The "Timeless" Spirit of Salvatore Ferragamo

—How do you perceive and think about the Salvatore Ferragamo brand?

As you know, it is a brand with a rich history, celebrating its 80th anniversary just two years ago in 2008. We have over 500 stores worldwide, with approximately 70 in Japan. Salvatore Ferragamo is a brand that operates on this scale while maintaining a commitment to "made in Italy." At the same time, it also retains its unique characteristic as a family-run business. We believe that the brand's image, shaped by this rare global structure, can be preserved by consistently offering high-quality products.

—You just mentioned the brand's image; what are your thoughts on it?

Born in Italy, the land of leather, Salvatore Ferragamo takes pride and care in crafting its products by hand. I believe this unwavering philosophy is what earns us such strong support. One of the core tenets of the Salvatore Ferragamo brand is "timeless." This word signifies "transcending time," and I feel that contemporary fashion brands are often perceived as fleeting, changing with each season. However, we aim to offer sophisticated products that can be cherished forever, diverging from that trend. This aspiration has remained constant since the birth of "Ferragamo Parfums" in 2002.

The Joy of Wearing Fragrance

—Perhaps because "Incanto Bloom" embodies this philosophy, I became curious about what fragrance means to you as CEO.

Scents have the power to evoke past memories and experiences. For example, "Tuscan Soul" (Note 1). Although this fragrance was launched in Japan in the autumn of 2008, I vividly recall its creation. It brought back the scent of the sea and citrus that I experienced as a young man walking along the beach in Italy, especially in the morning. The orange color of the bottle might play a role in unlocking that memory.

I use "Tuscan Soul" almost every day; it's one of my favorite fragrances. However, it's important to vary its application and usage. Naturally, it differs depending on the time of day, whether it's morning or evening. In the morning, when I head out to public places like the office via subway, I opt for lighter scents. Conversely, in the evening, when I'm with a woman, I choose stronger fragrances that express my masculinity and individuality.

However, for myself, fragrance is more often about shifting my mood than expressing individuality. Whether I'm feeling happy, lonely, stressed, or joyful... fragrance helps me balance those emotions.

—What is the position of fragrance within the Salvatore Ferragamo brand?

Our fragrance business operates as a division within a total fashion brand, built upon a foundation of family business. This applies to all divisions: nothing can proceed without the "go" sign from the Ferragamo family. What we value most is the strong link between fashion and fragrance. We strive to create beloved products of high quality that share the same worldview. For this, we commission perfumers who align with the specific image and story of each season. I believe the new "Incanto Bloom" effectively conveys this philosophy.

Note 1: Salvatore Ferragamo Tuscan Soul Eau de Toilette SprayCreated by perfumer Pierre Bourdon, this citrus note opens with bergamot and petitgrain, forming a clear prelude layered with the fresh, vibrant essence of magnolia and orange blossom. The sensual and powerful scent, reflecting a radiant feminine image, is named "Tuscan Soul." (Prices: ¥6,720 (40mL), ¥9,240 (75mL), ¥13,125 (125mL))

Ferragamo Parfums CEO Luciano Bertinelli: An Interview

The Vara Bow Dances in the Spring Breeze 03

An Embodiment of Femininity with Hidden Sensuality

—I understand that "Incanto Bloom" is aimed at young women. However, the fragrance felt like one that transcends age, perhaps making it impertinent to define it by generation.

We have previously offered fragrances for younger women. This new creation, developed over more than a year, was conceived with women in their 20s who possess their own distinct style in mind. However, I am delighted that it has become a fragrance that can be enjoyed by women of all ages, in various settings. I hope they will embrace it.

Salvatore Ferragamo
Incanto Bloom Eau de Toilette Spray
Prices: ¥6,090 (30mL), ¥9,030 (50mL), ¥12,180 (100mL)

Opening with grapefruit flower and freesia, this floral-fruity scent blends the rich floral essences of tea rose and champaca flower with a fresh, invigorating charm. The base of musk and cashmere wood imparts a sensual hue, revealing the Vara bow within its sophisticated femininity.

Luciano Bertinelli
CEO, Ferragamo Parfums
Born in Rome in 1956. Studied demography at Sapienza University of Rome. After graduating, joined Bulgari S.p.A., where he held positions including Market Research and Planning Office Manager, and later took on significant responsibilities as Financial Procedures and Systems Manager. Subsequently joined Ferragamo Parfums S.p.A., serving as World-Wide Management Director before assuming his current role in May 2008.

Intermode Kawabe
Tel. 03-3352-7161
www.kawabe.co.jp/
(Fragrance Division website scheduled to open April 1st)