Around The World In A Bottle: Parfums De Marly's Fragrances Inspire Global Escape

Forbes

2 days ago

To say that I have something of an obsession with great fragrances is far from an understatement. There's nothing that makes me happier than generously spraying on a scent that makes me smell great, lifts my mood, and often transports me to another place. So many of the best perfumes out there evoke destinations worldwide, source their ingredients from countries everywhere, and are inspired by travel, whether it's a specific place or type of trip.
There's no brand that better embodies this philosophy than the Paris-based Parfums de Marly- I've fallen in love with the French fragrance house in the last year. Julien Sprecher established the brand in 2009 and took inspiration from his love of perfumery and 18th-century French art de vivre. The collection he has created features distinctive scents, each with its own compelling story, but all guaranteed to get you noticed
I had a chance to catch up with Yvan Jacqueline, President of Americas, who told me more about the ingredients the brand uses, where they come from, and the best Marly scent to take for every type of vacation.Tell me about the inspiration behind Marly? What is the brand based on?
Parfums de Marly is a story of passion for French heritage and Haute Parfumerie. The brand draws inspiration from the opulence of 18th-century France, particularly the Château de Marly, a private palace reserved for the King of France and his inner circle. Louis XIV, the famous Sun King, imagined and built the château as the most intimate of all the royal residences. An invitation to Marly, far from the strict etiquette of Versailles, was a most precious privilege. It offered the joy of belonging to a circle of aesthetes, the pleasure of festivities, and the ultimate luxury of breaking free from convention.
Our founder, Julien Sprecher, envisioned a revival of that golden era through a modern lens. Each fragrance honors that spirit—regal, refined, and resolutely contemporary. Parfums de Marly is an ode to uniqueness, a celebration of individuality, and an invitation to embrace the ultimate luxury: the freedom to be yourself!
What ingredients do you favor in the fragrances?
As a Maison, we seek ingredients that have both nobility and personality. Whether it is Damascena rose or lavender from Provence, it is always about contrast and duality. Parfums de Marly offers a wide olfactory palette, from woody and spicy to floral and ambery.
One of my favorite compositions is Althaïr. It embodies a balance of warmth and strength, blending Bourbon vanilla from Madagascar with refined spices and creamy woods. It is a fragrance with presence—elegant, unexpected, comforting.
Where do you source these ingredients from?
We work closely with some of the most prestigious fragrance houses and producers around the world. Our natural ingredients are sourced from regions renowned for their excellence: Madagascar for vanilla, as I mentioned earlier, Bulgaria for rose, India for jasmine, and Réunion Island for geranium, to name just a few.
But sourcing is only part of the story. What truly matters is how we compose with these ingredients. That's where the magic happens. And that's the amazing talent of our founder and Artistic Director, Julien Sprecher.
Can you describe a few of the scents and what destinations they're inspired by?
Each Parfums de Marly fragrance captures a unique mood and that's why they may evoke a personal destination, transporting you through scent, even though they haven't been created based on a specific destination in mind. I will give you my own personal connection as fragrance is so intimate.
Delina reminds me of the elegance of springtime in Versailles. With its lush notes of Damascena rose, lychee, and rhubarb, it evokes the blooming rose gardens of that iconic French estate. It is fresh, vibrant, yet endlessly captivating with its magnetic ambery base.
Valaya takes me to the soft warmth of the Mediterranean, such as Greece with its majestic columns. With a radiant blend of mandarin essence, white floral accord and white musk, it seems to capture the serene beauty of coastal escapes rich in heritage and history.
Layton transports me the spirit of the English countryside. Its refined character, balanced by a bright apple accord and lavender essence, reflects the sophistication and gentle energy of a stroll through rolling hills and historic estates, all grounded by an earthy patchouli base.
What's the perfect perfume to pack for a beach getaway? Why?
Without hesitation, I would say Delina. You can never go wrong with it! Its fresh facets and crisp rose notes make it perfect for a day at the beach, while its ambery base is ideal for those relaxing moments after the sun sets. It is one of the most versatile fragrances that I know, and consistently one of the greatest compliment-getters. I am especially excited to introduce Delina in a travel-size luxury spray, a perfect nomadic format to carry the iconic Delina signature wherever you go, including seaside escapes.
What about a hiking trip?
Castley, definitely! It captures the spirit of the adventurer, inspired by the explorers and trailblazers of the 18th century France. There is a sense of vitality and openness in the scent—fresh yet grounded, dynamic yet composed. Breezy citrusy and mineral notes contrast with the rich, spicy Timut Pepper, ambery Labdanum and Akigwalawood, unveiling an intense side. It is a vibrant fragrance that paves the way for a bold ascent.
A ski escape?
For the slopes, I would choose Althair. It is a warm, cocooning embrace amid the crisp mountain air. Its rich, velvety notes wrap you in comforting luxury, making every moment on the snow feel both adventurous and intimate. Perfect for those chilly days when you want to feel grounded yet effortlessly elegant.
A European escapade where I'm city hopping?
Depending on your taste and the mood you want to set, I would recommend either Percival or Valaya Exclusif. Percival is fresh, vibrant, and effortlessly versatile. With bright bergamot essence and aromatic notes, it is perfect for daytime explorations across Europe's dynamic cities, from the bustling streets of Milan to the historic charm of Prague. For evenings or when you want something a bit more enveloping, Valaya Exclusif is a great choice. Its warm composition of velvety almond and white flowers reminds me of the timeless atmosphere of Europe's grand palaces and candlelit dinners. Both fragrances are companions for discovery, adapting to the diverse rhythms of a European city-hopping escapade.
A getaway to Asia?
I would say Delina La Rosée. This beautiful fragrance offers a brightness and complexity that harmonizes beautifully with the vibrant energy of Asia and the humid climate found in some countries. It feels like a delicate floral caress on a warm day in cities like Singapore or Tokyo. It is fresh, elegant, and effortlessly radiant.
How often does your role have you on the road?
Very often! I spend a significant part of the year traveling across the Americas — from New York to Mexico City to São Paulo — meeting with our teams, partners, retailers, and clients. Travel is a constant in my life, but it also inspires me deeply. It is an essential way to stay connected with our community and to understand fragrance desires across diverse cultures. I particularly enjoy hosting masterclasses with customers, as they offer a beautiful opportunity to share my passion for Haute Parfumerie and engage authentically with fragrance lovers.
What are your favorite destinations to travel to?
I have a soft spot for Mexico City. It's vibrant, layered, and full of art and soul. But Dubai holds a special place in my heart as well, since I lived and worked there for many years, and my daughters were born there. And of course, I love Paris! There's nothing quite like walking through the Tuileries toward the Louvre, leaving a memorable scent behind you. I am very proud that Parfums de Marly became a patron of the Louvre Museum last year, supporting the preservation and celebration of 18th-century masterpieces.
What are your travel essentials?
Aside from my passport, I never travel without my best suit — it sets the tone for any occasion. I always travel light, with a carry-on only. I never check in luggage. My phone, of course, keeps me connected on the go. On board, I make it a point to sleep as much as possible. It helps me recharge and manage my energy, especially on long-haul flights. And of course, I always bring a curated selection of travel sprays to suit my mood and the place I am visiting. Fragrance is memory, and I like to create one for every journey.