- Jin Abe Perfumes -
Unveiling the enigmatic persona of Jin Abe, the revered Japanese fashion designer (born Hirokazu Abe) remains a tantalizing pursuit. Hailing from Gunma Prefecture and an alumnus of Sugino Dressmaker College in Japan (1968), he embarked on a transformative journey in the early 1970s. As with his contemporaries, Jin Abe aspired to conquer the realm of haute couture in the fashion capital of Paris. His exceptional talent soon captured the attention of Emmanuel Ungaro, who graciously welcomed him as his esteemed assistant (1977-1984).
In 1985, the world witnessed the grand debut of Jin Abe's magnificent couture collection in Paris. Although records detailing this momentous event are scarce, glimpses of his distinctive style can be discerned in the evocative coverage of Paris Fashion Week 1992 (featured above). Noteworthy collaborations with esteemed milliner Stephen Jones (1991-1994) resulted in ethereal bridal headwear showcased alongside his creations. The illustrious 1990s witnessed a triumphant era for the designer, as supermodels Claudia Schiffer, Christy Turlington, Naomi Campbell, and Tyra Banks gracefully donned his masterpieces. Prior to becoming the iconic face of Dolce Vita Christian Dior, Heather Stewart-White epitomized the spirit of the Jin Abe brand (as depicted in the poster below). Consequently, the emergence of Jin Abe Parfums toward the end of the decade came as no surprise.
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| Jin Abe |
The inaugural fragrance from Jin Abe presented an olfactory marvel, characterized by a bottle adorned with a stopper fashioned into the likeness of a lengthy seashell or the spiraling horn of a mythical creature. Though scarce in number, these extraordinary bottles are distinguishable by their two glass "legs" accompanying the unique "horn."
Symbolically, the fragrance is akin to a "unicorn" due to its elusive nature, remaining shrouded in obscurity. While a couple of subsequent Jin Abe de fragrances—an eau de toilette for men and a daytime perfume for women—were released in 2003, they garnered even less recognition.
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| JIN Abe |
Jin Abe's olfactory opus aligns with the gourmand trend, echoing the harmonious fusion of praline and patchouli initiated by Angel Mugler and Lolita Lempicka. Additionally, it resonates with fruity oriental compositions akin to Casmir Chopard or Kashaya Kenzo. However, Jin Abe ventures forth with a sense of measured restraint, avoiding an overwhelming plunge into the saccharine abyss of caramel and honey. Its sweetness manifests as gentle and powdery, exuding elegance. Surprisingly, even those who have never fancied themselves as connoisseurs of sweetness, eschewing caramel, praline, and cotton candy since childhood, find this composition agreeable. In fact, it can be regarded as a precursor to Prada Candy (2011) and the groundbreaking "Molecule" fragrance, offering a similarly delightful wearing experience.
It's important to note that the initial burst of fresh fruit notes in Jin Abe gracefully dissipates over time, akin to the fleeting freshness found in Mure et Musc L'Artisan Parfumeur. However, traces of an aquatic essence linger. While the fleeting fruit accord undergoes a somewhat less graceful evolution, the fragrance flourishes from the emergence of violet powder and delicate rose notes. The exquisite journey culminates in a warm base comprising Iso E Super, vanilla, musk, and a subtle hint of caramel. Overall, it emanates a positive aura, remaining pleasant and unassuming—an olfactory ode to the inner essence of womanhood.
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| Jin Abe |
Regrettably, Jin Abe's fragrance has long been discontinued, snatched up by enterprising traders from the former CIS countries. Presently, this rare gem remains relatively affordable, with an abundance of inexpensive minis available on the secondary market.
Jin Abe Perfumes—An olfactory symphony awaits:
- Top notes: Pineapple, Apple, Mango, and Watermelon
- Middle notes: Jasmine, Anise, Violet, and Rose
- Base notes: Praline, Patchouli, Tonka Bean, Vanilla, and Musk.