True Oud, the new Herrera Confidential fragrance...

The woody-floral formula of this Eau de Parfum is inspired by a sign of identity and belonging: the powerful accord of Oud as it is burned during Middle Eastern ceremonies or on special occasions with family and friends.

The fundamental role of aromas in Arab culture is something that Carolina A. Herrera is very familiar with. She discovered it on the many trips she made with her mother to the Gulf, where she visited markets and immersed herself in the unique world of oriental perfumes. In 2017 she created the Eastern Treasures family of perfumes (part of the Herrera Confidential collection and including Gold Incense, Platinum Leather, Bronze Tonka and Gold Myrrh Absolute), inspired by Arab perfumery. These four fragrances are now joined by True Oud. It is a perfume inspired by the Carolina Herrera beauty creative director’s latest experience in the heart of the Middle East: what she smelled, felt and learned as a guest as night fell and she joined family celebrations, and all with one special ingredient. Oud.

“A lot has been said about these rituals. Most people know that the furniture and furnishings are perfumed before guests arrive as a sign of respect, and that when you sit around the table there is always an oil burner. But being there and observing first-hand is when you understand that the importance of aroma goes beyond hospitality,” Carolina A Herrera explains. It’s really about their identity, it’s what defines them.” She was accompanied on her trip by perfumer Jordi Fernández, who has spent over 20 years learning about Middle Eastern traditions and has superb insider knowledge. He showed Herrera that many people come home from work in the afternoon and spend their time in living rooms and dining areas with family and friends. Any guests are invited to assess the quality of what they are going to burn.

On special occasions, they bring out some of the most sought-after ingredients in perfume. Oud is just such an ingredient. It comes from the Aquilaria tree, although not just any Aquilaria tree. Out of a hundred trees, only a few will produce the dark, aromatic resin that can take up True Oud, the new Herrera Confidential fragrance, explores and celebrates an aroma that is deeply rooted in arab tradition