MCM shows fragrance strength with ONYX

MCM has introduced MCM ONYX Eau de Parfum, the first men’s fragrance from the German luxury brand, produced in partnership with Interparfums.

Synonymous with the powerful gemstone, MCM ONYX is said to inspire energy, empowerment and strength. The futuristic woody fougère scent is born from the clash between luxury craftsmanship and new-tech perfumery, the company said.

Inspired by the brand’s signature Stark backpack, MCM ONYX reimagines MCM’s original award-winning fragrance bottle design in a modern, yet refined colourway, wrapped in black Visetos paired with metallic grey accents.

MCM ONYX men's fragrance

Sabine Brunner, President of MCM, said: “This design is at heart of MCM DNA, epitomising the free spirit of travel. We are excited about this new fragrance that takes our tribe of 21st century digital nomads on a transcending journey from ingredient to sentiment, fragrance to feeling and note to emotion."

Top notes are ginger, pink pepper and grapefruit, while the middle notes consist of Lavender Naturals Together, basil and violet leaf. The woody base notes of Vetiver Naturals Together, Clearwood and tonka leave a trail of warmth contrasted with an added long-lasting minerality.

Senior Perfumer Clément Gavarry of Firmenich, who created the fragrance, said: “When I was working on MCM ONYX, I wanted to ensure it captured the essence of freedom in a fresh and modern way. The scent’s effervescent notes of spices and ginger, along with fresh lavender and warm woods encapsulate the feeling of being unstoppable.”

Described as a responsible creation, MCM ONYX’s vegan formula is made of over 79% biodegradable ingredients and over 89% of its ingredients are created using green chemistry principles – both key for a more sustainable fragrance future. Over 72% of its sustainably sourced Naturals Together ingredients make a positive social impact on local communities all over the world, according to MCM.

MCM ONYX is available in 30ml, 50ml and 75ml sizes.

Glenfiddich unveils homage to Japanese culture

Glenfiddich has introduced the latest release from its ground-breaking Grand Series whisky collection, fusing flavours from Scotland and Japan.

Grand Yozakura, which is described as the first single malt Scotch whisky to be finished in rare ex-awamori spirit casks, will make its travel retail debut in selected airports in Europe and Asia from late March, supported by high-profile activations.

The 29yo limited-edition whisky is matured at the Glenfiddich distillery in Dufftown and finished in oak casks that previously matured awamori, the oldest distilled alcoholic spirit in Japan.

Glenfiddich Grand Yozakura 29yo single malt Scotch whisky

Awamori is made using long grain indica rice, and is traditionally stored in clay pots and matured in oak casks. It is said that the technique for making the spirit has not been altered in over 500 years. Only a small proportion of awamori is aged in oak casks, making them exceptionally rare.

Grand Yozakura celebrates Hanami – the renowned cherry blossom festival, when Japan celebrates the beauty of nature through the sakura. A time for renewal and optimism, the festival is best experienced illuminated after dark, where it is known as the Yozakura or night sakura.

The packaging of Grand Yozakura aims to bring this meeting of cultures to life with a signature illustration created by Japanese artist June, who creates visions incorporating Japanese culture and landscapes. The whisky packaging includes a bespoke topper and traditional poem printed onto each specially designed outer.

Glenfiddich Malt Master Brian Kinsman said: “We are always looking to experiment with new finishes so when the chance arose to acquire rare ex-awamori casks we saw an opportunity to push the boundaries and experiment with this highly unusual spirit. This is the first time that single malt Scotch whisky has been finished in these rare casks. We always learn something new when we lead with innovation, so taking a risk is worth it, and in the case of awamori we trialled a very small number of casks at a younger age first.”

Glenfiddich Global Brand Director Claudia Falcone enthused: “The Grand Series underpins Glenfiddich’s spirit of innovation, and Grand Yozakura is no exception. It is perhaps the most ground-breaking expression to sit alongside the series so far, whilst also being the first limited-edition release. Bringing together two scarce components accentuates the anticipation and sense of occasion, paying homage to the brand’s innovative nature when it comes to creating dynamic whiskies of the highest quality.”

