Remiller Perfumes

Remiller Perfumes was established around 1915 in New York by Richard Elgin Miller, the enterprising founder of The Owl Drug Store, a well-known chain of American pharmacies. The name "Remiller" was derived directly from R.E. Miller, a personal touch that linked the brand to its founder’s identity. Expanding beyond the American market, Remiller also maintained a branch in Paris, positioning itself among the world’s most prestigious perfume houses at the height of the Belle Époque and early Art Deco periods.

Remiller’s operations were closely tied to Les Parfums Darnee (or Darnay) of Paris, another subsidiary of the Owl Drug Company. This strategic association helped solidify its standing as a manufacturer of fine perfumes and luxury toiletries, blending French elegance with American enterprise. By 1919, the Owl Drug Company owned three-fourths of the common stock of the Remiller Co., making it a key player in the production of high-grade perfumes and beauty products.

Unlike many of the French perfume houses that relied on Lalique, Baccarat, or other luxury glassmakers, Remiller generally favored American-made glassware for its perfume presentations. This practical decision reflected the company's American roots and business sensibilities, likely allowing for greater cost efficiency and accessibility while still maintaining a refined aesthetic. Despite this, the company marketed itself as a purveyor of fine fragrance, positioning its products alongside prestigious European competitors.

Interestingly, the three brand names—Remiller, Les Parfums Darnee/Darnay, and Owl Drug Co.—were used interchangeably. This suggests a fluid branding strategy, allowing products to be marketed under different names depending on the region or target audience. Whether sold in department stores, pharmacies, or specialty boutiques, Remiller’s fragrances and toiletries catered to a clientele seeking quality, sophistication, and a touch of transatlantic glamour.

The perfumes of Remiller/Darnee/Darnay:

• 1915 Vernice
• 1915 Bandolin
• 1916 Leone
• 1917 Varna Violet
• 1917 Mirimbi Lily
• 1917 Red Feather
• 1917 Persian Rose
• 1917 California Lilac 
• 1917 Meadow Violet
• 1917 Grecian Rose 
• 1919 Fan Tan
• 1920 Orange Blossom
• 1921 Lilac 
• 1922 Basket of Roses
• 1922 Billet Doux
• 1922 Mon Tresor
• 1922 Chypre
• 1922 Colleen Moore 
• 1922 Crabapple 
• 1922 Lorina
• 1922 Heliotrope 
• 1922 Jasmine 
• 1922 Jockey Club 
• 1922 Lily 
• 1922 Narcisse 
• 1922 Peau d'Espagne
• 1922 Pink Blossom
• 1922 Rose 
• 1922 Sandalwood 
• 1922 Trailing Arbutus 
• 1922 Violet 
• 1922 White Rose 
• 1922 Zavia 
• 1923 Fleurs Joyeuse
• 1923 Narce 
• 1924 Duckee
• 1924 Varia
• 1926 Rose O'May 
• 1926 Kee-Kee
• 1929 Verbena
• 1929 Eau de Cologne
• 1933 Orchid

Toiletries:

Remiller and its associated brand, Les Parfums Darnee/Darnay, offered a wide range of luxury toiletries, catering to both men and women with an emphasis on elegance, quality, and everyday indulgence. Their product line was designed to bring refinement and sophistication to the daily self-care rituals of their customers, aligning with the early 20th-century trend of personalized grooming and beauty regimens.

The company’s perfume and eau de toilette collection featured classic floral fragrances, including Colleen Moore, Lilac, Lily, Rose, and Violet. These scents reflected the era’s preference for delicate, feminine florals, each evoking a distinct personality—lilac and violet for powdery softness, lily for fresh elegance, rose for timeless romance. The eau de cologne offered a lighter, refreshing alternative, likely favored for daytime wear or as a post-bath splash.

The brand also produced liquid soaps in small or large sizes, toilet soaps, and olive oil soap, ensuring that luxury extended to the most basic aspects of hygiene. The presence of olive oil soap suggests an awareness of traditional skincare ingredients, as olive oil had long been prized for its moisturizing and gentle cleansing properties. Complementing these were bath crystals, available in Cologne, Rose, and Verbena, designed to enhance the bathing experience with aromatic and skin-softening qualities.

For powder-based products, Remiller/Darnee offered a selection of dusting powders and talcum powders, available in Rose, Lilac, Lorina, and Violet. Dusting powders were a staple in early 20th-century beauty routines, used to keep the skin fresh, dry, and subtly scented—a particularly luxurious touch when worn under fine garments. The presence of lavender smelling salts suggests that the company also catered to the fashionable and delicate sensibilities of the time, as smelling salts were often carried by women to revive themselves from faintness or fatigue.

