From Frédéric Malle, the USB-rechargeable Fleur Mécanique II diffuser: "To create Fleur Mécanique II, Frédéric Malle concocted, like a mad scientist, a device that is both simple and wonderfully complex which adapts the scents to each person’s space and mood. The fan allows one to control the intensity, duration, and frequency of diffusion of one's favorite perfume. Using dimmers and timers, the perfume is diffused at the desired intensity. Effortless and instantaneous, the cartridge can be changed in the blink of an eye to adapt a home fragrance to one's mood. An immediate change of atmosphere." $730 at Saks; the cartridges (sold separately, available in Jurassic Flower, Café Society, Saints des Saints, Rosa Rugosa and 1er Mai) are $60.
The almost-daily lemming
A lemming for fans of Kilian Paris (who have a few extra pennies lying around)? The Murano Carafe: "Commemorating more than 15 years of luxury fragrance innovation, KILIAN PARIS is proud to present a one-of-a-kind masterpiece: the Murano Carafe. An exceptional creation blending quality handcraftsmanship, timeless tradition, and modern luxury". 100 were made, and the flacon can be filled with any Kilian fragrance. You can read about it on the Kilian site, but it's only sold in Kilian boutiques. Per Formes de Luxe, the price is €3,500 with refills starting at €600.
The daily lemming
From Guerlain, Le Flacon Tortue in a red edition by Baccarat, celebrating the 110th anniversary of Guerlain’s flagship boutique on Avenue des Champs-Élysées, and holding a Parfum version of the Champs-Élysées fragrance. "Facetted like its bottle, the legendary Champs-Elysées perfume extract invite us on a delicate stroll along the most beautiful avenue in the world to celebrate this anniversary. In its most precious version, the fragrance as radiant as crystal opens with fruity, colourful notes of blackcurrant berries blending with the essence of rose softened by the mimosa blossom at its heart. The tenderness of almond wood notes majestically envelop the fragrance." 32 bottles were made, and the 1 liter bottle is reportedly €25,000.
A minimum spend of £40,000
A new opportunity in ultra-luxe beauty is unfolding. In 2024, premium brands will be exploring how to woo the wealthiest consumers through product innovations and retail experiences.
It is a trend that has already permeated hospitality and fashion. This year, Chanel unveiled two invitation-only boutiques for its top-tier clients in China, while Gucci’s new Salon concept, open in London, Los Angeles and Tokyo, has a minimum spend of £40,000.
— Read more in When luxury is not enough: Enter the new tier of ultra-luxe beauty at Cosmetics Business.
The daily lemming
I'll take one of each. 40th anniversary editions of perfumer Guy Robert's Amouage Gold Man and Amouage Gold Woman, both updated by perfumer Alexandra Carlin and presented in "the highest quality crystal, made in the original moulds and hand-blown reality in the workshops of the High Cristallerie haven of Waltersperger in the heart of Normandy, France". To be released in December, 500 bottles were made of each, $1,950 a pop.