Caroline Dumur | Perfumer

Material, texture and a fearless approach to composition

Caroline Dumur studied chemistry before completing a master’s degree at ISIPCA in Versailles. Her professional education continued within IFF’s internal training programme, where Anne Flipo mentored her in raw materials, accords and the structures of classical perfumery.

Dumur has described painting as an important source of inspiration and materials as elements that can be arranged to create emotion. Her work for Masque Milano’s Love Kills developed a rose idea through a conversation about texture, density and the darker aspects of the flower.

In a Penhaligon’s interview about Fortuitous Finley, she explained another material-led approach, bringing together pistachio, patchouli and the suede-like aspect of violet. She emphasised dosage, balance and the readability of the original intention. These projects show a recurring interest in translating tactile or visual impressions into fragrance while ensuring that a distinctive idea remains clear through the composition’s evolution.