Profumo Di Montecatini by Princess Marcella Borghese c1987

Profumo Di Montecatini Natural Spa by Princess Marcella Borghese, launched in 1987, was inspired by the Princess's luxurious "Terme di Montecatini" treatment line, named after the world-renowned, 2,400-year-old Italian spa in Tuscany. This fragrance, capturing the essence of the rejuvenating spa experience, speaks to both the elegance and the deeply relaxing qualities associated with the spa's therapeutic water and natural treatments. The name, Profumo Di Montecatini Natural Spa, directly translates from Italian as "Perfume of Montecatini Natural Spa." It can be pronounced as "Pro-foo-mo Dee Mon-te-ca-tee-nee" The name evokes images of Italy’s rolling hills, lush greenery, and the tranquil, mineral-rich waters of Montecatini’s famous hot springs. It conjures up emotions of relaxation, purity, and rejuvenation—like stepping into a serene spa where time slows down, and the natural world invigorates the body and soul.

Princess Marcella Borghese, a prominent figure in the luxury beauty industry, was well known for her commitment to both high-end skincare and fragrance. By choosing to name this product after Montecatini, she captured the essence of both luxury and well-being, suggesting that the fragrance not only embodied beauty but also carried with it the holistic, therapeutic qualities that the spa is renowned for. This connection between fragrance and the beneficial effects of aromatherapy is central to the perfume’s concept. The 1980s, when Profumo Di Montecatini Natural Spa was launched, were characterized by a growing interest in wellness and self-care, paired with a more natural aesthetic in beauty products. Fashion and trends were moving toward minimalist, clean looks and fragrances that were lighter, more transparent, and often linked to natural ingredients and environmental consciousness. This scent appealed to women of the time who sought both luxury and relaxation in their beauty routines—those who valued not just outward beauty but also the calming and invigorating effects of nature.

Bijan for Women by Bijan c1986

Bijan by Bijan, the eponymous fragrance from the Iranian-American designer Bijan Pakzad, was launched in 1986 and introduced to the U.S. market in the spring of 1987. Developed in collaboration with Peter Bohm, this luxurious perfume reflected Bijan's signature style—opulence, exclusivity, and an uncompromising dedication to quality. The name "Bijan by Bijan" reinforces the designer's personal brand, emphasizing that the fragrance is a direct extension of his aesthetic and vision. The name "Bijan" (بیژن) is of Persian origin, traditionally used as a male given name. It is pronounced bee-ZHAHN and carries connotations of nobility, heroism, and romanticism, rooted in Persian literature and mythology. In this context, the fragrance name evokes an air of exoticism, refinement, and unmistakable identity, making a bold statement in the competitive world of luxury perfumery.

The mid-1980s were defined by excess, affluence, and a sense of grandeur. This period, often referred to as the Gilded Age of the Eighties, was a time of power dressing, high glamour, and a booming luxury market. Fashion was bold—women embraced strong silhouettes with padded shoulders, cinched waists, and lavish embellishments, mirroring their increasing presence in corporate and social spheres. The fragrance industry was dominated by powerhouse scents—intense, statement-making compositions designed to leave a lasting impression. Women of this era sought fragrances that exuded confidence, femininity, and extravagance. A perfume called "Bijan by Bijan" would have been perceived as an ultra-luxurious, exclusive signature scent—perfect for the woman who wanted to be remembered.

Village Bath by Minnetonka, Inc

 

1964: Village Bath Strawberry (The Pure Essence of Natural Strawberry)

Launched in 1964, Village Bath Strawberry captures the essence of fresh, sun-ripened strawberries. This fragrance opens with the sweet and juicy scent of strawberries at their peak, evoking the sensation of biting into a plump, ripe berry. The natural, slightly tangy aroma brings to mind the lush fields where strawberries grow, underpinned by a light, green freshness that adds authenticity to the scent. It’s a pure and straightforward fragrance, celebrating the simple pleasure of a natural strawberry.

