Vaquera’s Journey into Fragrance
In the whimsical world of fashion, Vaquera stands out as a true rebel. Founded by designers Patric DiCaprio and Bryn Taubensee, this brand has always pushed the boundaries of what fashion can be, and now they’re expanding their creative reach into the realm of fragrance. Their new perfume, titled Classique Perdu, symbolizes more than just a delightful scent; it captures the essence of nostalgia and the memories tied to certain aromas. This collaboration with Comme des Garçons Parfums marks a significant step for Vaquera, as they delve into an art form that intertwines emotion with olfactory experiences.
DiCaprio and Taubensee have gained invaluable experience in the design world, particularly through their work at Dover Street Market, an iconic retail space launched by the visionary Rei Kawakubo, the founder of Comme des Garçons. DiCaprio cites Kawakubo’s uncompromising creativity as a significant influence; having consistently admired the seamless blend of artistry and business acumen that she represents. When the opportunity arose to create a fragrance under the Comme des Garçons brand, their excitement was palpable, transforming a long-held dream into reality. For both designers, this fragrance is a natural evolution into a new product category that allows fans to connect with Vaquera in more diverse ways.
The name Classique Perdu translates to "Lost Classic," a title that evokes a deep sense of familiarity and nostalgia. The concept behind the fragrance draws on the idea of encountering a scent that feels both familiar and elusive—akin to discovering a long-forgotten treasure hidden in a clearance section of a store. DiCaprio emphasizes that nostalgia is central to the creation of this perfume, influencing both its scent profile and its packaging. Reflecting on this, Joffe muses on the nature of memory—how it binds us to the past while also offering glimpses of an undefined future.
The creation process of Classique Perdu involved intensive collaboration among the design duo, Comme des Garçons creative director Christian Astuguevieille, and perfumer Suzy Le Helley from Symrise. Together, they crafted a complex scent inspired by various olfactory memories. From the nostalgic notes of metallic water fountains in summertime to the freshness of hair dried after a shower, the fragrance encapsulates experiences that resonate with many. Taubensee explains this inspiration—the idea of “phantom odors” that evoke moments frozen in time, leaving a lasting impression even when we cannot pinpoint their origins.
The scent itself features a unique blend of floral and green notes, with intriguingly inventive elements, including lavandin, tomato leaf, and even a “permanent marker accord.” Classique Perdu’s layered aroma tells a story of its own, weaving smells that provoke invocation to childhood experiences and cherished memories. It’s fascinating how the perfume transcends mere fragrance; it aspires to spark reflections and evoke sentiments that resonate with the wearer’s personal history.
The whimsical packaging of Classique Perdu is equally remarkable. With travel-size bottles adorned with clearance stickers and nestled in a box filled with packaging peanuts, the presentation echoes the designers’ love for thrift culture and secondhand treasures. DiCaprio shares his passion for rediscovering lost items and reinvigorating them, presenting them in a new light. This uniqueness aligns perfectly with Vaquera’s ethos, making the fragrance not just a product but an extension of their brand’s identity. Retailing at 75 euros for a 30-ml. bottle, Classique Perdu is set to launch in exclusive locations, allowing followers of the brand to embrace their creativity in an entirely new way.