Sinan by Jean-Marc Sinan c1981

Jean-Marc Sinan’s perfume “Sinan,” launched in 1981, emerged during a period marked by both a resurgence of classic elegance and a fascination with innovation in the world of perfumery. The early 1980s were a time of striking contrasts in the fragrance industry, where traditional opulence met new trends of minimalism and fresh, bold statements. This era was characterized by a growing appreciation for niche and unique fragrances, reflecting a desire among consumers for personal expression through scent. The 1980s saw the rise of signature perfumes that conveyed both individuality and sophistication, and “Sinan” fits seamlessly into this landscape.

The choice of the name “Sinan” for the perfume can be attributed to its evocative and multi-layered qualities. “Sinan” is a name with historical and cultural resonance, particularly associated with the famed Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, whose work epitomized architectural grandeur and timeless elegance. By naming the perfume “Sinan,” Jean-Marc Sinan likely intended to convey a sense of sophistication, craftsmanship, and enduring appeal. The name suggests a tribute to the elegance and artistry embodied by Mimar Sinan’s architectural masterpieces, thereby infusing the perfume with an aura of classic refinement.

The name “Sinan” is appropriate for a perfume as it evokes a blend of historical significance and artistic excellence. It suggests a fragrance that is not merely a product but a statement of high art and cultural richness. This aligns with the 1980s trend of perfumes that carried an aura of exclusivity and intellectual allure. “Sinan” would appeal to those who appreciate the deeper connections between fragrance and historical or cultural symbolism.

Jean-Marc Sinan, though not as widely known as some perfumers, contributes to the world of perfumery through a dedication to craftsmanship and a keen sense of cultural and aesthetic influences. His work likely reflects a deep understanding of fragrance composition and a desire to create something that resonates on a profound level with its audience.

A fragrance called “Sinan” would have particularly appealed to women of the early 1980s who were drawn to both classic sophistication and modern innovation. These women were likely to be well-educated, culturally aware, and appreciative of the finer things in life. They would respond to “Sinan” with a sense of connection to a rich historical heritage, while also valuing the contemporary elegance that the fragrance embodies.

New York Magazine, 1985:

"Sinan by Jean Marc Sinan is warm, provocative and emotionally arousing. A rare and lovely fragrance that will make her heart dance today and everyday. Sinan from $30.00-$160.00."

The word “Sinan” evokes images of grandeur, artistry, and timeless beauty. It suggests a scent that is both elegant and profound, reminiscent of an era when style was as much about personal expression as it was about embracing the cultural and historical narratives that shape our identities. The feelings conjured by “Sinan” are those of sophistication and depth, appealing to individuals who seek to express their refined taste and appreciation for history through their choice of fragrance.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral fragrance for women. It begins with a fresh flowery top, followed by an elegant floral heart, resting on a warm, woody, mossy base.

• Top notes: bergamot, green note, coriander, aldehyde, rosewood
• Middle notes: ylang ylang, jasmine, orris, rose, geranium, cardamom, lily of the valley
• Base notes: patchouli, vetiver, oakmoss, musk,  amber, cistus

 

Scent Story:

In the grand opulence of the Ottoman Empire, within the lush gardens of a magnificent palace, a beautiful Sultana presides over a realm of elegance and splendor. It is the year 1981, a time when the world is buzzing with modernity and refinement, yet the essence of the past still lingers in the air. The Sultana is renowned not only for her grace and beauty but also for her discerning taste in the finer things of life, including her most cherished possession—her exquisite fragrance, “Sinan.”

As you approach the Sultana’s private quarters, the first thing that greets you is the delicate, invigorating scent of bergamot and green notes wafting through the air. This fresh, flowery topnote envelops you in a sense of citrusy vibrancy and verdant vitality, reminiscent of a dew-kissed garden at dawn. The air is also tinged with the subtle spice of coriander and the crisp, almost sparkling quality of aldehyde, adding a hint of modern sophistication to the natural lushness. Rosewood contributes a touch of warm, woody sweetness, grounding the initial burst of freshness with its rich, exotic aroma.

Inside her chamber, the Sultana sits amidst an array of luxurious fabrics and glittering jewels. The room is adorned with lush, velvet drapes and intricate tapestries, their patterns reflecting the intricate design of her life and her kingdom. As you approach, the heart of the fragrance unfolds—an elegant bouquet of ylang-ylang and jasmine, blending seamlessly with the powdery softness of orris and the deep, romantic essence of rose. The scent of geranium mingles with the spicy warmth of cardamom and the delicate sweetness of lily of the valley, creating a complex and captivating floral symphony that captures the essence of the Sultana's grace and poise.

