BLOOMING GORGEOUS
In terms of instantly recognisable trademarks, Jo Malone’s cream and black colour scheme is akin to Cadbury purple and Tiffany blue. So when the Brit fragrance house temporarily discards them in place of a rainbow of watery pastels, we take notice. The change indicates the arrival of its annual Blossoms collection, this year introducing Frangipani Flower alongside sprightly scents Orange Blossom, Silk Blossom and Star Magnolia. Master perfumer Marie Salamagne encountered frangipani on her travels to Bali, a memory that inspired the new limited edition.
What is it about blossom that excites and inspires you? The beauty of nature every spring, the vigorous colours; it’s luminous.
I get excited when I see the colours of flowers and I try to capture those blooming moments. Frangipani can be cloying. What about your composition makes it wearable? People have that idea, but in reality I don’t think it is. It’s very different, it’s much more luminous. We wanted to rediscover this fragrance and show people that the flower is still on the trees and blooming. You could almost wear the frangipani note on its own, without any other ingredients.
This collection is a signifier of northern spring, however in New Zealand the colder months are setting in. Fragrance can transport you anywhere. It’s a trip into nature even when you’re at home. The fragrances of the collection transport you – there are strong images that come to mind when you smell them.
How do you embrace self-expression with fragrance? It’s very instinctive. I think women should wear fragrance spontaneously – it depends on what mood you’re in. It could be something fresh, darker or creamy.
Do you believe in owning one signature scent? Yes, but you need to find it by following your instincts and experimenting a lot. I think it’s about being brave, following your own nose rather than what is on trend, and realising that your taste changes. Something you didn’t like 10 years ago, you might like now.
To shop the full Blossoms collection, visit jomalone.co.nz.