SKINS LAYER+ INTERVIEW:
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN NICHE RETAIL
WITH THE LAUNCH OF LAYER+
After 25 years of shaping the Dutch niche perfume landscape, Skins launches its own fragrance concept, Layer+. A bold move rooted in experience, creativity, and collaboration with leading fragrance houses. In this in-depth Skins Layer+ interview, Co-Founder Philip Hillege reflects on the evolution of the niche market, the idea behind Layer+, and why this launch represents a natural next step.
AFTER 25 YEARS OF RETAIL EXPERIENCE
Launching Layer+ was not about creating another perfume. It was about introducing a new way of wearing fragrance. As Philip Hillege explains in this Skins Layer+ interview, the idea grew from decades of observing how people connect with scent.
Instead of building a traditional fragrance with a clear top, heart, and base, Layer+ focuses on carefully selected captives. These compositions are designed to interact with other perfumes, enhancing certain facets rather than replacing them. The result is a more personal and flexible way of wearing fragrance.
Developed in collaboration with leading fragrance houses, the concept brings together retail insight and technical expertise, reflecting the experience Skins has gained over 25 years in the niche fragrance world.
IN CONVERSATION WITH PHILIP HILLEGE
“AFTER 25 YEARS, YOU SOMETIMES FEEL LIKE EVERYTHING HAS ALREADY BEEN INVENTED. THAT MAKES TRUE INNOVATION EVEN MORE CHALLENGING”
THE CHANGING FACE OF NICHE FRAGRANCE
During the conversation, Philip Hillege also reflects on how the niche market has evolved. When Skins first started, niche perfume was truly niche. Distribution was limited and awareness was small.
Today, the category has matured. While still relatively selective compared to mainstream luxury, niche fragrance has become more visible and more influential. At the same time, the balance between creativity and commercial growth has become increasingly important.
