Bernard Ellena

Bernard Ellena is not just a senior perfumer at Symrise, but a true creative dynasty in the world of fragrances. The younger brother of the legendary Jean-Claude Ellena and uncle of the talented Celine Ellena, he was born in 1952 in the heart of the perfume world — Grasse. His childhood was filled with the scents of flower fields and the laboratories of the Chiris company, where his father worked, which predetermined his destiny.

The path from Grasse to global brands

After receiving an excellent education at the Roure Bertrand Dupont school (now part of Givaudan), Bernard began his professional career in Paris. Since 1972, he has honed his skills at IFF, and today his expertise belongs to Symrise. His career is a success story built on a deep understanding of both the mass market and the exquisite niche perfumery.

Signature style and universal talent

Bernard Ellena's style is characterized by remarkable versatility and commercial acumen, the ability to create fragrances that resonate with millions. He masterfully works with bright, memorable accords, creating compositions that are easy to fall in love with. From sensual floral bouquets to fresh fruity notes, his fragrances always radiate optimism and elegance, while remaining refined and accessible.

A portfolio that speaks for itself

Over decades of fruitful work, Bernard Ellena has created real hits for leading fashion houses and cosmetics giants. He is the creator of the iconic Giordani Gold for Oriflame and the seductive Ange Ou Demon Le Secret for Givenchy. He gave the world the sensual masterpiece Beloved Woman for the luxury house Amouage and created the fresh, playful White Jeans for Versace.

His iconic works also include fragrances for Jil Sander, such as Style and the delicate Style Pastels Blush Pink, as well as popular compositions for Montblanc (Legend Pour Femme), Van Cleef & Arpels (Oriens), Davidoff, and Guess.

The best fragrances that have become beloved by the public

Many of Bernard Ellena's creations have become bestsellers and favorites in perfume collections. In addition to those already mentioned, it is impossible not to mention the sunny Pretty Swan, the bold Tribu by Benetton, or the mysterious niche experiment +MA for Blood Concept. His fragrances for Oriflame, such as Voyager Spirit and Dancing Lady Hypnotic Night, have enjoyed enormous popularity for decades, proving his unerring sense of trends.

Legacy and influence

Bernard Ellena is a rare example of a perfumer whose work has shaped the perfume landscape over the past 45 years. He is a master who knows how to speak the language of fragrances to both discerning connoisseurs and a wider audience. His contribution is not only iconic bottles, but also the ability to make the high art of perfumery more accessible and understandable to everyone, continuing the proud tradition of the Ellen family.