Clandestine by Guy Laroche, launched in 1986 through a collaboration with L’Oréal, carries an air of mystery from its very name. The word “Clandestine” stems from the Latin word “clandestinus”, meaning “hidden” or “secret,” and traveled through Old French into English. It’s pronounced "klan-DES-tin" — the middle syllable softly emphasized. The term conjures images of whispered rendezvous, forbidden romance, and shadowed intrigue — something intimate and thrilling, meant only for those in the know. There’s an undeniable allure to the idea of the clandestine — an emotional pull toward the forbidden, where danger and desire intertwine. It suggests a woman who holds a captivating secret, one she shares only with those she deems worthy.
The 1980s was an era defined by duality — a bold, opulent exterior masking an undercurrent of rebellion and reinvention. Power dressing reigned, with sharp-shouldered suits and cinched waists symbolizing women’s growing confidence and place in the corporate world. Big hair, bright makeup, and luxurious fabrics reflected a decade enamored with status and glamour, while music from Madonna to David Bowie explored themes of self-expression and reinvention. It was also a time of emerging sensuality — films like 9½ Weeks and Fatal Attraction showcased women who embraced their desires unapologetically. In perfumery, this era saw the rise of bold, statement fragrances — rich, potent, and unforgettable. Orientals and chypres dominated, with powerhouse scents like Dior’s Poison (1985) and Yves Saint Laurent’s Opium (1977) enveloping wearers in spicy, smoky clouds that demanded attention.
