Fifteen years ago, Frédéric Malle gave perfumer Dominique Ropion—“the master of flowers”—complete freedom to push the boundaries of rose and patchouli. The result was Portrait of a Lady, launched in 2010 and swiftly revered by fragrance enthusiasts and style icons alike. Now, in honor of its anniversary, the house unveils a limited-edition bottle dressed in vivid red lacquer—an attention-grabbing statement that echoes the fragrance’s bold spirit.
Each 100ml bottle contains the essence of 400 Turkish roses, woven with notes of blackcurrant, raspberry, and clove. Beneath that floral bloom lies a brooding base of patchouli, sandalwood, and frankincense. The effect is classic, yet thoroughly modern—an invisible presence that refuses to go unnoticed, worn by everyone from Madonna and Catherine Deneuve to David Beckham and Val Garland.
This celebratory edition marks a new milestone for Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle, which joined the Estée Lauder family in 2015. True to the brand’s ethos, Portrait of a Lady’s secret lies in fearless olfactory artistry—an untamed rose that resonates with today’s confident wearer. Priced at $295 for 50ml and $470 for 100ml, the fragrance is available at fredericmalle.com and in Frédéric Malle boutiques. Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and for anyone seeking a modern statement, this scarlet-lacquered collector’s piece might be just the thing.
