Anti-convention, pro-revolution. That is fragrance specialist Le Labo. A visit to the "lab" is an experience about the fine art of perfume-making. Each of Le Labo's 10 signature scents is made "on demand." By waiting until the last possible moment to mix essential oils with the alcohol, lab techs are able to preserve the fullness of the fragrance, especially its delicate top notes. There are women's, men's, and unisex scents, as well as a line of candles. The perfumes are named after their principal essence and the number of ingredients combined to make them. Certain scents are exclusive to specific cities: Tuberose 40 (NY), Aldehyde 44 (Dallas), Musc 25 (LA), Poivre 23 (London), Vanielle 44 (Paris), and Gaiac (Tokyo).
Even if you don't live near one of the boutiques, The Discovery Set is a great way to experience Le Labo for yourself. The sets of three purse-size sprays are $52 and can be ordered online.
Scholarly types can take it a step further and snag a collection of Le Labo's official training tools, neatly bundled in a package called The Olfactionary ($520). This box contains the 40 fundamental natural essences used in perfumes created by artisans the world over. This kit will help the fragrance enthusiast build her/his olfactory palette so that they too can distinguish what makes up a fine perfume--just the kind of lab work that an artiste can appreciate.
