The doors have shut once again on Stazione Leopolda after an intense 3 day show. What were the key trends and takeaways? In this article one visitor shares her observations from amberwood fatigue to the resurgence of citrus, from the influx of Asian brands to the megastands of major distributors.

Givaudan has just marked 8 decades of training perfumers and welcomed the latest group of students. The school, originally begun under Jean Carles who created a method to learn ingredients, is now under the direction of master perfumer Calice Becker. Today, students learn the traditional system while incorporating science, technology and global perspectives.

Fragrance consumption in Latin America hits 65% of spend in the beauty sector – the largest in the world. With an affinity for long-lasting, intense scents, Middle Eastern fragrance houses have found a new market. Regional e-commerce platform Mercado Libre is a key player who returns to Beautyworld Dubai next month to continue building the cross-cultural exchange.

In an unexpected move British perfumer and eponymous brand founder, Roja Dove, has sold his maison to Extravanganza Beauty. The new owner, a key player in the Middle East’s luxury and prestige beauty sector, with experience in distribution, retail services and brand management, intends to expand market presence and boost product development amongst the five collections.

Image courtesy of Taurus Emerald

Have you noticed that many trends in fragrance today have their roots in the Middle East? Expectations for longevity, sillage and character have shifted dramatically in the past decade. While regional houses eye market expansion and Western brands look at a new palette of ingredients, the consumer is learning that scent is more than something to spray on the wrist.

A selection of Asian fragrance brands will be featured this Fall at the Musée International de la Parfumerie (MIP) in Grasse in an exhibit supported by Cosmoprof and Esxence. The occasion highlights the growing importance of Asian perfumery both in a commercial sense and as a cultural movement.

Pinterest data indicates that men are more into fragrance than ever before. No longer on the search for a signature scent, they are creating a fragrance wardrobe, making the connection between occasion, mood and fragrance. The shift in habits is linked to a concept called “Quiet Upkeep” where grooming is no longer random but a part of regular and consistent maintenance.

Away from the frenzy of Harrod’s and the High Street, make your way to London’s Ladbroke Grove to visit online retailer Sainte Cellier’s first physical store. Known for favoring daring creations, proprietor Brooke Belldon invites us to take our time, explore and discover. ‘No counters, no hovering, no rush. Just you and the perfume.’