NOTABLE NOSES
Europe that eliminated the supply of several
indispensable fragrance ingredients. Using
our training in substituting ingredients to
replicate the smell of these materials without
the materials themselves, we were able
to keep our customers’ trademark scents
unchanged and supplied until the factory in
Europe re-opened.
DANGELICO: What are the biggest factors
for success in perfumery?
FIELDS: You might guess that the most
important factor for success is having a good
sense of smell, but in my view it is listening!
Listening to the client, understanding
their objectives, and delivering excellent
submissions are all factors that lead to
success.
It is obvious that we want to win the
brief. But in meetings when clients pick
submissions from a fellow perfumer and not
yours, it is important to put away feelings
and listen. The client is giving feedback that
is essential hear in order to pursue the right
course. We are all better for it as members
of a team.
DANGELICO: Fragrance Creators is
committed to enhancing lives through the
power of fragrance and educating everyone
about the sound science and safety that are
foundational to fragrance and our industry.
Why is it important for perfumers to join in
this effort?
FIELDS: Today’s consumers are increasingly
concerned with product safety and are more
ingredient savvy than ever. Unfortunately,
consumers are also being bombarded
with misinformation. It is critical that we
continue to demonstrate the safety of our
industry to our clients, and communicate
clearly with consumers so they know the
real story. That is why Fragrance Creators’
role—including the development of The
Fragrance Conservatory consumer site to
come this year, of which Bell is a supporting
member—is so vital to us.
DANGELICO: What sources do you seek out
regularly for inspiration and/or a creative
outlet?
FIELDS: Inspiration comes from many
sources. I like visiting the Brooklyn
Museum Rose Garden in New York in the
summertime when they feature the many
different rose cultivars—each with its own
specific and unique scent. And I enjoy
visiting the Chicago Botanic Gardens during
the different seasons with its changing
gardens.
I am also inspired by the impressionist
painters’ collections at the Metropolitan
Museum of Art in New York, The Musee
d’Orsay in Paris, and the Chicago Institute
of Art. The paintings, like perfumes, are
mixtures of ingredients that artfully present
color, texture, illusion, and immerse you in
their total impression.
My husband and I have rebuilt several
historic homes that are well over 100 years
old. They are inspirational because of their
detailed woodwork and craftsmanship.
Similarly, I have a 1956 Cadillac
Convertible. With its stunning chrome and
tall and elegant fins, it’s truly a piece of art.
It’s equally exciting to see young children
point at the car and say, “Wow!” That
definitely doesn’t happen with today’s cars!
The gardens, the impressionists, and my
love for all things vintage provide unique
perspectives that fuel my olfactive creativity
and make me a better perfumer. FN
Marvel engages with Congressional staff at Fragrance Creators’ 2018 Capitol Hill
Perfumery Event in July 2018. Réflexion, the custom fragrance she created for
the event, embodies the feelings of empowerment, self care, and self love.
Issue 2, 2019 | FRAGRANCENOTES.ORG | 15