If there's one flower that rules romance, it's the rose. A gorgeous flower, a literary symbol and a fragrance standard, there are many reasons why we love it. But we've come to associate a lot of rose fragrances with smelling 'like an old lady,' with powdery notes that overwhelm. And no shade to grandma, but perfumers have taken notice. In response, the scent world has gone back to its roots, stems and petals to find a new kind of rose fragrance.
Reinventing Rose
There are hundreds of types of roses. According to Jackson & Perkins plants, most roses are divided into three categories: old garden, wild and modern. That means there's a lot of roses to choose from. Perfumers can even create their exclusive rose scents thanks to tech advancements.
"In Le Gemme Sahare, with perfumer Yann Vasnier, we have used science to unlock the fragrant secrets of a gem of nature. We've created a Taif rose accord exclusive to BVLGARI," explains BVLGARI Parfums Creative Director, Amandine Pallez. "In this creative accord, Rose Damascena essence combines its natural rich glow with the deep leathery sensuality of an upcycled rose absolute. At the same time, unique molecules enhance the high-quality petal and spicy facets. This high-tech rose accord has been then associated with a multifaceted ambergris accord, in which strength meets subtlety. This complex and creative association is a creative way to redefine floral!"
Future Society, on the other hand, is using technology to take us back in time, rather than forward. The brand's scent, Haunted Rose, is a revival of an extinct rose from South Africa last recorded in 1960.
Rose Fragrance Meaning
One thing most rose fragrances have in common is the mood. Romance is at the heart of many modern rose scents, which are complemented by uplifting fresh notes or mysterious woodsy accords. From fairytale-inspired to deliciously indulgent, there's a rose for every kind of woman.
By incorporating the latest fragrance trends, this traditional scent gets new life. With current ingredients of vanilla, skin scents and warm, woodsy notes, rose gets an intimate upgrade.
Stop and smell the rose fragrance.
2025 Trend Alert: The Rose Fragrance Rebrand Has Begun
