Yohji Yamamoto launched his first fragrance in 1996 and has since created several distinctive scents that reflect his avant-garde fashion aesthetic. The Japanese designer’s fragrance line embodies his minimalist philosophy and the intersection of Eastern and Western influences.

The debut fragrance, Yohji Yamamoto Pour Homme (1996), established the brand’s olfactory direction with its woody-spicy composition. This was followed by Yohji Essential (1998), which became one of the brand’s most recognised scents, featuring a unique blend of cedar, vetiver and spices.

Yohji Yamamoto Pour Femme (1996) marked the designer’s entry into women’s fragrances, characterised by its sophisticated blend of white florals and woods. This was followed by other notable releases including Yohji Homme (1999), which gained cult status among fragrance enthusiasts for its distinctive coffee and liquorice notes.

The brand’s most commercially successful fragrance has been Y (2004), a fresh woody-aromatic scent that appealed to a broader audience while maintaining Yamamoto’s artistic vision. Other significant releases include Yohji Senses (2013), which explored more contemporary olfactory territories with its fresh, aquatic notes.

Among collectors and enthusiasts, Yohji Essential and Yohji Homme are considered the most iconic fragrances from the house, particularly praised for their unique compositions and artistic integrity. These scents are now highly sought after, especially since some have been discontinued.

In recent years, the brand has focused on more exclusive offerings, including limited edition releases that maintain Yamamoto’s reputation for unconventional creativity. The packaging design across the range reflects his minimalist aesthetic, typically featuring clean lines and monochromatic colour schemes.

While not as widely distributed as some mainstream fragrance brands, Yohji Yamamoto’s perfumes have maintained a loyal following, particularly among fashion and fragrance connoisseurs who appreciate their artistic approach and unique compositions. The fragrances continue to embody the designer’s philosophy of combining traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.