Beyond its beautiful architecture, impeccable fashion and infectious romance, the City of Lights has also been the home to old perfume houses that have been around for hundreds of years. Apart from the usual big names we are so familiar with, such as Chanel and Dior, Paris also has a rich history in perfumery, which makes it appealing to industry experts and discerning fans. From storied fragrance houses like Guerlain to small, niche brands like Ex Nihilo and everything in between, here are the best perfume stores in Paris to visit when you find yourself in the French capital.
Frederic Malle
Born into a French family of perfume specialists, his grandfather founded Parfums Christian Dior before handing it over to Frederic’s mother. As the third generation of perfume experts in his family, Frederic Malle has trained at Roure Bertrand Dupont, a prestigious perfume laboratory, where he acquired in-depth knowledge of prized raw materials and olfactory balance.
He also made the acquaintance of the top perfumers in the industry, whom he works with to create exquisite olfactory formulas under his own luxury fragrance brand, Editions de Parfum Frederic Malle. You’ll feel like you’re walking into the Parisian apartment of someone glamorous from the moment you enter the boutique.
The layout makes it extremely inviting for fragrance sampling, so you can discover your favourite. We love Carnal Flower, which is concocted by Dominique Ropion. This intoxicating mix first reveals innocence with its fruity fresh top notes before voluptuous accents of tuberose and musk are revealed for a lustful magnetism that you just can’t get enough of.
