and where my fragrance brand was born.

As someone who has been involved with. #FragranceForwardTFF from the beginning, what are some of the biggest impacts you have seen from this initiative?

 I’m absolutely thrilled with how far the Fragrance Forward initiative has come. Shining a spotlight on the brands, founders and professionals of color in the fragrance industry is beautiful to see.

How does your Colombian heritage give you a unique perspective on fragrance? 

In the Colombian culture you love to wear fragrance, it’s part of who you are–it compliments your style and personality. You have fun with it. We like to experiment with different scents and if we fall in love with one fragrance, it’s a fragrance of a lifetime.

What are some of the ways you have channeled your heritage into your perfume creations? 

I feel fragrance ingredients are like colors and they evoke experiences and emotions. Culturally we are known for being very positive and optimistic. I want my fragrances to give people joy, take them to a special moment in their lives or to where they have never been before. 

What moments from your career are you proudest of so far?

In 28 years of my perfumery career, I have had a few moments of pride and joy. First, being the creator of VS Bombshell–a brand I connected in my younger years and creating their No.1 scent has been incredible. Also the co-creation of Lancôme Idôle and the work I continue doing with L’Oréal with more to come. I feel very honored as a latina perfumer to be given the opportunity to work in their brands, my ideas resonate with them. And I truly feel very valued, appreciated and recognized. Thanks to all the clients that believe in me, what makes you different makes you very unique and let’s continue breaking a few more barriers.

How does your Mexican heritage give you a unique perspective on fragrance? 

Even if I’m now an “adoptive” New Yorker, having lived in Manhattan for over 26 years, I look back at my Mexican roots and I approach perfume making very “Mexicanly”… (is that a word?). That is, I do it with passion, with respect for history and the past, with optimism and full heartedly. Mexico is a country of contrasts, of culture, of enormous riches, or resilience. Just recently, for the third time, a powerful earthquake hit Mexico City on the same date (formerly, in 1985 and 2017). This is uncanny and the effects of these phenomenons are devastating. Although they are always a source of sadness for everyone, it’s also comforting to see how the Mexican people help each other, recover swiftly and rebuild towards the future with an impressive resilience. 

What are some of the ways that you have channeled your heritage into your perfume creations? 

Mexico is an unfathomable source of inspiration for me. Being the only Mexican perfumer working in the international arena of fine fragrance creation, I wear my Mexican badge proudly and I apply my knowledge of my country very frequently. Be it through my motherland’s food, its music, its literature, the arts, the architecture and archeology, its landscapes or its biodiversity (Mexico is the second country in the world with most original botanical species in the world) I infuse every single perfume I make with this deep love. I can mention Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, Jose Maria Velasco and Roberto Montenegro as artists I love; Carlos Pellicer and Xavier Villaurrutia as poets that bring me a lot of pleasure; literary authors Octavio Paz and Juan Rulfo; Luis Barragan as a star architect; and my cousin Gabriela Camara as a splendid contemporary chef when it comes to food! Also, I can affirm that Mexico has the best male singers in the world: my week is not complete if I don’t listen to Mijares, Jose Jose or Alejandro Ferandez. 

What did it mean for you to celebrate Mexican ingredients and inspirations through your collaboration with House of Bō? 

When Bernardo Möller and I started working together on the three perfumes for his brand, we focused on the experience of growing up in Mexico and on the references that we had as  olfactive “imprints.” The “agua de colonia” theme was explored in Agua de Santos. For La Mar, we evoked the sometimes powerful sea breeze (or wind, rather) of the Mexican Pacific Coast, more rocky than sandy.. and for Espirtu, we came up with a never made before woody accord inspired on the precious wood of a Mexican tree called Macuilis. Bernardo grew up in a house in Guadalajara that is surrounded by those trees, and when I mentioned that I was studying its particular woody scent, we knew we had built a connection that is anchored in a deep passion for everything Mexican.

How does your Cuban heritage give you a unique perspective on fragrance?

When you are born and raised on an island, it is inevitable to be inspired by its geography and climate, from the vibrant hues of the Caribbean ocean to the lush verdant nature and even the sun’s radiating heat. In many ways, this has inspired and marked my personal style when it comes to fragrances. I enjoy creating airy, sweet, and irreverent fragrances that combine fresh and tropical fruity touches with notes of spices, exotic flowers, and sea salt to evoke memories of early summer afternoons by Havana’s Malecon. I also like to indulge in combining rich scents of brown sugar, honey, tobacco, and rum to achieve a sophisticated yet relaxed background effect that evokes bold vintage impressions. It is said that fragrances are a reflection of personal taste, but I believe they can also be a reflection of a country and culture. I can share that, as Cubans, we are drawn to daring, strong, and long-lasting fragrances, just the same as our need for our morning cafecito.

What are some of the ways you have channeled your heritage into your perfume creations?

I have recently enjoyed working on a fragrance creation inspired by the most well-known and delicious Cuban cocktail, the mojito. It was stimulating and rewarding to capture the essence of this Cuban classic! From the intensity of the white rum to the cool freshness of mint, the zesty acidity of the lime, and that final sweet touch of sugarcane… the perfect balance of notes for this Cuban girl! It is also fragrances like this where I love to work with one of my favorite Cosmo Ingredients, the Peruvian Lime MD. It is juicy, fresh, zesty, and sparkling, the perfect raw material to conjure up the scent of a Mojito.

What moments of your career are you proudest of so far?

I don’t believe in isolating my career into one proud moment. I believe that when we take pride in our daily work, there is greatness in every project and every fragrance creation. 

I would say that one of the most creative but also fulfilling and joyful experiences I’ve had as a perfumer was being invited to create exclusive fragrances for an immersive live event that was done in partnership with the Miami Symphony Orchestra, located in the historic Moore building in the Miami Design District. Not every day do you get to observe the reaction of hundreds of people enjoying your fragrance while they listen to Wagner and Debussy! Having attended the performance with my family, it was truly a memorable evening that will always have a special place in my heart. 

I also believe that one of my greatest achievements is being part of the Cosmo International Fragrances family!