Photo by Mel B. Elder Jr. Founder Novi Brown and creative collaborator Malcolm Cook introduced ACT II, the second fragrance from BÜHNE NOIR, at an intimate H&M event in Los Angeles.
When Demi extended the invitation to BÜHNE NOIR x H&M, it was an opportunity to celebrate a fellow creative and help bring visibility to her work.
Founded by Novi Brown, BÜHNE NOIR is a luxury organic fragrance and skincare brand. For its second fragrance, ACT II, Brown collaborated with Malcolm Cook bringing the latest scent profile to H&M with support from Donna Dozier Gordon.
Held October 29 at H&M's Los Angeles showroom on Sunset Boulevard, the evening brought together an impressive mix of Black creatives. It was refreshing to see so many familiar and new faces in one room, especially for a partnership with a major retailer like H&M.
The hospitality was just as memorable. Guests enjoyed food by Chef KO of Haitian Ko Kitchen, with dishes inspired by her Haitian heritage. The butternut squash was everything, and I kept finding my way back to the beautiful charcuterie spread.
Of the two fragrances, ACT II was my favorite. It was light while still feeling right for fall. All BÜHNE NOIR fragrances are alcohol-free, and the collection is also paraben-free and cruelty-free.
The event also spotlighted Black women building in the beauty industry, a meaningful reminder of the importance of supporting these businesses as several Black-owned beauty brands have recently closed.
Congratulations to Novi and Malcolm on the collaboration. ACT II arrives in stores November 5. The full fragrance and skincare collection is available through the BÜHNE NOIR website.
