I walked into the Aesop store at Tysons Corner intending to buy Above Us Steorra. I walked out with two bottles instead. That outcome feels familiar in Aesop spaces. The brand has a way of drawing you in, not through spectacle, but through coherence. At roughly $200 for 50 ml, these perfumes are considered purchases, yet they rarely feel indulgent. They feel intentional.
The Aesop World
Aesop was founded in 1987 in Melbourne, Australia, by Dennis Paphitis, who began formulating products in his hair salon with a focus on ingredient integrity, sensory experience, and thoughtful design. The brand grew steadily and internationally, maintaining a reputation for disciplined aesthetics and carefully considered formulations.
In 2012, Aesop sold a majority stake to Natura & Co, which later took full ownership, supporting its global expansion. In 2023, Aesop was acquired by L’Oréal, becoming part of its luxury portfolio. Despite these changes in ownership, Aesop has retained its core philosophy. The brand’s emphasis on material quality, restrained design, and sensory clarity continues to define its skincare, body care, and fragrance offerings today.
The Perfumer
Aurner was created by Céline Barel (of IFF), a long-term collaborator of the house and the perfumer behind Tacit and Above US.
Her work for Aesop consistently shows a sense of structure and restraint, with compositions that feel deliberate and grounded rather than expressive for effect. That sensibility is present here from the first spray.
How Aurner Smells
The opening introduces cardamom and pink pepper with a gentle citrus brightness. Cedarwood and sandalwood establish the structure early, bringing warmth and a smooth, creamy depth that anchors the fragrance. The heart is shaped by magnolia leaf, supported by chamomile and geranium. This combination creates a green, aromatic profile with a soft, tea-like quality that adds dimension without shifting the focus away from the woods.
As the fragrance develops, cypriol, cedar, and sandalwood define the base. Cardamom moves quietly through the composition from beginning to end, creating continuity and balance. The progression feels fluid and measured, unfolding at a steady pace.
The Wear
On skin, Aurner wears with controlled projection and strong longevity. It stays present throughout the day, gradually settling closer while maintaining its shape and clarity. It feels composed, versatile, and deeply wearable, the kind of fragrance that becomes part of routine rather than a moment of performance.
Aurner now sits comfortably alongside Gloam and Above Us Steorra in my collection. Together, they reflect Aesop’s aromatic language with precision and confidence. These are fragrances designed to be lived with, integrated into daily rhythm and ritual.
Elevated Classics Classification
Primary Category: Designer Brand
Secondary Tags: Corporate-Owned, Brand Integrity Maintained, Unknown Production
Perfumer: Céline Barel
Launch Year: 2025
Olfactive Family: Woody Aromatic
Seasonality: Year-round
Price Point: Approx. $200 for 50 ml
Signature Potential: High for those drawn to composed, textural fragrances
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