Esxence 2022 - The Art of Niche Perfumery Returns to Milan

Esxence – The Art Perfumery Event has been the International Artistic Perfumery Event since 2009, it represents for professionals and enthusiasts the opportunity to meet the real protagonists of this fascinating world of fragrances, where history and tradition combine with innovation and research.

Esxence had to take a break for 2 years due to global COVID-19 pandemic, however it finally returned to Milan, the centre of world fashion and perfumery.

Beauty, uniqueness, awareness, and intimacy: “Through The Mirror” was the leitmotiv chosen for this year's edition of Esxence. The mirror allows you to see multiple faces of reality and through it we can explore new worlds, such as that of art and artistic perfumery. Therefore, perfume is the mirror of our personality, capable of telling our deepest being and our essence. However, at the same time, it can also reflect a more hidden and mysterious part of our soul, a side not yet revealed: what we are and what we would like to be.

We were excited to visit the exhibition for the first time and it didn't disappoint. We were overwhelmed by the number of presenters, industry professionals, bloggers and perfume enthusiasts. It showed that niche perfume industry is booming and is hungry to return to show itself off.

Many brands followed the global trend of sustainability, green and ethical products and fresher more natural fragrances. However we also saw a lot of heavier oud-based combinations featuring leather and smoky notes.

The creativity of some displays went through the roof. Some were decorated with real flowers and even blooming trees, while others used plastic bags and recycling dystopian looking materials to attract visitors. The competition was fierce this year with so many presenters fighting for the attention of retailers and media.

Gorgeous blossoming garden setup of Jardin de Parfums.

This creative display looks like a fragrance bar where you can sit down and order your a fragrant "cocktail".

The event was full of meetings with old friends like Pierre Guillaume, Dusita Paris, Nicolai Parfums, but also new introductions.

We were pleased to meet with Etienne de Swardt, the founder of Etat Libre d'Orange, Charbel Asmar, the Commercial Director or M.Micallef, Linda Pilkington, the founder of Ormonde Jayne and many others.

Below are some highlights from the event.