Remiller Perfumes was established around 1915 in New York by Richard Elgin Miller, the enterprising founder of The Owl Drug Store, a well-known chain of American pharmacies. The name "Remiller" was derived directly from R.E. Miller, a personal touch that linked the brand to its founder’s identity. Expanding beyond the American market, Remiller also maintained a branch in Paris, positioning itself among the world’s most prestigious perfume houses at the height of the Belle Époque and early Art Deco periods.
Remiller’s operations were closely tied to Les Parfums Darnee (or Darnay) of Paris, another subsidiary of the Owl Drug Company. This strategic association helped solidify its standing as a manufacturer of fine perfumes and luxury toiletries, blending French elegance with American enterprise. By 1919, the Owl Drug Company owned three-fourths of the common stock of the Remiller Co., making it a key player in the production of high-grade perfumes and beauty products.
Unlike many of the French perfume houses that relied on Lalique, Baccarat, or other luxury glassmakers, Remiller generally favored American-made glassware for its perfume presentations. This practical decision reflected the company's American roots and business sensibilities, likely allowing for greater cost efficiency and accessibility while still maintaining a refined aesthetic. Despite this, the company marketed itself as a purveyor of fine fragrance, positioning its products alongside prestigious European competitors.
Interestingly, the three brand names—Remiller, Les Parfums Darnee/Darnay, and Owl Drug Co.—were used interchangeably. This suggests a fluid branding strategy, allowing products to be marketed under different names depending on the region or target audience. Whether sold in department stores, pharmacies, or specialty boutiques, Remiller’s fragrances and toiletries catered to a clientele seeking quality, sophistication, and a touch of transatlantic glamour.
