Olivier Polge

Born in Grasse, France, Olivier Polge is the son of the legendary perfumer Jacques Polge, who served as Chanel’s in-house perfumer for 37 years. As he grew up immersed in the world of fragrances, Olivier initially aspired to become a classical music pianist. However, his passion for art and scents would ultimately lead him to the world of perfumery. Olivier studied art history and later trained at the prestigious fragrance institutions Charabot and ACM, paving the way for his illustrious career as a perfumer. Olivier Polge’s journey in perfumery began as an intern at Chanel before he joined International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) as a perfumer-in-training in 1998. At IFF, Olivier co-created iconic fragrances such as Dior Homme and Flowerbomb by Viktor & Rolf, earning him broad recognition and acclaim. In 2009, Olivier received the International Fragrance Prize/Prix International du Parfum for his artistic achievements in perfumery. In 2013, Chanel announced that Olivier would succeed his father as the house’s perfumer following Jacques’s retirement. Since then, Olivier has continued creating captivating fragrances for Chanel, including Misia, Boy, No. 5 L’eau de Chanel, and the 2022 men’s fragrance BLEU DE CHANEL. Olivier Polge is known for his minimalist approach to perfume creation, relying on only a few ingredients, a keen instinct, and disciplined craftsmanship. This abstract methodology allows him to create sophisticated fragrances that evoke the essence of a single raw material or a simple note. Olivier’s perfumes are often inspired by urban landscapes, reflecting his belief that fragrances are an extension of the city rather than merely a continuation of nature. Influenced by his father’s legacy, Olivier developed his own style, characterized by a balance between classic elegance and modern innovation. His creations are a testament to his ability to skillfully weave together elements that seem paradoxical, resulting in truly unique and unforgettable scents. Olivier Polge’s diverse portfolio includes fragrances for brands such as Lancôme, Viktor & Rolf, Dior, Giorgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, and Jimmy Choo. Some of his most famous compositions include Lancôme’s La Vie Est Belle, Viktor & Rolf’s Flowerbomb, Dior’s Pure Poison, Giorgio Armani’s Armani Code for Women, Dolce & Gabbana’s The One for Men Eau de Parfum, and Chanel’s Gabrielle. Olivier Polge’s journey in perfumery has been marked by his unique approach to fragrance creation, his impressive portfolio of achievements, and his unwavering dedication to the art of scent. As the son of a legendary perfumer and a consummate creator in his own right, Olivier’s story is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and the enduring charm of perfume.