Launched in 1987, Animale by Animale is a bold and evocative fragrance that reflects both its name and the era in which it was created. Suzanne de Lyon, the fragrance’s visionary founder, chose the name Animale—a word derived from French and Italian, meaning "animal" or "wild creature." Pronounced "ah-nee-mahl", the name carries a primal and untamed quality, conjuring images of raw sensuality, instinctual power, and the untamed forces of nature. The very essence of the word suggests a spirit unrestrained by convention, an embrace of both the fierce and the feminine.
The 1980s was a decade defined by extravagance, power, and a break from the understated minimalism of previous decades. This was the era of excess—opulent fashion, bold silhouettes, and a cultural fascination with wealth and status. Power dressing dominated, with women donning broad-shouldered blazers, cinched waists, and statement jewelry, reflecting their growing presence in corporate and social spheres. In perfumery, scents followed suit, favoring bold compositions that projected confidence and sensuality. The chypre fragrance family, known for its sophisticated blend of citrus, florals, oakmoss, and woods, was particularly dominant during this time, often infused with opulent oriental and animalic notes to create rich, long-lasting perfumes.
For the modern woman of the 1980s, a perfume named Animale would have resonated deeply. It spoke to her strength, sensuality, and unbridled confidence. This was a woman unafraid to embrace her instincts, whether in the boardroom or the dance floor. The marketing materials reinforced this imagery, describing Animale as “steamy, stormy, sensuous”—an electrifying tension between the hunter and the hunted, a fragrance that crackled with anticipation like a jungle before a storm.
