Master Perfumer

Olivier Polge

Olivier Polge carries a legacy within the fragrance world, stepping into the role of in-house perfumer for Chanel in 2013, succeeding his father, Jacques Polge. It's a rare and significant passing of the torch. Before taking the reins at Chanel, he honed his craft at IFF (International Flavors & Fragrances) for many years. This experience provided him a broad canvas, allowing him to craft fragrances for a diverse range of brands, from mainstream designers to niche perfume houses. His work demonstrates a clear understanding of both classic perfumery and contemporary tastes, navigating the delicate balance between innovation and tradition with remarkable skill. He approaches each project with a fresh perspective, mindful of the brand's identity yet unafraid to push boundaries.

Active since 200020 houses58 creations

See notable work

Output

Fragrances composed

Acclaim

4.1

Average rating

across the catalogue

Career

2000

First composition

The hits

Notable creations

The One for Men Eau de Parfum

The signature

How Olivier composes

While Olivier Polge's style is adaptable to the needs of diverse brands, certain tendencies emerge. He often favors clean, elegant compositions with a focus on natural ingredients. He is known for his skillful use of floral notes, particularly jasmine and rose, often giving them a modern, almost transparent quality. There's a refined sensibility; he rarely creates overly loud or bombastic scents. Many of his fragrances feature a subtle warmth and sensuality, making them both comforting and alluring. A recurring theme seems to be taking classic fragrance structures and injecting them with a contemporary freshness.

Philosophy

What drives Olivier

Polge's approach to fragrance creation is deeply rooted in storytelling. He strives to capture a specific mood or emotion, translating abstract concepts into olfactory experiences. He often speaks of the importance of understanding the raw materials, respecting their individual characteristics while blending them to create something entirely new. His work shows a commitment to quality and a belief that a truly great fragrance should be both beautiful and meaningful, leaving a lasting impression on the wearer.

The houses