Dominique de Urresti
Dominique de Urresti inherited her craft the old-fashioned way: at her father's side. As daughter of Paul Vacher, one of French perfumery's most respected noses, she spent a decade learning the intricacies of composition before assuming the role of Le Galion's official perfumer in 1975, following her father's sudden passing. At just 25, she carried the weight of the house's legacy on her shoulders. Her response was Mégara in 1978, a fragrance conceived as a direct homage to the man who taught her everything. When Le Galion eventually closed its doors, she remained connected to the house's spirit. In 2014, when new ownership revived the brand, they brought her back to consult on new creations, ensuring continuity between past and present. Her story is one of inheritance, duty, and quiet perseverance.
The hits
Notable creations
The signature
How Dominique composes
Schooled in the classical French tradition, her work prioritizes structure and balance over novelty. She favors well-integrated florals, allowing each note its space rather than competing for attention. Her compositions demonstrate the restraint and clarity of someone trained in an era when perfumery valued elegance over excess. Underlying warmth defines her style, whether from honeyed florals or resinous woods. She approaches each fragrance as a dialogue between ingredients, seeking harmony rather than impact.
Philosophy
What drives Dominique
"I grew up watching my father chase a single perfect accord," she has said of Paul Vacher. Her approach mirrors that devotion: methodical, respectful of tradition, yet unafraid to assert her own voice within a house's identity. For de Urresti, perfumery is not about reinventing the wheel but about understanding why certain combinations work, then finding new ways to apply those principles. She speaks of transmission as a sacred act, carrying forward knowledge from one generation to the next. Her work reflects this belief: fragrances that honor their house's heritage while remaining firmly grounded in the present.
The houses
Maisons Dominique composes for
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