Why did Ottimare choose jasmine as the inspiration for its new line of scarves and twillies? Not just because it’s one of Ottimare’s favourite flowers, but because there’s so much to tell about it!
Jasmine: small, powerful, enchanting
From a distance, the jasmine often appears as a large hedge — a cloud of white and sometimes soft pink blossoms. But have you ever looked closely at the flowers? You’ll discover remarkable forms: the star- or pinwheel-shaped blossoms of the Tuscan jasmine, formed by five delicate petals growing in clusters, or the small, strong bell-like flowers of the more familiar summer jasmine. And then there’s that wonderful scent that greets you as you walk past a jasmine hedge — fresh and floral, with soft notes of vanilla. No wonder jasmine is loved for so many uses.
Irresistible in perfume
Jasmine petals are used to produce an intense floral extract — an absolue — that’s widely used in perfumes and cosmetics. The large-flowered jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum) and Arabian jasmine are especially popular for their strong, rich aroma. Almost every perfume house has a scent that includes jasmine — sometimes subtly blended into a complex fragrance (like the iconic Chanel No. 5), sometimes as a bold base note. Brands like Creed, Gucci, Aerin Lauder (daughter of Estée Lauder), Guerlain, and many others all draw inspiration from jasmine.
Tip: If you’re tempted to grow Arabian jasmine yourself, keep in mind that this exotic plant isn’t frost-hardy and will need protection during colder months.
Jasmine in tea
Anyone who has ever enjoyed a fragrant cup of jasmine tea will remember it. Jasmine flowers are often added to black, green or white tea. It’s said to have a calming effect and help relieve stress.
A jasmine-scented guilty pleasure on film
Well, I just must mention Assassins (1995) — a true guilty pleasure starring Sylvester Stallone (pre-Botox!), Julianne Moore, and Antonio Banderas. Moore plays a mysterious woman nicknamed "Elektra", who is being hunted by assassin Banderas — who, in turn, is being pursued by assassin Stallone. Elektra's jasmine perfume nearly gives her away… But I’ll say no more — spoilers, you know.
The name Jasmine and its meaning
Flower names have long been popular as girls’ names — and Jasmine is no exception. In the Netherlands, it’s even among the top 100. Internationally, there are many variations: Jes, Jeezie (UK), Jasmine, Jasmin(e), Yasmin, Yazmin, Yasmine, Jazmin… Its meaning certainly adds to its appeal. In Persian, ‘yasamin’ means “gift from God.” In China, jasmine is a symbol of femininity and attraction. In the Middle Ages, jasmine was even used as a poetic name for the Virgin Mary. Even today, the flower is part of religious rituals in some cultures, symbolising purity, innocence, and devotion. No surprise, then, that the Arabian jasmine was declared the national flower of the Philippines in 1934.
An ode to jasmine captured on scarves and twillies
At Ottimare, we’ve been captivated by the symbolism and graceful form of the jasmine flower. A tiny bloom with a subtle but powerful presence — the perfect muse for a new collection of elegant silk scarves and delicate twillies. These designs capture all the elements that make jasmine so special: its star-shaped patterns, its lightness, its poetic symbolism. Everything… except the scent. Yet even without that unmistakable, intoxicating fragrance, these scarves carry the essence of jasmine: a tribute to femininity, beauty, and a hint of mystery.
