Balenciaga Introduces 10 New Perfumes, Including an Archival Reissue

Since Demna's tenure at Balenciaga commenced, the brand has undergone a continuous rise, significantly boosting sales in categories ranging from designer sunglasses to leather goods, culminating in the recent debut of haute couture.

His vision has transformed the Balenciaga archetype, reshaping and redefining the forms and aesthetics that are now internationally recognized.

The appearance of the Balenciaga man is widely recognized. Opaque wraparound sunglasses, pronounced shoulder pads, loose-fitting trousers composed of a blend of materials, possibly fleece and untreated denim, and, undoubtedly, oversized sneakers. The image is unequivocal, nearly iconic. However, beyond the visual aspect, one question remains unresolved. What is their scent?

It is a question with multifaceted responses that requires years to articulate a response. Across the several epochs of the house, from Nicolas Ghesquière to Demna, and now to Pierpaolo Piccioli, the inquiry is continually redefined. Under Ghesquière, the archetypal featured notes of patchouli, woodiness, and spring; under Demna, despite a complete transformation of the house, no scent was produced. Over seventy-five years ago, Cristobal Balenciaga introduced ‘Le Dix’, or ‘The 10’ in French, referencing the house's initial Couture salon located at 10 Avenue George V. Until recently, the mansion of Balenciaga remained perfunctorily vacant, devoid of novel aromatic experiences.

However, that alteration occurs now. Balenciaga will launch a line of 10 new perfumes, each encapsulating several eras of the brand and translating them into unique scents and experiences that reflect the brand's rich heritage and legacy. The quest for Le Dix commenced within the house's archive. A 15-year odyssey of rigorous research culminated in an accurate replication of the original Le Dix flacon, now reimagined and recontextualized to contain the new fragrances. A glass spherical cap and a hand-tied ribbon secure the bottle, which is packed and labeled with Balenciaga’s distinctive characteristic patina detailing.

The ten perfumes are as follows: No Comment, Getaria, Twenty Four Seven, To Be Confirmed, Muscara, 100%, Extra, Cristobal, Incense Perfumum, and finally, Le Dix, now revealed as a mystery no longer. Each represents a paradox, where heritage intertwines with futurism and duplication is executed using contemporary technology.

Each emotion can be evoked by a corresponding fragrance. No Comment and Cristóbal provide a nuanced and discreet allure, characterized by notes of wood and patchouli, appealing to people who appreciate calm strength. Muscara and Extra, two scents, allure the sensual with their interplay of spicy blossoms and subtle hints of seduction on the skin. Maximalism manifests in 100% and To Be Confirmed, where Rosa Damascena and Silverneedle tea contribute a sophisticated, substantial presence. Enthusiasts of nature may gravitate towards Getaria and Twenty Four Seven, enhanced by briny citrus, a coastal zephyr, and warm woody vanilla. For individuals seeking a historical experience, Le Dix and Incense Perfumum offer cedarwood and violet leaf absolutes that ground the wearer in reverence, serving as a fragrant homage to Balenciaga’s couture heritage and the house’s growing narrative.

The Balenciaga typology has evolved into an experience, transcending mere visual representation to encompass the intangible essence of fragrance. The house persistently redefines itself, today demonstrating that style encompasses all five senses. Commencing today, the comprehensive range of perfumes will be exclusively available at a designated Balenciaga Fragrance Store located at 10 Avenue George V. They are available for purchase in a 100ml bottle, a 15ml travel size, and a 200ml refill container. The new perfumes will be released gradually across Asia in the forthcoming months.