Isabelle Doyen
A French perfumer renowned for her iconic work with Annick Goutal. She now co-heads Voyages Imaginaires, known for translating literary inspirations into highly original, poetic fragrances.
France
About Isabelle Doyen
A French perfumer who played a pivotal role in shaping the identity of the legendary house Annick Goutal (now Goutal). Renowned for her highly poetic, unconventional creations, she is currently the co-founder of the all-natural fragrance house Voyages Imaginaires.
Career
Doyen spent much of her childhood in Tahiti, where the tropical environment first awakened her senses. After graduating from ISIPCA, she met Annick Goutal in 1985, sparking a lifelong creative partnership that produced numerous iconic fragrances. Following the founder's passing, Doyen continued to compose for the house alongside Annick's daughter, Camille Goutal. Furthermore, as a dedicated and long-standing professor at ISIPCA, Doyen has mentored a new generation of master perfumers, including industry stars like Francis Kurkdjian and Mathilde Laurent.
Creative Style & Philosophy
Describing herself as an "enthusiastic sponge," Doyen eagerly absorbs inspiration from a wide array of sources, including classical music, painting, and literature—particularly citing the works of Jorge Luis Borges as her ultimate mentor. She approaches perfumery with a strong desire to translate words, emotions, and memories into scent. In her recent venture with Voyages Imaginaires, she embraces the profound challenge of creating highly abstract, sophisticated fragrances using exclusively 100% natural ingredients, pushing the boundaries of botanical perfumery.
Signature Works
- *Petite Chérie* — Goutal fragrance. A useful reference for material handling and structure.
- *Nuit de Bakélite* — A related work showing the range of the perfumer's expression.
- *Mandragore* — A related work showing the range of the perfumer's expression.
- *Le Chèvrefeuille* — Goutal fragrance. A related work showing the range of the perfumer's expression.
