Byredo’s Ben Gorham and
Inez & Vinoodh create “1996”

Why 1996? It all started with a photo of a young girl, Kirsten 1996, taken by Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin that year. In the image she appears to be sniffing something otherworldly, her expression evocative of both innocence and knowing beauty. “This picture represents the duality that underlies our work and our life together, the scent is very much Ben’s impeccable and sensitive interpretation of that,” said the artists.

The fragrance was meant to be just for close friends and family, but we all know you can’t keep a secret with the Internet, and once word got out about the coveted perfume the trio decided to release it to the public. 1996 combines the scents of juniper berries, orrisroot, and hints of violet. It is warm yet delicate, like a child’s smile.

The unisex fragrance is available at Barney’s and at Byredo.com.