In the heart of Grasse, where the air is thick with the scent of blooming flowers and the whispers of ancient perfumery traditions, Serge de Oliveira crafts fragrances that are more than mere scents—they are stories, emotions, and dreams captured in delicate glass vials.
Serge's journey into the world of perfumery began not with a conventional path but with a passion that defied norms. Without a formal chemistry background, he immersed himself in the study of cosmetics and pharmacy, eventually finding his way to the prestigious ISIPCA school. Here, he honed his skills, learning the delicate art of blending notes to create harmonious symphonies of scent.
His early career saw him working with giants like L'Oréal and Dior, where he delved into product development, understanding the intricacies of fragrance formulation. But it was at Robertet, a company renowned for its natural ingredients, that Serge truly found his calling. Surrounded by the finest raw materials, he began to experiment, letting nature guide his creations.
Serge's fragrances are a testament to his love for natural ingredients. He believes in the power of nature to evoke emotions, to transport us to distant memories, and to connect us to our innermost selves. His compositions often feature earthy notes like vetiver and patchouli, which he describes as "dark" yet profoundly grounding.
One of his most celebrated creations, "Meek Passion" for M.INT, is a dance of contrasts. It opens with the playful sweetness of banana and apple, leading into a heart of spicy clove and cinnamon, and settling into a base of warm vetiver and patchouli. It's a fragrance that tells a story of innocence meeting depth, of light intertwining with shadow.
Another masterpiece, "Ylang Cananga" for Chloé, is a tribute to the eponymous flower. Serge captures its essence in layers, allowing the ylang-ylang to shine in its full glory, creating a scent that's both floral and intoxicatingly rich.
With "Sweet Leaf" for Room 1015, Serge takes us on a nostalgic journey, reminiscent of carefree days and rebellious youth. The fragrance is green, fresh, and slightly sweet, evoking memories of sunlit fields and whispered secrets.
Serge's collaboration with 100BON showcases his commitment to natural perfumery. "Tonka & Amande Absolue" is a warm embrace of tonka bean and almond, creating a comforting scent that's both gourmand and sophisticated. It's a fragrance that feels like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening.
His work with Les Parfums de Rosine, particularly "Bleu Abysse," reveals his ability to blend tradition with modernity. The fragrance is a marine floral, capturing the essence of the sea with a touch of rose, creating a scent that's both refreshing and romantic.
In "Purple Mantra" for Room 1015, Serge delves into the spiritual, crafting a fragrance that's meditative and serene. With notes of lavender and incense, it invites introspection and calm, a perfect companion for moments of solitude.
Serge's approach to perfumery is deeply personal. He once shared that each of his creations reflects a part of his personality, allowing him to express himself freely. This authenticity resonates in his fragrances, making them not just scents but extensions of his soul.
His dedication to natural ingredients doesn't come without challenges. Natural components can be unpredictable, requiring patience and adaptability. But Serge embraces these challenges, believing that the depth and authenticity they bring are worth every effort.
Beyond his creations, Serge is passionate about educating others. He often speaks about the importance of understanding raw materials, of appreciating the nuances of each note, and of the art of blending. For him, perfumery is not just about creating pleasant scents but about storytelling, emotion, and connection.
In a world increasingly dominated by synthetic fragrances, Serge de Oliveira stands as a beacon for natural perfumery. His creations remind us of the beauty of nature, of the stories that scents can tell, and of the emotions they can evoke.
As you explore his collection, allow yourself to be transported. Let each fragrance guide you through memories, dreams, and emotions. In the world of Serge de Oliveira, every scent is a journey, every note a whisper of nature, and every bottle a treasure waiting to be discovered.
