In recent years, Commodity has enriched the world of niche perfumery with fresh ideas and a clear sense of design. Founded in the USA in 2013, the label reinterprets fragrance in an innovative, streamlined, and contemporary way. While many fragrance houses embellish their creations with elaborate backstories, Commodity relies on a clear, minimalist language. Its guiding principle: simplicity is the ultimate luxury. This philosophy runs consistently through every detail – from the purist design of the bottles to the carefully considered concept of each creation. Instead of unnecessary flourishes and ornate embellishments, the brand places the spotlight firmly on the fragrance itself: high-quality raw materials, sophisticated compositions, and an olfactory experience that leaves room for the wearer’s personality to unfold.
Simplicity as the new luxury
In a world that is becoming ever faster, busier, and louder, Commodity – modern niche fragrances from the USA – stands for a refreshing return to essentials. These fragrances are not designed to overwhelm everything around them, but rather to set a subtle, deliberately chosen accent in everyday life. Here, luxury does not mean opulence, but a focus on what truly matters. Commodity’s perfumes impress with their clear signature: modern, minimalist, and right on point.
This simplicity also makes the brand accessible to people who have had little experience with niche perfumery so far. High perfumery does not have to be elitist – and that is precisely what Commodity demonstrates. Instead of getting lost in elaborate stories or transporting us in thought to distant places, the American brand is concerned with how a fragrance feels in the here and now: direct, honest, transparent.
Vicken Arslanian and the philosophy of Commodity
Commodity was brought to life in 2013 through a crowdfunding campaign – an unusual start for a fragrance house, which placed the perfume-loving community at its center from the very beginning. After changing ownership several times over the years, the label was acquired in 2019 by Vicken Arslanian, founder of the U.S. niche fragrance distributor Europerfumes.
As an experienced entrepreneur in the field of niche perfumery, Arslanian has successfully introduced renowned brands such as Xerjoff, Roja, and Juliette Has a Gun to the U.S. market. With Commodity, his aim was to carry forward the original idea – fragrances that are modern, clear, and accessible – and to let the brand shine in new splendor.
Trained as an architect, Arslanian brings a special sensitivity for structure, design, and proportion, qualities that are reflected both visually and olfactorily in the compositions. Clean lines, a minimalist aesthetic, and a fragrance concept that consciously redefines modern perfumery.
Scent space concept at Commodity
What makes Commodity particularly fascinating is its Scent Space concept, which gives the brand its distinctive edge. Every individual has different needs when it comes to how their fragrance radiates. Some prefer perfumes that remain close to the skin – minimalistic and understated – while others desire a presence that can be noticed within their immediate surroundings. And then there are those who love it when their fragrance fills an entire room.
This is precisely where Commodity comes in. Each creation is “formulated with a concentration of 15–25%, which technically makes them all Eau de Parfum.” The difference with this American brand does not lie in longevity, but rather in the sillage – in other words, how far a fragrance unfolds and can be perceived by others.
The Scent Space concept is divided into three lines, each addressing different needs. The Personal Collection is for those who appreciate subtle fragrances: like a delicate veil, they rest on the skin and are perceived almost exclusively by the wearer and those closest to them. Those looking for a harmonious balance between presence and discretion will find it in the Expressive Collection, which for many represents the perfect middle ground.
Expressive fragrances are noticeable and perceptible without ever feeling overwhelming, making them ideal companions for everyday wear. And finally, there is the Bold Collection, designed as more intense, amplified interpretations of their Expressive counterparts. These fragrances are room-filling, statement-making, and perfectly suited for anyone who wants their perfume – and personality – to be seen and experienced.
With this unique concept, Commodity makes the sillage of fragrances especially tangible. Instead of focusing on complicated concentration levels such as Eau de Cologne, Eau de Toilette, or Extrait, the brand reduces the choice to what truly matters: How near or far do you want your fragrance to be perceived?
Each creation is available in three Scent Space versions, offering a truly tailored fragrance experience – from the intimate Personal edition, to the balanced Expressive, and finally the powerful Bold statement. This system demonstrates just how versatile modern perfumery can be – and that, in the end, it’s not about rules but about personality.
How this philosophy is brought to life in individual compositions will become clear in the following reviews, where I’ll introduce you to the Commodity fragrances in more detail – each presented in all three Scent Space variations. Are you ready?
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