Gwilym Cooke, Head of Brand Marketing for Global Travel Retail at Glenfiddich’s brand owner William Grant & Sons, added: “We are pleased to once again be partnering with key retailers to showcase this latest addition to our pioneering Grand Series collection within travel retail – a vital channel for the luxury spirits business. In line with our commitment to innovate, this new whisky offers a unique taste experience and compelling story that will be hugely appealing to both new and established whisky drinkers.”

Tasting notes

On the nose: Zesty, ripe fruits and caramelised almonds. Rich oak notes with hints of cinnamon and a distinctive herbal zing. Taste: Toasted oak, creamy vanilla toffee and silky tannin. Bursts of spice and sherbet lemons with crunchy green apple and warming earthy tones. Finish: Long-lasting oak.

Party time as MCM toasts Tate McRae collaboration

MCM hosted a party to celebrate its Spring/Summer 23 campaign with Tik Tok music star Tate McRae at its Beverly Hills store in California.

Guests at the Rodeo Drive boutique were treated to a special performance by the Canadian singer-songwriter, who collaborated with the brand for its new season collection.

Tate McRae at MCM's Rodeo Drive boutique

Attendees included American actors Nico Greetham, Paloma Garcia-Lee, Meg Donnelly and Mckenna Grace, model Delilah Belle Hamlin, TikTok star Zack Lugo and socialite Dani Song, who sported the new Travia shoulder bag.

Dani Song with MCM's new Travia shoulder bag 

As previously reported, the music-meets-fashion collaboration sees McRae wearing key looks from MCM’s SS23 collection as she sings two tracks in partnership with Sony Music's Filtr music platform.

Porsche Design unveils new travel retail exclusive

Porsche Design has introduced an exclusive release for the travel retail sector in homage to one of the German brand’s best-selling eyewear shapes.

The slightly square P'8927T sunglasses are designed to be a fresh interpretation of the brand’s signature squared aviator shape, with a flatter and wider form to create a perfect international fit.

The soft double bridge aims to embody the perfect balance between a modern and classic design to create an effect which is striking despite the filigree stainless steel frame.

Porsche Design P'8927T sunglasses

The minimalist stainless-steel frame and the almost straight Base-2 lenses give the sunglasses a very modern oversize look and the sophisticated black matte shade creates a real statement piece, the company said. Comfort is delivered thanks to the particularly lightweight temples, which are made of the high-performance material RXP, which delivers a precise and functional finish.

Thanks to the innovative Vision Drive lens technology, the high-quality polarized lenses offer the best vision on wet and slippery surfaces by reducing reflections and glare, thus enabling an optimal driving experience even in difficult light conditions. This innovation speaks to a growing demand from shoppers for items which provide practical and health benefits, as well as timeless style, noted Porsche Design.

Lucas Gestin, Director Global Retail of Porsche Design’s eyewear licensee Rodenstock, said: “We are delighted to be bringing this fresh exclusive release to the travel retail market. A new take on one of Porsche Design’s most popular and classic models, the P'8927T meets the needs of customers who are seeking something truly standout and unique in the travel retail market, while also delivering the highest standards of design, style and materials.”

The P'8927T is available exclusively in selected duty free shops from January 2023.

MCM makes music with TikTok star Tate McRae

Honouring its roots in music, MCM has linked up with Canadian musician Tate McRae in an innovative fashion-meets-music campaign for Spring/Summer 23.

The Gen Z singer-songwriter “guides us on a foray into stylised futures – with a punk-like aesthetic spread across three distinct capsules: Meta Safari, Cyberpunk and Meta Ocean”, the German luxury brand said.

In partnership with Sony Music's Filtr music platform, key looks from the capsules will feature in two episodes, each including a full-feature track. 

Tate McRae spotlights MCM as she performs 'She's All I Wanna Be'

Launched by McRae, the first release sees the TikTok sensation perform ‘She's All I Wanna Be’, combining the season’s bold assortment with McRae’s innovative musical talent. Her performance can be seen on MCM’s website at www.mcmworldwide.com and on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOyAa7F1BGM&t=14s.

