Luxury French beauty house Lancôme is celebrating its monumental 90th anniversary with the launch of the “Les Exceptionnels” Collection, a meticulously curated line that pays homage to the brand’s rich heritage while embracing future innovation. The collection is a vibrant reinterpretation of Lancôme’s most iconic products from 1935 to the present, focusing particularly on luxurious matte lipsticks, vintage powder compacts, and heritage fragrances. Far from being a mere retrospective, “Les Exceptionnels” masterfully bridges the gap between classic French glamour and modern performance. This release serves as both a tribute to the brand’s founder, Armand Petitjean, and a declaration of Lancôme’s enduring position at the zenith of the global luxury cosmetics market.
The Return of Matte Luxury: L’Absolu Rouge 1935
The centerpiece of the “Les Exceptionnels” collection is the re-issue and modernization of one of Lancôme’s first and most successful formulas: the matte lipstick.
The new L’Absolu Rouge 1935 Matte collection revisits the profound, highly pigmented matte finish that was a signature of early French glamour. The formula has been updated with modern technology, incorporating Pro-Xylane™ and Hyaluronic Acid for comfort, ensuring the velvety matte look doesn’t compromise on hydration or feel tight on the lips. The shade range for this collection is intensely focused on classic reds and deep roses—colors that defined the elegance of the 1930s—presented in sleek, vintage-inspired gold packaging. This particular launch successfully marries historical aesthetics with the contemporary demand for long-wear, comfortable matte formulas, embodying the collection’s core mission.
Heritage Reimagined: The Powder and Compacts
In a direct nod to the brand’s early success in the decorative cosmetics market, the anniversary collection includes exquisitely designed powder compacts that double as collectors’ pieces.
Lancôme has re-released the iconic Poudre Magique Compact, a design originally famous for its intricate, engraved casing. The new version features a micro-fine, blurring powder engineered for high-definition photography, providing a flawless, airbrushed finish while absorbing excess shine. The compacts themselves are crafted from polished metal with art deco detailing, mirroring the luxury jewelry and accessories of the 1930s. This item is positioned not just as a cosmetic necessity, but as a reimagined luxury accessory—a keepsake that speaks to the enduring glamour associated with the brand’s nearly century-long history.
The Scent of History: Iconic Fragrance Revivals
No Lancôme anniversary is complete without celebrating its foundation in perfumery, and the “Les Exceptionnels” collection features exclusive fragrance revivals.
The collection includes a limited-edition presentation of the brand’s first five fragrances, originally launched in 1935. Most notably, a modern interpretation of the legendary scent “Trésor” is included. The anniversary edition is a richer, more concentrated Parfum Extrait version, emphasizing the key notes of rose, apricot blossom, and sandalwood. The revival is packaged in a unique, limited-edition glass bottle inspired by an archived 1940s design. This segment of the collection taps into the profound emotional connection consumers have with classic scents, offering a sophisticated link back to the brand’s heritage as a master parfumer.
A Declaration of Enduring Luxury
The “Les Exceptionnels” Collection is more than a sales initiative; it is a powerful statement about Lancôme’s enduring identity and its vision for the next decade.
The collection emphasizes the brand’s three pillars: science, service, and French spirit. By showcasing the evolution of its formulas (from the historical matte lipsticks to the modern comfort they now offer), Lancôme reinforces its commitment to scientific excellence. The limited availability and exquisite packaging reinforce its position in the luxury segment, targeting consumers who value heritage and exclusivity. Ultimately, this collection serves as a vibrant reaffirmation that Lancôme, founded on a love for women and the French art of living, remains dedicated to defining beauty for generations to come.
