What are Niche Fragrances?

Hello, Villa Mode readers! I'm delighted to see you here.

The question "What are niche fragrances?" comes up quite frequently, so let's dive into it.

Finding a definition for niche fragrances isn't difficult with the help of Google, but over the years, I've formulated my own definition (which is perfectly fine because niche fragrances inherently strive for creativity and individuality).

Imagine a room filled with various people, sitting in rows and watching what's happening on stage. Niche fragrances will never attempt to occupy the front row or strive to get on stage at any cost to be seen by all. Niche fragrances deliberately settle in the back, but they will say something so unique that everyone will turn around to catch a glimpse of the speaker. Multiple times.

Characteristics and facts about niche fragrances:

• The significant starting point for niche fragrances can be traced back to the 1980s. However, this beginning was not grand and dazzling, it was the result of small, exceptionally creative companies that piqued the interest of a select group of people.
• The overall trend is that niche fragrances are created and chosen by individuals who truly perceive scents as an integral part of their individuality and see artistry in them.
• Niche fragrances often "adapt" to the wearer. They smell one way on one person and different on another. This, of course, is also determined by an individual's ability to sense and identify the fragrance.
• The purpose of niche fragrances is not to please the widest audience possible, so you won't encounter the words of these fragrances in popular magazines or hear them in radio advertisements.
• At the same time, the niche fragrance segment is not uniform. It includes both bestsellers that many have heard of and experimental, unusual scents that are not available in mainstream retail stores.
• In the classic sense, niche fragrances are produced by companies exclusively dedicated to perfumery. Fragrance production is not a part of their operation; it is their sole activity.
• Niche fragrances can be more expensive than others (but not always). The justification lies in the costly raw materials (because the product is not mass-produced, and the principle is "the cheaper, the better") and design.
• Niche fragrances often stand out with their design. Design is also a part of the fragrance story.

Although the introduction to the world of niche fragrances is still ongoing in Latvia, opportunities to get to know them better are abundant. For all those who are trailblazers (image-makers), there is a chance to add a fragrance to their wardrobe that isn't found on every corner and is worth considering as a part of your identity.

Have you explored the world of niche fragrances? Share your thoughts in the comments!