Cult of Kaori

Founded by Chris Undi, Cult of Kaori grew from his fascination with the powerful relationship between scent and memory. Originally working in branding, packaging, and design, Chris discovered perfumery almost accidentally while developing a separate project with his brother. A perfumer's ingredient kit sent him down the proverbial rabbit hole, and he eventually taught himself the craft and created his own independent fragrance house. 

The name reflects the brand's blending of cultures and ideas. Kaori is Japanese for scent or fragrance, while “cult” represents becoming deeply enthusiastic, even obsessive, about something. Chris's fascination with Japan carries into fragrances such as Onsen Minerale, inspired by the mineral water, steam, citrus, and woods of a Japanese hot spring, and Melon Masu, which evokes chilled sake, melon, rice, Japanese cedar, and summertime rituals. 

Chris remains deeply hands-on, serving as founder, creative director, independent perfumer, compounder, and even bottler of his fragrances. Cult of Kaori's scents are vegan and cruelty-free, with an emphasis on unusual materials, thoughtful packaging, and fragrances that balance restraint with a slightly rebellious edge. At its core, the house celebrates the confidence that can come from wearing something unexpected and entirely your own.