Armani/Privé, in collaboration with perfumer Sophie Labbé, unveils the alluring fragrance “Noir Kogane” as part of the Les Terres Précieuses collection. Expanding the olfactory journey, Noir Kogane encapsulates the artful concept of kintsugi, showcasing the beauty of repair and transformation. This haute couture fragrance, accompanied by Blanc Kogane, joins the Les Terres Précieuses collection, introducing precious notes like an exclusive vetiver and rich red saffron.
Presented at the L’Exposition Édition Nomade exhibition from January 9 to 14 at the Dubai Opera Garden, the fragrance duo delves into the captivating world of kintsugi through perfumery.
Interview with Perfumer Sophie Labbé:
How did you approach the composition of Noir Kogane? Labbé: In crafting this fragrance, I aimed to embody the values and codes of Armani/Privé—excellence, refinement, and uniqueness. The collection, a personal reflection of Mr. Armani, immerses us in his memories, experiences, and feelings. It’s a project infused with pieces of heart, vision, and imagination.
Tell us about the concept of kintsugi. Labbé: Kintsugi is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, transforming it into something new and beautiful. I have admired this concept for years and even experienced it myself. Broken plates received as a gift led me to create a photo frame, preserving the beauty of the originals. When you love a piece of art, even if broken, you don’t want to discard it.
How did kintsugi influence Noir Kogane? Labbé: The saffron, often referred to as red gold in perfumery, became the key element inspired by kintsugi. It unifies the scent, consolidating the chosen ingredients. The contrast between the freshness of elemi and the peppery, aromatic saffron in the top notes creates texture. The heart, featuring olibanum, offers an interesting contrast of cold and warm, adding tension. The saffron polishes the leathery note, infusing mystery into the fragrance.
What about the precious vetiver note used in Noir Kogane and Blanc Kogane? Labbé: Armani’s vetiver is distinctive, extracted intensively from the root in a 10-hour distillation process to maintain its pureness. This vetiver, known for its freshness, sparkles, and smoky earthiness, is the scent of the earth, grounding and exclusive. Together with saffron, it perfectly embodies the essence of the Les Terres Précieuses collection.
How does Noir Kogane pair with Blanc Kogane? Labbé: Both fragrances share inspiration from kintsugi, and the common thread is the precious vetiver note. Despite the connections, there are also contrasts, creating a harmonious balance.
How will Noir Kogane appeal to discerning women in the Middle East? Labbé: This powerful and precious fragrance, featuring the bespoke elemi heart and the valued saffron, caters to the discerning preferences of the region. The inclusion of these elements aligns with the essence of luxury appreciated in the Middle East.
In summary, Armani Noir Kogane stands as a testament to the marriage of art and perfumery, celebrating the transformative beauty found in the Japanese art of kintsugi.
