Meet Patty Hidalgo, The Perfumer Behind Bath & Body Works’ Hispanic Heritage Month Capsule Collection
Perfumer Patty Hildago
Hispanic Heritage month (Sept. 15 to Oct. 15) celebrates the diverse culture and contributions of Hispanic Americans, Latinos, Latinas, and Latinx-identifying people. To honor Hispanic Heritage month, Bath & Body Works has launched a new capsule collection created by Patty Hidalgo, a talented perfumer with Cuban and Spanish heritage. We chatted with Hidalgo to learn about her unique journey in the industry and how the world around her inspires her scents.
Can you tell us about your journey in the industry and how you became a perfumer?
While my journey in the industry could be considered accidental, one could also consider it fate. I was on a career path to be a dentist and a two-week temp position at a fragrance house changed my entire path. I think we are all drawn to scent since birth, it is connected to all of our senses. But learning the intricacies of this amazing fragrance industry that I am so lucky to be part of is something I would never change. I am so grateful fate led me to this path.
Tiki Beach
Do you have an all-time favorite scent that you’ve created?
Tiki Beach! It was one of the first candles I ever created and this transportive moment has withstood the test of time. This fragrance also transports me to all the things I love…the beach, the sun, the waves.
What's your favorite “comfort” scent?
Being Cuban, my first memory of scent is baby cologne also known as Violetas. It’s light, easy, and always gives me sense of comfort as it reminds me of my childhood and family.
Can you tell us a little about your capsule collection?
This collection was created to transport you to your moment of happiness whether that is indulging in a delicious dessert, vacationing on an island beach, or basking in the golden warmth of a perfect fall day.
The collection embraces who I am through moments that have inspired me. Color is a big part of that since I love to paint. I wanted this collection to reflect the bright vibrancy that I use in my paintings to help capture those happy and optimistic vibes.
Strawberry Pound Cake
Can you share a story behind one of the scents you've created?
For Strawberry Pound Cake I was inspired to create a fragrance that captured a truly authentic dessert impression. A trend trek through NYC to sample the best of the best in strawberry desserts later, I felt the best way to achieve this was to partner with one of our flavorists to capture that authentic, just baked feeling to achieve that yummy and addicting indulgence.
Is there anything learned about creating fragrances that people might find surprising?
Creating fragrances is truly an art and science. It takes years and a true dedication to learn the value of each raw material we use. The beauty in creating a formula is that the possibilities are endless. With the robust catalog and tools we have at IFF we truly have the opportunity to create fragrances to help you create extraordinary sensorial experiences.
What are your top fragrance recommendations for creating an environment of relaxation and calm?
I think everyone should do what feels right to them. While there are commonalities to what we may find relaxing and calm, each of us has our own tastes and preferences and this is what makes us unique and we should welcome what makes us feel good. That is the beauty about scent, it has the power to move us, take us back in time, or wrap us in comfort with just one sniff.
A University of Michigan graduate, Lizzy Sherman is an award-winning 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