Ann Gottlieb learned the art, science and business of fragrance under the personal tutelage of her mentor, Mrs. Estee Lauder. Ann founded her company, Ann Gottlieb Associates, in 1983, and has developed top-selling fragrances for every market category. She translates the vocabulary of fashion houses into the language spoken at essential oil houses, so everyone works in concert. Ann is the talent behind Calvin Klein’s latest Eternity Night line of perfumes. Read on to find out how the fragrance was created from the very start.

What were you trying to accomplish when you originally created Eternity back in 1988?
The first two fragrances in Calvin’s portfolio, Obsession and Obsession for Men, were rich, warm orientals. It was important that this new fragrance be completely different in character to tell a different story and appeal to different women and men, which is why a floral bouquet and fresh fougere were chosen.

How did you capture the sentiment of eternal love when creating Eternity?
What better expression of eternal love than a fragrance comprised of floral bouquet overflowing with roses?

What impact did Eternity have on the house of Calvin Klein and the fragrance industry in 1988?
Shortly after the blockbuster hits of Obsession and Obsession for Men, the success of Eternity cemented Calvin’s importance as not just a fashion designer, but as a fragrance designer as well.

What do you think made Eternity so successful?
The scent is a true work of art. It is beautiful, has a fantastic trail and signature, and is of great recognisable quality.

Can you describe the development process in creating Eternity?
Both Calvin and his partner, Barry Schwartz, were very much involved. This was not the first fragrance selected. Calvin decided that the first fragrance needed more work, and then when he smelled the scent that became Eternity, he knew it was right.

What makes this fragrance appealing to women when men wear it, and to men when women wear it?
Both fragrances are very identifiable. The women’s is decidedly feminine and the men’s is decidedly masculine. It is a pleasure to be close to those who are wearing them.

What are today’s emerging trends in the fragrance industry? How does Eternity fit into this trend?
Florals never go out of style and are as popular now as when the fragrance was launched in 1988. The concept of Eternity and enduring love will surely never go out of style.

What impact do you hope this fragrance will have on the house of Calvin Klein?
It will lend modernity and elegance to the Eternity brand.

Are there particular notes that make a romantic and intimate fragrance more suitable for nighttime?
Yes, the warmer and richer a fragrance, the more appropriate it is for the evening. Lighter scents that are more sheer in wear are better for day.

Calvin Klein Eternity Night is available at Wojooh, Sephora, Paris Gallery, Areej, Debenhams and all major retailers.