As one of the world’s oldest perfumers Acqua Di Parma has many iconic fragrances.
One such scent is the legendary Colonia perfume which first launch in 1916. Now, in a first for the brand, this iconic fragrance has been reinterpreted with a modern, and intensified version. Envisioned by perfumer Alexis Dadier, who brings decades of experience in the luxury fragrance industry, Colonia Il Profumo combines the best of the original scent with a new, modern twist. As the fragrance launches in the Middle East we find out more about how it has evolved from its original version yet still retains all the ingredients of an icon.
Tell us about the new Colonia Il Profumo EDP – what makes this fragrance special?
Colonia Il Profumo is a vibrant and contemporary reinterpretation of Acqua di Parma’s timeless classic. What makes this fragrance special is how it celebrates the elegance of the original Colonia while enhancing its brightness and depth. The addition of fractionated ylang-ylang brings a new level of radiance, supporting the citrus notes and making them linger longer. Combined with contemporary woods and an intensified concentration, it’s a modern Eau de Parfum that stays true to its heritage while feeling bold and fresh.
What challenges were there when taking such an iconic fragrance and giving it this new upgrade?
The biggest challenge was preserving the original Colonia’s unmistakable signature while giving it a modern twist. Colonia has a devoted following, and it was important to respect their expectations while appealing to a younger audience. Removing elements that felt outdated, like the animatic tones, required a delicate touch. Balancing the freshness of citrus with the richness of modern woods and florals was also key to ensuring that the fragrance remained coherent and true to its legacy.
Can you share more on the specific ingredients and notes included?
At its core, Colonia Il Profumo is all about citrus, but with a richer, more enduring quality. The top notes feature Italian bergamot, blood orange, and grapefruit, creating a sparkling, juicy opening. The heart brings aromatic rosemary and fractionated ylang-ylang, which enhances the citrus’s brightness and longevity. Finally, the base is grounded by fractionated patchouli and vetiver heart, both of which add depth and freshness, while maintaining the timeless elegance of the fragrance.
What’s the feeling you wanted to evoke with this fragrance?
The goal was to evoke a sense of radiant elegance and modern sophistication. I envisioned a transformation from black-and-white photography to vivid, full color—taking something timeless and breathing new life into it. It’s about capturing the essence of La Dolce Vita—the vibrant energy, effortless charm, and sophistication of Italian life—but reimagined for the modern world.
How do you think this fragrance connects the past and the present and highlights ADP’s long legacy?
Colonia Il Profumo bridges the past and present by respecting the DNA of the original Colonia, with its classic citrus and aromatic profile, while embracing contemporary trends in perfumery. The use of modern ingredients like fractionated ylang-ylang and refined woods reflects today’s advancements in fragrance creation, showcasing Acqua di Parma’s ability to evolve without losing its essence. It’s a celebration of over a century of Italian artistry and craftsmanship, reimagined for a new era.
How do you think a brand with a long history can balance the line between heritage and modernity?
The key is to honour the elements that define the brand’s identity while being open to innovation. For Acqua di Parma, this means staying true to its Italian roots, timeless elegance, and artisanal approach while using modern techniques and materials to adapt to contemporary tastes. Heritage provides the foundation, but modernity is what ensures relevance in an ever-changing world. Colonia Il Profumo is a perfect example of this balance—steeped in tradition, yet undeniably current.
What do you think women are looking for from fragrance today?
Today, women are looking for fragrances that reflect their individuality and authenticity. They favor unique compositions that tell a personal story, often linked to natural and sustainable ingredients. There is a growing trend toward personalization, with increasing demand for bespoke fragrances that match their olfactory identity. Additionally, eco-responsibility has become a crucial criterion, as consumers are paying closer attention to the sourcing of ingredients and the environmental impact of the products they use.
What are your thoughts on fragrance in The Middle East?
The Middle East has a rich olfactory tradition, where fragrance holds a central place in the culture. Consumers in this region particularly appreciate intense and opulent fragrances, often built around notes of oud, incense, spices, and precious flowers. It’s fascinating to see how Western perfumes increasingly integrate these oriental notes, creating a dialogue between cultures and enriching the global olfactory palette. This mutual influence opens up new creative possibilities for perfumers.
What do you think makes a fragrance iconic?
A fragrance becomes iconic when it captures the spirit of its time while remaining timeless. It must evoke universal emotions and leave a lasting imprint on the collective olfactory memory. Often, it is the boldness of its composition, the innovation in ingredient choices, or a break from established norms that gives a fragrance its iconic status.
How would you sum up the global fragrance industry today?
The global fragrance industry is thriving, marked by steady growth and diversification of offerings. There’s a democratization of perfume, with more accessible and varied options that cater to an increasingly informed and demanding clientele. Current trends include strong demand for natural, eco-responsible, and personalized products. Simultaneously, the rise of e-commerce and the influence of social media are transforming how fragrances are discovered and marketed, opening up new opportunities to reach broader audiences.
What are some of the interesting trends you are seeing?
One fascinating trend is the reinterpretation of classic fragrances to suit contemporary tastes. For example, Colonia Il Profumo modernizes the iconic Colonia launched in 1916 by adding a refined blend of ylang-ylang and patchouli fraction to its signature citrus notes. Such trends highlight a balance between heritage and modernity. Additionally, gourmand and savory notes, as well as fresh and milky accords, continue to gain popularity among consumers seeking uniqueness and sophistication.
Is there a fragrance you would still like to create or ingredients you would still like to work with but you haven’t had the chance yet?
As a perfumer, the quest for new raw materials and olfactory combinations is a constant. The possibilities remain endless. I would love to further explore rare ingredients, especially those from lesser-known regions. It’s also exciting to revisit classic ingredients like citrus or spices, giving them a contemporary twist, as well as using new technologies to express materials in a more sustainable way.
What’s the biggest challenge as a perfumer today?
The biggest challenge is undoubtedly meeting the diverse expectations of consumers while adhering to increasing constraints, whether regulatory, environmental, or technical. For example, balancing innovation and sustainability in formulations requires boundless creativity. Striking the right balance between tradition and modernity is also a major challenge, particularly for heritage brands.
What’s a message for our readers as to why they should try this fragrance?
Colonia Il Profumo is more than just a fragrance—it’s an invitation to rediscover the vitality and timeless elegance of Italy. Its sophisticated blend of sun-kissed citrus, vibrant ylang-ylang, and refined patchouli captures the essence of a tradition reimagined with modernity. Wearing this fragrance is like immersing yourself in a unique sensory journey that combines freshness, intensity, and Mediterranean warmth. It’s an olfactory experience that stays with you throughout the day, with elegance and depth.
