This post is part of a series of interviews with our perfumers, where we sat down with them to discuss inspirations, perfumery, and potential future collaborations.
Ilias Ermenidis created Purple Suede for Goldfield & Banks.
What relationship do you have with Australia?
Like many people, I have always been fascinated by Australia and neighbouring New Zealand, but I didn’t really know anything about them until I met Dimitri and the creative team at Goldfield & Banks.
What is your favourite note in perfumery?
I have many, but my favourite molecule is Ambrox – the sexiest molecule alive.
In one sentence, how would you describe your style of perfumery?
Joyful and generous, and always in search of that je ne sais quoi that will give a signature and will make a fragrance addictive.
What first led you to become a perfumer?
I was born into the industry, but didn’t decide to follow the path of creation and become a perfumer until I first interned at Firmenich in the summer of 1981. It was then that I discovered the beauty of ingredients at the ISIPCA school of perfumery, and was inspired by the legendary perfumery professor Monique Schlienger.
What does a typical day look like for you?
After 25 years in New York City I moved back to Paris, but I work all time zones. Typically the Asian and Middle East occupy my early mornings, then I work all day on European projects with the Paris-based team before starting modifications and ideation for the US and Brazil in late afternoons before working until late at night sometimes.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
On a typical Paris weekend, I’ll make time for catching up on reading, exercise while checking British Premier League results, go to an art show or exhibit or concert, walk the beautiful city, or talk to my two sons who live in the US and then probably have dinner with friends.
If you were to create another perfume for Goldfield & Banks, what note would you base it on?
I’m not really sure, but I think I would be inspired by an ingredient or a destination in Australia, or perhaps just an image. But if I had to pick a single note, I would love to work on something with red tea or geranium.