Cecile Zarokian: The Alchemist of Emotion

If you’ve ever fallen in love with a niche fragrance, chances are Cecile Zarokian was the genius behind it. As an independent master perfumer, Zarokian has crafted scents for Amouage, Nishane, Masque Milano, and countless other luxury brands. Unlike many of her male counterparts who have worked under the umbrella of major fragrance corporations, Zarokian operates independently, allowing her creative freedom to shine.

Her work is known for its emotional depth ”each fragrance tells a story, from the smoky sensuality of Nishane Ani (a striking take on vanilla) to the ethereal beauty of Masque Milano Tango (a spicy, amber-laden dream). Zarokian has shattered the glass ceiling in an industry where independent female perfumers are still rare, and her meticulous craftsmanship has made her one of the most sought-after noses in the world.

Sylvaine Delacourte: Reinventing the Classics

After two decades as the creative director of fragrance at Guerlain, overseeing legendary creations like Lâ Instant de Guerlain and Cuir Beluga, Sylvaine Delacourte decided it was time to step out from behind the curtain and launch her own perfume house. Her eponymous brand is a love letter to the classics, reinterpreted with a modern, delicate hand.

Delacourte’s fragrances are built around single-note explorations ”collections dedicated to musk, vanilla, and orange blossom” but each scent is nuanced, layered, and unexpected. By stripping back the excess and focusing on the essence of an ingredient, she has created a line that feels intimate yet sophisticated. In an industry that often prizes complexity for the sake of opulence, Delacourte’s approach is a reminder that simplicity, when done well, is the ultimate luxury.

Mona Kattan: The Independent Fragrance Journey

Founded in 2018 by beauty mogul Mona Kattan, KAYALI, meaning “my imagination” in Arabic, was born from Mona’s passion for fragrances and the art of scent layering, a tradition deeply rooted in her Middle Eastern heritage. This March, KAYALI embarks on a new journey as an independent brand. On February 17, 2025, Huda Beauty announced the sale of KAYALI to co-founder Mona Kattan and private equity firm General Atlantic. This strategic move allows KAYALI to flourish under Mona’s dedicated leadership, focusing on innovative and diverse fragrance offerings that empower women to express their individuality.

Mona Kattan expressed her excitement about this new chapter, stating, “This expansion is a true testament to the relationship we have built with our community.” KAYALI’s commitment to quality and creativity continues to captivate fragrance enthusiasts worldwide.

Jackie Aina: A Celebration of Self-Care and Luxury

FORVR Mood, established by Nigerian-American beauty influencer Jackie Aina in 2020, is a brand that celebrates self-care, luxury, and inclusivity, particularly within the Black community. Initially gaining acclaim for its indulgent candles, FORVR Mood expanded into fine fragrances, offering scents that resonate on a personal level. One standout is “I AM HER” Eau de Parfum, a rich gourmand blend featuring notes of red velvet, pear, and raspberry, embodying confidence and allure. Jackie’s dedication to creating products that make every woman feel seen and celebrated is evident in each meticulously crafted scent.

Delphine Jelk: Guerlain’s Maestro of Modern Femininity

As a perfumer at the esteemed French house Guerlain, Delphine Jelk has been instrumental in crafting scents that blend tradition with contemporary elegance. Joining Guerlain in 2008, Delphine’s creative vision has contributed to the brand’s enduring legacy of luxury and sophistication. Her approach to perfumery is deeply personal and intuitive, believing that a fragrance should be an extension of one’s identity. Delphine’s work continues to inspire, setting the standard for modern perfumery by blending artistry with emotion. Delphine has several standout fragrances like Feve Gourmand, Tobacco Honey and Vanille Planifolia

Patricia de Nicolaï: Upholding a Family Legacy with Independent Flair

Patricia de Nicolaï, a descendant of the renowned Guerlain family, has carved her own path in the fragrance world. Facing gender biases in the industry, she founded her own company, Parfums de Nicolaï, in 1989. Patricia’s creations are celebrated for their originality and quality, reflecting her commitment to innovation and her rich familial heritage. Her journey exemplifies resilience and dedication, inspiring many women in the industry.

Christine Nagel: Hermès’ Maestro of Olfactory Artistry

Christine Nagel, the in-house perfumer at Hermès since 2016, has been pivotal in shaping the brand’s olfactory identity. With a background in chemistry, Christine brings a unique perspective to perfumery, creating scents that are both innovative and timeless. Her notable creations, such as “Narciso Rodriguez for Her” and “Miss Dior Chérie”, have left an indelible mark on the fragrance world. Christine’s work is characterized by a deep understanding of raw materials and a passion for storytelling through scent.

NEST New York: Laura Slatkin’s Fragrant Endeavours

Founded by Laura Slatkin, NEST New York has become synonymous with luxurious home fragrances and personal care products. Laura’s dedication to quality and innovation is evident in creations like the “White Lotus” inspired candle, blending cucumber, white sage, and lavender for a calming effect. Her ability to capture moods and moments in her fragrances has made NEST a beloved brand among consumers seeking both elegance and comfort in their scent choices.

The Essence of Sisterhood in Fragrance

These visionary women exemplify the power of sisterhood in the fragrance industry. Through their unique perspectives and dedication, they have created olfactory experiences that celebrate femininity, diversity, and empowerment. As we celebrate Women’s Month, let us honour these trailblazers who continue to shape the world of fragrance with their passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to the art of perfumery.