For men, Remiller/Darnee provided a selection of shaving essentials, including shaving lotion and shaving cream with bay rum in a tube. The use of bay rum, a traditional masculine scent, reflected the enduring popularity of spicy, invigorating post-shave products that provided both soothing and antiseptic properties.

Oral hygiene was another category in their toiletry line, with toothpaste and tooth powder available for customers seeking fresh breath and clean teeth. Tooth powders were common during this period and typically consisted of mild abrasives mixed with flavoring agents, offering a more luxurious alternative to simple homemade formulations.

Among the most unique offerings was Silque Hand & Face Lotion, described as a cold cream in liquid form. The name “Silque” (pronounced "silk") hinted at the product’s soft, luxurious effect on the skin. Unlike traditional cold creams, this liquid version was designed to absorb instantly, leaving behind no greasiness or stickiness, while imparting a natural color and soft texture to the skin. Such a product would have been appealing to women seeking effortless beauty, offering both moisturization and a subtle, fresh-faced glow.

Overall, Remiller/Darnee's product line embodied the elegance and refinement of early 20th-century beauty and grooming trends. Their range of perfumes, bath and body products, skincare, and men’s grooming essentials reflected a commitment to quality, luxury, and everyday indulgence, ensuring that their customers could incorporate a touch of glamour into their daily routines.

Cosmetics:

Remiller and its associated brands, Les Parfums Darnee/Darnay, offered an extensive range of cosmetics and skincare, catering to the beauty standards and preferences of the early 20th century. Their products reflected the growing importance of makeup and personal grooming among women, blending luxury, practicality, and innovation to create a well-rounded collection that enhanced both skincare and cosmetic artistry.

A flawless complexion was the ideal of beauty during this period, and Remiller provided several lotions and creams to prepare and maintain the skin. Almond Lotion was likely a moisturizing and softening treatment, harnessing almond oil’s rich emollient properties to nourish the skin. Astringent Lotion, on the other hand, would have been used for toning and tightening the pores, helping to maintain a smooth, refined texture—a crucial step before applying makeup.

The brand’s Beautifier, available in White and Flesh tones, suggests an early skin-perfecting base, possibly akin to modern tinted moisturizers or primers, designed to create a porcelain-like finish. This was complemented by face powders, which came in White, Flesh, and Brunette shades—a variety that catered to different complexions while maintaining the popular matte, velvety finish associated with vintage beauty trends. “Medea” Face Powder was also available in Flesh, White, and Brunette, perhaps marketed as a more premium, finely-milled version, reflecting the era’s fascination with exoticism and classical beauty themes.

For a portable touch-up, Poudre Compact was offered in standard and boudoir sizes, ensuring that women could refresh their makeup with elegance throughout the day. The compact powder cases of this era were often beautifully designed, sometimes enameled or engraved, making them as much a fashion accessory as a beauty product.

Remiller embraced the bold, expressive makeup trends that emerged in the 1910s and 1920s, especially in the realm of rouge and lip color, which became central to a woman’s beauty routine. Grape Nite Rouge suggests a deep, wine-toned blush, perfect for evening wear when a more dramatic, sultry effect was desired. Meanwhile, Red Feather Lip Rouge, packaged in a brass case, was likely a richly pigmented, creamy lip color, indicative of the era’s shift from subtle tints to bold, defined lips. The "Pum-Kin" line included:  Rouge (Single); Double Compact; Lip Rouge; Soap (6 cakes in box). 

For those who preferred a softer lip treatment, Remiller offered Lip Pomade in Rose and White, which were likely moisturizing balms with a sheer tint or a protective wax base to keep the lips smooth and supple. Their Indello Lip Stick was another option, though little is known about its formulation—it may have been one of the earlier wax-based lipsticks, aligning with the 1920s trend of more structured, lasting lip color.

Blush, or rouge, was another essential. The Boudoir Size Rouge came in Spanish and Dark shades, suggesting a preference for warm, flushed cheeks, a hallmark of early Hollywood glamour and the flapper aesthetic. The richer, deeper tones of Spanish Rouge would have been especially appealing for evening wear, helping to create a dramatic and sculpted look.

