MERIT made a name for itself with quick and easy minimalist makeup, so it’s no surprise that the brand’s fragrances follow the same concept: a signature scent for everyday use. Today, MERIT has launched New Wave L’Extrait de Parfum ($92 for 30ml), a departure from their first fragrance, Retrospect, which debuted in 2024. I had the opportunity to sit down with the brand and the perfumers behind the new scent to learn more.
The Inspiration
New Wave was a collaboration between French master perfumer Dominique Ropion and Irish perfumer Meabh McCurtin from IFF. Lola Gonzalez Marra, vice president of creative at MERIT Beauty, describes the warm, spicy-floral scent as being inspired by surrealist art and emotions of power, sensuality, and optimism.
McCurtin shared, “The [MERIT] team came together for an intensive workshop-like week. It was a collaborative experience where we made tweaks daily, testing it on the skin. The emphasis was on confidence, sensuality, and a contemporary yet classic feel—steering clear of trends.”
MERIT
New Wave L’Extrait de Parfum
What New Wave Smells Like
New Wave is a bold statement fragrance. Gonzalez Marra explains, “We aimed to create something classic yet futuristic, pristine, exciting, and confident.” The scent features top notes of pink pepper and angelica seed, a floral heart of orange flower and ylang ylang, and a rich base of various ingredients including patchouli, musk, and vanilla.
This fragrance is perfect for those who enjoy amber florals with a touch of modernity. As an extrait, it contains a high concentration of perfume oil, ensuring a long-lasting scent. With its warm and enveloping aroma, New Wave is ideal for the fall and winter seasons.