Olivier Cresp, born in 1955 in Grasse, France, hails from a family deeply rooted in the perfume industry. His father and grandfather traded in raw materials for perfume, and his sister, Françoise Caron, is also a perfumer. Cresp has been a perfumer since 1975 and joined Firmenich in 1992, becoming a Master Perfumer in 2006.
One of his most iconic creations is Angel by Thierry Mugler, introduced in 1992. This fragrance is credited with establishing the gourmand category in perfumery, blending sweet notes like praline, chocolate, and patchouli.
Cresp's portfolio includes numerous other notable fragrances. He co-created Black Opium for Yves Saint Laurent, an oriental-gourmand perfume featuring notes of coffee, vanilla, and jasmine.
Another significant creation is Light Blue for Dolce & Gabbana, launched in 2001. This fragrance captures the essence of the Mediterranean with its fresh and fruity notes.
Cresp's work also includes Noa by Cacharel, Nina by Nina Ricci, and Ange ou Démon by Givenchy, among others. His creations are known for their balance, simplicity, and emotional resonance.
In recognition of his contributions to perfumery, Cresp received the Lifetime Achievement Perfumer Award from The Fragrance Foundation in 2018.