Acne Studios and Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle meet at the intersection of fashion, perfumery and art. Driven since their inception by the ambition to create a radically new aesthetic, both houses draw their essence from photography, architecture, culture and design, and apply those creative principles to everything from boutiques to clothing, fragrances to bottles.
Frédéric Malle and Jonny Johansson, founder and creative director of Acne Studios, have always chosen to explore alternative paths, with a multidisciplinary vision of their art, and a steadfast commitment to the principle of absolute creative freedom. This common approach has given rise to a unique collaboration: Acne Studios by Frédéric Malle.
Who came up with the idea of this collaboration?
Frédéric Malle : It all started with a letter I sent to Jonny. For me, Acne Studios stands out as
the epitome of fairness in fashion, constantly reinventing neoclassical shapes. Summoning my
courage, I expressed my admiration—almost a declaration of love. To our greatest joy, Jonny
responded with enthusiasm, already embracing one of our creations. I feel there’s a mutual
admiration and profound respect between us.
Jonny Johansson: Absolutely. I was heading to work on a beautiful day when I found a very
elegant, handwritten letter from Frédéric on my desk, suggesting that we meet. His invitation
deeply touched me, and I promptly accepted. I have been interested in fragrances and their
history for a long time, especially as there are many common features between perfume and
fashion. I am also passionate and inspired by multiple art forms, and in particular by music,
which I play a lot. As our conversations progressed, we understood that we had a lot in
common and that it would be amazing to work together.
Suzy, as a perfumer, what do Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle and Acne Studios represent
for you?
Suzy Le Helley: Editions de Parfums are a benchmark, the quintessence of a great
contemporary perfumery. The identity, the spirit, the voice has always been very avant-garde,
such as, for example, naming the perfumers. Frédéric shows tremendous respect for the
creators. It’s a unique and privileged relationship. Acne Studios is another great iconic
benchmark, with a universe that is highly inspirational, rich and quirky all at the same time,
and always with real, strong and desirable propositions.
Jonny, what does this fragrance evoke for you?
Jonny Johansson: Something clear, with rose, with pastel tones. The image of white jeans.
Also a sense of cleanliness, security and comfort.
What type of personality or character do you associate with this fragrance?
Frédéric Malle: with a false innocence
If this fragrance was a sensation?
Suzy Le Helley: soft and caressing
A season?
Jonny Johansson: Summer…or rather spring as, actually, we don’t experience real summers
in Sweden, but our springs are magnificent.
An emotion?
Frédéric Malle: tenderness
A piece of music?
Frédéric Malle: The Gnossiennes, by Erik Satie
A work of art or an artist?
Jonny Johansson: James Turrell
A colour?
Suzy Le Helley: a powder pink, pastel
Frédéric Malle: a mixture of grey and white, evoking the pearlescent and iridescent
character of pearls.
An item of clothing?
Jonny Johansson: immaculately clean jeans, straight out of the dryer.
ACNE STUDIOS PAR FRÉDÉRIC MALLE – 50ML– RRP £200 | €230
ACNE STUDIOS PAR FRÉDÉRIC MALLE – 100ML– RRP £290 | €330
