Tamango by Leonard c1977

Tamango was introduced by Parfums Leonard in 1977, a time when the fragrance industry was transitioning through various style phases. During the 1970s, the perfume market was characterized by a growing appreciation for more complex and sophisticated compositions, often blending fresh and floral elements with deeper, earthy undertones. This period saw the rise of fragrances that combined aldehydic freshness with lush floral bouquets and rich bases, reflecting the era’s penchant for luxurious and elegant scents.

Tamango, with its classification as a soft, crisp, green, aldehydic floral fragrance, aligned well with the trends of the time. Its use of aldehydes, a hallmark of the 1960s and 1970s, provided the sparkling, clean opening that was popular in many contemporary perfumes. The green, floral heart and sensual, powdery base were also reflective of the era’s inclination towards creating fragrances with a sophisticated yet accessible character. While it wasn’t entirely unique, Tamango distinguished itself through its careful balance of fresh, green notes and rich, powdery base, offering a refined and elegant option within a market that was increasingly embracing both bold and nuanced scent profiles.

The name "Tamango" was chosen by Parfums Leonard, drawing inspiration from a character in a novella by Prosper Mérimée, a prominent 19th-century French writer known for his vivid and dramatic storytelling. The character Tamango is the central figure in Mérimée's short story titled "Tamango", which was first published in 1829. The story, set in the early 19th century, follows the life of a West African slave and his rebellion against the oppressive forces of the French colonial system.

The name "Tamango" evokes images of exoticism and adventure, reflecting the perfume's sophisticated and somewhat enigmatic character. The character in Mérimée’s story represents a blend of strength and resilience, qualities that can be metaphorically linked to the fragrance’s enduring appeal and its complex olfactory structure. The name imbues the perfume with a sense of mystery and depth, suggesting a fragrance that is both elegant and layered.

Balahe by Leonard c1983

Balahé by Leonard was introduced in 1983, a period marked by a notable shift in the fragrance industry. During the early 1980s, the market began to embrace more complex and opulent fragrances. This era saw the rise of spicy floral orientals, which combined rich, exotic spices with luxurious floral elements and deep, sensual bases. Fragrances of this time often featured bold, assertive compositions that reflected the extravagant and dynamic style of the 1980s.

Balahé, classified as a spicy floral oriental fragrance, fit perfectly within these trends. It offered a blend of vibrant spices with lush floral notes and a warm, sensual base, embodying the era’s fascination with sophisticated and exotic scents. While it followed the general trend of the time, Balahé distinguished itself with its unique composition, carefully crafted to balance spicy and floral elements with a rich oriental base, making it a notable example of the period’s olfactory preferences.

The name "Balahé" chosen by Parfums Leonard adds a layer of exotic intrigue to the fragrance. The term "Balahé" does not have a direct meaning in widely spoken languages, but it evokes a sense of mystery and allure. It appears to be derived from a combination of phonetic elements that suggest an exotic or foreign origin. The name itself seems to conjure images of faraway places and intriguing cultures, fitting well with the fragrance’s spicy oriental theme.

In terms of imagery and emotion, "Balahé" evokes a sense of luxury and sophistication. It brings to mind a rich, opulent world where spices and florals mingle in a grand, elegant setting. The name suggests an exotic escape, adding an element of fantasy and allure to the fragrance. It implies a journey to an opulent realm where the senses are tantalized by the complexities of spicy and floral notes.

Fashion de Leonard c1970

Fashion de Leonard: launched in 1970. Created by Jeannine Mongin. In USA in 1971.