License king goes indie? Inter Parfums unveils Solférino and bags Longchamp

If you’re used to seeing Inter Parfums behind the curtain, this is a plot twist. The license powerhouse known for clean, sporty hits with brands like Lacoste has stepped out with its own luxury label, Solférino. And as if to sharpen the narrative, they also locked in a fragrance license with Longchamp. One move says we can lead. The other says we still own the game.

Let’s start with Solférino. Announced last year and now fully unveiled, it lands in that rare air category everyone loves to call high end. The name whispers Paris in a way that suggests intention rather than noise. I want bold materials, not a moodboard in a bottle. If Inter Parfums uses this line to champion perfumers and give formulas room to breathe, I’m listening. If it’s just premium pricing with safe juice, I’ll pass my blotter to the next counter.

Then there’s Longchamp. It’s a smart fit on paper. Handbags to fragrance is a well-worn runway, but the brand’s identity is defined by tactile elegance and everyday luxury. That should translate to leather nuances, fabric-like musks, and clean lines, not another pink fruit salad. Please give me the snap of fresh leather with a luminous citrus lift, or a suede iris that feels like slipping your hand into a glove. Hopes, not spoilers.

What I’ll be watching:

• The perfumers behind Solférino and whether materials get space to shine.
• Whether Longchamp goes leather-luxe with quiet confidence or plays it overly safe.
• Distribution and pricing, since high end only matters if the juice earns it.

There’s a world where Solférino becomes a calling card for real creative leadership, and Longchamp turns into a leather-forward staple people actually wear. There’s also a world where we get more pretty bottles and polite background scents. I’m rooting for the first. Prove me wrong if I’m wrong, but either way, my nose is ready.