Exclusive Face to Face with Jacques Cavallier
The Calvin Klein Man Fragrance creator talks exclusively to Bahrain Confidential about influences,
favourites and inspirations.
How and when did your love of perfumes start?
I grew up in Grasse, in the French Riviera, among rose and jasmine fields... was 5 years old when my father invited me to smell the fabulous Rose of May. That moment is imprinted in my memory for ever. Obviously, I think I chose to become a perfumer at that time.
Who has been the greatest influence on you?
My family has been in Grasse since the 15th century. My father and my grandfather were also perfumers. My father was very happy with his job. They both had a very deep influence on me.
In your view, what are the most essential ingredients for perfumes?
Natural raw materials are essential for me, but among them, rose, agar wood, jasmine and orange flower have a particular place in my olt active palette.
What makes your perfumes unique?
A soft sensuality mixed with a sophisticated touch that I try to suggest in all my perfumes. I also have a particular way to compose with natural raw materials as a kind of signature.
What are your favourite fragrances and why?
Eau Sauvage de Christian Dior, Opium de Yves Saint Laurent are two of my favourite fragrances. The first, because it contains Hedione, a wonderful molecule that gives perfumes a very nice and long lasting freshness. The second always reminds me of the end of the 70’s which is a period of great creativity, especially in perfumery.
When do you decide on the genre of a perfume?
We have to decide that at the very beginning of the creation process of course!
Out of all the types of fragrances available, which are the most popular amongst women?
Chanel No 5, J’adore de Dior and Angel de Thierry Mugler are three of the most popular women fragrances in the world.
What has been your most successful perfume?
Acqua di Gio (for men) de Giorgio Armani and L’Eau d’Issey (for women) d’Issey Miyake.
When it comes to packaging, do you have any input?
It’s not really my job... Overall, I’m in charge of what is in the bottle!
How can the bottle successfully depict the perfume?
In being very close to the spirit and the concept of the perfume.
Strength:
Strong-willed
Weaknesses:
No weaknesses!
Ambitions:
To be President of the French Republic
Regrets:
Already not being President of the French Republic
Heroes:
Leonardo de Vinci.
Villains:
Not a person but the pollution in the air
Fondest memory:
In my childhood, my mother’s eyes when I woke up in the morning
Greatest lesson learnt:
Working, working, working, and still working!
What makes you happy?
To spend time with my family...
What makes you angry?
Cowardice!
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