Diptyque has such a devoted fanbase. How does the brand keep up with consumers’ changing preferences for fragrances?
Diptyque’s relevance extends beyond adhering to heritage and traditions. We embrace the diversity of personalities and strive to create fragrances that cater to different preferences; whether one is luminous, free-spirited, eclectic, mysterious or whimsical. Our goal is to provide imaginative experiences that allow individuals to find delight and inspiration outside of their immediate time and space.

Having more than 50 scents in the house allows us to invite every individual to seek exceptional fragrances that transcend trends. We respond to consumers’ changing preferences by creating objects that are beautiful, unexpected, innovative—as well as long-lasting or refillable. For example, in September, we launched our first refillable candles, Les Mondes de Diptyque. In October, we launched our advent calendars, gift boxes and candle jars all designed to be decorative, long-lasting objects.

What would be your recommended Diptyque scent for someone who’s fairly new to the brand?
For someone who’s just discovered the brand, I would suggest Orphéon, the fragrance that tells the story of Diptyque’s first moments as a brand. Our three founders used to go to this jazz club to meet their friends, which was close to the first [Diptyque] store at 34 Boulevard Saint Germain [in Paris]. The jazz club was so close to the boutique that our founders chose to incorporate its aromas and ethos in Orphéon. The perfume smells of the warmth of tonka bean, the depth of cedar, the richness of jasmine and the vivacity of juniper berries.

Diptyque’s holiday collection is said to celebrate the magic of flame. What was the inspiration behind this collection?
This year we celebrate the 60th anniversary of our classic scented candles and what better way to celebrate it than with our holiday theme, “the magic of flame”? For this, we drew inspiration from the poetic definition of “flame” which can also denote enlightenment.

So, we have created a holiday collection featuring calligrams that beautifully depict the ethereal nature of the dancing flame. The collection delivers a plethora of choices, from special limited editions of the classic candles and dinner candles made of scented wax, to gold melted-wax candle holders and home fragrance diffuser crafted from Murano glass.

What’s your favourite Diptyque perfume?
My favourite perfume is Orpheon. It goes with the genderless theme that Diptyque has always advocated. It’s very unique because it contains elements of masculine scents like cigar and also some elements found in feminine scents such as violet. In addition to my neck and wrists, I also wear it on the central crook of my collarbone. When you do this, you can feel the scent slowly rising towards you. In addition to applying it to your skin, it is also recommended to apply it to your clothes. By wearing it indirectly, the scent lasts even longer, allowing you to be surrounded by your favourite aroma all day long.

Tell us about Diptyque’s new flagship store at ifc mall. How does it incorporate the brand’s values?
Our new flagship store at ifc mall is a testament to the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, culture and sustainability. The store’s design elements have been meticulously curated to create an immersive and inspiring environment. The interior design blends Parisian elegance with Hong Kong aesthetics, featuring openwork bamboo ceiling, mosaic furniture and a wall mural by French artist Elsa Jeandedieu.

This harmonious fusion of cultural elements reflects Diptyque’s respect for local traditions. By integrating design, art and a profound sense of purpose, this store offers more than a traditional retail experience.

What’s next for the brand?
Looking ahead, Diptyque has an exciting roadmap. We have always been a pioneer in scenting homes and self. During Covid, we saw an increased interest in taking care of the self and one’s living space, and this trend continues to be strong. So we’ll keep on bringing beauty to daily life. While specific details remain under wraps, you can expect the unveiling of imaginative partnerships that push the boundaries of creativity, initiatives that embrace sustainability and responsible practices, and the introduction of new collections that continue to redefine the art of living.

NOW READ

5 spa treatments in Hong Kong to help you reset, recharge and rejuvenate before the new year

The ‘high maintenance to be low maintenance’ beauty trend that’s shaving minutes off morning routines

Christmas 2023 gift guide: 10 fragrances for her