Nina Ricci‘s Creative director Harris Reed has unveiled Vénus, a captivating new fragrance that promises to enchant women with a passion for beauty. This exquisite scent marks a significant milestone for the brand, establishing itself as the third pillar of the Nina Ricci perfume collection, following the iconic Nina in 2006 and the timeless L’Air du Temps in 1948.
Reed, the British-American designer at the helm of Nina Ricci, brings a unique perspective to the world of fragrance. With a mother who has been a perfumer for 25 years, Reed’s appreciation for fragrance runs deep. “Fragrance has been a [key] part of my design ethos, creativity,” he shared, emphasizing the power of scent to evoke memories and transport one to other worlds.
The creation of Vénus was a collaborative effort, bringing together the talents of DSM-Firmenich perfumers Alexandra Monet, Olivier Cresp and Nathalie Lorson. Reed was intimately involved in every step of the process, marveling at “the level of detail and meticulousness that went into this.”
The name Vénus is a tribute to Robert Ricci, Nina Ricci’s son, who launched the brand’s fragrance business and a person fascinated by mythology, as explained by Edwin Bodson, director of Nina Ricci Fashion and Beauty. “Vénus, being the goddess of love and beauty, was an evidence to us. We fought for a very long time to get that name,” Bodson revealed.
At the heart of Vénus is the concept of self-love, a theme that influenced the unique design of the bottle. Reed described the shell-shaped bottle as “an object of desire, something so sought after, jewel-esque and precious.” The golden shell, flanked by an asymmetrical black cap, creates a striking visual that embodies the essence of the fragrance.
French actress Rebecca Dayan serves as the muse for Vénus, embodying what Reed calls “a modern-day icon.” The campaign, shot by Charlotte Wales, reimagines Dayan as a contemporary Venus, transporting viewers into a world of beauty and allure.
Vénus will make its official debut following the Nina Ricci Spring/Summer 2025 show in Paris on September 27th, 2024. The fragrance will be available in France in 2024, with plans to expand to other European markets, Canada and Latin America the following year. Prices for this enchanting eau de parfum will range from €72 euros for a 30 ml bottle, €134 euros for an 80 ml bottle and €176 euros for a 200 ml refill.
