Shakira Shares Her Perfume 'Elixir'

For the Colombian superstar, creating a scent is just like making music—it’s all about producing something that will make her fans feel good. Here’s why she thinks her third fragrance, Elixir, hits the perfect note.

Reported to Latina Magazine

Can you describe Elixir?

“It’s sensual and feminine and, at the same time, sophisticated and elegant. It’s perfect for day and night. I think a fragrance is all about sensations and imagery, and can evoke visions, feelings and thoughts. That’s what’s beautiful about creating [a scent]; you have to take all of these elements into consideration.”

How did you come up with the concept for the bottle?

“Elixir means magical potion, so I wanted to depict the kind of bottle that was used in ancient times, but that looked modern and chic as well. I also wanted it to have a golden tint to evoke the memories of sands and sunsets. It was a challenge to achieve all that in just one bottle, but with time we made it happen.”

What about the notes?

“I like fragrances that have some sweetness to them. All three I have developed have that as a common element. It’s finding the delicate balance between flowers and fruits and primitive ingredients, such as musk. Elixir opens with neroli flower and white pepper. You’ll also find floral elements, like freesia and peony, and bottom notes of sugarcane.”

Who is the Elixir woman?

“The woman who wears this wants passion in her life but also wants to carry herself in an elegant way. A good fragrance should have a certain personality that makes people identify the scent with you. It’s important that the fragrance doesn’t arrive five minutes before you enter the room. It should be subtle. Elixir lasts for hours and people can feel it, but they have to make an effort to get close to you to feel it even more.”