Meet Chiaki Nomura, the Perfumer Behind the AAPI Heritage Month Capsule Collection from Bath & Body Works

This May, Bath & Works celebrated Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage month with a special capsule collection from perfumer Chiaki Nomura.

Nomura, who grew up in Japan, has created some of the most loved and sought-after Bath & Body Works scents. Her travels to over 40 countries have inspired some of her popular fragrances, including the ones in the new capsule collection: Sea Salt & Palms, Blue Orchard Skies, Flannel, and Spiced Cardamom.

AAPI Heritage Month Capsule Candle Collection

We chatted with Nomura to learn about her journey in the industry, her favorite creations, and the most surprising things she’s learned about scent.

Can you tell us about your journey in the industry and how you became a perfumer? Were you always drawn to scent?

I went to a pharmaceutical university in Tokyo wanting to become a pharmacist. When I was researching for a job, I found a fragrance company by accident. I was intrigued and got curious, so I looked into it and learned about the fragrance industry and how fragrances were created.

I always had a love for fragrance since my childhood because of the emotions they evoke. I used to put my head in a fabric bag to smell my favorite fabric softener when I was a small child. As a teenager, I used to go crazy trying perfumes at Duty Free shops overseas on family trips. I just did not know about perfumers and the fragrance industry, so everything came together when I discovered the fragrance industry. I immediately knew that it was where I wanted to be for the rest of my life.

Do you have an all-time favorite scent that you’ve created?

A woody spicy fragrance that has never made it to the market.

Can you tell us a little about your capsule collection?

This capsule collection consists of four fragrances that are inspired by my travels. I’ve lived in six countries and visited more than 40 countries. I truly love traveling the world and adventures.

Flannel is inspired by a moment cocooned in a cozy flannel blanket in a Patagonian mountain cabin on a chilly Fall night. This fragrance normally arrives in stores in Fall, so seeing it in May is special. I have always felt it has a seasonless freshness.
Spiced Cardamom was born from my visit to a very colorful and fragrant spice market in India.
Blue Orchard Skies is closer to my now home state New York. It reminds me of apple picking at an orchard upstate NY.
Sea Salt & Palms is inspired by my stay in Bali where lush palm trees, tropical forests and ocean breeze were beautifully blended.

The packaging was specially designed for this limited-edition collection and comes with my signature.

And, of course, it’s wonderful to see them all come together for this special moment at Bath & Body Works honoring AAPI month.

What are some of your favorite places that you've visited that have inspired you to create scents? Can you share a story behind one of the scents you've created?

I get inspiration from everywhere. I don’t necessarily have to travel to find something that can impact my work, which, as a creative person, I consider to be a daily gift.

For Sea Salt & Palms, I mentioned my trip to Bali, which was filled with inspiration! Particularly, one of the most imprinted memories for me was the lush palms that always seemed to have a dewy green element to them and the sea salted air. Waking up each morning, there was a contrast between this crisp green freshness and the humid salty air. I remember the moment when I realized how I could try to recreate it for Bath & Body Works. I’m so glad it came out so beautifully!

Is there anything about creating fragrances that people might find surprising?

The same ingredient smells very, very different depending on its dosage. For example, an ingredient that has a strong dirty animal-like odor could be an important facet for floral notes at a low dosage. It’s always been one of the elements of my job that continues to surprise me every day.

What are your top fragrance recommendations for creating an environment of relaxation and calm?

Hinoki, lavender, incense, and Palo santo.

A University of Michigan graduate, Lizzy Sherman is an award-winning digital content writer/editor. Her work has appeared in publications including Beauty Launchpad, Nailpro, DAYSPA, CNET, Entertainment Tonight, and more. She has been a featured guest speaker at Cal State University Northridge, Digital LA, and The National Association of Audience Marketing Professionals. When she's not writing, Lizzy enjoys yoga and playing guitar. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @zillizy, @zillizy16

lifestyleLizzy ShermanMay 28, 2023Bath & Body Works, Chiaki Nomura, AAPI Heritage Month, Chiaki Nomura capsule collection