Brand Portrait: Creed Fragrances
The House of Creed was founded in 1760 when James Henry Creed opened his first shop in London. It rapidly became a favourite of the aristocracy and soon Queen Victoria appointed Creed as an official supplier to the Royal household.
Eventually Creed was adopted by all the courts of Europe: Napoléon III and Empress Eugénie of France, Franz-Joseph and Elizabeth of Austro-Hungary and Queen Christina of Spain. In 1854, under the patronage of Empress Eugénie, the House of Creed moved to Paris where it established a firm reputation for the rare beauty, quality and exclusivity of its fragrances.
Today Olivier Creed, direct descendant of James Henry Creed, continues this great tradition as Createur Parfumeur and President of the House of Creed. In France, or travelling abroad, he personally selects the purest rose essences from Bulgaria, Turkey or Morocco as well as Italian jasmine, irises from Florence, Tuberose from India or genuine Parma violets. Creed also manufacture their own essences using the traditional infusion technique, now abandoned as too costly by the modern perfume industry.
Wherever possible, Olivier Creed insists on using natural essences instead of the synthetic ones used increasingly by large perfume companies these days. This enables Olivier Creed, a perfectionist, to preserve the originality and superior quality of his fragrances. The components are then weighed, mixed, macerated and filtered, all by hand, before being shipped to only the finest department stores and specialist retailers worldwide. Creed fragrances offer all those who appreciate excellence the opportunity to rediscover the art of fine fragrance.
The Beginning of Creed
As mentioned, the origin of these immaculate scents begins in 1760. Founder James Henry Creed also operated a tailor shop and crafted clothing and accessories. This is how King George III came to commission him to create a scent that mimicked the smell of Creed's scented leather gloves. From there, the rest is history.
King George's granddaughter, Queen Victoria, even gave the House of Creed a royal warrant, making them an official supplier for the Royal Household.
As you may know, though Creed began as an English brand, it soon became a French staple. Empress Eugenie, the wife of Napolean III, was an icon in all things couture, and she soon became enthralled in the brand's scent portfolio.
They soon moved their headquarters to France, where they continued to create world-renowned fragrances.
Creed through the Years
Creed's business relocated from Great Britain to France in 1854, under the influence of Henry Creed II. He was a valuable addition to the Creed line as his scents were commissioned for some of the most powerful and influential people in Europe.
After relocating to France, they continued their artisanal manufacturing. Goods included finely-crafted garments as well as elusive fragrance commissions. Their company is still based out of Paris with boutiques across the world, in cities such as New York, London, Sydney, and Milan, to name a few.
Their factory is also still located in Fontainebleau. This town is home to the expansive Chateau de Fontainebleau, a former royal residency.
In 1970, 6th generation Master Perfumer Oliver Creed was introduced. It is to him we owe the thanks for Creed scents being made available for public sale. Oliver remains the Master Parfumer at Creed to this day.
His son, Erwin, has followed in his footsteps as 5 generations of sons had before him. He continues on the tradition as he observes his father's artistry and regard for perfection above all else.
The Creed name not only holds prestige in artisan and luxury boutique circles but in society itself. They have tended to the needs of the elite since the days of James Henry Creed.
Craft like no other
Creed fragrances for both men and women are crafted using a traditional practice—natural infusion. Though the practice is widely obsolete nowadays, the company prides itself on creating the most refined scents by it. Their fragrances use freshly sourced ingredients, including Indian tuberose and Florentine iris.
The scent infusion process is complex and used to extract the ingredient of choice's natural and fresh scent. For a business, the process can be costly and time-consuming. Though, this only adds intrigue and opulence to the brand.
The price is reflective of this delicate process.
The modern site of Creed
Creed is anything but modern. Its rich history is rooted in tradition and the grandeur of its royally-associated history. Yet, with the arrival of Oliver Creed, the brand took a turn. Oliver turned the brand into a force through his dedication to finding only the most inspiring combinations.
He can be credited with some of the brand's most iconic Creed perfume, including Green Irish Tweed and Millesime Imperial.
Through his direction of the brand, Creed has created scents for prominent figures. Many have since become coveted by all celebrities.
Iconic Wearers of the Brand
The beautifully light and floral scents of Spring Flower were concocted in 1980 for the iconic actress Audrey Hepburn. After she died in 1993, the fragrance was not released to the public until 1996 out of respect for the starlet's signature scent. Some current celebrities who favor the scent include Julia Roberts and Lana del Ray.
Another beautifully sophisticated scent created by Oliver Creed is none other than Love in White. This fragrance was inspired by love and new beginnings. Creed wanted to make this scent after a visit to Fontainebleau, where he tried to capture the feeling of freedom and feminity. Some of this scent's lovers include celebrities like Laura Bush, Michelle Obama, Angelina Jolie, and Jennifer Lopez.
Green Irish Tweed is renowned as one of the most popular scents of the brand. It was created for Cary Grant, though it was also enjoyed by Stevie Wonder, Tom Hanks, Clint Eastwood, and George Clooney.
Other scents like Mountain Silver Water, Royal Water, and Erolfa have also captured celebrities' interest. The Creed name resides on the tips of the tongues of anyone looking for an iconic signature fragrance.
Creed Parfum: a Luxury Staple
Whether you prefer rich woodsy scents or a light floral, there is a Creed fragrance crafted for every scent profile. They are continually creating new and intriguing fragrances that catch the attention of scent consoles across the globe.
Creed not only epitomizes luxury but has established its brand within the highest ranks of refined society.
If you or a loved one is looking for a truly original scent, take a look at our options from Creed. You can find favorites like Aventus Creed Eau de parfum spray or a special gift for anyone this Valentines' season!
