Marni Launches a New Fragrance to kick off NYFW

The invitation boasted music by DJ Alexa Chung (which we were anticipating), but the incessant talking reduced her efforts to a faint sound. Not that it mattered though; whatever sensory experience we lost was gained by the visual – namely, people’s outfits and shoes, and the arrival of boldfaced names. “Look, there’s Cindy Sherman,” announced a woman wearing the most flattering leather, blue oxfords we’ve seen in a long time. We were excited about Sherman, too, but then a second round of prosecco appeared, and having missed the first, we needed to focus.

With drinks in hand, we squeezed through guests to get a sample of the new scent. Presented on serving trays held by statuesque male blondes, the fragrance is “a playful debate between extroverted assertiveness and elusive femininity.” Unlike most women’s perfumes, it avoids sweet, sugary, or flowery scents, and instead, “combines ethereal spices and eclectic, raw woods,” giving it a subtle, masculine touch. We approve.