Trends

Italian fashion house debuts first perfume

By Emma Rose •

A woody aromatic debut for a fashion house

Italian fashion house Max Mara has introduced its inaugural fragrance, Le Parfum, in a collaboration with Shiseido. The launch, announced this week, marks the brand’s first foray into scent, featuring sandalwood, cedarwood, tuberose absolute and vanilla in a glass bottle.

Le Parfum centers on a woody accord, blending sandalwood and cedarwood with the floral richness of tuberose absolute. A hint of vanilla rounds the composition, creating a warm, sophisticated aura. The bottle is crafted entirely from glass, emphasizing sleek simplicity.

What does this mean for fragrance collaborations?

The launch follows a multi‑year fragrance licensing agreement between Max Mara and Shiseido, granting the fashion house exclusive rights to develop scents. By tapping Shiseido’s expertise, the brand accelerates its global perfume strategy, aiming to attract luxury consumers seeking distinctive olfactory experiences.

Le Parfum signals a new chapter for Max Mara, expanding its portfolio beyond apparel. It also validates Shiseido’s role as a key player in fashion‑driven fragrance creation, suggesting further collaborative launches across the industry.

What are the main scent notes in Le Parfum? The fragrance combines sandalwood and cedarwood with tuberose absolute and a touch of vanilla, creating a woody‑floral profile. These ingredients give the scent a warm, elegant character suitable for evening wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long has the partnership between Max Mara and Shiseido been in place? The companies signed a long‑term fragrance licensing deal that spans multiple years, letting Max Mara develop and market its own perfume line under Shiseido’s guidance. The agreement provides stability for future scent innovations.

Will Le Parfum be available worldwide? Yes, the perfume will be rolled out in major markets starting next quarter, with distribution through department stores and specialty fragrance retailers. Initial availability will focus on Europe and North America before expanding further.