Published 25 September 2024

Author
Suzy Nightingale
8 min read

The 22nd edition of Pitti Fragranze in Florence (September 13-15) showcased an unprecedented array of olfactory innovations and industry trends. Its theme, ‘The Sound of Fragrance’, reflected two divergent trends in contemporary perfumery: ‘loud’ intense juices for social occasions, and ‘quiet’ subtle skin-scents for personal enjoyment. We explore this concept alongside other commercial takeaways from the event.

Loud vs Quiet Perfumery

Black & White

Emerging Fragrant Frontiers

Gourmand Reinvented

A clear dichotomy emerged between 'loud' and 'quiet' perfumery at Pitti Fragranze. Most fragrances showcased intense, long-lasting extraits designed for extroverted occasions, projecting boldly and evoking parties and holidays. In contrast, a smaller but significant trend featured subtle, skin-close scents that created personal, cocooning experiences, catering to introverted moods and offering a soothingly scented retreat from the world.

A clear dichotomy emerged between 'loud' and 'quiet' perfumery at Pitti Fragranze. Most fragrances showcased intense, long-lasting extraits designed for extroverted occasions, projecting boldly and evoking parties and holidays. In contrast, a smaller but significant trend featured subtle, skin-close scents that created personal, cocooning experiences, catering to introverted moods and offering a soothingly scented retreat from the world.

Summary

Loud vs Quiet Perfumery

A clear dichotomy emerged between 'loud' and 'quiet' perfumery at Pitti Fragranze. Most fragrances showcased intense, long-lasting extraits designed for extroverted occasions, projecting boldly and evoking parties and holidays. In contrast, a smaller but significant trend featured subtle, skin-close scents that created personal, cocooning experiences, catering to introverted moods and offering a soothingly scented retreat from the world.

Black & White

A striking visual contrast was seen this year, with black and white dominating packaging, fragrance names, and even scent styles. This stark opposition was reflected in olfactory profiles, with 'black' scents often embodying deep, intense notes, while 'white' fragrances leaned towards lighter, ethereal compositions. The result was a powerful visual dichotomy that provides consumers with clear, instant cues about the character of each fragrance.

Emerging Fragrant Frontiers

Newcomer perfumeries from emerging, underrepresented markets in the fragrance industry – such as Eastern Europe, Barbados and Australia – offer fresh perspectives and storytelling opportunities, contrasting with the established traditions of longstanding perfume powerhouses like France and Italy. This influx of new voices reflects growing consumer interest in diverse cultural narratives and unique olfactory experiences.

Gourmand Reinvented

Gourmand (food-inspired) trends are moving beyond vanilla’s dominance. Coffee-based fragrance emerges as a key player, while honey adds a sophisticated sweetness, and vibrant fruit notes like pineapple and passionfruit gain huge prominence. Alcoholic drink inspirations are prevalent, with fragrance notes referencing cocktails and spirits. This shift reflects a more grown-up, yet still fun-filled approach to food-inspired scents, catering to the consumer desire for unique olfactory experiences.

The Sound of Fragrance: Pitti Fragranze 2024

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