Athena by Cipher
Eau de Parfum
Cipher
Favourite
Cipher
Innovative indie brand crafting narrative-driven fragrances.
About Cipher
Cipher is a British indie fragrance brand founded in 2018 by Sarah McCartney. The brand is known for its artistic approach to perfumery, focusing on storytelling and unique scent compositions. Cipher's fragrances are crafted with a keen attention to detail, often exploring complex themes and narratives through olfactory experiences. The brand has quickly gained a reputation for its innovative use of ingredients and its commitment to creating scents that challenge conventional fragrance norms. Based in the UK, Cipher continues to push the boundaries of indie perfumery, offering a range of scents that appeal to those seeking something truly distinctive.
At a Glance
The Brand
Founded
2018
Founder
Sarah McCartney
Country
United Kingdom
Category
Indie
Scent Personality
Worth It?
Scent DNA
Woody
Spicy
Floral
- Cipher's scents are recognisable for their narrative-driven compositions, often featuring unexpected ingredient pairings and a focus on storytelling
- The brand uses high-quality natural ingredients to create complex, layered fragrances
Top Notes
Base Notes
Typical Performance
Longevity
Long
Projection
Moderate
Positioning
A indie, mid house known for woody compositions.
How It Compares
- → More experimental than Penhaligon's
- → Less mainstream than Tom Ford
Who It's For
Best For
- Fragrance enthusiasts seeking unique, narrative-driven scents
- Individuals who appreciate complex, layered compositions
- Those looking for a distinctive signature scent
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- Unique and innovative scent compositions
- High-quality natural ingredients
- Strong narrative focus in fragrance creation
Weaknesses
- Limited availability compared to mainstream brands
- Might be too avant-garde for traditional fragrance lovers
Brand Evolution
Since its inception in 2018, Cipher has maintained its focus on creating narrative-driven fragrances. The brand has evolved by expanding its range to include more diverse scent profiles, while continuing to emphasize unique ingredient combinations and storytelling.
Quick Verdict
Cipher offers bold, narrative-driven fragrances that stand out for their creativity and complexity. Ideal for those seeking something beyond the mainstream, but may not suit traditionalists.
Cipher Perfumes