Dark, well-defined eyebrows were a crucial aspect of beauty trends in the 1910s and 1920s, as they framed the face and enhanced the expressive qualities of silent film stars. "Tootnoir" Eyebrow Tint, available in Black and Brown, was likely a wax-based or liquid tint designed to create the highly arched, elongated brows that were so fashionable. This product would have been essential for achieving the dramatic, cinematic look made famous by actresses such as Clara Bow and Theda Bara.

Beyond decorative cosmetics, Remiller understood the importance of proper skincare, offering a variety of creams to suit different needs. Beauty Cream was likely a multipurpose moisturizer, while their Cold Cream, sold in tubes and various jar sizes, was an essential cleanser and makeup remover. At the time, cold cream was the gold standard for removing heavy powders and rouges, leaving the skin hydrated and soft.

A more modern alternative was "Red Feather" Crème, labeled as greaseless, which would have been a lighter moisturizer or night cream, catering to women who wanted hydration without a heavy, oily residue. Tissue Cream, another staple, was probably an early anti-aging formula, designed to maintain skin elasticity and suppleness, as the concept of preventative skincare was gaining traction.

Remiller’s extensive line of cosmetics and skincare was designed to meet the evolving beauty needs of the era’s sophisticated woman. Their products reflected both tradition and innovation, providing a mix of classic skincare, finely-milled powders, richly pigmented rouges, and carefully formulated lip colors. The brand’s commitment to luxury, variety, and attention to detail ensured that their clientele had access to the finest beauty products available, reinforcing their place in the world of early 20th-century glamour.

Manicure Products:

Remiller’s line of manicure products catered to the growing demand for well-groomed, polished nails, a beauty standard that became increasingly popular in the early 20th century. Their Manicure Set likely included a selection of essential tools such as nail scissors, a file, a cuticle pusher, and a buffer, all elegantly housed in a case suitable for both personal and travel use.

To maintain healthy nails and soft cuticles, Cuticle Remover was an essential step, designed to soften and gently eliminate excess skin, allowing for a clean and refined nail shape. Emery Boards, the preferred tool for shaping and smoothing nails, provided a gentle yet effective way to maintain a well-manicured appearance.

For enhancing the natural beauty of nails, Remiller offered several polishing and whitening treatments. Nail Blanc was likely a whitening formula used to brighten the nail tips, a popular treatment in an era when natural, well-maintained nails were a sign of elegance. Nail Lustre (Powder) was a fine buffing powder that added a soft, healthy sheen, while Pom Pom Lustre may have been a cream or liquid polish applied with a soft cloth or chamois buffer to achieve a glossy, refined finish.

For those who preferred a more enhanced nail color, Nail Polish Paste and Nail Polish Cake offered tinted or clear lacquers in a time before liquid nail polish became widespread. These formulations were often rubbed onto the nails and buffed to a shine, leaving behind a subtle hint of color or a natural rosy tint. This method of polishing rather than painting was common before the introduction of modern nail lacquers in the 1920s and 1930s.

Hair Products:

Hair care was an integral part of personal grooming, and Remiller’s extensive range of hair products ensured that both men and women could maintain healthy, styled locks. Brilliantine, a popular grooming product of the time, was used to add shine and control frizz, often giving hair a sleek, well-groomed appearance. Its formula was likely oil-based, ensuring lasting softness and a lightly perfumed scent.

Bandoline, available in White and Brown, was a type of hair fixative or styling gel, used to keep waves, curls, and pompadours neatly in place. The color variations suggest that the brown formula may have been tinted to blend with darker hair, while the white version would have been clear or lighter in texture, ideal for blondes and lighter hair shades.

For cleansing, Remiller offered a Lemon Cocoanut Oil Shampoo, which likely combined the clarifying properties of lemon with the nourishing effects of coconut oil, creating a formula that cleansed while preventing dryness. Unlike modern shampoos, which are liquid-based, early shampoos were often soap-like or powder-based, requiring thorough rinsing and brushing to remove residue.

To maintain scalp and hair health, the brand provided Hair Oil and Hair Tonic, both available in 4 oz and 8 oz bottles. These tonics were likely alcohol-based with added botanical extracts, designed to stimulate the scalp, encourage hair growth, and prevent dandruff. Hair tonics were a staple in men's grooming, often used after shaving or as a daily scalp refresher.

Lilac Vegetale, a toilet water for men, was a lightly scented aftershave or hair tonic that left behind a fresh floral fragrance, commonly used after grooming for a clean, refined scent. Such products were particularly popular in barbershops and among men who valued traditional grooming rituals.

