As a fragrance enthusiast, there’s nothing quite like being immersed in the world of niche perfumery, surrounded by creators and connoisseurs who share the same passion. ScentXplore 2024 was an unforgettable experience, and I’m thrilled to share my journey of this remarkable event held at the Chelsea Industrial in New York City.
From the moment the doors opened, the energy of the venue was palpable. ScentXplore brought together the best of niche and indie perfumery, blending creativity, heritage, and innovation under one roof. Each booth and every conversation offered an opportunity to explore, discover and connect. Here’s a glimpse of what made my day so special.
Fragrance Discoveries That Took Me by Surprise
Brazil took me by surprise, showcasing five stunning niche perfume houses, including Viking Brand, which completely stole my heart with its vibrant and bold compositions. Each Brazilian brand brought unique stories and scents, but Viking stood out for its modern yet grounded approach to perfumery.
From Japan, J-Scent was the sole representative, but it certainly made an impression. With its minimalistic yet evocative fragrances, J-Scent perfectly captured the spirit of Japanese artistry and culture. Their offerings showcased a delicate balance between tradition and innovation.
Among the European brands, M. Micallef was a standout for me, and I was enchanted by their “Ô Féminin.” Its sophisticated and elegant profile felt like poetry in a bottle. Imperial Parfums’ “Blue Diamond” also caught my attention, delivering a sparkling, opulent fragrance experience that was truly unforgettable.
Meeting the Visionaries
One of the highlights of the day was meeting Yvan Jacqueline, President of the Americas for Parfums de Marly. Yvan’s insights into the artistry behind their fragrances were inspiring, and it was a pleasure to chat with someone so deeply connected to the world of niche perfumery.
I explored some of Parfums de Marly’s bestsellers, including Haltane, Althair, and Palatine. Another personal favorite was Kajal’s stunning creations—Lamar Noir, Dahab, and Masa have all earned their place on my fragrance wish list. These scents are a masterclass in depth, richness, and elegance.
Exploring New Indie and Niche Brands
One of my favorite aspects of ScentXplore is the chance to discover hidden gems in the niche fragrance world. This year, I stumbled upon NICHEEND, a luxury perfume brand inspired by the universe. Their scent, Nicheend MOON, was a showstopper—otherworldly, mysterious, and truly unforgettable.
I also fell in love with My Geisha’s Secrets of Geisha collection. This brand’s ability to weave elegance and mystique into every bottle left me completely captivated. Their creations are both alluring and timeless, making them a must-have for any collector.
Workshops, Conversations, and Inspiration
The event wasn’t just about exploring fragrances—it was also about learning and connecting. From the masterclasses to conversations with founders and fellow fragrance lovers, every moment was filled with inspiration.
Parfums de Marly’s masterclass, hosted by Yvan Jacqueline, was a true ode to femininity and elegance, offering a deeper appreciation for the art of crafting fragrances.
Roja Dove’s presence at the event added another layer of prestige. His legendary reputation and influence on the fragrance industry made his workshop one of the most anticipated moments of the day.
The panel discussions, like “A Fragrance Conversation,” featured industry leaders such as Renauld Salmon (Amouage), Michael Edwards (Fragrances of the World), and others who shared their expertise and visions for the future of perfumery.
A Celebration of Passion and Creativity
ScentXplore 2024 was a celebration of the artistry, diversity, and innovation that defines the niche fragrance world. From reconnecting with iconic houses like Parfums de Marly, Roja and Kajal to discovering new favorites like NICHEEND and My Geisha, it was a day filled with fragrant surprises and meaningful connections. The stunning diversity of Middle Eastern, Brazilian and Japanese fragrances added an exciting cultural richness to the event, while the elegance of European classics from M. Micallef and Imperial Parfums reaffirmed why these houses continue to be revered worldwide.
As I reflect on my experience, I’m reminded of why I fell in love with fragrances in the first place. They’re more than just scents—they’re stories, memories, and emotions bottled up to be shared.
I can’t wait to bring some of these discoveries to my fragrance collection and share more with you all. Until next year, ScentXplore!
