Guerlain introduced Jicky in 1889, and it is often called the first modern perfume.
The fragrance was created by Aimé Guerlain, who used synthetic materials alongside natural ingredients. This combination helped distinguish Jicky from many earlier perfumes, which were more heavily based on traditional botanical materials.
Jicky is also notable for its complex structure and its use of materials such as coumarin and vanillin. Its aromatic, lavender-led character influenced the development of later fougère-style fragrances.
“First modern perfume” is a widely used description rather than a universally regulated title. It usually refers to Jicky’s historic blend of synthetic aroma chemicals, natural materials, and a more developed perfume composition. Jicky should not be confused with Shalimar, another famous Guerlain fragrance introduced later, in 1925.