1968: Village Bath Peach (The Pure Essence of Natural Peach)

Introduced in 1968, Village Bath Peach is a tribute to the soft, velvety sweetness of a perfectly ripened peach. The fragrance opens with a burst of juicy peach nectar, dripping with honeyed sweetness and a hint of tartness that mimics the flesh of the fruit. There’s a gentle warmth to the scent, as if the peach has just been picked from a sun-drenched orchard. The natural aroma of the peach is accompanied by subtle floral undertones, enhancing its delicate, yet luscious character.

1976: Village Bath Musk (A Natural, Sensuous Musk Fragrance)

In 1976, Village Bath Musk was introduced as a celebration of the timeless allure of musk. This fragrance is deeply sensual, with a soft, warm base that envelops the senses. The musk is rich and earthy, exuding a natural warmth that is both comforting and intimate. It has an animalic depth, but remains smooth and refined, capturing the essence of natural musk with its slightly sweet and powdery undertones. The scent lingers on the skin, creating a long-lasting, velvety presence that is both alluring and mysterious.

1976: Andromeda (Sophisticated Blend of Amber and Light Citrus, with Spicy, Woodsy, and Herbaceous Tones)

Also released in 1976, Andromeda offers a sophisticated and multi-layered fragrance experience. It opens with a fresh burst of light citrus, immediately uplifting the senses with its bright, zesty character. This citrusy opening is soon complemented by warm, resinous amber, which adds depth and richness to the fragrance. As the scent evolves, a blend of spicy, woodsy, and herbaceous notes emerge, creating a complex, yet harmonious composition. The spiciness adds an intriguing warmth, while the woodsy and herbaceous tones provide a grounding, earthy quality, making Andromeda both sophisticated and enigmatic.

1977: Chicago (Fresh Green Notes Blended with a Unique Wood-Spice Complex)

In 1977, Village Bath introduced Chicago, a fragrance that captures the vibrant and dynamic spirit of the city it’s named after. The scent begins with fresh green notes, evoking the crispness of a cool breeze through a lush urban park. These green notes are bright and invigorating, creating a sense of vitality. As the fragrance develops, a unique wood-spice complex comes into play, adding a layer of warmth and complexity. The woodsy notes are rich and slightly smoky, while the spices bring a subtle heat, making Chicago a fragrance that is both fresh and intriguing, with a touch of urban sophistication.

1977: Village Bath Tea Rose (A Light Floral Blend with a Hint of Powder)

Village Bath Tea Rose, also launched in 1977, is a delicate and graceful floral fragrance. The scent is centered around the classic aroma of tea roses, capturing their soft, romantic essence. The floral notes are light and airy, with a gentle sweetness that feels fresh and natural. There is a subtle powdery aspect to the fragrance, which adds a touch of softness and refinement. Tea Rose is a timeless and elegant scent, perfect for those who appreciate the understated beauty of rose petals.

1978: Village Bath Aspen Glow (A Blend of Citrus and Green Notes with Warm, Oriental Undertones)

Aspen Glow, introduced in 1978, combines the freshness of citrus and green notes with the warmth of oriental undertones. The fragrance opens with a bright and lively burst of citrus, evoking the feeling of sunlight filtering through the leaves of an aspen grove. The green notes add a crisp, natural freshness, reminiscent of the forest air. As the scent develops, warm oriental undertones emerge, adding depth and richness. These oriental notes are slightly spicy and resinous, creating a comforting warmth that contrasts beautifully with the fresh top notes, making Aspen Glow a balanced and inviting fragrance.

1979: Village Bath Amber Lace (Sophisticated, Rich, Floral/Jasmine Complemented with Amber, Tuberose, and Honeysuckle)

Amber Lace, released in 1979, is a sophisticated and opulent fragrance that combines rich florals with warm amber. The scent opens with the intoxicating aroma of jasmine, its white floral richness immediately captivating the senses. This is complemented by the creamy, exotic notes of tuberose and the sweet, nectar-like scent of honeysuckle, creating a lush and layered floral bouquet. The amber adds a warm, resinous depth, grounding the florals with its golden, slightly powdery sweetness. Amber Lace is a luxurious and enveloping fragrance, perfect for those who appreciate a richly textured scent.

