Fragrance house

Gendarme

Founded in 1983 by Topper Schroeder, a New York music executive who left the music industry to create it, Gendarme began with a search for a subtle, clean fragrance. With guidance from perfumer Tom Slatery, Schroeder developed the original scent while seeking to avoid skin irritation and asthmatic reactions. Its clean, crisp, fresh character came in a minimalist bottle, and the brand later broadened its offering under Schroeder and business partner Jonathan Risco to include additional fragrances and skincare. Early distribution grew through word of mouth: bottles given to recording artists prompted Fred Segal buyers to request the brand, and the first 700 reportedly sold out in a week, followed by 100 more in four days. The original fragrance’s fresh, crisp citrus-and-floral profile was worn by men and women, helping Gendarme move beyond a men-only positioning. Today, the brand continues to present fresh, clean scents alongside body care.