Heritage
A house, in its own words
Catherine Laskine‑Balandina founded State of Mind in 2015 after years of studying both perfumery and the Japanese tea ceremony. She opened the first studio in Versailles, where she blended traditional French fragrance techniques with the meditative principles of tea preparation. The brand debuted its inaugural collection in 2017, releasing eight scents that explored mental states ranging from spontaneous generosity to aesthetic turbulence. By 2018 the house expanded its distribution network to more than 40 countries, a reach that grew to 52 nations by 2021 according to independent market reports. In 2020 State of Mind partnered with specialty tea houses to develop a line of scented teas that complement each fragrance, reinforcing the brand’s core concept of scent as an experience rather than a product. The 2023 launch of Fanfarone Italiano marked the first fragrance created in collaboration with an Italian perfumer, adding a Mediterranean nuance to the portfolio. A boutique opened in Budapest in 2024, providing a dedicated space for immersive scent‑and‑tea ceremonies. Throughout its growth, the house has remained privately owned, preserving creative autonomy and a focus on artisanal quality. State of Mind treats fragrance as a tool for emotional navigation. The founder believes that scent can shape perception, calm anxiety, or spark curiosity, a view that echoes the mindfulness practiced in tea ceremonies. The brand therefore designs each perfume around a specific mental intention and pairs it with a tea that amplifies the intended effect. Creative freedom guides the house; perfumers are invited to experiment with unconventional accords as long as the result supports the chosen state of mind. Sustainability also informs the philosophy: ingredients are sourced from growers who practice responsible agriculture, and packaging uses recyclable materials. The house avoids mass‑market trends, preferring instead a quiet confidence that lets the wearer set the narrative. This approach has attracted a community of collectors who value depth over novelty.