1980: Village Bath Heather (A Green Fragrance)

The final fragrance in this collection, Village Bath Heather, was introduced in 1980. This fragrance is a celebration of green, leafy freshness. It captures the essence of a heather-covered hillside, with its cool, crisp air and the scent of wild greenery. The fragrance is light and natural, with a fresh, herbal quality that feels clean and invigorating. There’s a subtle sweetness to the scent, reminiscent of the delicate flowers that bloom among the heather, but the dominant impression is one of pure, green freshness. Heather is a simple, yet beautifully natural fragrance that evokes the tranquility of the outdoors.

Spirit Of Sage Cologne For Gentlemen

Lavender

Carnation

Sandalwood

Jasmine

CLICK HERE TO FIND VILLAGE BATH PRODUCTS ON EBAY

Parfums Joncaire

A. Joncaire, Inc. was a short-lived American perfumery company that made a modest name for itself in the early 20th century, with its founding in 1918 at 72 Broad Street in Boston, Massachusetts. The company was initially established as a manufacturing and retail entity for perfumes, and it soon became a notable player in the burgeoning fragrance industry. By 1922, the company had been incorporated under the name A. Joncaire, Inc., with a capital of $25,000, divided into 250 shares. The company was headed by E.S. Rowell as president, Thomas F. Brown as treasurer, and J.M. Stone Jr. as a director. This incorporation helped solidify the company’s position in the perfume market during the 1920s, a period of innovation and growth for the industry.

The company marketed its products under the name Parfums Joncaire, presenting itself as a prestigious French brand. However, it was later revealed that Joncaire had unscrupulously advertised its perfumes as being imported from France, even though they were not. 

In 1932, A. Joncaire, Inc. relocated to new headquarters at 145 South Street, Boston, signaling a new chapter in the company's growth. During this time, Joncaire launched a variety of fragrances, contributing to the development of the American perfume market, especially in the 1920s and 1930s, when the demand for luxury goods such as perfumes surged. The company’s perfumes were marketed to a wide audience, with many aimed at evoking sophistication, elegance, and modernity, in line with the Art Deco movement and the prevailing tastes of the time.

Anthracite by Jacomo c1990

In 1990, Parfums Jacomo made a bold statement in the fragrance industry with the release of two distinct fragrances under the shared name Anthracite: one for men, labeled Pour L'Homme, and one for women, Pour Elle. The choice of the name "Anthracite" is particularly evocative, derived from the French word for a high-grade form of coal. Pronounced “ahn-trah-seet,” anthracite suggests both sophistication and strength, conjuring images of shimmering black surfaces and the deep allure of night. The name evokes emotions tied to luxury, stability, and power—characteristics that both men and women of the time would aspire to embody in their choice of fragrance.

The term Anthracite embodies a duality that resonates well with the contrasting yet complementary nature of the two fragrances. For men, it represents a crisp, clean scent reflecting confidence and vitality, while for women, it conveys a fresh, fruity floral-oriental allure that invites intrigue and warmth. In the early 1990s, as societal norms around gender began to evolve, fragrances like Anthracite that catered to both men and women became emblematic of a more progressive approach. Consumers were increasingly looking for scents that expressed individuality while also embracing traditional gender identities.

Cuir de Chasse by Etienne Aigner c1963

No. 1 Cuir de Chasse by Etienne Aigner, launched in 1963, carries a name steeped in tradition and luxury. The phrase "Cuir de Chasse" is French, translating to "hunting leather" in English and pronounced as "kweer duh shahss." The term conjures images of rugged elegance, evoking the scent of finely crafted leather goods, such as saddles or hunting gear, long associated with the outdoors and an active lifestyle. In choosing this name, Aigner tapped into an age-old connection between leather, luxury, and adventure, creating a fragrance that appeals to women seeking a scent that conveys strength, sophistication, and a casual sense of refinement.

