Anne Klein II by Anne Klein c1985

Anne Klein II was launched in 1985 during a period marked by significant transitions in fashion and fragrance. The early 1980s were a time of bold statements and a resurgence of classic elegance blended with modern sensibilities. The era was characterized by opulent styles, with power suits, shoulder pads, and a renewed focus on strong, independent women. In this context, Anne Klein II, created by Yves Tanguy in association with Parlux, emerged as a reflection of these cultural and aesthetic shifts.

Anne Klein II's name evokes a sense of continuity and refinement. As a sequel to the original Anne Klein fragrance, its designation as "Anne Klein II" suggests an evolution or an update of the initial perfume, maintaining the brand's core identity while introducing a new dimension. The use of Roman numerals to denote the second iteration of the perfume aligns with a sense of sophistication and timelessness, resonating with the same qualities associated with the Anne Klein fashion label. The name effectively conveys that this fragrance is a sophisticated extension of the original, meant for a woman who appreciates both tradition and innovation.

The choice of "Anne Klein II" as a name is particularly fitting for the perfume as it underscores the evolution of Anne Klein's brand into the realm of fragrances while maintaining a connection to its fashion roots. The name signifies a blend of classic elegance and contemporary flair, capturing the essence of the 1980s fashion world that Anne Klein was influential in shaping.

Anne Klein's relation to perfumery is indirect yet significant. Known primarily for her fashion design, Anne Klein's brand extended its influence into the world of fragrances as a natural progression of her fashion empire. Her designs were emblematic of modern, powerful femininity, and her foray into perfumery was a way to encapsulate this ethos in a scent. The perfume was created by Yves Tanguy, whose expertise in fragrance composition added a layer of sophistication to the brand’s fragrance offerings.

Women who would have been drawn to Anne Klein II were likely those who embraced a sophisticated, assertive, and modern style. They would have appreciated the blend of classic elegance with a contemporary twist that the fragrance represents. These women were likely professionals or fashion-conscious individuals who valued both tradition and innovation in their personal style. The fragrance would appeal to those who saw themselves as part of a new wave of women redefining femininity and power in the workplace and beyond.

The name "Anne Klein II" evokes images of confidence, elegance, and continuity. It suggests a perfume that builds upon the legacy of its predecessor while offering a fresh and refined experience. The feelings associated with the name are those of timeless sophistication and modern chic, appealing to a sense of both heritage and contemporary flair. The name conjures up an image of a woman who is both grounded in tradition and open to new possibilities, reflecting the dual nature of the 1980s fashion landscape.

The Launch:

In September 1986, the launch of Anne Klein II was bolstered by an impressive $1.6 million promotional campaign, designed to capture the attention of discerning consumers and establish the fragrance as a key player in the competitive perfume market. This substantial investment in marketing reflected the brand's commitment to making Anne Klein II a prominent name in the fragrance world.

One of the standout features of the promotion was the offering of a free or reduced-price gift with purchase, a popular tactic used to entice customers and add value to their purchase. For Anne Klein II, this meant that consumers who bought from the Anne Klein II fragrance collection received an elegant Anne Klein II umbrella as their gift. This high-quality, practical accessory not only served as a stylish token of appreciation but also reinforced the fragrance’s association with sophistication and practicality. The umbrella became a sought-after item, enhancing the allure of the fragrance and boosting its appeal through a tangible and desirable bonus.

Anne Klein II was available at prestigious department stores such as Rich's, Macy's, Lord & Taylor, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Neiman Marcus. These retailers were carefully selected to align the fragrance with high-end fashion and luxury, ensuring that it reached a target audience who valued quality and exclusivity. The availability in such well-regarded stores helped position Anne Klein II as a premium product, reinforcing its image as a refined and sophisticated choice.

