There’s a certain magic that surrounds New York City, a unique energy that captivates those who visit and those who call it home. The yellow taxis, the endless culinary scene, the palpable sense of ambition—it’s a whirlwind of activity that’s both inspiring and intoxicating. This very essence of New York is what fueled Oscar de la Renta’s latest creation: New York Eau de Parfum.
“My vision was to create a fragrance that captures the vibrant, ever-changing energy of New York City,” explains Yves Cassar, vice president and senior perfumer at IFF. “I was inspired by the city’s iconic skyline and towering skyscrapers that represent its timeless charm and innovative modernity, and I wanted to match that with the energy, elegance, and style of the Oscar de la Renta brand.”
The result is a fragrance as vibrant and multifaceted as the city itself. A burst of juicy strawberry greets you at the top, followed by a heart of Turkish rose petals—”this rose is especially clean, with a fresh, dewy petal effect that brings a lush, romantic essence to the fragrance,” Cassar describes. The scent settles with a warm and comforting creamy sandalwood base, leaving a lasting impression.
To celebrate the launch, Oscar de la Renta’s co-creative directors, Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, hosted a cocktail party atop the Ned’s Club, offering stunning views of the Empire State Building. The event was a who’s who of New York’s elite, including Kathy and Nicky Hilton, Camila Coelho, Tina Craig, Ezra J. Williams, Prabal Gurung, and Candice Swanepoel, who serves as the new face of the fragrance.
“Taking on the role as the face of the Oscar de la Renta New York fragrance launch is such a joy,” Swanepoel shared, expressing her admiration for both Kim and Garcia, as well as her deep love for the city. “[New York] gives so much vibrance, energy, newness, and inspiration constantly.”
When asked what she thought New York Eau de Parfum smelled like, Swanepoel gestured to the lively event unfolding around her – guests snapping photos, sipping wine and custom cocktails, dancing to a DJ set by Lucas Thomashow and Tinx as the sun dipped below the horizon. “It smells almost like this feels right now,” she said, perfectly capturing the essence of this exciting fragrance.
New York Eau de Parfum is more than just a fragrance; it’s a tribute to the city’s unparalleled energy, its timeless charm, and its constant drive for innovation. It’s a scent that captures the spirit of New York and allows you to carry a piece of its magic with you wherever you go.
