Because Azzedine Alaïa knows how to transport his Middle Eastern roots into a form of decadent beauty. Latest example: his Eau de Parfum Blanche, a brighter rendition of Alaïa’s eponymous first perfume. Both created by Marie Salamagne (the nose behind numerous Jo Malone and Maison Martin Margiela perfumes), the scents reflect the designer’s childhood memories of “water poured over hot brick walls,” symbolising a sizzling hot, oriental summer day. But instead of the heavy flower and leather notes in the original version, Eau de Parfum Blanche keeps a musky base, but goes the powdery route – with strong vanilla and white floral accents to follow.

Evoking the royal spirit of the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain, Alaïa imagined this perfume as the ideal scent to go with his signature crisp white shirts. It’s a scorching summer in his world, and we can only imagine a 1980s supermodel Iman embodying that quintessentially powerful Alaïa woman. She’s exploring the majestic halls in the labyrinth of the Alhambra while covered in earthy tones of silky smooth fabrics. Her Nili Lotan maxi skirt with a stark white Roksanda camisole top against the sandy tones of the palace, with a slinky Galvan robe and a pair of Marni strap sandals to go with. Where is she hiding her summer literature, the 1986 novel Leo Africanus telling the story of a multicultural Renaissance-era traveler? Obviously, in her ivory laser-cut leather Alaïa tote bag, together with Erykah Badu’s 2010 album New Amerykah Part Two, a pair of gold Victoria Beckham sunglasses and a bottle of Eau de Parfum Blanche.

This perfume is a scent that tells a story. One of a powerful woman travelling in the sizzling sun. A woman that is sensual and sensitive, one with an attitude of a panther. For over 25 years, Azzedine Alaïa has cultivated his signature tight, bodycon silhouette and thereby his signature client, and with his latest perfume – that woman has been given a scent for a hot summer day

Shop the Alaïa Eau de Parfum Blanche from Net-a-porter for £54.

Text by Dino Bonacic