Cuir de Chasse, being a leather fragrance for women, suggests a bold, assertive scent profile, with the rich, earthy tones of leather possibly accented by aromatic and woody notes. Leather as a fragrance note typically evokes warmth, durability, and depth, often associated with high-quality materials. The fragrance's classification as "casual" aligns with the idea of effortless elegance—perfect for women who desired to make a statement without being overly formal or ornate. At the time, this kind of scent may have appealed to women embracing a modern sense of individuality and independence, offering an alternative to the more floral or powdery fragrances dominating the market in the early 1960s.

The 1960s was a decade of cultural shifts, where traditional gender roles were being redefined, and women were asserting more independence in both the professional and personal spheres. Against this backdrop, Cuir de Chasse stood out by offering a leather-based fragrance—typically seen as masculine in perfumery—reimagined for women. Leather fragrances were already gaining popularity among men, but Aigner’s bold move to market Cuir de Chasse as a women’s scent was a departure from the floral and aldehydic perfumes that had been the standard for women in previous decades. This fragrance embodied a growing trend towards gender-neutral or androgynous elements in fashion and scent, catering to women who wanted to break away from traditional norms.

Corrida by Louis Feraud c1966

Louis Féraud’s Corrida, originally launched in 1966 (with some sources incorrectly suggesting 1975), captures the essence of a bold, masculine fragrance tied to both its name and its composition. The name "Corrida" is a Spanish word that refers to a traditional bullfight, pronounced as "koh-REE-dah." The choice of such a dramatic, culturally rich name evokes images of passion, courage, and virility—characteristics often associated with bullfighters, or "toreros," who face life-threatening challenges in the arena. The word “Corrida” conjures a sense of raw, primal energy and evokes vivid scenes of sunlit arenas, the tension of the crowd, and the dance of man and beast. The emotional charge behind the name is one of daring adventure, a duel between instinct and control.

In scent form, Corrida would likely reflect these intense, visceral emotions. As a sporty fragrance for men, it would interpret the vibrancy of the arena with zesty top notes of lime and verbena, offering a sharp and refreshing citrus kick that mimics the adrenaline rush before the battle. The heart of the fragrance would delve into spices, symbolizing the heat, energy, and complexity of the fight, while the woods in the base offer a grounding, earthy finish that represents strength, endurance, and masculinity. The result is a fragrance that captures both the fiery drama of the moment and the lingering impact of the experience.

Men of the 1960s, when Corrida was first launched, would have related to the bold name and scent in a context of rising individuality, freedom, and personal expression. This era saw the emergence of men becoming more open to exploring their identities through grooming and fragrance, a shift from more conservative, understated scents. The name Corrida would have appealed to men who saw themselves as strong, dynamic, and adventurous—perhaps inspired by the rebellious spirit of the 1960s and the cultural fascination with Mediterranean lifestyles, particularly in fashion and cinema.

Balestra by Renato Balestra c1978

Renato Balestra, an Italian fashion designer renowned for his sophisticated couture, was known for his elegant, dramatic designs that blended timeless Italian craftsmanship with modern flair. By 1978, when Balestra was launched, his name was synonymous with luxury, refinement, and high fashion. Choosing to name the perfume after himself, Balestra, likely emphasized a personal connection to his creative identity. The word "Balestra" comes from Italian, meaning "crossbow," which is pronounced bah-LEH-strah. The name evokes precision, strength, and a sense of direction, much like the elegant, defined lines that characterized his couture collections. Women who wore the fragrance may have imagined themselves embodying these qualities—graceful yet powerful, poised yet daring.

The name "Balestra" also suggests imagery of movement and swiftness, bringing to mind a confident woman aiming for her ambitions with precision and elegance. In the late 1970s, women were asserting themselves more prominently in various spheres of life, and a fragrance called "Balestra" would have appealed to those who saw themselves as dynamic and modern, yet still feminine. The name might have conjured feelings of empowerment, as well as a deep connection to Italian artistry and heritage.

