.New Scent
A Fresh Chapter in CELINE Haute Parfumerie
*ZOUZOU with Esther-Rose McGregor
written Monica de Luna
In 2019, CELINE made an audacious leap into the olfactory world, spearheaded by none other than Hedi Slimane, whose vision for the brand's Haute Parfumerie Collection married the meticulous craft of a couturier with the legacy of French fragrance excellence.
The latest addition to this elegant olfactory lineage is 'Zouzou'—a name as playful as its scent is profound, adding a twelfth dimension to the already vibrant collection.
(c) CELINE
Photo by Hedi Slimane
(c) CELINE
Photo by Hedi Slimane
Zouzou stands out. Aligned with the daytime wear, it shares the spotlight with the likes of 'Parade' and 'Saint-Germain-des-Prés', yet carves its own niche. This perfume is a narrative of youth—mischievous and inherently Parisian.
Hedi Slimane's olfactory journal—a treasure trove of sensory blueprints—serves as the cornerstone for Zouzou. Here, Slimane delves into his extensive background in photography and fashion to distill the essence of youthful allure reminiscent of the 60s' most enchanting figures. From the rebellious grace of Françoise Sagan to the boyish charm of Jean Seberg in Jean-Luc Godard's cinematic adventures, Zouzou encapsulates an ideal of eternal adolescence.
As CELINE forges new paths in fashion and fragrance, Zouzou emerges as a symbol of youthful energy and exquisite craftsmanship, encouraging wearers to craft their own stories within its evocative notes.
(c) CELINE
Esther-Rose McGregor photographed by Hedi Slimane
Crafted around the core notes of benzoin and tonka bean, the fragrance exudes a balmy sweetness tempered by the sophisticated, earthy undertones of patchouli and labdanum. Vanilla and musk extend the powdery, soft trail of the perfume, ensuring that its presence, while muted, is unmistakably profound.
The design of Zouzou's bottle is crafted by Slimane, the rectangular vessel is a modern homage to the historical grandeur of French glassmaking. Its sharp-edged fluting and a faceted black lacquered cap echo the understated luxury of Art Deco, while the transparent glass showcases the perfume’s amber-gold hue, reflecting each note's complexity.
Moreover, the packaging of Zouzou is as meticulous as its contents. Encased in a 'grain de poudre' textured paper, embossed to mimic the stately 17th-century moldings, the box is inspired by the opulent woodwork of the Hôtel Colbert de Torcy, the prestigious site of CELINE’s Parisian ateliers.
Each detail of Zouzou’s presentation aligns with CELINE’s iconic ‘Triomphe’ emblem, inspired by the Arc de Triomphe’s linked "C"s seen by founder Céline Vipiana in 1971.
This emblem marks Zouzou as part of CELINE’s rich legacy.
Zouzou is a fusion of youthful exuberance and the refined elegance of French haute parfumerie. It offers a sensory journey that intertwines the fresh spirit of youth with sophisticated artistry, inviting wearers to explore a modern yet nostalgic experience.