Sachets:

Sachets were a popular luxury item, used to scent drawers, linens, and personal accessories with delicate floral fragrances. Remiller offered sachets in Rose, Lily, Lilac, and Violet, four of the most classic and beloved scents of the time. These finely milled powders were available in 1 oz jars for personal use or in bulk sizes for those who desired larger quantities, possibly for custom sachets or use in beauty parlors and dressmaking shops.

Sachets served a dual purpose—beyond perfuming linens, they were sometimes dusted onto the skin as a light, fragrant body powder, offering a subtle yet lasting scent. Women often placed small sachets in their gloves, handkerchiefs, or hatboxes, ensuring that a delicate floral aroma accompanied them throughout the day.

Vernice:

Vernice was the best-known fragrance line produced under the interconnected brand names Remiller, Darnee, and Darnay. Launched in 1915, it was advertised as an exquisite, long-lasting scent that beautifully harmonized with refinement and daintiness. The three brand names were used interchangeably on product labels, reinforcing their close association. Vernice became a hallmark of elegance, embodying the early 20th-century ideal of sophistication and femininity.

The name Vernice has multiple linguistic origins and possible meanings. In Italian, "Vernice" translates to "varnish" or "glaze," suggesting something polished, lustrous, and refined—qualities that align with the perfume’s advertised elegance. The name also bears resemblance to the Latin word vernalis, meaning "spring-like" or "of the spring," evoking freshness, renewal, and delicate floral beauty. This connection to springtime suggests a scent that is light, airy, and filled with blooming florals.

Given its description as an exquisite, long-lasting scent that beautifully harmonized with refinement and daintiness, Vernice would likely have been a delicate yet sophisticated floral fragrance. Perfumes of the early 20th century often featured compositions that balanced natural floral extracts with newly emerging synthetics, creating scents that were both ethereal and enduring.

Vernice may have opened with soft, fresh florals such as violet, lilac, or rose, lending it a powdery, romantic charm. A heart of jasmine, orange blossom, or cyclamen would have deepened the floral bouquet, adding an element of elegance. These notes, known for their refined yet gentle presence, would align with the perfume’s reputation for daintiness. The base was likely enriched with orris root, sandalwood, musk, and possibly a hint of vanilla, ensuring the fragrance had a smooth, powdery, and subtly warm finish.

Vernice would have embodied a graceful, classic floral essence, reminiscent of finely milled face powders and the soft, lingering scents of a well-appointed boudoir. Its long-lasting nature suggests a carefully balanced blend of both natural and synthetic components, ensuring it maintained its delicate beauty throughout the day.

The Vernice line was not limited to perfume alone but extended across a full range of beauty and personal care products, allowing users to incorporate the fragrance into multiple aspects of their daily routine. Among these offerings was the Vernice Complexion Cream, which was likely a nourishing formula meant to refine and soften the skin. The Perfume Extract, available in one-ounce bottles or bulk sizes, was housed in frosted glass bottles, emphasizing its luxurious nature. This concentrated form of the scent was designed to be applied sparingly to pulse points or delicate fabrics, ensuring a long-lasting and refined fragrance experience.

Face powders in White, Flesh, and Brunette shades were also part of the Vernice collection, catering to a variety of complexions and providing a soft, matte finish. A complementary lipstick in the same fragrance line was available, likely offering a subtle tint, as deeper, bolder lip colors had not yet gained mainstream popularity. Additionally, a sachet powder, sold in one-ounce jars, could be dusted onto linens, garments, or even the skin, ensuring a light and lingering scent throughout the day.

Bath and personal care products infused with the Vernice fragrance allowed for a complete scented grooming experience. Vernice Soap was available as a single cake or in boxed sets of three, and it was likely triple-milled, ensuring a rich lather and long-lasting use. Talcum powder, offered in White and Flesh tones and packaged in frosted glass jars, helped to keep the skin feeling fresh and silky. Toilet Water in four-ounce bottles provided a lighter version of the perfume, perfect for refreshing applications throughout the day or for scenting bathwater. Bath Salt Crystals were also part of the collection, dissolving into warm water to release the Vernice fragrance and soften the skin.

The Vernice fragrance extended into hair care as well, with the inclusion of Brilliantine, a scented hair oil that added shine and tamed flyaways. This product was essential for achieving the polished and well-groomed look that was highly prized during the era.

Through its extensive product range, Vernice offered a seamless and immersive fragrance experience. By incorporating perfume, skincare, bath products, and hair treatments under one harmonious scent, Remiller ensured that Vernice was more than just a perfume—it was a signature of refinement, enveloping the wearer in an aura of grace and sophistication.

