Balmain‘s latest release, Blanc Galaxie, redefines citrus aromas with a celestial twist, fusing heritage and modernity in a bottle designed to captivate. Launched on Saturday as part of the gender-neutral Les Éternels de Balmain collection, the fragrance uses five vibrant citrus notes – cédrat, Buddha’s hand, bergamot, vert de mandarin and lime – to create an olfactory experience reminiscent of a solar eclipse. Described by Creative director Olivier Rousteing as “a white canvas to fully express who you are,” it blends personal authenticity with Balmain’s storied heritage.
Created in collaboration with Givaudan perfumer Rodrigo Flores-Roux, Blanc Galaxie opens with a burst of spicy brightness anchored by creamy magnolia and spiced cardamom. The dry-down reveals musky patchouli, offering longevity without heaviness. Claire Fermont, Vice President of Marketing for Balmain Beauty, notes that the fragrance reflects “the invigorating transformation of celestial events,” combining freshness with depth. Testers praise its versatility, ideal for daytime energy or evening sophistication.
The striped white bottle pays homage to Balmain’s first fragrance, Élysées 64-83, launched in 1946. This nod to tradition is in keeping with Rousteing’s mission to honor the vision of founder Pierre Balmain while appealing to a modern audience. The minimalist yet striking design echoes the fragrance’s clarity, its luminous aesthetic reflecting the “eclipse of light” described in the notes.
Launched in 2024, Les Éternels marked Balmain’s return to perfumery after decades. Rousteing’s personal connection to the house’s history – his grandmother wore the iconic Ivoire – fuels his passion for reviving and reimagining its olfactory archives. Blanc Galaxie brings together eight unisex scents that bridge the past and the future. Priced at $260 USD for 50 ml, it is being launched in Balmain boutiques, online and at select retailers, with early adopters already hailing it as a standout in the citrus-aromatic category.
Balmain’s marketing ethos, dubbed “entertainment marketing” by CEO Massimo Piombini, focuses on storytelling and digital engagement. From collaborations with Victoria’s Secret to documentary projects, the brand turns awareness into loyalty. The launch of Blanc Galaxie is in line with this vision, harnessing the power of social media to connect with audiences seeking authenticity and innovation.
Blanc Galaxie offers a timeless yet contemporary option for those drawn to complexity disguised as simplicity. Its balance of sharp citrus and warm undertones makes it a signature fragrance for diverse wearers, embodying Rousteing’s belief that “hope and confidence” are best expressed through bold, unapologetic choices.
