Bill Blass by Bill Blass c1978

Bill Blass for Women was launched in 1978 as a collaborative creation between the renowned American fashion designer Bill Blass and the global cosmetics giant Revlon. Bill Blass, a prominent figure in the fashion industry, was celebrated for his sophisticated and elegant designs, which were characterized by their classic American style and understated luxury. His foray into the world of fragrance with this perfume reflected his deep understanding of elegance and refinement.

The fragrance was introduced during a period when Bill Blass was solidifying his reputation as a key player in American fashion. Known for his high-profile designs and glamorous approach, Blass's foray into perfume was a natural extension of his brand's commitment to luxury and sophistication. The collaboration with Revlon, a company with a strong legacy in beauty and personal care products, was a strategic move that allowed Blass to leverage Revlon's extensive distribution network and expertise in fragrance creation.

Bill Blass for Women was designed to embody the same qualities that defined Blass's fashion creations: elegance, sophistication, and a touch of modernity. The perfume was crafted to appeal to women who appreciated classic beauty with a contemporary edge, offering a scent profile that was both refined and timeless. The fragrance's composition was intended to evoke a sense of luxury and sophistication, much like Blass's fashion designs, and it quickly became a notable addition to the world of high-end women's fragrances.

The association with Revlon ensured that Bill Blass for Women was well-received in the market, benefiting from Revlon's strong marketing and distribution capabilities. The perfume's launch in 1978 marked a significant moment in both Blass's career and in the fragrance industry, highlighting the intersection of high fashion and high fragrance.

Votre by Charles Jourdan c1978

Vôtre by Charles Jourdan: launched in 1978. Created by Jean-Louis Sieuzac.

Adolfo by Frances Denney c1978

Adolfo by Frances Denney, launched in 1978, is a fragrance that not only reflects the elegance of its namesake but also encapsulates the timeless luxury and refinement associated with Adolfo Sardina, the Cuban-born fashion designer. Sardina, known simply as Adolfo in the fashion world, was a beloved designer who made his name in millinery and haute couture. He opened his salon at 36 East 57th Street in New York, where he dressed high society and prominent figures of the time. The choice to name the perfume "Adolfo" was a clear homage to the designer's renowned elegance and style. The name itself, Adolfo, is of Spanish origin, meaning "noble wolf," with a resonance of power, sophistication, and strength. Pronounced Ah-dolf-o in English, it carries a suave, noble undertone—elegant, refined, and confident. The name evokes imagery of the sophisticated, stylish woman who values artistry and high-end luxury. It conjures visions of graceful couture, carefully designed hats, and evenings adorned in high fashion—a fitting reflection of Adolfo Sardina’s legacy.

In the late 1970s, the perfume market was undergoing a transformation, shifting from the bold, heavy florals and opulent aldehydic fragrances of the 1960s to something more complex and nuanced. The 1970s was a time of experimentation in both fashion and scent, marking a departure from the excesses of the previous decades toward a more minimalist approach. Fragrances like Adolfo embodied this moment in perfumery—blending sophistication with a modern sensibility. Women of the time, particularly those who appreciated luxury and refined taste, would have gravitated toward a fragrance like Adolfo for its elegant, timeless qualities. The late 1970s was also a time when floral fragrances were gaining prominence, becoming less opulent and more understated, which is clearly reflected in this perfume.

Magie Noire by Lancome c1978

Magie Noire by Lancôme: launched in 1978. Created by Gérard Goupy. It was the first new fragrance from Lancome for a decade and has earned a place amongst its beloved classics.

Mystere de Rochas c1978

Mystere de Rochas: launched in 1978. Created by Nicolas Mamounas of IFF who used nearly 200 ingredients to complete the formula.