Leather is a standard theme of fine perfumery. The originality of Cuir Pleine Fleur lies in the introduction of floral notes to create a scent of luxurious, soft fine leather. Mimosa, acacia, aubépine, rose and honeysuckle accompany the more traditional leather notes of castoreum, vetiver and birch wood.
As a designer influenced by nature it was quite logical that James Heeley should be fascinated by the world of scent. It was in France, through his design work that the young Englishman discovered how scents are 'designed' and made.
One of his first scents, 'Menthe Fraîche' (2006) is remarkable as a contemporary, elegant and highly wearable scent created from such a simple yet difficult ingredient: mint. With time his beautifully constructed, natural, light scents evolved into more complex creations such as 'Cardinal', 'Esprit du Tigre', 'Cuir Pleine Fleur' and his recent collection of ‘Extrait de Parfum’.
As an autodidact, his continually evolving work now contains a varied collection of unique scents, each made according to the art of traditional French perfumery. Every detail, from the creation of the scent to the recyclable packaging is designed 'in house'. Today, Heeley is one of the few owner-founder, and independent luxury perfume houses in Europe. It is this independence that allows the creative freedom to create individual scents that are simply unique.
Born in Yorkshire, England, James Heeley studied Philosophy and Aesthetics at King's College, London University. He lives and works in Paris.
