I enjoyed the launch of the Soleil Vibrant Lalique eau de parfum at Hilton Malta, followed by drinks at Cleland & Souchet in Portomaso. I haven't been to the launch of a perfume for several years. I don't think there were any in fact. How many of us were thinking of perfume with Covid 19 threatening to kill us off?
I have been an admirer of Lalique glassware ever since I can remember although I never bought any pieces. However, I had no idea that they produced a perfume, the Soleil range, as well and have been doing so for some years. I know that they have been associated with the perfume industry for a long time. COTY perfume bottles were made by them and Nina Ricci's L'Air de Temps was famous not only for its perfume but for it's Lalique bottle too. I am sure those of you of my generation will remember it. Little did we know then, as we put our pocket money together to buy these perfumes that they would become collectible.
Your Diarist, Victoria Muscat, James Muscat and Dr Veronique Muscat
Well, the evening started off at the Gifen Suite, Hilton Malta. Adrijana Maric from Lalique; Marketing Director of Ta'Xbiex perfumery SA came from Switzerland to attend the launch.
James Muscat, Marketing Director of Ta' Xbiex Perfumery, gave a slick presentation to among others, representatives of perfumeries and pharmacies. A sizeable contingent from Gozo was also present. We also had the opportunity to sample a handful of Lalique perfumes including the latest, Soleil Vibrant.
A lovely display of Soleil Vibrant perfume and candles at Cleland & Souchet
This creation is filled with heady promise. It was created by two women: Master Perfumer Nathalie Lorson and Perfumer Alexandra Monet. Their challenge was to compose a fragrance that smells as delicious as sun-kissed skin, that makes you feel as happy as a summer's day and that's kind to the planet. At last we are all thinking of sustainability. As James pointed out: "Because for the House of Lalique, ethics are as important as aesthetics." So, the latest in the Soleil collection has an entirely original formula: one that particularly embraces the House's sustainability strategy. It is inspired by 'wild' animal prints and the theme is woody. It expresses a woman with a strong character. Soleil Vibrant is intricately woven with the aromas of fruit, flowers and woods with nothing sweet to cheapen it. It is a perfume with the sensibility of a niche fragrance and the gravitas of a big brand.
Richard Cleland and his daughters Bianca and Sophia
As we walked down to the lifestyle store, Cleland & Souchet, we all left a trail of perfume which is fiercely addictive. Cheap perfumes only last for a short time and they are gone. But not so with the more expensive variety. They last much longer. If you are into seduction this is one perfume which will probably work.
We were given a goody bag with a press booklet and phials of the Soleil collection including the latest so we could sample each perfume individually at our leisure.
Since it's summer and there is more of us on show, consider applying fragrance to the upper arms and collarbone as well as the usual places, to leave a softly accented trail in your wake. I've had people at the supermarket coming up to me and asking which perfume I was wearing.
Adrijana Maric from Lalique; Marketing Director of Ta’Xbiex perfumery James Muscat and Fabrizia Cleland
As we enjoyed drinks and canapés, at C & S, hosted by Richard and Fabrizia Cleland, everyone was catching up with the summer gossip.
We also popped into the store which had displays of Lalique glassware and jewellery as well as Lalique candles. Founded in 1888 Lalique is one of the crown jewels of France's glassmaking industry.
I have not been in there for years but everything is so beautifully displayed at C & S, it could so easily be in Paris which I must visit just once more before I die.
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