Introducing New Wave L’Extrait de Parfum by MERIT

What if a fragrance could capture the feeling of stepping into your power?

Introducing New Wave L’Extrait de Parfum (€37-€98), MERIT’s second fragrance.

Following the introduction of Retrospect two years ago, MERIT takes a distinctly different direction with New Wave, an expressive, sensual scent that balances bright optimism with a deep, enveloping warmth. If Retrospect is introverted, New Wave is its more extroverted counterpart, created for those who gravitate towards a bigger, brighter fragrance experience.

Developed over two and a half years, New Wave reimagines the traditions of classical perfumery through an unconventional amber composition. Created by master perfumer Dominique Ropion, renowned for his work on over 300 fragrances, alongside Irish perfumer Meabh McCurtin, the scent brings together traditional craftsmanship and a fresh, contemporary perspective.

“Some fragrances become references because their construction is so precise and enduring. With New Wave, I wanted to capture the spirit of classical amber compositions, such as Ambre 83, while reinterpreting them for today. The challenge was not to recreate the past, but to preserve its strength and sophistication in a fragrance that feels more radiant, and relevant to a modern audience.” 

– Dominique Ropion, Master Perfumer

The fragrance opens with the unexpected aromatic lift of pink pepper and angelica seed, before moving into a warm, solar floral heart of orange flower, ylang ylang and honeyed florals. A rich, resinous base of benzoin, incense, patchouli, cedarwood, vanilla and tonka bean adds depth and sensuality, allowing the fragrance to evolve on the skin over time.

“What excites me most about New Wave is the dialogue between tradition and emotion. We worked with exceptional raw materials that each bring their own texture and personality, but the goal was always to create a feeling rather than showcase ingredients. I wanted the fragrance to feel empowering and alive, evolving on skin in a way that feels deeply personal.”

– Meabh McCurtin, Perfumer

“Our move into fragrance two years ago aimed to bring something new to the category; an approach to fragrance that slows down and focuses on nuance. New Wave is our second foray into the fragrance space, and while it continues that perspective, it’s a distinctly new offering. We couldn’t be more excited for our community to try this next evolution of MERIT fragrance.”

– Aila Morin, CMO at MERIT

For MERIT, fragrance is about more than how a scent smells; it’s about how it makes the wearer feel. Inspired by the feeling of stepping into your power, taking up space and forging your own path, New Wave captures a sense of confidence, sensuality and optimism, leaving room for a personal interpretation that evolves with each wearer.

This philosophy extends beyond the fragrance itself through The Deck, a collection of 22 creative cards developed in collaboration with artists, poets, photographers and designers. Inspired by the interpretive nature of tarot, the cards explore themes of power, sensuality and self-definition. The Deck will be complimentary with full-size New Wave purchases or orders over €75.

NEW WAVE L’EXTRAIT DE PARFUM is available now exclusively at meritbeauty.com in 30ml full size (€98) and 9ml travel size (€37).