Founded in Paris in 1828 by Pierre-François Pascal Guerlain, a perfumer and chemist
One of the oldest fragrance houses still in continuous operation
Run by five generations of the same family until 1994, when it joined LVMH
Created the perfume Jicky in 1889, considered one of the first modern fragrances to use synthetic ingredients alongside natural ones
Has produced more than 600 fragrances over nearly 200 years
Known for enduring classics including Shalimar, Mitsouko, L'Heure Bleue, and Vetiver
Guerlain is one of the true originators of modern perfumery, founded in Paris in 1828 and run by the same family for five generations before joining LVMH in 1994. Its early work helped define what a fine fragrance house even is, including the 1889 creation of Jicky, a landmark scent still considered a turning point in perfume history.
The house is known for a distinct, recognizable style built around a signature blend the family called the "Guerlinade," a mix of warmth, vanilla, and depth that runs through many of its classics. If you want to understand where a lot of modern perfumery actually comes from, Guerlain is one of the clearest places to start.