 

 

Leone:

The name Leone is of Italian origin and translates to “lion” in English. It conveys a sense of strength, boldness, and regality, qualities often associated with the majestic animal. The name evokes images of golden warmth, confidence, and luxury, making it a fitting choice for a perfume line introduced in 1916, an era when glamour and sophistication were essential aspects of beauty culture.

Given its name, Leone may have had a rich, opulent fragrance profile, possibly with warm, amber-laced florals or a spiced oriental character. The early 20th century saw the rise of exotic, long-lasting perfumes featuring amber, musk, and resins, reflecting a shift toward bolder, more assertive scents.

Leone may have opened with citrus or aldehydic top notes, lending a bright, sparkling first impression—perhaps bergamot, lemon, or neroli, which were commonly used to add freshness. The heart could have featured luxurious florals such as rose, ylang-ylang, or carnation, with the latter contributing a slightly spicy edge. Carnation, with its clove-like nuances, would have given the fragrance depth and sophistication.

The base was likely warm and sensual, with notes of amber, sandalwood, musk, and perhaps a hint of vanilla or benzoin. These elements would have given Leone its long-lasting, rich sillage, perfectly aligning with its bold yet refined name. The presence of Leone-branded eyebrow crayons, lip rouge, and sachet powder suggests that this line was marketed toward women who embraced a dramatic, well-defined beauty look, hinting at a fragrance that exuded power, confidence, and allure.

Introduced in 1916, the Leone line by Remiller/Darnee/Darnay was an extensive collection of beauty and fragrance products designed to cater to the sophisticated tastes of the early 20th-century woman. The line was centered around its Perfume Extract, available in 1 oz, 2 oz, and bulk sizes, reflecting a time when fragrances were sold not only in standard bottles but also in larger quantities for refilling exquisite vanity flacons. The scent of Leone was likely a refined, long-lasting composition, harmonizing with the prevailing trends of the era—perhaps a floral-oriental blend with warm, elegant undertones.

To complement the perfume, the Leone collection included a Toilet Water, a lighter, more refreshing version of the fragrance, suitable for daytime wear. For personal grooming, Talcum Powder in tin cans provided a delicately scented way to keep the skin fresh, soft, and lightly perfumed. Talcum powders were an essential part of a woman’s daily routine, often used after bathing to leave a lingering touch of fragrance on the skin. Sachet Powder, available in 1 oz jars or bulk sizes, was likely used to scent lingerie drawers, gloves, and handkerchiefs, further enhancing the personal fragrance experience.

Leone also offered an array of cosmetics, allowing women to achieve a fashionable and polished appearance. Face Powder, available in White, Flesh, and Brunette shades, was a key beauty product, helping to create the smooth, flawless complexion that was highly desired during this period. The inclusion of Lip Rouge, Lip Stick (in White), and Liquid Rouge suggests that the Leone line embraced the growing popularity of defined lips and flushed cheeks, trends that would become even more pronounced in the 1920s. The White Lip Stick was a unique addition—possibly used as a base to lighten the natural lip color or to achieve a soft, powdery effect in keeping with the pale complexions that were fashionable at the time.

Further enhancing the eyes, the line featured Eyebrow Crayons in Black and Brown, reflecting the emphasis on shaping and defining the brows, which framed the face and added to the era’s refined beauty aesthetic. The variety of shades available in the face and lip products suggests that Leone was designed to appeal to a wide range of complexions, ensuring that every woman could find products that suited her personal style.

With its luxurious yet practical range of offerings, the Leone line was a testament to the evolving beauty standards of the 1910s. It provided women with the tools to create an elegant, sophisticated look while indulging in the refinement of a long-lasting and exquisitely scented fragrance.

Colleen Moore:

In 1922, the Owl Drug Company launched a line of beauty products endorsed by Colleen Moore, a beloved silent film star known for her stylish bob haircut and on-screen charm. This collection was visually distinctive, decorated with green and shamrock motifs, a nod to Moore’s supposed Irish heritage and the era’s fascination with all things glamorous. The packaging, particularly the perfume bottles, was elegant and unique—the perfume was housed in a "Neptune" green slag glass bottle with a jade-green glass stopper, an opulent choice that reflected the luxurious beauty standards of the early 1920s.

