THE SCENT OF SUCCESS
Written by Glenn Lauritz Andersson & Denis Vasilije, fragrance experts
Never underestimate the power of a truly great fragrance to add the final touch that leaves a lasting impression. Ever since Marilyn Monroe revealed that she wore nothing to bed but Chanel No. 5, success and perfume have gone hand in hand. Let yourself be inspired by the fragrance choices of successful individuals and find the scent you truly identify with.
Key Insights
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Fragrance is a powerful tool that can enhance first impressions, communicate your personal brand and influence how you are perceived in professional settings.
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The right balance of fragrance notes — combining confidence with subtle elegance — can create an aura of competence, presence and credibility.
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Matching the character of a fragrance to the occasion and your personal style helps you send the right signal without overpowering or distracting.
One of the world’s most powerful fragrances is Green Irish Tweed from the heritage house Creed. The fragrance is perfectly suited to the modern gentleman, something clearly reflected in Creed’s impressive client list. Among its wearers are some of the world’s most influential figures, including Prince Charles, George Clooney, Clint Eastwood and Sean Connery, as well as modern stars such as P Diddy. Inspired by the lush Irish countryside, the scent features vibrant green notes topped with fresh vetiver. Other icons within the industry, such as Cary Grant, preferred Italian elegance over British tradition. His fragrance of choice was Acqua di Parma’s classic Colonia from 1916 — perhaps part of his own path to success.
When discussing classic fragrances, we must mention Winston Churchill’s favourite scent from the English house Floris: Special No 127. With its distinct citrus character, it is ideal for work or business travel. A true classic that still deserves a place in the fragrance wardrobe today.
If you are looking for an elegant, warm and woody fragrance with citrus accents, look to Imperial Millesime, a scent worn by influential men such as Pierce Brosnan, Harrison Ford and Andre Agassi. The fragrance is also appreciated by women and worn by icons like Catherine Zeta-Jones and Eva Herzigova. This romantic creation from Creed evokes the sun-drenched coastline of Sicily.
David Bowie, the musical visionary who inspired generations, is said to have worn Silver Mountain Water as his signature scent. Other notable wearers include James Gandolfini, Jamie Foxx and Ricky Martin. The fragrance is designed to conjure images of crystal-clear streams of melting snow in the Swiss Alps.
If you appreciate darker, richer compositions with notes of fruit and leather, you should try Christina Ricci’s favourite Bibliotheque — a fragrance otherwise best known as a scented candle. Deep, sensual and warm. Its diametrical opposite can be found in Creed’s Love in White, worn by Michelle Obama and Angelina Jolie, among others. A highly feminine creation marked by elegance and refined grace.
One of cinema’s most legendary gentlemen is James Bond — the man who overcomes any obstacle while always accompanied by a beautiful woman. Ian Fleming, Bond’s creator, shared his character’s appreciation for the finer things in life and was particularly fond of the English perfume house Floris. According to Fleming, Bond’s own fragrance would be No. 89, a soapy, aromatic neroli composition from the 1950s — and yet another of Cary Grant’s reputed favourites.