The pricing strategy for Anne Klein II was designed to cater to a range of budgets while maintaining a sense of luxury. The Eau de Parfum Splash, available in a 1.7 oz bottle, was priced at $20, offering an accessible entry point for consumers interested in experiencing the fragrance. The quarter-ounce perfume spray, priced at $37.50, represented a more concentrated and luxurious option, catering to those who sought a more refined and enduring fragrance experience. This tiered pricing approach allowed Anne Klein II to appeal to a broad audience, from those making a first foray into the world of designer fragrances to those looking to indulge in a premium scent.

Overall, the promotion and pricing strategy for Anne Klein II reflected a well-thought-out effort to establish the fragrance as a desirable and accessible luxury, aligning with Anne Klein’s reputation for elegance and modern sophistication.

Fragrance Composition:

It is classified as a soft fresh green oriental floral fragrance for women. It begins with a fresh, citrusy top, followed by a floral heart, resting on a sweet, powdery, ambery base. A mixture of rose oil, orange blossom and bright tangerine blended with succulent peach, apricot, jasmine, lily and freesia, accented with sensuous musk, vanilla bean, amber, civet, myrrh and precious Mysore sandalwood.

• Top notes: spices, rosewood, peach, bergamot, apricot, lemon, green notes
• Middle notes: freesia, lily, orange blossom, jasmine, tangerine flowers, orris, rose oil, carnation, ylang ylang
• Base notes: myrrh, ambergris, patchouli, musk, sandalwood, benzoin, vanilla, opoponax, civet, oakmoss and precious woods

Scent Story:

In the bustling department store, the atmosphere is electric as the fragrance of the moment, Anne Klein II, makes its grand debut. It’s 1985, and the store has transformed into a showcase of elegance and innovation, the air filled with anticipation and the promise of something exquisite.

As I walk in, the sight is nothing short of spectacular. Models, dressed in Anne Klein's latest fashion creations, glide gracefully across the polished marble floor. Their outfits are a testament to the designer’s flair: sleek, tailored suits in rich, vibrant fabrics that catch the light with every movement. The models’ attire complements the sophistication of Anne Klein II, embodying the fragrance’s essence of modern elegance and luxury.

The scent of Anne Klein II is the first thing that envelops me. A fresh, citrusy burst greets my senses with the top notes of bergamot, bright tangerine, and lemon. The citrus notes are invigorating, like a morning breeze that lifts the spirits and energizes the day. Intermingled with the zesty citrus are delicate hints of spices and rosewood, adding depth and warmth to the opening.

As the fragrance settles, the floral heart emerges. I am surrounded by the lush, velvety aromas of jasmine, lily, and freesia. The orange blossom and tangerine flowers weave through the bouquet, creating a harmonious blend that is both delicate and opulent. The peach and apricot notes bring a juicy sweetness to the heart, enriching the floral medley with a succulent touch. The fragrance feels like a blooming garden in full spring, where every flower and fruit contributes to a vibrant, cohesive symphony.

The base notes of Anne Klein II create a profound and lingering impression. The air is infused with the rich, sweet aroma of vanilla bean and amber, mingling with the earthy, sensual musk. The myrrh and precious Mysore sandalwood add a luxurious depth, their woody and resinous qualities grounding the fragrance in a warm, comforting embrace. As I breathe in, I can almost taste the soft, powdery sweetness of benzoin and opoponax, their subtle nuances blending seamlessly with the oakmoss and precious woods.

The sounds of the event fill the space—soft jazz playing in the background, the rustle of fabric as the models move, and the gentle murmur of guests engaging in conversation. The ambiance is sophisticated and relaxed, perfectly complementing the luxurious experience of the fragrance.

As I touch the elegantly designed Anne Klein II bottle, its sleek, crystal form is cool and smooth under my fingertips. The metallic black enamel cap adds a touch of modern sophistication, reflecting the light in a way that highlights its refined craftsmanship. The bottle feels substantial and elegant, a fitting vessel for such a distinguished fragrance.

