Several brands delved into sensory experiences, offering immersive encounters that transcended the sense of smell alone. From taste to sound and vision, these explorations intertwined olfaction with food or drink pairings and music, allowing visitors to engage with fragrance in a more holistic and captivating way.

The number of new fruity launches seen at Esxence confirms our prediction for fruity note and gourmand trend development in 2024 and beyond (see Fragrance Category Projections 24-26). Most notable is the vast array of tropical facets, interpretations of trending cherry, and a skin-like take on peachy profiles.

While most participating brands have previously engaged in some form of sustainability (particularly regarding packaging), this year’s event shone a spotlight on responsible sourcing. Fragrance houses are highlighting their commitment to more ethical and fair production, with some notable examples aiming to integrate this commitment throughout their entire strategy.

Perfumes designed to match different moods, increasingly popular in recent years, were exemplified by the likes of French newcomer Perroy at the event, which invites you to “spray your mood”. However, what truly stood out were unique interpretations of scent usage throughout the day, and a focus on targeting personality traits rather than emotions.

Several brands also explored folklore for fragrance inspiration, reflecting a growing interest in cultural narratives. From Asian tales to healing rituals, these themes showcase diverse cultural influences on fragrance formulation.

Another emerging trend is unexpected interpretations of cocoa and mimosa notes. Cocoa is elevated with clean and powdery pairings, while mimosa takes on comforting and creamy gourmand or boozy qualities.