T he standard of true Italian class is finally here. Their very first counter in Malaysia is located at Parkson Pavilion. For the well heeled and well travelled, Aqua di Parma is not a stranger. They are usually found in the most exclusive spas and hotels. Celebrating their 100 years, this brand has finally touched Malaysian waters, no longer is it necessary to travel overseas to get it. The unmistakable distinct style and their trademark yellow colour has certain come along way from when they started in a small Italian factory in the ancient city of Parma. Nowadays, Acqua Di Parma is synonymous with Italian craftsmanship, timelessness with their attention to each minor detail of the linear essential design and Italian savoir -vivre .
The name Acqua di Palma is a lifestyle brand that is characterized by its classical but modern products whilst safeguarding and interpreting the most entrenched values of exclusive Italian quality, elegance and refinement. In the 1960s, the very first perfume, Colonia, was a cult product for high society; actors and socialites the likes of Fellini.
The secret of Colonia’s success was its sophisticated scent that was said to truly embrace all the nuances and essence of being Italian; with notes from Sicilian citrus fruits, Bergamot, lemon, sweet orange and bitter orange blended with middle notes from Bulgarian rose, lavender and ending with base notes from prized woods. In recent times, the brand has seen a revival by people who truly appreciate the brand and refused to see its ending. Acqua di Parma now consists of the full range of Colonia’s scented soap, bath, shower and body lotions. The Colonia designer edition bottle was inspired by Luca Scacchetti. Colonia Essenza was launched in 2010-known as the tuxedo of Colonia, it is dressed all in black and is the symbol of self confidence and exclusive refinement. Acqua Di Parma’s foray to feminine fragrance started withe Iris Nobile in 2001 followed by Magnolia Nobile in 2009 and in 2011, Gelsomino Nobile (Jasmine) was launched. Nobile Gelsomino is supposed to give the full expression of femininity, spontaneous grace and charm.
Acqua Di Parma represents a class of lifestyle products for the discerning-they have carved a niche far beyond perfume,lotions and colognes for bath and body. By the way, the lotions are incredibly rich both in the scent as well as the texture. It give this incredible lushness upon application and yet feels light and fully absorbed with minimal oily after feel, I like.
Well known for their home fragrances and products with their Home Fragrance Collection which consists of exclusive (read expensive, elegant beautiful candles). Candles that not just lights up the rooms but also perfumes and decorates the room with their magnificent appearance and scent- like their rose petal candle or herb candle with a combination of herbs that is so lovely, it is almost a shame to light them. At RM400 and up for a light, the question is are the discerned in Malaysia ready? According to Miss Chung Tze May, the Managing Director of Luxasia Malaysia, the market is ready now compared to previous years. And despite some qualms about giving candles with respect to the Asian especially Chinese society, she says people are more open minded and well traveled and the idea of giving a beautiful decorative designer candle is now much more acceptable.
The latest launch of Colonia range of products is Tournee Weekend Collection, with its handcrafted calfskin aniline dyed handmade vanity cases and travel bags that are exquisite to the touch and a great practical companion to well heeled traveller. This range complements the Tournee Business Collection launched in 2008. In brilliant mustard and black (signature colours of Colonia), it appeals to both men and women. The vanity case even comes with an eye mask and has a marvellous soft hand feel that is almost comforting.
Not to be missed, is the unisex Blu Mediterraneo: a collection of fragrances and body care product which was launched in 2005. A collection of scents named after areas in Italy and plants most synonymous with them – like Tuscany was cephyr (cypress) and Sicily (arantxa or orange). It is light and definitely sophisticated-a friend confided that Blu Mediterraneo is her husband’s favorite. He loves it so much she says that if she ever upsets him, the sure way back to his heart would be a bottle of Blu Mediterraneo.
The Acqua Di Parma range of products is definitely one to look out for if some fine Italian pampering is needed or coveted and they are available at Parkson Pavilion effectively October 2011.