The Colleen Moore perfume was described as "very spicy," which suggests a bold and vivacious scent, fitting for a starlet of the Jazz Age. A spicy fragrance from this period likely contained warm and exotic notes such as clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, and pepper, possibly blended with floral or resinous elements like carnation, rose, amber, or benzoin to add depth and sophistication. Spicy perfumes often had an oriental influence, making them rich, sensual, and long-lasting—ideal for evening wear or special occasions.

Beyond the perfume, the Colleen Moore line offered a wide array of beauty and toiletry products, ensuring women could surround themselves with the scent and aesthetic of Hollywood glamour. The collection included Eau de Toilette, a lighter variation of the perfume, and Face Powder and Face Powder Compacts, which were essential for achieving the soft, matte complexion that was in vogue. Talcum Powder and Dusting Powder provided a subtly fragrant way to keep the skin fresh and smooth, while Bath Salt Crystals added a touch of luxury to the bathing experience.

Cosmetic offerings included Lipsticks in Light, Medium, and Dark shades, reflecting the growing popularity of bold lips during the 1920s, as well as Rouge, a must-have for achieving the era’s fashionable flushed cheeks. The Vanishing Cream was likely a lightweight moisturizer that absorbed quickly, a common feature of early skincare routines, while the Beauty Cream may have provided deeper nourishment for the skin.

Hair and nail care were also represented in the line, with Brilliantine, a popular hair product that added shine and softness, and Liquid Nail Polish and Remover, showcasing the emerging trend of polished nails. The inclusion of an Astringent suggests an awareness of skincare concerns, as astringents were commonly used to tighten pores and refresh the complexion. A particularly intriguing addition was the Solid Perfume, a compact and portable way to reapply fragrance throughout the day.

With its extensive selection of fragrance, cosmetics, and skincare, the Colleen Moore line was a carefully curated collection designed to evoke the glamour and allure of a Hollywood starlet. By incorporating spicy perfume notes, chic green packaging, and a variety of beauty essentials, it allowed women to emulate the elegance and modernity of one of the era’s most famous actresses.

 

 

Narcé:

In 1923, Narcé was introduced as a perfume that promised to captivate with its true narcissus scent, which was ideal for the exotic type of woman. Narcissus, a flower symbolizing renewal and beauty, has a delicate, yet intoxicating fragrance that blends fresh floral notes with a hint of green, making it both airy and sophisticated. The perfume's appeal was likely to women who embraced boldness and elegance, desiring a fragrance that was both distinctive and refined. A true narcissus scent, evoking nature’s own fragrant blooms, would have been a blend of fresh florals, with a touch of sweetness, and possibly hints of green, soft earth, and honey. This would have complemented the aura of femininity and elegance that was popular during the early 1920s.

The name Narcé was derived from the word narcissus, the genus of flowering plants known for their fragrant, elegant blooms. The narcissus flower, often associated with spring, symbolizes renewal and beauty. The term Narcé would have been used to evoke the floral essence of the narcissus, specifically the rich, sweet scent that the flower exudes. This name choice aligns perfectly with the perfume's description as having a “wonderful true narcissus odor,” reinforcing its connection to the delicate yet captivating fragrance of the flower.

In the case of the Darnee/Darnay brand, using the name Narcé as a reference to the narcissus flower would have been a strategic way to highlight the fragrance's key notes. The narcissus flower's perfume is a blend of fresh, green, and slightly spicy floral elements, which may have been captured in the scent profile of the perfume. The use of Narcé would have immediately conveyed a sense of purity, natural beauty, and floral elegance to consumers, suggesting a fragrance that was both exotic and fresh, ideal for a more refined or sophisticated customer.

By naming the perfume Narcé, Darnee/Darnay emphasized the connection to the natural world and the allure of the narcissus flower, which was known for its delicate and intoxicating fragrance.

The Narcé perfume was presented in a stunning Art Deco-inspired bottle, designed to reflect the architectural and geometric beauty that defined the period. The bottle is made of clear glass, allowing the perfume inside to be seen clearly. Its most striking feature is the floral-molded columns at the corners, neck, and top of the stopper. These detailed columns were frosted, giving them a soft, ethereal appearance, while the addition of black enamel painted over the frosted glass added contrast and sophistication, enhancing the overall Art Deco aesthetic.

At the front of the bottle, a gilded foil paper label reads "Narcé - Darnee - New York," a reference to the brand’s connection with Darnee (also known as Darnay), another perfume line associated with the Owl Drug Company. The inclusion of New York highlights the perfume’s cosmopolitan origins, aligning with the modern, urban appeal of the 1920s.

