Blanche Eau De Parfum, Byredo

Vetiver 46 Eau De Parfum, Le Labo

Philosykos Eau De Parfum, Diptyque

We’re speaking of the world of niche perfumes — each defined by its complex scent profile and bolder, disruptive branding afforded by its houses’ small-batch, independent origins. To be clear, this air of well-scented mystique was never negative, only adding to the esoteric allure of “if you know, you know” philosophies. Fast forward to today: we have collectively been thrust into an echo chamber of democratised voices, where it has become commonplace to preach the perfumed gospel, no matter how obscure, to the masses. So the question arises: are these gems — once hidden from the spotlight but now in public purview — still obscure enough to retain their desirably secretive and niche status?

Perhaps the answer lies in the continuity of their origin stories. While most labels have undergone acquisition by bigger market players, it is in the persistence of storytelling — as D.S. & DURGA, Byredo and COMME DES GARÇON PARFUMS would spin — that keeps the enigma alive.

Odeur 10, COMME des GARÇONS PARFUMS

Aqua Universalis Eau De Toilette, Maison Francis Kurkdjian

Black Magenta Eau De Parfum, D.S. & DURGA via Escentials

Photography Jaya Khidir
Styling Vanessa Grace Ng

Once you are done with this story, click here to catch up with our March 2025 issue.