Septième Sens by Sonia Rykiel, launched in 1979 and also known as 7e Sens, was a bold statement in the world of perfumery, aimed at the "modern, adventurous woman." The name Septième Sens is French, meaning "Seventh Sense." By choosing this name, Sonia Rykiel sought to convey something beyond the ordinary, hinting at a deeper, almost mystical connection. The concept goes beyond the five physical senses and intuition, the sixth sense, venturing into a realm that evokes an emotional and existential awareness that transcends simple perception. The idea of a "seventh sense" implies a profound understanding of oneself and the world, a space where feelings, instinct, and desire converge.
Sonia Rykiel chose this name with personal significance. Known for being a pioneer in fashion, she revealed that she had never found a fragrance that resonated with her identity before creating Septième Sens. Much like her approach to designing clothing, Rykiel created this fragrance to fill a void she felt in the perfumery world, a space where she could finally "find her scent." The perfume represented more than just a fragrance; it was an extension of Rykiel's personal expression and her desire to craft something unique, both for herself and for other women who felt the same lack of representation in the traditional fragrance market.
The name Septième Sens evokes images of sophistication, mystery, and sensuality. It suggests a fragrance that taps into a deeper emotional experience, a scent that could awaken feelings lying beneath the surface, invisible to the naked eye. The perfume’s blend of fruity, spicy, and animalic notes complements this concept beautifully. It begins with a vibrant, spicy top, where the warmth of nutmeg and cardamom meet the subtle heat of coriander and lauren. This spiced introduction gives way to a rich floral heart, where intoxicating jasmine blooms alongside ripe plum, offering a lush and almost decadent quality. Finally, the scent settles into a sultry, animalic base, with deep vetiver, earthy patchouli, and warm amber. The interplay of musk and amber with the shadowy allure of jasmine creates a chiaroscuro effect, a play of light and dark, that evokes the sensual complexity suggested by the name Septième Sens.