Standing 4 inches tall, the bottle was both compact and luxurious, perfectly sized for personal use yet designed to make an impact on vanity tables. The Art Deco style, with its clean lines and geometric shapes, combined with the intricate floral details and gilded accents, ensured that the Narcé bottle not only housed a fragrance but became a piece of decorative art in its own right. The design, along with the alluring scent, made it a desirable item for women seeking beauty, elegance, and sophistication in their personal care products.

 

Mon Tresor:

Launched in 1922, Mon Trésor (French for "My Treasure") was a perfume that evoked a sense of opulence and sophistication, perfectly in tune with the tastes of the Roaring Twenties. The name Mon Trésor implies that the fragrance was not merely a scent, but a precious treasure—something personal and intimate, cherished by its wearer. This perfume was likely designed to appeal to women who desired a luxurious and refined experience. The name alone, with its connotations of rarity and value, suggested that the perfume contained complex and exquisite notes, making it a sought-after gem in the world of fragrance.

Given the perfume’s name, Mon Trésor would have had an aura of richness and elegance, perhaps blending warm, resinous, and floral notes that spoke to its "treasure" theme. The fragrance likely included ingredients such as amber, which was often used in perfumes of this period for its warm, resinous, and slightly sweet scent. Vanilla could have been another key ingredient, known for its smooth, creamy sweetness, which was widely used in perfumes at the time to add depth and richness. The perfume may have also included sandalwood or musk, both ingredients that lend a sensual, warm quality to fragrances and were popular in the early 20th century for their association with sophistication and mystery.

The floral aspect of Mon Trésor would have been soft yet distinct, with jasmine or rose potentially playing a central role. Jasmine was highly prized in 1920s perfumery for its intoxicating, heady aroma, while rose added an element of refinement and timeless beauty. A combination of these notes would create a bouquet that was both luxurious and alluring, enveloping the wearer in a scent that felt both personal and elegant, much like a treasured possession.

As a perfume released during the Jazz Age, Mon Trésor would have been in line with the lavish and glamorous spirit of the time, which saw a rise in bold, extravagant fashion choices and a celebration of indulgence and femininity. The perfume would likely have appealed to women who wanted to stand out, wearing a fragrance that exuded both wealth and intimacy. The name Mon Trésor reinforced this idea of exclusivity, making the wearer feel as though they were in possession of something incredibly valuable and rare—an experience that was truly one-of-a-kind.

Grecian Rose:

Grecian Rose was launched in 1917 as a dusting powder, its scent and packaging reflecting the romanticized allure of ancient Greece. The product’s description, promising "a delightful odor that inspires one with the visions of the mysteries of the ancient Greeks," immediately conjures images of an elegant, floral fragrance imbued with a sense of history and myth. The name "Grecian Rose" evokes the timeless beauty of Greek culture and its rich traditions, with roses often symbolizing both love and mystery in ancient art and literature. The fragrance likely blended the sweetness of rose with delicate, perhaps slightly green or herbaceous notes, reflecting the natural beauty of the Greek landscape.

The use of a dusting powder rather than a traditional perfume suggests a lighter, more subtle scent, one that could be worn throughout the day without overwhelming the senses. It was designed to impart a delicate fragrance to the skin, likely reminiscent of the soft, romantic nature of roses. The powder’s light, powdery texture would have left a soft, velvety feeling on the skin, adding an element of luxury to the daily routine. Rose would have been the dominant note, a timeless and elegant floral that conveyed beauty and sophistication. Subtle notes of greenery, such as violet leaf or bergamot, could have been used to enhance the freshness of the fragrance, creating a balanced composition that felt light and airy.

Housed in a lithographed tin, the packaging itself would have added to the allure of Grecian Rose, reflecting the romantic and ancient inspiration behind the scent. Lithographed tins were often intricately decorated, featuring elaborate designs that captured the imagination of the time, and this particular design would have likely included Greek-inspired motifs, such as columns, laurel wreaths, or classical figures, further emphasizing the perfume's connection to ancient Greece. Accompanied by a large pink puff, the powder would have offered an indulgent, luxurious application experience, with the puff gently dispersing the powder onto the skin in a soft, almost ceremonial manner.

The fragrance of Grecian Rose would have appealed to those who sought a refined, feminine scent that was both elegant and historically rich. Its association with ancient Greece would have invoked a sense of mystery and timeless beauty, making it a popular choice for women of the time who wanted to embody both grace and sophistication. The soft, subtle nature of the powder and its delicate floral scent made it an ideal accessory for daily use, allowing the wearer to carry a hint of ancient elegance with them throughout their day.

