Launched in 1981 and introduced to the U.S. market by 1982, Alix by Grès was a fragrance steeped in the legacy of haute couture. The perfume bottle itself varied in its branding, sometimes marked as "Alix Grès", while other times it bore only the name "Grès." This variation speaks to the dual identity of the house—rooted in its founder’s original design vision while evolving with the times.
The name "Alix" holds deep personal significance. It was the name under which Madame Grès—born Germaine Émilie Krebs—first gained prominence as a couturière. Before founding her iconic house of Grès, she worked under the label "Alix", crafting designs that would define her sculptural approach to fabric and drapery. Choosing to name the perfume "Alix" was a tribute to her origins, a way of anchoring the fragrance in her personal history and design philosophy.
Etymologically, "Alix" is derived from Old French and Germanic origins, meaning "noble" or "of noble kind." It is pronounced "Ah-leeks" in French, with a fluid, refined elegance. The name evokes imagery of classical grace, strength, and understated luxury. It carries a poetic softness, yet it also suggests quiet confidence and sophistication—qualities that mirror the spirit of Madame Grès herself.
