Projets by Worth c1936

"Projets" by Worth was indeed launched in 1936, and it was later renamed "Clear Sailing" when it was sold in the United States. The perfume was created by Maurice Blanchet, a renowned perfumer known for his contributions to the fragrance industry during that era. Blanchet crafted many iconic scents, and "Projets" by Worth, later known as "Clear Sailing," was one of his notable creations.

Fragrance Composition:

"Projets" by Worth, later known as "Clear Sailing," is classified as a floral chypre perfume for women, blending various elements to create a distinctive scent profile. Described as both "spicy" and "refreshing," it captures the essence of the Mediterranean hills, mingled with the exhilarating fragrance of blooming mimosas and the invigorating sea breeze.

• Top notes: bergamot, honeysuckle, camelia 
• Middle notes: jasmine, mimosa, labdanum and rose
• Base notes: Mysore sandalwood, spices, patchouli, oakmoss, ambergris and musk

Vogue, 1936:

"Worth Projets. Light as the breeze, direct as the sail, cheerful as in the open air, a full and happy life."

L'Amour de l'art, 1950:

"Projects by Worth: Frank, direct, like a call launched in the open air. Its echo flourishes in the activity of sport and puts your personality in the landscape. On skis in the snow, on a yacht on the big blue, it recalls your elegance, your charm. A transparent caravel on a crystal background encloses this spell."

Scent Story:

As the sun rose high over the shimmering expanse of the Mediterranean, an elegant woman stood at the bow of a sleek sailboat, her flowing white dress billowing gently in the breeze. Her presence was a vision of grace against the backdrop of the azure sky and the endless stretch of the sea. The boat glided smoothly over the water, leaving a delicate wake that sparkled in the sunlight.

The air was filled with a symphony of sensory delights. The scent of bergamot drifted through the breeze, its citrusy brightness mingling with the sweet and heady aroma of honeysuckle and camelia, creating a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere. The fragrance was both spicy and refreshing, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean hills.

As the woman gazed out over the horizon, she inhaled deeply, savoring the layers of scents that surrounded her. The heart of the perfume revealed itself with each breath, as notes of jasmine and mimosa blended harmoniously with the rich, resinous scent of labdanum and the delicate sweetness of rose. The mingling of these floral notes evoked the image of blooming mimosas along the coastline, their vibrant yellow flowers contrasting beautifully with the deep blue sea.

The warm, salty tang of the sea breeze caressed her skin, carrying with it the invigorating fragrance of the ocean. Each splash of water against the hull sent droplets into the air, adding a refreshing coolness to the warmth of the sun. The taste of salt lingered on her lips, a reminder of the ever-present embrace of the sea.

The soundscape was a gentle lullaby of waves lapping against the boat, the rhythmic creak of the wooden deck, and the occasional call of seagulls soaring above. The melody of nature's orchestra was accompanied by the soft rustling of her dress and the whisper of the wind through the sails.

With each step she took on the deck, the woman felt the sturdy, smooth wood beneath her feet, warmed by the sun. She leaned against the polished railing, the cool metal contrasting with the warmth of the day. Her fingers traced the intricate carvings on the boat, a testament to craftsmanship and elegance.

As the sailboat continued its journey along the Mediterranean coastline, the base notes of the perfume began to emerge. The earthy richness of Mysore sandalwood intertwined with the exotic spices, creating a warm and comforting foundation. The grounding presence of patchouli, oakmoss, ambergris, and musk added depth and complexity, echoing the timeless beauty of the landscape around her.

In this moment, the elegant woman was a part of the Mediterranean's enchanting tableau, a living embodiment of the perfume she wore. The essence of "Projets," later known as "Clear Sailing," encapsulated her experience, blending the refreshing, spicy, and floral notes into a fragrant tapestry that celebrated the harmony of nature and elegance.

Bottle:

 

The presentation box for "Projets" by Worth, housing the deluxe bottle created by René Lalique, was as much a work of art as the perfume itself. Lalique, a master glassmaker and designer, was renowned for his exquisite craftsmanship and innovative designs, which perfectly complemented the elegance of Worth's fragrance.

The bottle, crafted in colorless glass, featured a design that was considered daring and modern for its time. It symbolized the carefree spirit of the era, characterized by cross-sea travel and pleasure cruising. One side of the bottle was molded with a sailboat, adorned with two sails. One sail bore the distinctive "W" emblem of Worth against an undulating background representing the waves of the sea, while the other side remained clear, providing a glimpse into the perfume within.

The stopper of the bottle, with its notched sides, resembled a gear, adding a touch of mechanical elegance to the overall design.

These bottles were available in three different sizes:

• 1.8 inches tall (equivalent to 1/8th oz.)
• 2.5 inches tall
• 3.2 inches tall

Each size offered a luxurious and visually striking vessel for the fragrance, enhancing the overall experience of owning and using "Projets" by Worth. The presentation box would likely have been designed to complement the elegance and sophistication of the Lalique bottle, ensuring that the entire package exuded luxury and style.

Drug & Cosmetic Industry, 1936:

"Worth's newest perfume is called "Projets" (Clear Sailing.) It is available in one-half ounce, one or two ounce sizes,- also in a small introductory size and in the one-half ounce Clochette [bell] package."

R. Lalique Perfume Bottle shape known as"En Croisiere" in th Lalique archives. The bottle stands 6cm tall, oval glass with a molded design of a sailing ship amongst waves, with the sail showing the W logo for Worth.This bottle has also appeared labeled "Projets" and is sometimes referred to by the name "Clear Sailing". Photo from rlalique.com

"Projets" by Worth was not only available in the deluxe bottle created by René Lalique, but it was also presented in other elegant crystal bottles, each with its unique design.

One of the variations featured familiar clear crystal disk-shaped bottles, adorned with disk-shaped stoppers molded with the distinctive "W" emblem of Worth. This design likely offered a more streamlined and contemporary look compared to the sailboat-inspired Lalique bottles, yet it still conveyed a sense of luxury and sophistication.

Another option was the drum-shaped crystal bottles, distinguished by a zigzag pattern along the tapered base. This design added visual interest and texture to the bottle, while still maintaining an air of refinement and elegance.

These variations in bottle designs provided customers with options to suit their personal preferences and aesthetic tastes, while all encapsulating the exquisite fragrance of "Projets" by Worth. Whether housed in Lalique bottles or the crystal disk or drum-shaped containers, the perfume remained a symbol of luxury and style.

"What does it smell like - well, spring and flowers and dew and where-do-we-go-from-here. 

Fate of the Fragrance:

Discontinued, date unknown. The last dated newspaper advertisement I found was from 1946.

The wartime restrictions on supplies and importations likely played a significant role in the discontinuation of "Projets" by Worth. During times of war, resources and materials were often redirected toward the war effort, leading to shortages and limitations in various industries, including the fragrance industry. Importations of luxury goods could have been severely impacted, making it challenging for brands like Worth to maintain production and distribution of their perfumes.

Additionally, economic factors and shifts in consumer preferences may have contributed to the decision to discontinue "Projets" by Worth. The post-war period saw significant changes in society and consumer behavior, which could have influenced the brand's strategy regarding its product lineup.

Despite its discontinuation, "Projets" by Worth remains a cherished memory for many, a testament to its enduring appeal and the artistry of its creation. Fragrance enthusiasts and collectors often hold onto vintage bottles and advertisements as treasured pieces of history.