Vieux Papier Perfume by Greg Parilla: Is it Worth the Hype? 

Lately, the Filipino fragrance community has been buzzing about John Greg Parilla’s Vieux Papier perfume, the first of three scents in his Dreamer collection, created in collaboration with Noah Solutions. Successfully launched on November 8, 2024, this scent quickly gained attention as it marked a major milestone in Parilla’s journey as a fragrance influencer. If you’re part of the fragrance community in the Philippines, you likely know him and his dedication to the art of scent.

As the flagship scent of the collection from the “Dreamer” himself, this perfume has piqued the interest of scent enthusiasts all over the Philippines. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out.

Vieux Papier Perfume Presentation

When you purchase the fragrance, the front of the packaging features an almost holographic Art Deco design that represents “old money,” giving it a Gatsby-like style and a magnetic box. This is an Eau De Parfum concentration in a 50ml bottle. 

The bottle itself is very minimalist, simple yet luxurious, and features the monogram “GP” on the top of the cap. If you’re wondering how to pronounce Vieux Papier, it’s “view pah-pee-yay.” This French phrase translates to “Old Paper,” hinting at its vintage, refined vibe.

Vision & Inspiration

The inspiration behind this perfume is the “old money” aesthetic or lifestyle, embodying the idea of “money talks, wealth whispers.” Greg’s vision for this perfume reflects his personality—a reserved type of person who prefers a luxurious scent that doesn’t scream for attention. In short, mayaman pero hindi mayabang. 

This perfume is not inspired by any existing fragrances, meaning no other perfumes were copied in its creation. The “nose” behind this unique scent is none other than the Filipino perfumer, Mr. Renato Lopena Jr., a natural perfumer and perfumotherapist.

Aside from Vieux Papier, two additional scents are set to join the Dreamer collection:

• Mémoire de Montagne
• Éclat Noir

Each of these fragrances captures a unique facet of the Dreamer theme, promising to offer a distinctive olfactory experience to scent enthusiasts.

Read more: Perfume Terms & Acronyms Commonly Used in Fraghead Philippines

Scent Profile of Vieux Papier

Image source from Noah Solutions.

Here’s a closer look at what makes Vieux Papier so unique:

• Top Notes: Bergamot, Rosemary, Juniper Berries – These notes offer a fresh and aromatic start, giving the fragrance a lively, invigorating feel.
• Middle Notes: Lavender, Cinnamon – The heart of the fragrance provides warmth and a hint of spice, creating a cozy atmosphere.
• Base Notes: Patchouli, Cedar, Vetiver Filipina, Oakmoss, Suede – These deep and earthy notes add richness and elegance, grounding the scent in sophistication.

This scent is like a modern Fougère. If you’re unfamiliar with Fougère fragrances, they’re commonly found in classic perfumes like Azzaro Pour Homme, Drakkar Noir, and Paco Rabanne Pour Homme—often referred to as having an “old-fashioned” scent. However, the good thing here is that they’ve given it a modern twist.

They added a paper accord to this fragrance to achieve a “paper bill” scent, or “amoy pera.” One standout ingredient is the Philippine Vetiver or Vetiver Filipina. Sourced from vetiver grass that is native to the Philippines, this essential oil adds a distinctly earthy tone that enhances the fragrance’s luxurious vibe.

Longevity and Performance

This perfume lasts about 6-8 hours on the skin and up to 12+ hours on clothes, depending on your skin type. Designed to help you smell good all day, its subtle scent is perfect for those who prefer a more personal fragrance experience rather than something overpowering.

Vieux Papier is crafted to be appreciated up close, perfect for individuals who value elegance and depth over boldness. Its quiet presence makes it ideal for any occasion, adding a touch of sophistication without drawing too much attention.

Related article: 3 Most Effective Ways to Make Your Perfume Last Longer

Is Vieux Papier Perfume Right for Me?

If you’re drawn to refined, woody fragrances with a rich, earthy depth, Vieux Papier could be an exceptional addition to your collection. This fragrance offers a unique blend of warm, spicy, and slightly herbal notes, creating a sophisticated and layered scent that appeals to those who appreciate complexity.

However, it may not be the best choice for a blind buy, as its nuanced profile might not suit everyone’s taste. Vieux Papier embodies a quiet luxury—a scent that whispers elegance and maturity, perfect for those seeking a subtle yet opulent fragrance experience.

So, Is Vieux Papier Worth the Hype?

Absolutely, and even more so as it marks the beginning of a new era for Filipino niche fragrances. With its exquisite blend of high-quality ingredients and sophisticated design, Vieux Papier offers a refined fragrance experience at an affordable price of just Php 1,500.00. It’s an exciting addition to the Filipino fragrance scene, making it a must-try for fragheads and community members alike!