The history of Floris: A journey through time and fragrance
Floris, also known as Floris London, is one of the most iconic and prestigious perfume houses in the world, with a history that spans almost three centuries. Founded in 1730 by Juan Famenias Floris and his wife Elizabeth, Floris has been creating exquisite fragrances for royalty, celebrities, and discerning customers ever since. In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating story of Floris, from its humble beginnings in London to its global recognition and acclaim.
The Origins of Floris
Juan Famenias Floris was born in 1698 in Minorca, a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea. He was a barber and perfumer by trade, and he decided to leave his homeland and seek his fortune in England. He arrived in London in 1720 and settled in the fashionable area of St James's, where he opened a barber shop at 89 Jermyn Street .
Juan soon realized that there was a high demand for perfumes and toiletries among the aristocracy and the upper classes, who frequented the nearby royal palaces and parks. He began to create his own fragrances, using ingredients imported from the Mediterranean and the Orient. He also married Elizabeth, an English woman, who helped him run the business and design the elegant packaging and labels.
The first fragrance that Juan created was called Limes, a refreshing citrus scent that is still popular today. He also created other classic fragrances, such as Bergamotto di Positano, the gorgeous aquatic, citrus scent of which Megan Markle’s bespoke Floris wedding day scent was based off. Juan soon gained a loyal clientele, who appreciated his quality and craftsmanship. He also received his first Royal Warrant from King George IV in 1820, which granted him the privilege of supplying perfumes to the Royal family.
One of the most famous customers of Floris was Queen Elizabeth II, who wore Floris White Rose Eau de Toilette on her wedding day in 1947. White Rose is a classic floral fragrance with notes of rose, jasmine, violet, iris, and musk. It is said that the Queen wore this fragrance until her passing in 2022, along with other Floris creations.
Floris perfumes are known for their longevity and complexity, as they are made with high-quality ingredients and blended with care. Depending on the concentration, skin type, and environmental factors, Floris perfumes can last for about 4 to 6 hours on average. Floris offers different concentrations of perfume, such as Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, to suit different preferences and occasions.
The Legacy of Floris
Juan Famenias Floris passed away in 1760, leaving behind a flourishing business and a legacy of excellence. His descendants continued to run the company, passing on the skills and secrets of perfumery from generation to generation. Today, Floris is owned and run by the 8th and 9th generations of the family.
Floris has also expanded its range of products over the years, offering not only perfumes, but also luxurious candles and home fragrances for example. Floris has also created bespoke fragrances for many famous and influential people, such as Winston Churchill, Marilyn Monroe, Ian Fleming, Florence Nightingale, and Queen Elizabeth II.
Floris has also maintained its original location at 89 Jermyn Street, which remains the heart of the business today. The shop has been renovated and refurbished over the years, but it still retains its historic charm and character. Visitors can admire the old wooden cabinets, the antique perfume bottles, and the family portraits that adorn the walls. They can also explore the museum downstairs, where they can see some of the original documents, letters, and invoices that tell the story of Floris.
The Future of Floris
Floris is not only a perfume house with a rich history, but also a perfume house with a bright future. Floris continues to innovate and create new fragrances that reflect the changing tastes and trends of the modern world. Edulge favourites include Mulberry Fig, Lily and Tuberose in Silk. Floris also collaborates with other brands and artists to produce limited edition collections that celebrate different aspects of culture and creativity.
The Essence of Floris
Floris is more than just a perfume house. It is a symbol of elegance, sophistication, and quality. It is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and craftsmanship. It is a journey through time and fragrance that connects generations of customers with generations of perfumers.
One of these perfumers is Edward Bodenham, who is currently leading Floris as its perfumery director. He is also part of the 9th generation of the Floris family, who inherited his love for fragrance from his grandfather. He learned how to blend fragrances in the basement of the shop, where he still works today. He is also a member of the British Society of Perfumers, a prestigious organisation that recognises and supports the fragrance industry. He is responsible for creating new and unique fragrances that reflect the Floris heritage and vision, as well as approving all the products that bear the Floris name.
If you want to experience the essence of Floris for yourself, explore their beautiful fragrances here. Whether you choose a classic or a contemporary fragrance, you can be sure that you are wearing a piece of history that will make you feel special.