The room is alive with the soft, melodic sounds of a Persian lute, its gentle strumming weaving a harmonious backdrop to the Sultana’s world. The fragrance fills the space with an aura of sophistication, as the base notes begin to emerge. The deep, earthy aroma of patchouli and vetiver anchors the scent, while oakmoss adds a mossy, forest-like depth. Musk brings a sensual warmth that is both inviting and intimate, and amber lends a golden, resinous richness that evokes the timeless beauty of the Sultana. Cistus adds a hint of smoky, leathery complexity, completing the fragrance’s evolution from its bright and floral top to its warm and earthy base.

As you stand by her side, the Sultana’s delicate touch on your hand is as soft as silk, and her regal presence radiates an air of both authority and gentle allure. Her fragrance, “Sinan,” is a testament to her refined tastes and her connection to both the past and the present. Each note of the perfume, from the vibrant top to the elegant heart and the warm, woody base, tells a story of elegance and sophistication, perfectly capturing the essence of the Sultana and her magnificent empire.

Bottle:

The perfume “Sinan” by Jean-Marc Sinan, launched in 1981, was thoughtfully designed to cater to a range of preferences and budgets, making it accessible to a diverse audience while offering options for different usage needs. The perfume's availability in various sizes and formulations reflects a strategic approach to accommodate both the dedicated collector and the casual wearer.

For those seeking the most intense and long-lasting experience of “Sinan,” the Parfum concentrations were available in three sizes. The 0.25 oz Parfum, retailing at $65, was a compact choice that allowed for a luxurious touch of elegance without a substantial financial commitment. The 0.5 oz Parfum, priced at $110, offered a slightly larger amount, making it a more practical option for frequent use while still retaining an air of exclusivity. The 1 oz Parfum, at $160, represented the pinnacle of indulgence in the “Sinan” collection, providing a generous supply of the perfume’s concentrated essence for those who desired the ultimate in scent luxury.

The 0.25 oz Parfum Spray, also priced at $65, catered to those who preferred a spray application method but still wanted the concentrated richness of Parfum. This option combined convenience with the high potency of the Parfum concentration.

In terms of lighter formulations, the Eau de Toilette offerings were available in several sizes and types. The 1.7 oz Eau de Toilette Splash, priced at $30, was a more affordable choice for those who enjoyed a splash application and preferred a lighter, more refreshing scent. The 3.4 oz Eau de Toilette Splash, retailing at $55, offered greater value for those who used the fragrance more liberally.

For those who preferred the ease and precision of a spray, the Eau de Toilette was available in both 1.7 oz and 3.4 oz sizes. The 1.7 oz Eau de Toilette Spray, at $35, and the 2 oz Eau de Toilette Spray, priced at $47.50, provided a balance between cost and convenience. The 3.4 oz Eau de Toilette Spray, retailing at $60, was the largest size available, offering the best value for frequent users who appreciated the ease of a spray application.

This array of options ensured that “Sinan” could be enjoyed by a broad audience, from those seeking a luxurious Parfum experience to those preferring the more economical and lighter Eau de Toilette formulations.

Fate of the Fragrance:

The perfume “Sinan” experienced a notable journey through the fragrance market, reflecting the dynamic nature of the industry. Originally launched in 1981, “Sinan” quickly became known for its distinctive character and sophisticated appeal. However, by around 1989, it faced discontinuation. This phase marked a period when many fragrances, including “Sinan,” were reassessed in light of shifting consumer preferences and market trends.

The discontinuation of “Sinan” in 1989 was not unusual in the fragrance industry. Changes in consumer tastes, evolving market conditions, and strategic shifts within brands often lead to the retirement of certain scents. In response to these changes, the fragrance underwent a reformulation and was relaunched in 1990. This relaunch aimed to refresh the perfume and adapt it to contemporary trends, potentially adjusting its composition to better align with the evolving preferences of fragrance enthusiasts.

Despite the brand’s efforts to revitalize “Sinan,” the reformulated version did not achieve the sustained success necessary to remain a staple in the market. The fragrance was eventually discontinued again, a testament to the challenges brands face in maintaining the relevance of their products over time. This pattern of discontinuation and relaunch reflects a common strategy in the industry, where fragrances are periodically updated or retired based on market demand and brand direction.

Additionally, “Sinan” had a male counterpart, also launched in 1981, which followed a similar trajectory. This men’s version, too, was discontinued around 1989. The decision to discontinue both versions likely stemmed from a combination of factors including changes in consumer preferences, shifts in market dynamics, and strategic decisions made by the brand. This mirrored the broader trend in the fragrance industry where both men’s and women’s scents are frequently reviewed and adjusted to stay relevant in a competitive market.

The cycle of discontinuation and relaunching underscores the challenges faced by fragrance brands in balancing innovation with tradition, and in meeting the ever-evolving tastes of their customers.