Jasmin:

Launched in 1922, Jasmine was described as a fragrance embodying springtime gaiety, freshness, and light-heartedness, capturing the essence of a joyful, carefree season. The fragrance likely featured the vibrant, intoxicating scent of jasmine flowers, which are known for their sweet, rich, and slightly exotic aroma, evoking images of blooming gardens and warm, breezy afternoons. Jasmine’s presence in the fragrance would have imparted a sense of renewal and optimism, characteristic of spring's arrival. With its fresh and uplifting profile, the fragrance would have been crafted to evoke the feeling of an afternoon stroll through a blooming garden, where the light, sweet floral notes of jasmine mingle with hints of greenery, perhaps a touch of neroli or bergamot, creating a clean, airy effect. The fragrance would have been designed to be light yet memorable, with a soft, elegant floral composition that captured the essence of nature’s rebirth and the joyous energy of spring.

 

Mirimbi Lily:

Launched in 1917, the Mirimbi Lily line featured a range of products, including Cream, Perfume Extract (available in 1 oz or bulk sizes), Toilet Water, Talcum Powder (offered in Flesh and White shades in tin cans), Face Powder, and Lilac Vegetal. The name Mirimbi is somewhat mysterious, as it does not have a widely recognized or standard meaning in modern language. However, the inclusion of Lily in the name suggests a connection to the lily flower, a symbol of purity, elegance, and natural beauty. The word "Mirimbi" could potentially be a coined term or a reference to something exotic or elegant, designed to evoke a sense of refinement, perhaps hinting at an imagined or idealized exotic locale.

The scent of Mirimbi Lily would likely have been soft, fresh, and floral, closely tied to the clean, bright, and elegant qualities of lilies. Known for their delicate sweetness and subtly spicy undertones, lilies in perfume are often paired with green, fresh notes or other florals like rose or jasmine. Given the time period, the perfume would have embodied the soft, feminine style of the era, with an emphasis on light, powdery floral notes. The addition of Lilac Vegetal would have further enhanced the fragrance with its slightly sweet, green, and fresh qualities, adding a more botanical, dewy touch to the composition. Together, these elements would have created a refined and light fragrance, perfect for women of the 1910s, who favored fresh, delicate floral scents.

Mirimbi being a location in Africa,  adds a layer of cultural richness and intrigue to the Mirimbi Lily line. The name could have been chosen to evoke an exotic, faraway place, aligning with the trend during the early 20th century where brands often drew inspiration from distant and romanticized locations, giving a sense of mystery and allure to their products. This connection to Africa likely added a sense of adventure and sophistication, appealing to a desire for the exotic that was popular during that time.

As for the fragrance, Mirimbi Lily would still carry the soft, fresh floral scent of lilies, but now with the added implication of African influences. The scent could have been more complex, potentially incorporating earthy undertones or hints of spices and woods that evoke the warmth and vibrancy of the African landscape. The Lilac Vegetal would further complement this with its light, powdery freshness, balancing the more exotic aspects of the lily scent with a sense of airiness and refinement. Together, these elements would have created a fragrance that was both elegant and mysterious, drawing on the allure of African exoticism while maintaining the delicate floral elegance of the lily.

Varna:

Varna is a city in Bulgaria, located on the Black Sea coast. As one of Bulgaria's major cultural and historical centers, the name "Varna" likely evokes images of a coastal city with a rich history, possibly inspiring a sense of elegance and sophistication in the branding of the perfume line. During the early 20th century, many brands chose exotic or foreign-sounding names to add an element of allure to their products, and Varna, with its deep historical roots, might have been associated with refinement and an air of mystery.

In the context of the Varna line, which included Violet Perfume Extract, Violet Toilet Water, Face Powder, and Soap, the name likely referred to the fragrance's main note: violet. Violets have long been symbolic of modesty, delicacy, and femininity, and were especially popular in perfumes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The scent would likely have been soft, powdery, and floral, with a fresh and sweet quality that evokes the cool, fragrant air of spring.

The inclusion of violet in both the perfume extract and toilet water suggests a line focused on providing a light, delicate scent that could be worn throughout the day. The face powder and soap would have carried this soft violet scent, leaving a subtle fragrance on the skin that complements the floral notes. The use of violet in all the products would have created a cohesive line that felt fresh, elegant, and soothing—qualities that would have appealed to women seeking a refined and graceful aesthetic during the time.