Style Edit: How Aesop draws inspiration from cinema, from its new Gift Kits to scented screenings and a collaboration with the Hong Kong Asian Film Festival
The brand is premiering short film The Soap Service at select Hong Kong locations, while the design of its Festival Walk store was inspired by Wong Kar-wai’s In the Mood for Love from the start
Aesop is a brand synonymous with design, from its minimalist, instantly recognisable packaging to the fact that each of its stores is unique, drawing on the varying expertise of architects, interior designers and artists.
What is less well known is that the brand, founded in Melbourne in 1987, has always been inspired by the cinematic world – an artistic sphere that has influenced everything from store design to the names and formulations of products.
Continuing in this tradition, Aesop’s new limited release Gift Kits feature artistic box designs inspired by celluloid film of the 20th century, and the light leaks, glitches and scratches common to the medium.
The Screen 1 Gift Kit is a quartet of formulations that together make the perfect gift for the consummate host – one who would appreciate getting ready for their event with energising Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser. Guests would love to find refreshing and replenishing Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash and Hand Balm by the basin – and to emerge to the comforting scents of cedar and cardamom, courtesy of Olous Aromatique Room Spray.
A Geranium Leaf body care trio, Screen 2 comprises the line’s Body Cleanser, Scrub and Balm, to cleanse, gently exfoliate and replenish the skin. Characterised by their fresh green and citrus aromas, Geranium Leaf formulations are an ideal choice for a special someone who favours uplifting notes during their bathroom ablutions.
Light and bright Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser also features in Screen 3, as do the citrusy, woody, herbaceous notes of Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash. Eleos Aromatique Hand Balm offers a nurturing combination of hydrating humectants and emollient butters in a Gift Kit designed as a treat for oneself, “from me to me”.