Reading has so many benefits for our well-being: it reduces stress, develops empathy, enriches our vocabulary, and transports us through time and space. It’s quite incredible to see how deeply certain authors can leave a lasting mark on us. Whether in our youth or at any moment in our lives, books have this power to shape our dreams and the way we see the world.

For me, one particular female author has been a profound source of inspiration. Jane Austen is one of those figures who has left a lasting imprint on my life and I imagine on many others as well.

A brief portrait

Jane Austen was an English author from the early 19th century who captured the nuances of her society with subtle humor and great intelligence. She’s especially known for novels like Sense and Sensibility or Pride and Prejudice, which is by far my favorite book, one I used to reread every year, almost like a ritual. And if you haven’t read it yet, I can only encourage you to dive into it right now.

As a woman writing at a time when literature was largely dominated by men, Jane Austen paved the way for many female authors after her.

In her novels, she portrayed heroines who didn’t just follow conventions but asserted their desires and choices within a very codified society, one with strict social norms, especially for women. It was precisely in this context that Jane Austen shone, creating female characters who, while appearing to conform to their era’s expectations, had their own opinions, were determined, and carved out their own paths. She gave a voice to female characters who were realistic, full of wit, and deeply human, showing that even in a very structured society, it was possible for women to express their strength and individuality.

It’s this ability to blend gentleness, humor, and strength of character that makes Jane Austen a timeless inspiration for me. As a woman creator and business founder, I’ve often identified with these heroines who dare to chart their own course.

From literature to perfume

So it felt only natural for me to celebrate Jane Austen through a perfume on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of her birth. Jane, my new creation and the result of several months of work, is an olfactory tribute to this writer and the heroines who have inspired me so much.

At first, I explored different directions, much like flipping through a novel. I wanted to combine the English romanticism of that era, the beauty of the landscapes, and an apparent softness… all while letting a certain character emerge.

An initial version was very rustic, with green, bucolic notes built around tomato leaf, celery, rose, and tuberose. But that wasn’t quite the image of Jane I had in mind.

Gradually, I refined my vision, selecting precious, bold, and character-filled materials:
boronia for its subtle gourmand touch and rarity.
Violet for its vivid and audacious side, white tea for its freshness and softness, blue lotus for its originality and of course, tuberose to bring that assertive character and sensuality that defines the fragrance.

This creation opens with freshness and a slight piquancy, then evolves into a generous and bold heart before revealing its true character with gentle ease. Jane is not just a perfume.
It’s an invitation to travel through Jane Austen’s world, to surrender to the timeless grace of her heroines, and to be carried away by a bucolic, vibrant, and characterful poetry.

And you, do you have an author who has left an unforgettable mark on your journey?

Feel free to share your own stories in the comments.