Acqua di Parma x Clym Evernden

We appreciate icons here at Ape to Gentleman HQ, and few scents come as close to iconic status in the world of male grooming as Acqua di Parma Colonia. The fragrance launched way back in 1916 and has remained unchanged since.

For the collectors amongst you – or for those feeling especially generous this Christmas – the luxury fragrance house has launched a special edition bottle designed by London-based artist Clym Evernden. Clym, who has worked with names such as Louis Vuitton, Net-A-Porter and Moët amongst others, happened to be fan of the brand, which made life a little easier for him when it came to collaborating on the project.

Laura Burdese, CEO of Acqua di Parma, says of the partnership:

“Clym won us over with the authentic elegance of his works. There is nothing artificial in his art, only an instinctive and incredible sophisticated simplicity, a subtle yet profound sense of joy, just like the informal non-clichéd elegance that characterises our brand. Clym perfectly interprets the lifestyle of Colonia, Acqua di Parma’s signature scent that embodies all our values.”

Clym has used his signature fluid graphic black lines across the entire art deco bottle, and again on the iconic hat box in the “Parma yellow”, which ties in perfectly with the Acqua di Parma aesthetic. It’s definitely a unique partnership, and one which embodies the brand’s passion for craftsmanship along with Clym’s distinct style. “I developed the character to show little stories of joyful experiences, at one point on the bottle he’s skiing, then shopping, perched on a window sill admiring the view. I wanted the design to flow from one scene to the next,” says Clym.

It doesn’t stop at Colonia. He’s gone on to create a full Christmas collection – making for some seriously handsome gifting – which runs the gamut from hand cream and hand wash through to home essentials such as candles, diffusers and even scented drawer liners.

All are available at acquadiparma.com now.