DARING WITH DOMINIQUE ROPION – BEHIND THE FRAGRANCE
Penhaligon's bravely sits down with master perfumer Dominique Ropion, the confident nose behind Eau the Audacity.
What was the inspiration behind Eau the Audacity?
Eau the Audacity was inspired by the desire to create a fragrance that boosts self-esteem and embodies boldness. The goal was to capture new sensations and pleasures. I imagined a scent that is both intense and soft, bold yet warm, like suede. It encourages the person who wears it to embrace new experiences and indulge an audacious confidence.
How would you like the wearer of Eau the Audacity to feel?
I want the wearer of Eau the Audacity to feel empowered, fearless, and confident. This fragrance is designed to evoke audacious energy and inspire a passion for living boldly. I want them to feel like they can conquer the world.
When do you feel most confident?
I love it when someone tells me they're wearing a perfume of my creation, without really knowing that I created it.
What is the bravest thing you’ve ever done?
The bravest thing I have ever done in my life is entering the perfume world. This decision required a great deal of courage, considering the technical aspects and complexities involved in this field. However, as I evolved and grew in this industry, I finally realised that creating perfumes that become part of one's daily routine is an act of bravery itself. Every day, I challenge myself to create something that will be someone's fragrant refuge.
What attracted you to the world of perfumery and fragrance?
I discovered my passion for perfumery when I started my internship at Roure, a prestigious fragrance house at the time, in which my grandfather, father, and mother had all worked. Starting from deliveries to weighing for Jacques Polge, I discovered the importance of precision. My curiosity and appreciation for fragrances led me to my path.
Can you give any advice or tips on how to apply a fragrance?
I’d only say to avoid rubbing your wrists together, but in general to enjoy the experience and let the fragrance reflect your personal expression.
You've made previous scents for Penhaligon's. How did this experience differ at all?
I’ve loved all the creations I’ve made for Penhaligon’s, but for Eau the Audacity what I enjoyed the most was the fact of being able to bring to life the concept of having a fragrance as a real potion. In this case, thinking about in the emotion and sensation evoked directly from the choice of ingredients.
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