HOUSE INTRO - Le Labo

Le Labo was founded in 2006 by Fabrice Penot and Eddie Roschi with a philosophy that felt refreshingly different at the time, slow perfumery, transparency and craftsmanship over flash. Born in New York City, Le Labo positioned itself as an antidote to mass-market fragrance, emphasizing freshly blended bottles, simple formulas and a return to perfumery as an artisan practice rather than a marketing machine.

At the heart of Le Labo’s identity is minimalism with intention. Fragrances are named after their primary note and concentration, stripping away fantasy storytelling in favor of clarity. That simplicity, however, is deceptive. Many Le Labo scents balance familiar structures with subtle complexity, allowing them to feel both approachable and quietly distinctive. Over time, the brand developed a devoted following, with certain releases achieving near-mythical status and redefining what a modern niche “cult scent” looks like.

In 2014, Le Labo was acquired by Estée Lauder, a move that sparked debate among fragrance enthusiasts. While production scaled and availability expanded, the brand’s core DNA remained intact: minimalist design, high-quality materials and a strong sense of identity. Today, Le Labo occupies a unique space: niche in spirit, luxury in price and unmistakably recognizable in scent. Love it or question the hype, Le Labo has undeniably shaped modern fragrance culture.

Joe A.’s Starter Pack

Santal 33
Dry woods, leather and spice that became a cultural phenomenon. Overexposed or not, this scent changed the game and still defines the brand.

Another 13
Clean, musky and quietly addictive. Feels like skin, warmth and presence without trying too hard — one of Le Labo’s most wearable creations.

Rose 31
A darker, spicier take on rose that leans unisex without apology. Elegant, grounded and far more versatile than its name suggests.

Le Labo is proof that fragrance doesn’t need to shout to be influential. Sometimes a whisper reshapes the room.

What say you, guys? Have you gotten your nose on any of these, and if so, what’s been your experience? Do you see Le Labo as authentic niche or luxury minimalism taken too far? If you could only keep one Le Labo bottle, which one earns the shelf space? Love to hear from ya!