“Blending creative design with inventive form, the SS23 collection takes its inspiration from the world yet to come – creating pieces which are unique and eye-catching,” MCM said.

Tate McRae shows off MCM's new-generation Aren backpack

In a “voyage into vintage”, McRae highlights the all-new Vintage Monogram Jacquard accessories collection, which is an adaptation of the brand’s signature Visetos print. Dubbed “tomorrow’s take on a historic design”, the collection has a patina effect, aiming to inspire feelings of nostalgia.

McRae also showcases the renowned MCM Haus monogram with inventive additions to the line of Aren bags, melding modern utility, exquisite leather craftsmanship and next-generation design to create a trusted travel companion.

MCM goes on safari for summer

For Spring/Summer 2023, MCM has embarked on a striking digital safari where classic animal prints are reinterpreted in a bold fashion.

Highlights of the Meta Safari leather goods collection – dubbed “a wild homage to the animal kingdom” – include the Dessau drawstring bag in Meta Safari Canvas, which features black and white zebra stripes printed on the Italian canvas body.

MCM Dessau drawstring bag in Meta Safari Canvas

Zebra stripes also adorn the Italian canvas body of the brand’s signature Stark backpack in Meta Safari Visetos.

Meanwhile, the Mini Aren Hobo in Meta Safari Canvas incorporates a Visetos hang tag and logo-adorned metal padlock honouring the brand’s travel legacy.

MCM Stark backpacks in Meta Safari Visetos

In addition, SS23 unlocks a new range of small totes which are not part of the Meta Safari collection, such as the Mini Aren top-zip shopper in Visetos leather mix and the small reversible Liz shopper in Visetos.

The former shopper features Spanish leather trim and an upper portion paired with a Visetos monogram canvas body, plus a sustainable cotton interior.

Rodenstock showcases Bric’s partnership in Frankfurt

Rodenstock and Bric’s have teamed up to highlight the power of partnership as the premium German eyewear brand opens a new dedicated retail space in the luxury Italian brand’s store at Frankfurt Airport Terminal 2.

The two companies, who share a focus on classic and stylish design, crafted from premium materials, unveiled their partnership at the TFWA World Exhibition in October 2022 with a shared stand space in Cannes.

That same partnership is at the root of the new outlet at Frankfurt Airport, which sees Rodenstock taking a dedicated backwall space to increase the offer and appeal for shoppers and drive cross-category purchasing.

The Bric's store at Frankfurt T2 carries Rodenstock eyewear

The Rodenstock collections are showcased on a stylish, purpose-built display on the interior wall of the store. The bright lighting and wood details seek to catch the eye of consumers and draw them deeper into the shop, creating additional engagement opportunities for both brands.

Rodenstock’s signature designs, and popular new releases such as the Elegance Classic and Retro Classic concepts, are presented in a manner which complements the wider Bric’s offer, aiming to create a seamless shopping experience for customers and demonstrating the collaborative nature of the brands’ partnership.

Lucas Gestin, Director Global Travel Retail, Rodenstock, said: “Both Bric’s and Rodenstock share a dedication to creating truly beautiful items which are crafted to look good and last, using the very best of materials. This makes our partnership an obvious one to bring to life for travel retail shoppers.

“At a time when the travelling shopper is looking for excitement and differentiation, collaborations such as this set our brands and our market apart in the wider retail space. We are delighted to be working with a brand such as Bric’s which exudes both the highest quality and a forward-thinking approach to creating excitement and newness in travel retail.”

Roberto Briccola, President of Bric’s, added: “It’s a pleasure for us to partner with Rodenstock and to introduce the premium eyewear brand inside our store at Frankfurt Airport. This is a perfect example of synergic collaboration: the increased and high-quality selection of products will certainly be appreciated by travel retail shoppers.

“The excellence of Bric’s and Rodenstock products can be discovered through use, thus discovering not only their quality and durability, but also their extreme functionality. We strongly believe that functionality is an important added value for improving the consumer's quality of life and the user experience of excellent products such as those that both brands offer on the market.”