In scent, "Balestra" could be interpreted as embodying this balance of strength and femininity. Classified as a fresh floral fragrance, it opens with a bright aldehydic top, which adds a sparkling, slightly metallic crispness, like a clean, fresh breeze. This aldehydic layer is softened by green and fruity notes, suggesting the ripe sweetness of orchards in spring, perhaps evoking images of a verdant Italian countryside under a bright sky. There’s a sense of freshness, energy, and vitality in this introduction—an invitation to embrace the day with confidence.

Dolme by LT Piver c1910

Launched in 1910 by the renowned French perfumery LT Piver, Dolmé carries a name that seems steeped in exoticism and cultural allure. The choice of "Dolmé" may have been inspired by Dolmabahçe Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman Sultans in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). This reference appears in Annie Jane Harvey's 1871 book Turkish Harems and Circassian Homes, a popular account that painted a vivid picture of life within the palace and the broader cultural mystique of the Ottoman Empire. By choosing this evocative name, LT Piver might have sought to transport wearers to a faraway world of luxury and sensual intrigue.

The word "Dolmé" likely draws from the Turkish root "dolma," meaning "filled" or "stuffed," often used in the context of culinary dishes like dolmas. However, in the name of Dolmabahçe, it implies "filled garden" or "filled harbor," reflecting the palace's construction on reclaimed land along the Bosphorus. In French, "Dolmé" would be pronounced dol-MAY (with a soft "d" and emphasis on the second syllable). The word exudes an exotic and sophisticated air, evoking images of grandeur, refinement, and hidden mysteries.

"Dolmé" conjures visions of ornate marble halls, gilded chandeliers, and the shimmering waters of the Bosphorus. It suggests a scent that is both opulent and enigmatic, enveloping the wearer in the aura of a bygone era. Emotions tied to the name may include wanderlust, nostalgia, and a desire for indulgence, resonating with the fascination for Eastern cultures that was prevalent in Europe at the time.

The year 1910 fell within the Edwardian era (1901–1914), a period marked by elegance, optimism, and global change. It was a time when Europe reveled in cultural refinement while standing on the brink of modernity. Fashions were opulent yet transitioning, with women wearing flowing, high-waisted gowns inspired by Greco-Roman styles, often adorned with intricate lace and embroidery. Art Nouveau dominated aesthetics, influencing everything from architecture to jewelry design, while Orientalism captivated the imagination.

In perfumery, this era emphasized rich, layered compositions featuring exotic ingredients like ambergris, musk, and floral absolutes, creating fragrances that were luxurious and complex. A perfume like Dolmé would have appealed to women seeking to evoke mystery and sophistication, aligning with their fascination for far-off lands.

For women of 1910, Dolmé likely symbolized a departure from the familiar—a passport to the imagined sensuality and opulence of the East. The name carried connotations of forbidden pleasures and unattainable beauty, aligning with the allure of travel and discovery. The perfume itself would have been interpreted as a fragrant translation of this dream, possibly featuring warm, resinous notes, opulent florals, and an undercurrent of exotic spices to embody the palace's splendor.

Plaisir by Parfums Raphael c1956

Launched in 1956, Plaisir by Parfums Raphael was positioned as a "younger" fragrance in contrast to its esteemed sibling, Replique. The name "Plaisir," derived from the French word for "pleasure," evokes a sense of joy and delight. Pronounced as "pleh-zeer", the term conjures images of carefree moments and blissful experiences, making it a fitting title for a fragrance designed to embody youthfulness and exuberance. In a post-war era marked by optimism and a burgeoning sense of freedom, women of the time would have resonated deeply with the name Plaisir, associating it with the pleasures of life, such as love, beauty, and adventure.

Created by the esteemed perfumer Pierre Blaizot, Plaisir is classified as an oriental fragrance that prominently features roses and jasmine, offering a lush, romantic scent profile. The fragrance opens with a fresh, green aldehydic top, which introduces a crisp brightness that captures attention. As it unfolds, the heart reveals a rich and spicy floral blend, showcasing the opulent notes of roses, daffodil, wisteria, and jasmine. This heart is beautifully complemented by a woody base, composed of musk, amber, tobacco, Russian leather, moss, sandalwood, and vanilla, which grounds the fragrance with warmth and depth.