Vivre by Molyneux c1931

"Vivre" by Molyneux, launched in 1931, was a fragrance that encapsulated the spirit of its time. Created by renowned French fashion designer Edward Molyneux, it sought to capture the essence of living life to its fullest, hence the name "Vivre," which means "to live" in French.

The fragrance was designed to evoke a sense of elegance, sophistication, and joie de vivre, reflecting the glamorous and vibrant atmosphere of the 1930s. Its composition likely included a blend of floral and citrus notes, with possibly hints of spice or woods to add depth and complexity.

As with many perfumes of its era, "Vivre" would have been packaged in an ornate bottle, reflecting the luxury and allure of the fragrance inside. It would have been marketed towards fashionable women who embraced the modernity and optimism of the interwar period.

While specific details about the scent's formulation and marketing campaigns from that time may be scarce, the legacy of "Vivre" likely lives on through vintage perfume collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its historical significance and timeless appeal.

Gauloise by Molyneux 1980

The name "Gauloise" for Molyneux's 1980 fragrance is a distinctive choice, deeply rooted in French history and culture. Derived from the word "gaulois", which means "Gaulish" or "of Gaul," and its feminine form "Gauloise", the name evokes images of ancient Gaul—a region historically inhabited by the Celts, known for their fierce independence and rich cultural heritage. This choice of name can be seen as an attempt to invoke a sense of timeless elegance and sophisticated rebellion, capturing a spirit that is both classic and bold.

The word "Gauloise" carries a certain gravitas and historical resonance, reflecting an image of ancient grandeur and cultural depth. To French-speaking women, the term might conjure visions of classical beauty and a storied past, while also implying a certain refined audacity. It suggests a connection to heritage and tradition while celebrating a sense of liberation and individuality. For non-French speakers, the name may not immediately convey its historical meaning but could still evoke an aura of exoticism and sophistication, especially when paired with the perfume’s marketing and presentation.

"The perfume that reflects the legendary French female whose bite can be incredibly sharp"

In the context of the early 1980s, Gauloise emerged at a time when the fragrance industry was witnessing a shift towards more bold and innovative scents. The late 1970s and early 1980s were characterized by a growing trend towards powerful, distinctive perfumes that broke away from the more subdued, floral fragrances of previous decades. Gauloise, created by Giovanni Pampuri and launched in the USA by 1981 under the distribution of Henry Calisher, reflects this trend with its aldehydic floral composition.

Quartz by Molyneux c1977

Quartz by Molyneux: launched in 1977, in USA by 1978. In association with Sanofi. Created by Jean-Pierre Subrenat.

Les Parfums de Vigny

In this guide I have listed the various perfumes presented by de Vigny from 1921 to 1952.