Jean-Charles Brosseau

At the Viaduc des Arts in Paris, under the arches of the former railway viaduct now home to artisans and designers, don’t miss the atelier of Jean-Charles Brosseau. Today his name is above all associated with perfumery, though he first made his mark as a hat designer.

In 1970 he opened a fashion boutique on Place des Victoires, and his presence helped turn the square into a new hub for Parisian couturiers. The real turning point came in 1981, when Brosseau created the fragrance Ombre Rose. Its success surpassed all expectations: the perfume conquered France, the United States, the Middle East and the Far East. Today Ombre Rose is considered a classic of haute perfumery — standing alongside legendary creations such as Chanel N°5, Dior’s Diorissimo or Yves Saint Laurent’s Opium.

Over time, the Brosseau collection expanded: the women’s line Fleurs d’Ombre with new floral compositions; the men’s Collection Homme; and fresh variations on the legendary series — Ombre Bleue, Ombre Rubis, Ombre Musquée and more.

Today Jean-Charles Brosseau fragrances are available in over 30 countries, and yet the best place to discover them is still the Viaduc des Arts. Here, among the workshops of designers and artists, it is easiest to sense that unmistakable Parisian flair — the elegant talent for surprising with things simple, yet flawless.