Philippe Benacin, co-founder of Interparfums, has long been the visionary behind some of the most iconic fragrances in the industry. For decades, he’s crafted scents that transcend mere fragrance, creating olfactory stories that resonate with those who wear them. With Jimmy Choo’s latest launch, I Want Choo Le Parfum, Benacin delivers an unapologetic invitation to embrace confidence and glamour.
ELLE sat down with Benacin to uncover the story behind this bold new fragrance, which combines amber, floral, and woody notes to capture the essence of the Jimmy Choo woman: a woman who commands her own narrative, exuding elegance and an unshakeable sense of self. Here, he shares his insights on the creation of I Want Choo Le Parfum, the art of crafting fragrances that empower, and his own personal connection to the world of perfumery.
ELLE: What’s the inspiration behind Jimmy Choo’s latest scent, I Want Choo Le Parfum?
Philippe Benacin (PB): The inspiration for I Want Choo Le Parfum lies in the essence of the Jimmy Choo woman—bold, confident, and unapologetically herself. This fragrance is designed to be her perfect companion, one that embodies both sophistication and playful charm. We wanted to create something that would amplify her personality, providing that “halo effect”—where her presence lingers even after she’s left the room. It’s a scent that speaks to empowerment in a very authentic way.
ELLE: The perfume’s composition is truly unique. Could you walk us through its fragrance notes?
PB: Of course. I Want Choo Le Parfum opens with a lively blend of juicy pear, blackberry, and golden gardenia—creating an immediate sense of intrigue. At its heart, there’s jasmine absolute and patchouli, which add a layer of sophistication. And finally, it settles into a warm base of sandalwood, moss, and praline, leaving a rich, sensual trail. This combination was crafted to feel both comforting and invigorating—a perfect balance that embodies elegance and self-assurance.
ELLE: What does “confidence” mean to you in the world of perfumery?
PB: Confidence in perfumery is about giving the wearer a silent strength. A great scent has the ability to make you feel poised and powerful, like you can conquer anything. That’s what we aimed to achieve with I Want Choo Le Parfum. It’s not just a fragrance; it’s a boost of self-assurance, a finishing touch that enhances how you feel from within. I believe that when you wear a scent that resonates with you, it elevates your aura—that’s the halo effect we strive for.
ELLE: What are the challenges in creating a scent that is both playful and sophisticated?
PB: Achieving that balance is an art. The Jimmy Choo woman is multifaceted; she’s glamorous yet grounded, fun yet refined. So, the fragrance needed to embody that duality. Our team worked meticulously to ensure that every note, from the fruity opening to the woody base, was harmonious. It’s about creating layers within the fragrance that reveal themselves over time, mirroring the layers of personality in the woman who wears it.
ELLE: How does I Want Choo Le Parfum fit within the evolution of the Jimmy Choo fragrance range?
PB: This fragrance is a bold step forward for Jimmy Choo. While staying true to the brand’s DNA, we wanted to push the boundaries a bit more, adding a richer, warmer composition that evokes luxury and allure. I see it as a celebration of the Jimmy Choo ethos, encapsulating what we envision for the brand—a modern, confident elegance that feels timeless.
ELLE: The packaging for I Want Choo Le Parfum is so distinct and glamorous. Could you tell us more about the design choices behind this fragrance bottle?
Philippe Benacin: Absolutely! For I Want Choo Le Parfum, we wanted the packaging to embody the bold, opulent style of Jimmy Choo. The bottle has a luxurious, jewel-like presence, reflecting the confidence and glamour that this scent represents. The gold adds a decadent yet luxurious touch, and the bottle is semi-clear so you can see the movement and it can catch the light. We also feel like this is a great time for us to be bringing this to India. It’s a design that feels just as memorable as the fragrance itself, meant to make a statement on any vanity.
ELLE: How does the idea of the “halo effect” play into fragrance design?
Philippe Benacin: The halo effect is fascinating—it’s that intangible aura that surrounds you, shaped by scent. When crafting I Want Choo Le Parfum, we focused on creating a lasting, evolving trail that lingers subtly, even after you’ve left. We wanted it to feel like an extension of the wearer’s personality—a hint of mystery and allure that draws people in. Fragrance, when done right, should be an invisible accessory that speaks before you even enter a room.
ELLE: Finally, what do you hope women feel when they wear I Want Choo Le Parfum?
Philippe Benacin: My hope is that they feel completely and utterly themselves, only amplified. This fragrance is a love letter to confidence. I want every woman who wears I Want Choo Le Parfum to feel glamorous, empowered, and ready to take on the world, knowing she’s left a lasting impression.
With I Want Choo Le Parfum, Jimmy Choo delivers more than just a scent; it’s an invitation to step into your most confident self. Crafted for the woman who commands her narrative, this amber, floral, and woody fragrance is an ode to empowerment, elegance, and playful sophistication. An olfactory experience that lingers, it embodies the boldness of the Jimmy Choo woman in every note, every layer, and every lasting impression.
