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Welcome to my unique perfume blog! Here, you'll find detailed, encyclopedic entries about perfumes and companies, complete with facts and photos for easy research. This site is not affiliated with any perfume companies; it's a reference source for collectors and enthusiasts who cherish classic fragrances. My goal is to highlight beloved, discontinued classics and show current brand owners the demand for their revival. Your input is invaluable! Please share why you liked a fragrance, describe its scent, the time period you wore it, any memorable occasions, or what it reminded you of. Did a relative wear it, or did you like the bottle design? Your stories might catch the attention of brand representatives. I regularly update posts with new information and corrections. Your contributions help keep my entries accurate and comprehensive. Please comment and share any additional information you have. Together, we can keep the legacy of classic perfumes alive!

Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Balalaïka by Lucien Lelong c1939

Balalaïka by Lucien Lelong: launched in 1939.







Fragrance Composition:


So what does it smell like? An uplifting, powdery, floral oriental perfume with woody notes layered over a fougere base.

  • Top notes: aldehydes, tangerine, mandarin, bergamot
  • Middle notes: lavender, violet, rosewood, gardenia, anise, spices
  • Base notes: labdanum, oakmoss, patchouli, vetiver, cedar, musk, vanilla, sandalwood, fougere accord



Arts & Decoration, Volume 53, 1940:
"On the lighter side, a new cologne by Lucien Lelong called Balalaika is a good all-around choice. It's a carefree scent, suggesting a field of flowers in the sun, with cool ferny undertones."

The New Yorker, 1963:
" Sirocco- sultry lure, Balalaika- lilting floral, Opening Night— dazzling drama, Numero 7- joyously romantic, Orgueil— elegant intrigue. Beloved fragrances in the provocative mood- cherished for their extraordinary power to move men's hearts!"


Bottles:


Balalaika Parfum was presented in a conical bottle, molded with ascending swirls, accented with gilding. The bottle has an inner glass stopper and a glass over cap.

  • 1/4 oz bottle stands 2.75" tall.
  • 1/2 oz bottle stands 3.25" tall.
  • 1 oz bottle stands 4.25" tall.
  • 2 oz bottle stands 5" tall.
  • 3 oz bottle stands 5.75" tall
  • Factice bottle stands 7" tall.











Fate of the Fragrance:


Discontinued, date unknown. Still being sold in 1975. Was reformulated and relaunched around 2005 or so.


CLICK HERE TO FIND BALALAIKA PERFUME BY LUCIEN LELONG



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