Christine Nagel

About

Christine Nagel is a Swiss perfumer renowned for her innovative approach and influential presence in the fragrance industry. Born in Geneva in 1959 to an Italian mother and Swiss father, Nagel’s early fascination with scent was shaped by her family and a multicultural upbringing. Originally pursuing medicine, she shifted to chemistry at the University of Geneva, a decision that would open the door to her career in perfumery. Beginning in the research department at Firmenich, Nagel developed a rare expertise in chromatography, becoming one of the few perfumers able to identify fragrance ingredients by nose alone. After leaving Firmenich, she became a highly sought-after independent perfumer in Italy and later Paris, creating numerous hits for leading brands. Nagel’s portfolio includes iconic creations such as Narciso Rodriguez for Her (with Francis Kurkdjian), Miss Dior Chérie, Armani Sì, and Jo Malone London’s Wood Sage & Sea Salt. In 2014, she joined Hermès, initially working alongside Jean-Claude Ellena before becoming the sole in-house perfumer and Director of Olfactive Creation in 2016. Nagel has received prestigious accolades from the Fragrance Foundation France, the François Coty Foundation, and international fragrance awards. Her impact on Hermès is marked by modern classics like Galop d’Hermès and Twilly d’Hermès, and she stands out as one of the first women to hold the top olfactory post at a major luxury house.