Filters
Acqua di Parma began as a small factory in Parma. The first fragrance, Colonia, was created in 1916 and was initially used to scent gentlemen's handkerchiefs. Over time, Colonia became a symbol of Italian elegance, adored by American and European celebrities during the pre-war 1930s and post-war 1950s. Among her admirers were Cary Grant, David Niven, Ava Gardner, Eva Turner, and later Audrey Hepburn. From its modest beginnings, Acqua di Parma grew into a prominent perfume house with a wide distribution network. However, the fickle nature of fashion and fortune led to a decline, and the brand faced years of struggle for survival and against fading into obscurity.
In the early 1990s, three influential Italians—Diego Della Valle (Tod's SpA), Luca Cordero di Montezemolo (Ferrari), and Paolo Borgomanero (La Perla)—joined forces in a patriotic effort to preserve this Italian classic and revitalize Acqua di Parma.
They revived the original fragrances and launched new initiatives, such as the Blu Mediterraneo aromatherapy line, home fragrances, and the leather goods Travel Collection. Seeking strong investments and international market positioning, these three visionaries signed a deal with luxury giant LVMH, which fully acquired Acqua di Parma in 2003. The elegant Italian brand was thus saved and successfully continued its development. Once again, Hollywood turned its attention to the small but proud Acqua di Parma, with the likes of Kevin Costner, Woody Allen, and Sharon Stone becoming fans, just as the stars of the past had been.
Acqua di Parma now has 91 perfumes in its collection, spanning from its earliest release in 1916 to the latest in 2024. These fragrances have been crafted in collaboration with renowned perfumers such as Bertrand Duchaufour, Jean-Claude Ellena, François Demachy, Michel Almairac, Françoise Caron, Francis Kurkdjian, Antoine Maisondieu, Alberto Morillas, Mélanie Carestia, Joelle Lerioux Patris, and Nicolas Bonneville.