Shalimar and the Jazz Age: Guerlain, Glamour,

and the Art of Fragrance

About the Event:

Join us for an intimate and elegant evening at the Guerlain Spa, located on the fifth floor of the landmarked Waldorf Astoria New York. The program will feature a special presentation by Nicholas Fait, offering a fascinating exploration of the history, artistry, and cultural influence of the legendary French perfume house Guerlain.

Set against the refined backdrop of the Spa, guests will enjoy prosecco and light refreshments while immersing themselves in the world of fragrance and design. The presentation will trace Guerlain’s evolution from its early beginnings to its emergence as one of the world’s most celebrated luxury brands, with particular focus on the transformative Art Deco era of the 1920s and 1930s.

Highlights of the evening will include an in-depth look at Shalimar and other iconic fragrances of the Jazz Age, examining their groundbreaking scent compositions, exquisite bottle designs, and the innovative marketing strategies that helped establish Guerlain’s global reputation. The talk will also explore how the brand reflected the changing role of women during the interwar period, as modernity, glamour, and independence became defining themes of the era.

The evening will conclude with an immersive sensory experience, allowing attendees to encounter these historic fragrances firsthand and gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and cultural legacy of one of the world’s most influential perfume houses.

About the Speaker:

Nicholas Fait is a New York City–based Guerlain fragrance expert, luxury beauty specialist, and makeup artist specializing in haute parfumerie, fragrance storytelling, and elevated client experiences. Working from the legendary Waldorf Astoria New York, Nicholas is recognized for his extensive expertise in the House of Guerlain — from its heritage, raw materials, and legendary creations to its modern artistic direction and exclusive fragrance collections.

With a deep understanding of Guerlain’s olfactive architecture, signature Guerlinade accord, and the artistry behind collections such as L’Art & La Matière and Les Extraits, Nicholas guides clients through bespoke fragrance journeys that are both highly educational and emotionally resonant. His expertise extends beyond fragrance notes into ingredient sourcing, perfumery history, layering techniques, and the emotional language of scent.

Combining refined luxury service with encyclopedic fragrance knowledge, Nicholas creates immersive experiences that merge beauty, hospitality, and the timeless sophistication of French perfumery. His philosophy centers on fragrance as an extension of identity — a personal and transformative expression of memory, emotion, and artistry.

Registration:

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