In this setting, every sensory element—from the sight of the exquisite fashions to the rich, complex scent of Anne Klein II, and the tactile experience of the perfume bottle—comes together to create an immersive celebration of style and sophistication. Anne Klein II is not just a fragrance; it’s a statement of modern elegance, embodied in every detail of this memorable launch event.

Bottle:

The packaging for Anne Klein II is a reflection of the fragrance's elegant and sophisticated character, mirroring the refined aesthetic of Anne Klein's fashion designs. The perfume bottle itself is a testament to modern elegance, crafted as a sleek sliver of crystal that exudes a sense of luxury and simplicity. Its cap, finished in metallic black enamel, adds a touch of contemporary sophistication, creating a striking contrast with the clear, shimmering body of the bottle. This design choice underscores the fragrance's status as both a fashionable accessory and a statement of taste.

The Anne Klein II collection offered a range of products designed to cater to various preferences and needs. The 1/4 oz Parfum Purse Spray, retailing at $37.50, was a compact and convenient option for on-the-go use, perfect for those who wanted to carry a touch of luxury with them. For those seeking a more substantial experience, the 1/4 oz Parfum was available for $75, offering a concentrated and luxurious formulation in a similarly elegant bottle.

The Eau de Parfum sprays came in two sizes, catering to different preferences and budgets. The 1.7 oz Eau de Parfum Spray, priced at $25, provided a balanced option for daily wear, while the larger 3.3 oz Eau de Parfum Spray, retailing for $35, offered a more generous supply for avid fans of the fragrance.

For a more versatile option, the 1.7 oz Eau de Parfum Splash was priced at $20, allowing users to enjoy the scent in a splash format that could be applied liberally. This was complemented by a range of body care products, each designed to enhance the fragrance experience while providing additional luxury to daily routines.

The 4.1 oz Body Cream and 5 oz Body Lotion, priced at $25 and $20 respectively, offered moisturizing and fragrant indulgence for the skin. The 1.5 oz Hand Cream, available in a set of four tubes for $15, was a practical and luxurious touch for keeping hands soft and scented. The 6.7 oz Dusting Powder, retailing for $20, provided a subtle, perfumed finish for the skin, while the 4.1 oz Bath/Shower Gel, priced at $15, offered a cleansing experience enriched with the fragrance's signature notes.

Together, these products not only showcased Anne Klein II's versatility but also reinforced its positioning as a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate luxury in every aspect of their personal care routine. The thoughtful range of items ensured that Anne Klein II could be integrated seamlessly into a daily regimen, enhancing the wearer's overall experience with the fragrance.

Fate of the Fragrance:

The original vintage packaging for Anne Klein II, still cherished by collectors and enthusiasts, reflects the fragrance's French heritage and its early association with the prestigious Parlux brand. These classic boxes are distinguished by their "Made in France" label, a mark of the high-quality manufacturing standards associated with French craftsmanship. The inclusion of "Parlux" on the packaging further emphasizes the collaboration with this renowned company, known for its expertise in the perfume industry. The vintage boxes often exude a timeless elegance, with design elements that mirror the sophisticated nature of the fragrance itself.

In contrast, the contemporary packaging of Anne Klein II has evolved to reflect modern manufacturing practices and geographic shifts. The new boxes prominently feature the label "Designed in the United States, Made in China," indicating a change in production location and design oversight. This transition to Chinese manufacturing aligns with current industry trends, which often see production moved to countries where costs can be more effectively managed. The updated packaging also includes "Palm Beach Beaute LLC" and the website "palmbeachbeaute.com," signaling the brand's current ownership and its presence in the online retail landscape.

This shift in packaging not only represents changes in production and branding but also reflects broader changes in the global economy and the perfume industry. While the essence of Anne Klein II remains, the updated packaging serves as a reminder of the fragrance’s continued relevance and adaptability in a modern market. The new design elements, including the updated labels and production details, mark a departure from its vintage origins while maintaining the fragrance’s legacy and appeal in the contemporary world.