ELLE Exclusive: India Gets A Whiff Of Elie Saab L’Homme

That transformative feeling when a fragrance captivates you, evoking glamour, mystery, and a sense of being the main character? Elie Saab has captured that essence in a bottle, and it has finally arrived in India.

To commemorate the launch of Elie Saab L’Homme, we spoke with Patrizio Stella, CEO of Give Back Beauty (GBB), about the art of fragrance storytelling and the scent that makes him feel like royalty.

Building a Fragrance Empire: The Secret Sauce

You've spearheaded GBB’s global expansion. What's the secret to building a successful fragrance empire across continents? Is it prioritizing the scent or the business aspect?

Patrizio Stella (PS): The key is starting with clearly defined goals. We aimed to introduce something novel to the beauty industry, something that wasn't already available. Then, it's about core values—teamwork, respect, sustainability—and the people who embody them. The team is paramount. With a solid foundation and a shared vision, growth becomes a journey rather than a struggle. While the fragrance may begin with the "nose," its success relies on the "heart."

The Perfect Time for L’Homme in India

Elie Saab’s L’Homme has achieved global acclaim. Why is now the ideal moment to introduce it to India?

PS: This is a significant moment for the Elie Saab brand. Elie has always envisioned a masculine counterpart to his couture world, and L’Homme embodies that vision. The timing felt opportune because India is currently celebrating its heritage while embracing the future. Indian consumers are discerning, inquisitive, and highly aware of fragrance. Introducing L’Homme here felt like a natural progression.

Translating Couture Elegance into a Fragrance

Elie Saab is synonymous with couture. How does this level of elegance translate into a bottle?

PS: Elie Saab designs with an architect's precision. His fashion emphasizes structure, lines, and form, and L’Homme mirrors this approach. The bottle and the scent were meticulously crafted with attention to detail; every note and curve has been carefully considered. It’s modern, architectural, and subtly dreamy.

Managing a Diverse Portfolio of Brands

GBB’s portfolio ranges from the high glamour of Elie Saab to the all-American cool of Tommy Hilfiger. How do you manage such diverse brand personalities?

PS: It's like being surrounded by a group of distinct, talented friends. Each brand has its own identity and story, and our mission is to ensure they each shine uniquely. We function as a sports team, where each player has a position and strength, and my role is to support them in performing at their best.

A Personal Favorite?

Do you have a personal favorite from the GBB portfolio, or is that like asking a parent to choose their favorite child?

PS: Precisely, it’s impossible to choose! However, I’m particularly drawn to a fragrance we created with Alberto Morillas—it’s clean, transparent, and fresh. I also appreciate richer, more complex scents like Chopard Les Origins Vetiver, Chopard Oud Malaki, or the sporty, masculine vibe of Mercedes Benz Club Black. It depends on the day, my mood, and the moment.

The Scent of the Day

Speaking of moods, what fragrance are you wearing today, and how does it make you feel?

PS: Today, I'm wearing Elie Saab L’Homme, naturally. This version is a new, bolder, and more intimate twist that we’re about to launch. When I wear L’Homme, I feel like a modern prince. But when I return home to my family, I’m just the court jester again!

The Unique Indian Consumer

India is emerging as a fragrance frontier. What makes the Indian consumer so unique, and somewhat challenging?

PS: India is a fascinating contradiction—a blend of tradition and innovation, heritage and futurism, local depth, and global awareness. This duality makes India both exciting and demanding. Consumers here are knowledgeable about scent. Perfume has deep historical roots in this culture. Consequently, the expectations are high for international brands, but so are the potential rewards. By honoring this legacy while offering something fresh and meaningful, you can cultivate a loyal and passionate audience.

The Next Big Scent

Is there a scent note you believe will define the next big wave in perfumery? Something underrated you’d bet on?

PS: Rather than a single ingredient, I believe the future of fragrance lies in authenticity—stories, emotions, and roots. However, if I had to choose, I’d say Peony is one to watch. It’s delicate and somewhat underutilized, but I anticipate it becoming more globally recognized and versatile.

The Modern Prince

If Elie Saab L’Homme is the scent of a modern prince, what does that say about today’s man?

PS: It suggests he's confident yet compassionate, elegant but grounded. L’Homme is more than just a fragrance; it's a statement about who you are and how you present yourself to the world. And that's something we could all benefit from.