Allure Interviews 6 Stars of the Perfume World

Allure Magazine September 2010 issue features an article entitled Poetic License, interviewing six of the stars in the world of perfume.  The perfumes interviewed include Sophia Grojsman and Carlos Benaim (IFF), Harry Fremont and Olivier Cresp (Firmenich), Calice Becker (Givauden), and Jacques Polge (Chanel).

Below are a few quotes from the article.


Sophia Grojsman – International Flavors & Flavors:
Estee Lauder White Linen, Lansome Tresor, Downy Fabric Softener

Sophia Grojsman
Sophia Grojsman

Tip: “A fragrance has to do something for your mood and who you are and what you love.”
Proudest Perfume Moment:  “I really made Tresor for myself. Before it went on the market, I would wear it to meetings; everyone would run after me, smelling it.”
Sophia Grojsman – perfumer, IFF


Harry Fremont – Firmenich:
Vera Wang, Juicy Couture, Calvin Klein CK One

Tip: “With a potent or risque scent, spray it in front of you and walk through the cloud. You’re more in control of how much you want.”
Harry Fremont – perfumer, Firmenich

Harry Fremont
Harry Fremont

Olivier Cresp – Firmenich:
Thierry Mugler Angel, Lancome Magnifique, Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue

Inspirations: “I like to start with complex, exotic…and make it wearable.  Then I have to build the idea slowly, like an architect. But once you have it, and it’s good, it’s in my blood exploding to get out.”
Olivier Cresp – perfumer, Firmenich

Olivier Cresp
Olivier Cresp

Calice Becker – Givaudan:
Dior J’Adore, Tommy Hilfiger Tommy Girl, Marc Jacobs Lola

Calice Becker
Calice Becker

Tip: “Don’t listen to anyone. Trust what gives you pleasure. Trust the emotions. If you love something but can’t explain why, that’s enough.”
Calice Becker – perfumer, Givaudan


Jacques Polge – Chanel:
Chanel Coco Madamoiselle, Chanel Chance, Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche

Proudest Perfume Moment: “Coco Mademoiselle, because it has been a great success, and Chanel Egoiste for men – not at all a great success – because of its originality.”
Jacques Polge – perfumer, Chanel

Jacques Polge
Jacques Polge

Carlos Benaim – International Flavors & Fragrances:
Prada by Prada, Giorgio Armani Code for Women, Elizabeth Taylor White Diamonds

Carlos Benaim
Carlos Benaim

Fragrance Most Admired: “Shalimar – a masterpiece – because of its warm, sensual trail.”
Carlos Benaim – perfumer, IFF


Pick up a copy of Allure Magazine today and read the rest of the article.