fougere

Fougère is a fragrance family characterized by a specific olfactory structure, typically featuring top notes of lavender, a heart of geranium, and a base of oakmoss and coumarin. This combination aims to evoke the scent of a forest floor or a fern (fougère in French). While the name comes from the fern plant, true fern scent is difficult to replicate, and the fougère accord is more of an abstract interpretation.

The fougère fragrance type emerged in the late 19th century with the groundbreaking creation of Houbigant's Fougère Royale in 1882. This scent pioneered the use of synthetic aroma compounds, specifically coumarin, which provided the sweet, hay-like aroma associated with tonka bean and was crucial to the fougère profile. This innovation paved the way for many modern perfumery techniques and the creation of entirely new scent categories.

Historically, fougère fragrances were predominantly marketed towards men, often featuring woody and aromatic notes that contributed to a traditionally masculine perception. However, in recent decades, perfumers have explored and expanded the fougère family, creating variations that incorporate floral, fruity, and gourmand elements, making them more versatile and appealing to a broader audience. Modern interpretations can range from classic, traditional interpretations to highly contemporary and avant-garde compositions.