- Isabelle Ferrand Perfumer:
Isabelle Ferrand is a distinguished figure in the world of perfumery, currently serving as the head of the renowned French perfume school, Cinquième Sens. With over four decades of experience in the fragrance industry, she has not only witnessed but also actively contributed to its evolution.
Ferrand's journey in perfumery began in 1984 when she joined Cinquième Sens, co-founded by the esteemed Monique Schlienger, a creative perfumer from Robertet. Over the years, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the academy's growth and reputation. In 2004, she took on the leadership mantle, guiding Cinquième Sens to new heights.
One of the hallmarks of Ferrand's approach is her unwavering commitment to the art and science of perfumery. She is deeply concerned about the current "olfactory cacophony" in our daily lives, where an excess of senseless scents prevails. This concern drives her to strive for "perfume beauty," emphasizing the creation of perfumes with precise compositions that blend coherence, high quality, and aesthetic appeal.
At Cinquième Sens, Ferrand has carefully curated a team of five expert perfumers. These professionals not only teach but also actively engage in developing fragrances for independent perfume brands. This unique setup ensures that students receive practical, industry-relevant knowledge. The classes, limited to a maximum of eight participants (usually with a close-knit group of four to six), foster an intense learning environment and a strong sense of community.
Ferrand's influence extends far beyond the classroom. She is a regular presence at prestigious events and awards, often serving as a jury member. For instance, she plays an important role in the Fragrance Foundation Awards France, both as a juror and an organiser. She also contributes to the precious work of l’osmothèque as a personal donor, further demonstrating her dedication to the preservation and promotion of perfume heritage.
In addition to her educational and industry contributions, Ferrand has been involved in numerous high-profile client projects. She has been part of creating the Céline perfume collection, releasing new BDK perfumes, and launching a new candle brand, Bagal. Her olfactory expertise is highly regarded, and she is constantly on the lookout for new fragrance formulations and ingredients, keeping her at the forefront of industry trends.
One of the notable perfumes attributed to Isabelle Ferrand is "Moroccan Iris" by Lorga Parfums. This fragrance is a testament to her creative prowess. The top notes feature cherries from Sefrou in Morocco, which offer a sweet and slightly acidic opening, reminiscent of cherry candy. The heart notes blend jasmine and violet, adding a floral and delicate touch. The base notes of iris butter, cinnamon, and atlas cedarwood bring a warm, powdery, and woody depth to the fragrance. When iris meets the cherry under the plenitude of the palm groves of the atlas, it creates a festival of colors in which amber and woody notes mingle, as described by Lorga Parfums.
In 2024, Ferrand celebrated significant milestones. It marked her 20th anniversary of running Cinquième Sens independently and her 40th anniversary of joining the business. This long and successful tenure is a clear indication of her passion, expertise, and leadership in the world of perfumery. Whether through her teaching, creative projects, or industry involvement, Isabelle Ferrand continues to make a profound impact on the art and science of perfumery, inspiring a new generation of perfumers and enthusiasts alike.
